Arkansas Clears 14,964 Pounds of Unwanted Pesticides
The state's long-running collection program safely removed chemical waste from seven counties during autumn 2026.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Organic Food
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Should your local government increase funding for community-based hazardous waste disposal programs?
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture removed 14,964 pounds of unwanted pesticides during collection events held in autumn 2026. This initiative serves to protect natural resources by providing a safe disposal method for unusable chemicals.
Why it matters
The program helps prevent the accumulation of outdated pesticides, which can threaten local water sources and soil health. By offering free disposal, it encourages farmers and nonindustrial landowners to clear hazardous materials from their properties.
Since 2005, the statewide program has successfully removed over 7.2 million pounds of pesticides across all 75 Arkansas counties. The operations are funded entirely through state pesticide registration fees.
The players
Arkansas Department of Agriculture
This state agency oversees agricultural regulations, the promotion of local farming, and the management of natural resources.
University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service
This organization provides research-based information and education to help Arkansans improve their agricultural and economic outcomes.
Arkansas Farm Bureau
This is a private, nonprofit organization that works to support and advocate for the interests of farmers and ranchers throughout the state.
The details
Collection events were hosted in Crawford, Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Scott, Sebastian, and Yell counties to assist farmers and nonindustrial landowners. This effort is a multi-agency partnership that includes the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, Arkansas Farm Bureau, and the Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment.
Timeline
The pesticide collection program launched in 2005.
Collection of 14,964 pounds of pesticides occurred in autumn 2026.
Collection events are planned for five additional counties in spring 2027.
Culture Shift
The program follows the framework set by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act regarding the proper management and disposal of hazardous chemical materials. This transition mirrors broader trends in rural sustainability where agricultural entities prioritize long-term land stewardship.
Farmers and nonindustrial landowners can utilize these free, scheduled events to eliminate hazardous materials from their property without personal disposal costs. Participating ensures that potentially harmful chemicals are processed through regulated channels rather than remaining on-site.
The takeaway
Proper disposal of outdated chemicals is a vital step in maintaining the safety and quality of agricultural land. Readers with unused pesticide stocks should monitor state schedules to participate in these free, environmentally responsible removal events.
What happens next
Collection events are scheduled for Ashley, Chicot, Desha, Drew, and Lincoln counties in spring 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about agricultural sustainability efforts in Arkansas.
Live Poll
Should your local government increase funding for community-based hazardous waste disposal programs?
