By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has released a fact sheet to help people properly dispose of leftover pesticide-treated seeds, offering clear instructions and outlining state regulations.
The fact sheet, available here, explains that while pesticide-treated seed is not categorized as a pesticide product, it is considered industrial solid waste and must be handled with care to prevent contamination of water sources and harm to wildlife.
Anyone generating leftover treated seed — including farmers, retailers, distributors, and manufacturers — is responsible for ensuring safe disposal. If the seed is unopened, it’s best to check with the seed supplier to see if it can be returned.
When returning is not possible, planting the seed is a preferred option. If planting isn’t feasible, disposal can take place at approved Minnesota landfills or waste-to-energy (WTE) facilities, listed here. Always contact the facility before delivery to confirm availability.
Farmers operating on their own land have additional disposal options. Excess treated seed can be buried at least 200 feet from private wells and 1,000 feet from public water wells, ensuring it is deep enough to prevent wildlife access. It’s essential to follow per-acre use limits provided on seed tags and pesticide labels to prevent overuse or environmental overload.
Packaging materials such as seed bags are treated as regulated solid waste. On-farm disposal is allowed through regular trash collection. Reusable containers can be rinsed and repurposed for new products, provided rinse water is applied safely to approved crops and does not exceed pesticide label limits.
Rinsewater may also be discharged to public sewage systems after notifying the operator and following local regulations.
For further guidance, contact the MPCA at joshua.burman@state.mn.us for technical assistance and safe disposal support.
Photo Credit:istock-fotokostic
Categories: Minnesota, General