Often, decisions to hold waste pesticide disposal programs are based on discussions with farmers, chemical dealers, farm leaders, and others who have first-hand knowledge of local agricultural conditions. It is especially important to study the area's previous farming history, especially if row crops were grown. Funding Considerations Adequate funding is necessary for a successful waste pesticide disposal program. Many states do not have proper facilities to dispose of waste pesticides, so funds are needed to pay a hazardous waste contractor to dispose properly of the products in a state where disposal is permitted. Usually, the products are burned in a special incinerator or disposed of in a specifically designed landfill.
Funding can come from several possible sources.
In Mississippi's case, the program is funded through the state legislature by an increase in the pesticide registration fee paid at the manufactuer's level. A portion of this increase is earmarked for waste pesticide disposal. The program is free to farmers, an important advantage in encouraging participation. Another option is to charge a fee to those who participate. This fee could be based on fees a hazardous waste contractor charges to dispose of the products.