Unless the container is rinsed immediately, some pesticides will solidify and become difficult to remove. Rinsing containers removes a potential source of pesticide exposure to people, wildlife and the environment. Proper rinsing is required by federal regulations and is a good, sound management and environmental practice. When contamination occurs, plants and animals may be harmed and water supplies affected. Prevention of environmental contamination is always better and less expensive than cleanup.
Federal laws require the rinsing of pesticide containers.
When an empty container is recycled, returned to the supplier or disposed of according to label directions, it must be properly rinsed . Landfill operators, approved pesticide container recyclers and those receiving returned bulk containers can only accept properly rinsed containers. Types of Pesticide Containers There are different types of pesticide containers. The most common agricultural pesticide container is a 2.5 gallon plastic jug. Many liquid agricultural pesticides are also sold in bulk containers, intended to be returned and reused by the supplier.