Virginia Pesticide Collection Program returns in 2025 with local site in Melfa

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is once again inviting farmers, pesticide dealers, pest control firms, certified applicators, golf course operators, and homeowners to take part in the 2025 Virginia Pesticide Collection Program. The initiative offers free and safe disposal of unwanted, outdated, or banned pesticides for eligible participants.

The program, administered by the VDACS Office of Pesticide Services in cooperation with Virginia Cooperative Extension and the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services, has collected more than 1.9 million pounds of pesticide waste since its launch in 1997. It is funded through fees paid by pesticide registrants and dealers.

This year’s collection schedule includes a local event on August 19 at Nutrien Ag Solutions, 18432 Wachapreague Road in Melfa. All collection sites will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Pesticide Collection Program rotates annually through five regions across Virginia.

Participants must transport their pesticide waste to the collection site. Only pesticides are accepted—materials such as fertilizer, motor oil, paint, and other chemicals will not be permitted. If pesticides cannot be safely containerized for transport, VDACS may arrange assistance on a case-by-case basis.

VDACS encourages participants to register in advance by completing a pesticide collection form, available at vdacs.virginia.gov, and submitting it via email to [email protected] or by mail to the Office of Pesticide Services, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218.

For questions, contact your local Virginia Cooperative Extension agent or call the VDACS Office of Pesticide Services at 804-371-6561. Additional program information can be found at vdacs.virginia.gov/pesticide-collection.