Farmers in British Columbia to prepare for old pesticide and livestock medicine collection

In October, agricultural producers on Vancouver Island and in the Fraser Valley (British Columbia) will participate in the Cleanfarms environmental initiative known as UPLM (Unwanted Pesticides and Old Livestock/Equine Medications). This Canada-wide program operates on a rotating schedule from year to year and helps farmers safely dispose of unwanted commercial pesticides, as well as outdated livestock and equine medications, free of charge.

This year, eight one-day collection events for such waste are scheduled across the province. They will run daily from October 6 to 16, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM (daily: 9AM to 4PM): four events will take place in the Fraser Valley and four on Vancouver Island, including the first such event in Port Alberni.

UPLM Program Coordinator Heather Bradley noted that this year's event coverage will provide greater accessibility for local farmers. According to her, increased participation in the program, combined with promotional efforts by regional districts and agricultural retail partners, raises awareness among producers and municipalities about Cleanfarms' full range of programs and pilot projects concerning agricultural plastics.

Dr. Catherine Filejski, President and CEO of the Canadian Animal Health Institute (CAHI), emphasized that the organization's members support farmers and livestock producers in the region through a long-term partnership with Cleanfarms. This free initiative provides a safe way to dispose of unwanted or expired veterinary products, helping to protect livestock, farms, and local communities.

Cleanfarms acts as an agricultural producer responsibility organization. It is funded by its members from sectors such as crop protection, seed, fertilizer, animal health products, peat moss, livestock bedding, feed, ag-plastics, and maple tubing. The organization's team is represented in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritime Provinces.