9 February, 2012

Horizons supports chemical clean up

Horizons Regional Council is encouraging farmers and growers to make the most of Agrecovery chemicals clean-up programme, in the coming months.

The programme is an opportunity for farmers and growers to clear their properties of old or unwanted chemicals. Many chemicals are eligible for free disposal through the support of the 55 brand owners who participate in the Agrecovery programme, while other chemicals are subsidised through central government funding.

Collections are held throughout the country, with bookings for the Manawatu-Wanganui region closing on Friday 9 March.

“Many farmers can be unsure of what to do with their unwanted chemicals, we have even had some items left at the front door of the council offices on occasion,” says Horizons environmental protection manager, Alison Russell.

“The best thing to do is to give Agrecovery a call and make a booking for collection. It is safer to have the professionals come around and collect chemicals rather than putting yourself and your staff at risk by trying to dispose of them yourself. Burying the chemicals in farm dumps can affect our Region’s surface and groundwater resources.”

Agrecovery will assess which chemicals can be disposed of for free and which are eligible for subsidies for the cost of collection and disposal. Chemicals that can be collected include herbicides, insecticides and animal drenches as well as unknown or mixed chemicals.

Bookings for a collection covering the Manawatu, Ruapehu, Wanganui, Rangitikei and Horowhenua districts close on Friday 9 March and can be made by visiting www.agrecovery.co.nz or calling 0800 247 326.

ENDS

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