AUGUSTA — The Obsolete Pesticide Collection Program protects Maine’s natural resources and prevents agriculture pollution by promoting the safe and proper disposal of outdated, unused, or unwanted pesticides.

The program is open to homeowners and family-owned farms who are encouraged to bring unwanted pesticides — including herbicides, insecticides, rodenticides, fungicides, and similar products used in agricultural production or around the home — to collection sites in Presque Isle, Bangor, Augusta and Portland.

Registration is required by Friday, Oct. 8, to participate. Drop-ins are not permitted, and drop-off locations will be announced soon.

The program is made possible by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s Board of Pesticides Control and the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.

Details including registering and supplying the obsolete pesticides inventory form, a list of banned and unusable products, storage and transportation guidelines, and other disposal options are found on the BPC website, thinkfirstspraylast.org.

Removal of obsolete and unwanted pesticides is important for protecting the public, wildlife, and environmental health. Improper pesticide handling and disposal, such as placing it in the trash or pouring it down the drain, can contaminate land and water resources. The Maine Obsolete Pesticide Collection Program ensures that they are handled properly.