The EU INTERREG VA funded Source to Tap project in conjunction with Northern Ireland Water has launched a new trial scheme which encourages farmers in the Derg catchment to register for free farm chemical disposal.
Diane Foster, Source to Tap Project Manager said: “Northern Ireland Water regularly detects chemicals commonly used in the farmyard and on the land in the River Derg when the water is abstracted prior to treatment. As part of the Source to Tap project, farmers have changed their land management practices to reduce the loss of herbicide to the river, and that has already made a significant difference in reducing the concentrations in the river water.
We know that chemicals are essential on the farm, but they can pose a risk, particularly if there are old containers which are unlicensed, unknown or out of date. Disposal of these products can be difficult.
We are providing this free Farm Chemicals Disposal service to take these items away for you. This helps us to protect our water sources, tidies up your store and gives the farmer peace of mind.”
Roy Taylor NI Water Catchment Manager added: “We are happy to be working with our contractors McQuillan Environmental who will pick up the waste chemicals from the farm and dispose of them safely on our behalf and within all waste management regulations. I would really encourage farmers in the Northern Ireland part of the Derg Catchment to take up this opportunity and register for this great scheme.”
The scheme will collect:
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Herbicide / Weed Killer
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Sheep Dip
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Insecticide Sprays
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Rodenticides
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Fungicide Sprays
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Empty Containers
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Veterinary medicines
