State collecting unwanted pesticides

SPRINGFIELD -- The state's agriculture department is helping Illinoisans dispose of unwanted agricultural pesticides for free.

The "Clean Sweep" collection rotates among counties across the state. This year it's taking place in Madison, Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair counties in the southwestern part of the state.

Landowners, farmers, nursery owners and private pesticide applicators who found unwanted pesticides on their property when they bought it are eligible for the program.

The collection will take place in September but anyone who wants to participate must register by July 17.

Registration forms can be obtained by calling the Illinois Department of Agriculture's Pesticide Hotline at 1-800-641-3934.