What Are Pesticides?
"Pesticide" is the general term for any substance designed to eliminate undesired insects, weeds, rodents, fungi, bacteria and other organisms. Pesticides come in many forms and even include house- hold bleach and swimming pool chemicals. Pesticides can be categorized as:
- Insecticides (for insects)
- Herbicides (for weeds)
- Fungicides (for fungus diseases)
Benefits of Pesticide Free
There are many risks associated with pesticide use:
- Damage to human health, particularly for younger children
- Damage to non-target plants, pets, beneficial insects and wildlife
- Pesticides runoff into local waterways, streams and the ocean
- Contaminates soil and groundwater
- Even small pesticide use by individuals will add up and have significant impacts to the local environment and beyond
- Exposure linked to several types of cancer and potential hormone disruption
Manage Pests without Pesticides
Prior to the 1940s, synthetic pesticides did not exist. Preventative, biological, physical, behavioral and chemical controls were used to reduce pests. Use the below tips to mange pests in an environmentally sound way, without pesticides.
Pesticide Disposal
Pesticides are household hazardous waste and must be properly disposed of. If added to the garbage or flushed, these chemicals can harm septic systems and our watershed. Drop off leftover pesticides at no charge at the following depots:
Hartland Landfill Hartland Avenue, West Saanich Tel: 250.727.3331 | Monday - Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 7am-2pm |
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Ellice Recycling 524 David Street Tel: 250.386.4342 | Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5pm Saturday 8:30am - 5pm |
Salt Spring Island Recycling Depot 349 Rainbow Road Tel: 250.537.1200 | Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm |
Alpine Recycling 1045 Dunford Avenue Tel: 250.474.5145 | Monday - Saturday 8am - 4:30pm |
Resources
- Many municipalities require a certificate to apply pesticides. Check your municipal bylaw.
- Pesticide and Fertilizers - Preventing Pollution [PDF/754KB]
- BC Home & Garden Pest Management Guide
- Government of Canada Pest Control Tips
- Report a Pesticide Incidence