Treated Seed Safety Reminder

There is zero tolerance for treated seed kernels in the commodity grain channel  when the treated seed tag states the seed is not for food, feed, or oil purposes. 

As planting begins across the South Dakota, farmers should be reminded about the importance of taking precautions to ensure treated seed does not enter the grain supply.  Seed treatment technologies are an effective agronomic tool that provide seeds the necessary protection for a strong, healthy start but must be handled properly. 

Disposal of Excess Treated Seeds

1.  Small Quantities of Pesticide Treated Seed
   • Return excess treated seed to its original seed lot containers if the seed is intended for storage and subsequent planting.
   • Plant in fallow or other non-cropped areas of the farm in accordance to the seed treatment product label.
   • Unless restricted by label language, excess treated seed may be double planted in the turn rows at the end of the field or within a portion of the field.
2. Off Farm Disposal of Seed Not Acceptable for Planting and/or Larger Quantities of Pesticide Treated Seed
   • Consult with your state and local authorities to ensure your disposal plan is in  compliance with all appropriate regulations.
   • Disposal facilities will be required to have an EPA permit to accept pesticide treated  seed. Whether a waste management facility, power plant, cement kiln, ethanol plant, or municipal landfill is permitted to dispose of seed treated with a particular pesticide can only be confirmed by contacting the facility. Your seed supplier may also be aware of EPA permitted disposal facilities in your area.
   • The contacts for both solid and hazardous waste disposal in each state can be found online at  Links to Hazardous Waste Programs and U.S. State Environmental Agencies | US EPA

Additional Resources:
Treated Seed Poster – Print and post in your facility 
Seed Treatment Guide
Seed Treatment Regulations