Caring for the ʻĀina: Why Responsible Land Stewardship Matters More Than Ever

Living on Hawai‘i Island teaches us something profound, the land gives so much to us, and it’s our kuleana (responsibility) to care for it in return. Whether tending a small backyard garden or managing acres of farmland, how we treat the ʻāina directly affects the health of our communities and the future of our island.

That’s why it’s encouraging to see the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity bringing back its Pesticide Disposal Program this December. It might seem like a small initiative, but its impact is anything but small. Last year alone, the program safely collected more than 39,000 pounds of pesticide waste statewide, including chemicals dating back to 1980, a huge step in keeping our soil and water clean.

This year’s collection events on the Big Island will take place:

• December 12 in Hilo (registration deadline: November 21)

• December 16 in Kona (registration deadline: November 25)

Each participant can safely dispose of up to 250 pounds of canceled, suspended, or unwanted pesticides at no cost.

Programs like this remind us that sustainability starts with everyday choices, even the quiet ones that happen far from the spotlight. By responsibly managing what we no longer need, we help preserve Hawai‘i’s natural balance and ensure that future generations can enjoy the same vibrant land and clean waters we cherish today.

The way we treat the ʻāina reflects who we are as a community, grounded, grateful, and deeply connected to the place we call home.

Source: https://bigislandnow.com/2025/10/19/state-bringing-pesticide-disposal-program-back-to-big-isle-for-farms-commercial-users/