What are the laws governing the use and disposal of agricultural waste?

In Arizona, agricultural waste is regulated under the state’s Solid Waste Act. This statute protects Arizona’s environment by setting standards regarding the disposal of agricultural waste. The Act prohibits the disposal of these materials in non-approved areas, such as water bodies, wetlands, and streams. Additionally, the Act requires farmers and ranchers to use best practices for the management and disposal of this waste. Farmers and ranchers must store their agricultural waste in enclosures or containers to avoid runoff and water contamination. They must also plan ahead to prevent overfilling, and are required to use suitable waste disposal techniques. Some waste materials, such as oils, grease, and pesticides, require special disposal procedures that must be followed. There are specific restrictions and regulations in place for individual waste types, such as manure and minerals. For example, manures must be treated to reduce their odor before being used as fertilizer, and large volumes of manure must be stored in suitable containment systems or lagoons. Meanwhile, the Solid Waste Act prohibits the use of mineral waste for purposes other than agricultural activities. If agricultural waste is not disposed of properly, farmers and ranchers may face fines or other penalties. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is responsible for enforcing the state’s standards, and can investigate complaints of improper disposal. By following the laws, farmers and ranchers can ensure that they are compliant and protect the state’s environment.

What are the laws governing the use and disposal of agricultural waste?

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