West Virginia Success Story

Potomac Headwaters RC&D sponsors First Consumer Drug Take-back Program in the State

Program or Category: Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D)

Overview: It used to be a standard practice for anyone with left-over or out-of-date pills to dump these products into a toilet and flush them away. This action is no longer acceptable because a 2002 study revealed low-level drug residues in waterways throughout the country. Many of the drugs discovered can act as endocrine disruptors, compounds that mimic or interfere with human hormones and are suspected as contributing to harmful effects in fish.

Under the sponsorship of Potomac Headwaters RC&D, Potomac Water Watch has started the first consumer drug take-back program to safely dispose of leftover products by approved methods. Local pharmacies and health departments have agreed to collect pills and medicines, which are then disposed of by a licensed environmental services firm.

Accomplishments: Over the past year the group has partnered with four state agencies, three non-government organizations, and a local watershed group to obtain over $10,000 for the program. Collection sites have been established in five communities along the South Branch and other tributaries to the Potomac River. Three informational brochures and numerous news articles have highlighted the program.

Program Benefits to Community: Education regarding the importance of preventing contamination of streams and groundwater is the primary focus of the program. Laying the foundation of a statewide program to prevent household pollutants from entering streams is the outcome envisioned by Potomac Water Watch.

• 200 hours in donated volunteer time and professional services
• $11,995 in grants from agencies and NGO's

Contact:
Rebecca MacLeod
RC&D Coordinator
304-267-8953 Ext 5
phrcd.6003@verizon.net

Potomac Headwaters Resource Conservation & Development Office, Inc.
151 Aiken Center, Suite 6
Martinsburg, WV 25404-6211

Potomac Headwaters Board of Directors and RC&D Coordinator deliver the first Consumer Drug Take-back barrel in the state.

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