By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University's Pesticide Safety Education Program, led by Betsy Danielson, is at the forefront of providing necessary training options. For farmers who use restricted-use pesticides, certification isn't just a requirement; it's a commitment to safety and effectiveness in agricultural production.
There are two main pathways to maintain this certification: passing a triennial exam or participating in an approved Private Continuing Instruction Course (P-CIC) annually. These courses are available in various formats to accommodate every applicant's needs, including:
Live, In-person Training: Offered at $30, this is the preferred method for many. It's tailored to local conditions and provided by ISU Extension field agronomists. Participants should check with their county Extension office for dates and preregistration details.
Online Training Sessions: As an alternative to in-person sessions, the Pesticide Safety Education Program offers three live-streamed P-CIC online trainings. These sessions are scheduled for:
- February 20 at 1 p.m.
- March 12 at 1 p.m.
- April 2 at 6 p.m.
Registration for each session closes at 9 a.m. the day before the program, and the fee is $35. For registration, individuals should select a date and complete the registration form through the Iowa State University Extension Store. Questions can be directed to PSEP at 515-294-1122.
Last Chance Training: This option is for procrastinators or those who missed earlier sessions, offered in April at a cost of $30 via Blu-Ray disc.
Certification is essential for anyone applying restricted-use pesticides in agricultural production on their own or their employer's land, ensuring applications are done safely and effectively.
For more details or to register for a session, visit the Pesticide Safety Education Program's website or contact your local county Extension office. This initiative reflects Iowa's commitment to maintaining high standards of pesticide application for the safety of applicators and the environment.
Photo Credit: istock-fotokostic
Categories: Iowa, General