University of Missouri Extension offers recertification training for commercial pesticide applicators during eight days in January 2024, with follow-up days in February and March.
Completing the online training classes recertifies licensed commercial pesticide applicators for three years, says Sam Polly, MU Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program coordinator.
Polly recommends that applicators look at their licenses to determine if they need to recertify in 2024. Three years pass quickly, and checking now can avoid the frustration of retaking the exams prior to spray season, he says.
The one-day classes include the core and category-specific training centered around the participant’s main area of work with pesticides. Classes run 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and require participants to have a computer and valid email address. While no certification classes are offered this year, the recertification classes are also useful as a review for those who plan to take the exams and become certified, Polly says.
“Keep in mind that Missouri’s new pesticide licensing rules and program are scheduled to take effect Jan. 1, 2025,” he says. “While anyone wishing to apply pesticides with aerial equipment or soil fumigation methods will need the new categories on their license at that time, this is a good time to recertify even if your license does not expire. This will allow you to recertify for the next three years under the current program.”
Dates and topics:
Jan. 9: General structure, termite, fumigation, wood products.
Jan. 10: Ag plant, ag animal, seed treatment.
Jan. 11: Forest, aquatic and public health.
Jan. 17: Ornamental turf, right of way and forest.
Jan. 18: Ag plant, general structure, termite and wood products.
Jan. 23: Ag plant, ornamental/turf, aquatic, right of way.
Jan. 24: General structure, termite, fumigation and public health.
Jan. 25: Ag animal, ornamental/turf, seed treatment, right of way.
Feb. 13: Ag plant, ornamental/turf, right of way, general structure and termite.
March 14: Ag plant, ornamental/turf, right of way, general structure and termite.
Register at https://cvent.me/aYP82q.
