Pesticide Safety Education Program in South Dakota

Non-Technical Summary:<br/>
In collaboration with South Dakota Department of Agriculture, the Pesticide Safety Education Program in South Dakota State University (SDSU) conducts annual certification trainings and examinations that form the main instruments for commercial and private pesticide applicators to be certified to apply pesticides. SDSU Pesticide Safety Education Program actively coordinates trainings, provides training and educational materials, administers and updates certification examinations and explores new avenues to educate pesticide applicators on safe pesticide application.
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Approach:<br/>
1. Coordination with South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) and South Dakota State University's (SDSU) state extension specialists to conduct 2013 commercial and private pesticide applicator re-certification training. Additionally, we will organize the logistic and public communication necessary for the training program. Pre- and post-training anonymous test will be conducted using Turning Point Technologies in a few random training location to gauge the impact of the training on the knowledge change among trainees.
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2. Two pesticide applicator certification examinations used in South Dakota are in need of update: Category 1A (Agricultural pest- Insecticide) and Category 4 (Ornamental and Turf). In collaboration with SDDA we will update the questions on these two exams.
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3. Two extension publications on pesticide safety and management are planned for 2013: an update on pesticide calibration publication and a publication on weather effects on pesticide application.
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4. Working closely with SDDA to publicize pesticide safety related programs statewide (e.g. Pesticide container collection dates for recycle program). SDSU extension newsletter, website and news release service will be used to publicize this information as necessary.