We've Got The County Covered
We've Got The County Covered
Cecil Tharp - MSU Pesticide Education Specialist
The Montana State University (MSU) Pesticide Education Program (PEP) is coordinating five regional Initial Private Applicator Trainings across Montana. These seven-hour training opportunities are designed for individuals desiring to learn more about pesticides, while simultaneously qualifying for a Montana private applicator license.
A private applicator license allows individuals to apply restricted use pesticides on land they own, rent or lease. Training opportunities are available in Flathead County (Kalispell) on April 9th, Sanders County (Plains) on April 10th, Missoula County (Missoula) on April 11th, Pondera County (Conrad) on April 17th, and Fort Belknap Reservation (Harlem) on April 18th.
Each program will cover many subject areas of interest including integrated pest management, pesticide movement in the environment, pesticide safety and toxicity, pesticide law, calibrating ground sprayer equipment, understanding the private applicator license, and reading and understanding the pesticide product label.
Montana State University and Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA) trainers speaking at these events include Dr. Jane Mangold (MSU Rangeland Weed Specialist), Dr. Cecil Tharp (MSU Pesticide Education Specialist), Amy Bowser (MSU Pesticide Education Technician), Kima Traynham (MDA District 7 Officer) and Michaela Hystad (MDA District 3 Officer). Surrounding MSU Extension county and tribal agents will also be assisting with many of the presentations.
Cost and Private Applicator Credit Opportunities
A $30 registration fee (which will be paid by Fort Belknap Extension) is necessary to cover training materials, speaker costs and a catered lunch. Private applicators may attend the entire program for six private pesticide recertification credits.
Attendees will qualify for a private applicator pesticide license by attending the entire event. Once qualified, individuals may send in a new applicator permit with license payment to the MDA to attain their Montana private applicator license. Attendees are strongly urged to pre-register as space is limited.
