Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First

Pesticide Applicator Training Courses Scheduled

Private pesticide applicators with licenses expiring in 2013, and anyone seeking first-time private applicator certification, should plan to attend upcoming training sessions scheduled throughout western Nebraska beginning in January.

Dates, locations and contact information:

•Harrisburg: January 24, 1 p.m., Banner County Museum; call 308-235-3122

•Sidney: January 22, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., Sidney, Holiday Inn; call 308-254-4455.

•Kimball: February 6, 1 p.m., 4-H Building; call 308-235-3122.

To reserve space for each session, or for more information, call the local Extension office listed after each date.

The cost of training is $30. Applicators whose permits are due for renewal in 2013 should have received a letter from the State Department of Ag reminding them of permit expiration. They can bring that letter to the training session and avoid having to fill out an application form. 

Private pesticide licenses also can be obtained either by completing a self-study manual from the County Extension Office for $60 or by taking and passing a written test conducted by the Nebraska Department of Ag.

Those who complete pesticide applicator training then need to apply to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture for a three-year license card for a $25 fee. The private pesticide license card is required to buy and use restricted-use pesticides for the production of ag commodities.

License fees collected by the NDA are used by natural resources districts in their educational programs.