Are you a licensed private pesticide applicator in Ohio? If so, it is that time of year to review your applicator recertification status and determine if you need to attend recertification classes before March 31 or retest. The Ohio Department of Agriculture provides private applicators two options to keep their license current: 1.) retest every three years or 2.) attend three hours of recertification classes every three years. The three hours of recertification classes must include:

1 hour (minimum) of core + 1/2 hour (minimum) of credit in every category on license + additional training in any category of approved pesticide applicator training = 3 total hours (minimum) of recertification training   

To check the status of your pesticide applicator license, please go to: http://www.agri.ohio.gov/apps/odaprs/pestfert-prs-ols.aspx?ols=rg. Enter your last name and pesticide applicator license number. The website will then give you a summary of the credits you have earned and those still needed, including category types and expiration date. If you need help, please email or call me.

Help…my license expires this year!  There are many opportunities to attend private recertification classes around the state this winter and early spring. Many of these programs offer core in addition to all the remaining private categories, including 5p (Greenhouse). To check the program dates, times, and locations, please visit: http://pested.osu.edu/Private_recert. Click on each group of counties to see a list of classes in that region. The website is updated as new programs are scheduled.

Can’t make one of these programs? Contact your local county extension office to inquire about viewing recertification videos for the categories needed and any fees that may apply.