9.8 Certification and Training
Certification and training of private and commercial pesticide applicators is a function of both state pesticide lead agencies and the Cooperative Extension Service. This program is essential to the safe use of pesticides. While there have been significant changes in the requirements of both commercial and private applicator certification and training programs since their inception, there has been little corresponding increase in funding to the Cooperative Extension Service for this purpose.
EPA continues to add rules that impact the amount and type of information which must be conveyed through pesticide applicator training such as the WPS, the use of IPM, endangered species, water protection, container/containment, recycling, product specific training, etc. . EPA should move forward with recommendations of the Certification and Training Advisory Group.
NASDA emphasizes that FIFRA grant funding for certification and training programs should be consistent in federal/state match funding requirements with the 85/15 requirement of other programs such as enforcement and WPS.
Periodic reviews of state certification programs by EPA and state pesticide lead agencies with the intention of strengthening certification and training programs, such as adding new information necessary for the safe application of pesticides, is desirable. However, any major required changes in this program should be carefully considered as to cost and feasibility. Other than certain minimum requirements established by EPA in cooperation with their state partners, any additional requirements should be set by state pesticide lead agencies as they are likely to bear the increased costs. Adequate funding to implement any required changes to private applicator certification programs should accompany such requirements.