The MU Extension Private Pesticide Applicator Training provides the required education for agricultural producers to safely and effectively handle and apply pesticides, including Restricted Use pesticides, on their own farms. The Environmental Protection Agency and the Missouri Department of Agriculture require this training to demonstrate competency with current pesticide standards, regulations, and safe-use practices. Recertification is required every five years to maintain a valid Missouri Private Pesticide Applicator License.
This in-person course fulfills the training requirement for the Private Applicator Category 20 – General Agricultural Pest Control license for producers 18 years and older. It also applies to the Provisional Private Applicator license for those 16 to 17 years of age who are immediate family members of a certified private applicator.
The core Category 20 training covers:
- Reading and understanding pesticide labels
- Proper mixing, loading, and application techniques
- Safe storage, handling, and disposal of pesticides
- Protecting people, livestock, pollinators, wildlife, and the environment
- Key state and federal pesticide laws and regulations
Supplemental in-person trainings will be available upon request after completion of the core training:
- Category 21: Soil Fumigation (1 hour)
- Category 22: Non-Soil Fumigation (Grain Bin) (30–45 minutes)
- Category 23: Aerial Applicator (Drone) (30–45 minutes)
This training does not qualify participants for commercial applicator licenses. Successful completion allows participants to obtain or renew a Missouri Private Pesticide Applicator License, which is required to legally purchase and use Restricted Use pesticides on their own agricultural property.
Cost: $75
Location: Osage County Library (22 Library Lane, Linn, MO)
Registration: Preregistration is requested. Participants may register and pay online or preregister by phone, then pay at the door by cash or check. Preregistration helps ensure participants can be contacted in case of weather or scheduling changes.
For offline registration, please contact: MU Extension Center in Osage County at (573) 897-2497 ext 351.
Instructor: Rudra Baral, Field Specialist in Agronomy.
