First Pass Applicator Training set

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — A new training course for first-time pesticide applicators is being offered by the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association.

IFCA’s First Pass Applicator Training is a two-day program designed for new applicators that are applying pesticides.

“The course is open to anyone, including growers who operate their own application equipment,” said John Rebholz, IFCA safety and education director.

“The course covers 23 key topic areas to help participants build a strong foundation and gain confidence working in the application sector. It also incorporates group exercises, demonstrations and hands-on problem-solving to reinforce learning.”

Course content includes all aspects of pesticide and dry fertilizer application.

Two sessions are scheduled — July 14-15 and Sept. 15-16 — at IFCA’s headquarters, 10226 E 1400 North Rd., Bloomington.

There’s a limit of 22 attendees per course and the registration is $500 per person. More classes will be available next year.

Completing this class will help individuals prepare for the General Standards Pesticide Exam. However, they should also take advantage of additional training resources available through the University of Illinois Extension.

Because the pesticide label is the law, this course places strong emphasis on understanding label content, all of which are approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

“We have received feedback from our members expressing the need for foundational training for individuals entering the agricultural application sector who may not have an agricultural background or are new to operating application equipment. This course is designed to help bridge that gap — serving as a transition from the classroom to the cab,” Rebholz noted.

“By providing participants with the basics, agricultural retailers can build on that knowledge through hands-on, job-specific training for the equipment the individual will ultimately operate.”

Registration is available at ifca.com.