Application of crop protection chemicals and lawn/landscape chemicals is an important industry in South Central Kentucky.  Professional applicators must receive training to stay current on issues, pests, techniques, and safety for the products they apply.  They need to receive continuing education to maintain their applicator license.  The agriculture and horticulture agents around the Mammoth Cave responded to a need for a commercial training opportunity by developing the SOKY Pesticide Training Program.  The agents organized, promoted, secured speakers, coordinated with the KY Dept. of Agriculture and the TN Dept. of Agriculture, and facilitated the event.  UK Extension Specialists, a KSU Extension Specialist, a Public Information Officer from the Ky. State Police, professors from Western Kentucky University, and a Transportation Cabinet employee, and a volunteer presented during the two day program.  109 people attended the two day training.  654 hours of continuing education were received by these attendees. One applicator told us that, “I appreciate the format of this training and the opportunity to receive my continuing education close to my work station”.  Paper evaluations were collected after each day of the program. The information is used to improve the program for the next year.  33% of responses indicated they would make changes to their daily job duties and responsibilities as a result of the training.  These included:  Pre-trip inspections, improved knowledge of the material presented, and calibrating a backpack sprayer.  Evaluations also provided input on topics attendees would like to see addressed in future trainings. 

The Edmonson County ANR/4-H Agent helped secure and introduce speakers, enter data for continuing education hours, serving lunch, clean up, and any other general needs during the meeting. By helping commercial applicators get the continuing education credits they need to maintain their license, it helps Edmonson County producers continue to have access to professionals who can spray agriculture crops and turf and specialty crops correctly to help producers maximize profits, safety, and a safe, healthy food supply.