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Application of crop protection chemicals and lawn/landscape chemicals are 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 in the Mammoth Cave area 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, and a Transportation Cabinet employee presented during the program. 

103 people attended the training and 528 hours of continuing education were received by the participants.   One applicator told us that, “I have flown drones before, but seeing the larger ones and being able to hear and feel their power made me realize this was something we would use more of in the future.” 

Evaluations were collected at the end of the program. 44% of responses indicated they would amend their daily job duties and responsibilities because of the training. These included:  Pre-trip inspections, using adjuvants, and proper mixing techniques.  Evaluations also provided input on the topics attendees would like to see addressed in future trainings.  There were three Certified Crop Advisors that used the training to keep their license current.