Success StoryNew Pesticide Applicator Protocol at Local Regional University



New Pesticide Applicator Protocol at Local Regional University

Author: Matthew Chadwick

Planning Unit: Calloway County CES

Major Program: Chemical Management

Plan of Work: 2024 Farm Worker Safety

Outcome: Initial Outcome

Issue or Situation:

Murray State University implemented a new policy requiring student workers involved in pesticide application or entering areas treated with pesticides to attend a pesticide training class and obtain a private applicator's card as part of their employment. However, the timing of the trainings, offered only in late winter, created challenges for workers hired in the summer and fall semesters, leaving a gap in pesticide safety preparedness for these students.

Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable):

In response, I developed a tailored training program specific to the needs of student workers at MSU farms, utilizing available pesticide training materials. This program is delivered in collaboration with the student worker manager on an as-needed basis to ensure that student workers receive timely training regardless of their start date.

Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience:

To date, 25 student workers have participated in the training. These workers are primarily responsible for applying pesticides or working in areas where pesticides are present on university farms.

Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact:

The program has significantly enhanced pesticide safety awareness among student workers. Many participants reported that in previous semesters they had received minimal training on the chemicals they were handling, how to interpret labels, or the dangers of long-term exposure without protective measures. This initiative has addressed those gaps, ensuring that workers are better informed and equipped to handle pesticides safely. Additionally, the program has strengthened relationships with the farm manager, paving the way for future collaborations.






Stories by Matthew Chadwick


New MG education classes

about 14 days ago by Matthew Chadwick

Describe the Issue or Situation: The Master Gardener (MG) program aims to develop knowledgeable, con... Read More


Continued Work with Local Livestock Producer

about 2 months ago by Matthew Chadwick

Issue or Situation:Initial Issue: A local producer who owns a slaughter facility and imports mature/... Read More


Stories by Calloway County CES


4-H Needle Felting

4-H Needle Felting

about 1 months ago by Calyn Colston

The Murray State University Family & Consumer Science department received a grant earlier this year ... Read More


Establishing the Calloway County Shooting Sports Homemaker Club

Establishing the Calloway County Shooting Sports Homemaker Club

about 1 months ago by Debra Hixon

Describe the Issue or Situation. In Calloway County, a community-driven need led to the creation of ... Read More


Stories by Chemical Management


Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP)

about 1 months ago by Ricardo Bessin

This is a service-oriented educational program that trains, certifies, and licenses both Private and... Read More


Rinse and Return Program

about 1 months ago by Bryce Roberts

The Rinse and Return Program is coordinated with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture with l... Read More