The application of crop protection chemicals and lawn/landscape chemicals are important industries 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 12 hours of continuing education during a three year cycle to maintain their applicator license.  Three of these hours must address specific topics that pertain to their license category.  Many applicators have a difficult time finding training opportunities that fit into their work schedule, and that were not a long way from their business operation.  

The event is held each year at the Logan County Extension Facility.  The agriculture and horticulture agents in the Mammoth Cave area responded to a need for commercial training opportunity by developing the SOKY Pesticide Training Program.  The agents organized, promoted, secured speakers, coordinated with the KY Dept. of Agriculture, and facilitated the event.  The UK Pesticide Applicator Training Program provides guidance and support for this commercial program.  UK Extension Specialists, a KSU Extension Specialist, a Public Information Officer from the Ky. State Police, professors from Western Kentucky University, and industry professionals presented information during the two-day program.   

There were 112 people who attended the training.  The attendees received a total of 672 hours of continuing education hours. Assuming this training saved the applicators an average of 100 miles of travel, the program had an economic impact of saving attendees $6,380 in mileage expenses alone. One applicator told us that,  “I am currently a sprayer and landscaper.  I learned a lot and will be applying my knowledge for safer and more effective practices for workers and myself."  

Paper evaluations were collected after each day of the program.  The information is used to improve the program for the next year.   44% of responses indicated they would make changes to their daily job duties and responsibilities as a result of the training.  These included: better equipment inspections, improved sanitation, and improved chemical selection.   Evaluations also provided input on topics attendees would like to see addressed in future programs.