Agr, Lndscp & Envir: Pesticide Application Training

See Schedule of Courses for specific titles.

Prerequisites: ALE 2060 Entomology and Pest Management; ALE 2120 Weed Ecology and Management; ALE 2170 Plant Pathology, or instructor permission

This course provides an in-depth review of pesticide definitions, regulations, and use practices necessary for proper and legal pesticide applications that reduce risk to human health and the environment. A variety of pesticide applications and equipment, personal protection, label evaluation, and risk analysis will be demonstrated to improve pesticide use decision making. Administration of a pesticide applicator certification exam will establish proof of knowledge essential for pesticide-related careers. Additional exams and fees may be necessary to complete certification in Vermont or other states. No pesticides will be applied by students in this course. This course is NOT intended to promote pesticide use.

This is a hands-on in-person course with lectures and in-class activities held weekly. One Saturday field trip is scheduled at the UVM Horticultural Research Center with transportation provided from main campus. Material delivery will employ a combination of readings and videos, lectures (instructor, guest, and student-led), and homework projects. All students will be expected to contribute to in-class exercises to improve learning and continual course development. Discussions, and assignments will encourage critical thinking and the practical application of pesticide concepts.

Course assignments are intended to provide a practical understanding of pesticide application and are not intended to be challenging or burdensome. Any student can achieve a high grade by simply staying up on readings, attending and participating in class, and completing assignments on-time and according to the instructions.