MDARD core review and testing with RUP credits in December

By Andi Anderson

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), in collaboration with Michigan State University Extension, is hosting an in-person pesticide applicator core review and testing event on Dec. 6, 2024. The event will be held at the Saginaw Valley Research and Center in Frankenmuth, Michigan.

Event Details

Registration begins at 8 a.m., with the review class starting promptly at 8:30 a.m. Led by MSU Extension educators Teresa Crook and Saltanat Mambetova, the 4-hour session will cover all chapters of the National Pesticide Applicators Certification Core Manual. Testing will follow at approximately 1 p.m. Lunch will be provided after the review.

Participants can register online for convenience or walk in on the day of the event, space permitting. Online registration allows payment by credit card, while walk-ins must pay with exact cash or a check.

New for 2024-2025

This year, participants can earn four restricted-use pesticide (RUP) recertification credits during the review. Private or commercial core credits are available, and participants must indicate their interest during registration.

Fees and Certification

The core review fee is $25, payable online or in person via cash or check. Applicator testing fees vary by certification type: $50 for private applicators, $75 for commercial applicators, and $45 for registered applicators. These fees must be mailed to MDARD after passing the test. Veterans can waive private applicator fees by providing a copy of their DD214.

Core manuals can be ordered from the National Pesticide Safety Education Center or local MSU Extension offices. Participants are encouraged to review the material beforehand for the best results.

This event provides a valuable opportunity to gain certification, recertification credits, and industry knowledge in a supportive learning environment. For more details, visit the event registration page or contact local MSU Extension offices.

Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension