Pesticide Applicator Core Review and Testing Event in West Branch

By Andi Anderson

An in‑person Pesticide Applicator Core Review and MDARD Core Testing event will take place tomorrow, March 17, 2026, in West Branch, Michigan. The session will run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with check‑in scheduled from 8:00 to 8:30 a.m. Registration for the event closed on March 9, 2026.

The program will be held at the MSU Extension Ogemaw County office, located at 205 S. 8th Street in the County Annex Building. This training opportunity is offered through MSU Extension, the MSU Pesticide Safety Education Program, and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division.

The event includes a detailed Core Manual review session in the morning, followed by MDARD‑proctored certification exams in the afternoon. The review covers all chapters of the National Pesticide Applicators Certification Core Manual. Attendance at the review is mandatory for anyone participating in the in‑person testing.

Tests available include Private and Commercial Core, Fumigation Standard, and Aerial Standard exams. Commercial category tests will not be offered at this event.

Participants are encouraged to read and study the Core Manual before attending. Manuals may be ordered online at msupesticidemanuals.com or obtained from local MSU Extension offices, depending on availability.

Registration and payment were required to attend, with the program cost set at $25. Additionally, attendees may request four RUP recertification credits for the Core.

MDARD will provide a stamped, self‑addressed envelope for participants who pass the exam to submit their certification fees afterward.

Cancellations and refunds are limited. Cancellations within four days of the review are not eligible for a refund, and no‑shows do not receive reimbursement. Requests for location changes or refunds may be directed to Melissa Burns at the Lenawee County MSU Extension office or Laura Miller at the Hillsdale County MSU Extension office.

The event will be held at:

205 S. 8th St., County Annex Building, West Branch, MI 48661.

Phone: 989‑345‑0692.

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