Fertilizer Applicator Certification Needed By 9/30/2017

 

We are entering the last few months for fertilizer applicator certification which involves attending a training program offered by Ohio State University Extension then being issued a certification from the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Through the first two years of the program 12,000 farmers and ag retailers who apply fertilizer have been certified.  Some common questions are answered below along with a link to the upcoming schedule through April. Attend soon to find the most convenient meetings to your home location.

 

 

The certification is required if you apply fertilizer (other than manure) to more than 50 acres of agricultural production grown primarily for sale. If you hire a co-op or other custom applicator for fertilizer applications, you do not need the certification. If you do not have an Ohio Pesticide Applicator License, you need to attend a 3-hour class. If you have a license, you need to attend a 2-hour class.

 

 

The term “agricultural production” is defined as the cultivation, primarily for sale, of plants or any parts of plants on more than 50 acres.  If you raise forage (e.g., hay, silage, corn) for use on your farm, and have questions about fertilizer certification, please contact the Ohio Department of Agriculture at 614-728-6987 or email: pesticides@agri.ohio.gov

 

 

Individuals are encouraged to obtain certification as soon as possible, or when renewing their pesticide applicator license. The certification must be obtained by September 30, 2017.