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For immediate release: March 25, 2021
Program contact: Brian Verhougstraete, 517-582-4573
Media contact: Jennifer Holton, 517-284-5724
MDARD partners with Metro
Institute to offer remotely proctored, online pesticide applicator
certification exams
Licensees encouraged to register
for an exam before the June 30th deadline
LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department
of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) announced today that pesticide
applicators can now take their certification exams through remotely
proctored, online testing. This new testing capability is provided by Metro Institute,
which offers computer-based pesticide certification exams in multiple
states.
“The integrity of our pesticide
certification exams is essential. Technology has reached the point where we
are confident that online exams can be administered with the same level of
security as in-person exams,” said Mike Philip, Director of MDARD’s
Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division. “Online exams open up a new
level of flexibility for applicators and businesses to take exams at a time
and location that works best for them. It also allows MDARD to focus our
limited resources on investigations and inspections that protect human
health and the environment.”
“Being a certified applicator means you
have demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to apply pesticides in
a safe manner. MDARD encourages applicators with 2019 and 2020 credentials
to schedule their exams as soon as possible. With the certification
extensions implemented in 2020, an unusually high number of applicators
will need to take exams over the next few months,” added Brian
Verhougstraete, MDARD’s Pesticide Section Manager. “Between online and
in-person exams at Metro Institute’s testing centers, there is currently a
lot of availability. However, as the June 30 deadline approaches, we expect
exam availability to tighten up. We are strongly encouraging applicators to
schedule their exams now.”
Michigan law requires an individual to be
either a certified pesticide applicator or a registered pesticide
applicator to apply a pesticide for a commercial purpose. It also requires
certification for anyone wishing to purchase a restricted use pesticide.
Michigan’s certified pesticide applicators must pass examinations to ensure
they have the knowledge and skills necessary to properly apply pesticides
in a manner which protects themselves, the public, and the environment.
Once certified, applicators must renew their credentials every three years
by either retesting or participating in continuing education events.
To take an online exam, applicants will
need a computer with a microphone and video camera, and a reliable
high-speed internet connection. After an applicator passes an exam, they
immediately get their results and are certified. The fee for online exams
is $65 per test.
For more information on MDARD’s Pesticide
and Plant Pesticide Management Division, visit Michigan.gov/MDARD.
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