Pesticide applicator and operator testing will be held by the University of Illinois Extension, here in Central Illinois, from January through April. The first testing day will be Monday, January 8th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Christian County Extension Office, located at 1120 North Webster Street in Taylorville. The second stop for testing will be on Thursday, January 18th from 10 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the Montgomery County Extension Office, located at 1 Industrial Park Drive in Hillsboro. The final testing date is set for Tuesday, March 12th, or Wednesday, April 3rd, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., located at the Macoupin County Extension office, at 60 Carlinville Plaza in Carlinville.

Andrew Holsinger, Horticulture Educator for the University of Illinois Extension says this is a good opportunity for those looking to stay up to date on their licensure.

Not all pesticides require a license to apply. Restricted-use pesticides contain more toxic chemicals and need more care and professional experience.

Holsinger says these testing days will be good for applicators to familiarize themselves with safety standards and become educated in the standards of the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

Registration for the pesticide applicator and operator tests is required and can be found at go.illinois.edu/cjmmevents.

Andrew Holsinger appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.