The Illinois Pesticide Safety Act requires farmers and others to become certified as a Private Pesticide Applicator in order to purchase and use "restricted use pesticides." To become certified, you must pass a closed book, 50 question exam given by the Illinois Department of Agriculture. In order help you prepare for the exam, University of Illinois Extension offers Pesticide Safety Education Program clinics as well as a training manual and workbook.

The University of Illinois Extension - Macoupin County is offering one private pesticide education clinic during the winter of 2007-2008. We estimate that about 40 Macoupin County farmers will need to be re-certified so we have developed the following format for this year's training. The current study guide is the same manual as used three years ago. The higher registration fee for training has been set statewide and is the same at all locations in Illinois.

Please use the links on the left side of this page to pre-register for one of the sessions provided. Pre-registration is required.

University of Illinois Extension -Macoupin County will be hosting this clinic - January 16, 2008 beginning at1 p.m. This session will be held at #60 Carlinville Plaza, Carlinville.

On February 28, 2008 beginning at 1 p.m. a test only session also be offered. Pre-registration will be required by contact the Macoupin County Extension office at 217-854-9604. Those producers taking the test only will not be charged. All Department of Agriculture pesticide safety tests can be taken at this time.