NOTE: Students should NOT use any pesticides.
Description should include
- determining pesticide types needed for a production operation
- understanding pesticide classifications and formulations
- identifying, for a given pesticide, the directions, use, warnings, and limitations
- using integrated pest management (IPM) by scouting and using thresholds to determine economic feasibility of application
- selecting the least invasive pesticide possible
- explaining safety practices for various pesticide applications
- identifying the information on the pesticide label prior to use
- identifying necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
- describing procedures for handling, applying, cleaning up, storing, and disposing of pesticides (according to the label)
- describing environmental concerns when using the pesticide
- identifying legal responsibilities and liability concerns
- describing emergency procedures in case of a pesticide spill or accident
- describing emergency and first aid procedures in case of personal contact or poisoning
- outlining record-keeping requirements
- calibrating the spray equipment.
Process/Skill Questions:
- Where can one find information about the use and warnings of a specific pesticide?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of using pesticides to meet the food/fiber needs of an increasing population?
- Why does a farmer need to understand the life cycles of pests to ensure successful pesticide application?
- What is the public’s general perception of pesticide safety?
- How long must a farmer maintain records of pesticide applications?
- What are the major classes/groupings of pesticides?
- Which federal agency regulates pesticides?
- What factors should be considered when selecting a pesticide?