SDSU Conducts DOT Training

By Scout Nelson

The South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension, in partnership with the South Dakota Department of Transportation (DoT) and the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), will host applicator recertification training on October 16 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in Pierre.

The event will take place at the Ramkota Hotel, 920 W Sioux Ave, and is open only to DoT employees. This session is specifically designed for applicators in Category G – General Pest Control and Category 7 – Right-of-Way Pest Control. Attendance is strongly encouraged for all DoT applicators seeking to renew their certifications.

Participants must bring a government-issued photo ID and, if available, their applicator license for check-in. Attendees should plan to arrive 15 minutes early to avoid delays. Full attendance is required to receive recertification credit, and participants must sign in and out to verify attendance.

The training will begin at 1:30 p.m. with attendance check-in, followed by a DANR regulatory update led by Valerie Mitchell and Katie Nold from 1:45 p.m. At 2:30 p.m., Graig Reicks, SDSU Extension Weed Ecology Field Specialist, will present a session on Right-of-Way Weed Control. The meeting will conclude at 3:30 p.m. with sign-out.

For registration and details, contact Lexi Lassle, SD DoT Maintenance Specialist. For pesticide education information, reach Stephen Robertson, SDSU Extension Pesticide Education Field Specialist.

This event helps applicators stay compliant with state regulations while enhancing their skills in safe and effective pest management across South Dakota’s roadways.

Photo Credit: istock-fotokostic