By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is preparing to host two free pesticide recertification training sessions in October for South Dakota Department of Transportation (DOT) pest control applicators.
The sessions aim to support applicators seeking recertification in general pest control (Category G) and right-of-way pest control (Category 7).
The trainings are being held in collaboration with the South Dakota Department of Transportation and the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
These sessions offer DOT employees an opportunity to stay updated on best practices in pest control and safety procedures.
The first training will take place on October 8, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. CDT at the Best Western Ramkota Hotel in Aberdeen. The second session is scheduled for October 16, 2025, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. CDT at the Ramkota Hotel in Pierre.
Speakers for both events include Stephen Robertson, SDSU Extension Pesticide Education Field Specialist; Graig Reicks, SDSU Extension Weed Ecology Field Specialist; and Valerie Mitchell and Katie Nold from the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Participation in these sessions is limited to DOT employees, and those seeking recertification must attend the full duration of the meeting. Participants are required to bring a government-issued photo ID and their applicator license for check-in.
Registration is available by contacting Lexi Lassle, South Dakota DOT Maintenance Specialist, at Lexi.Lassle@state.sd.us. Attendees can also find the training agenda by visiting the SDSU Extension Events webpage and searching for “applicator.”
These educational programs highlight SDSU Extension’s ongoing commitment to promoting professional development, public safety, and responsible pesticide use among South Dakota’s pest control applicators.
Photo Credit: istock-fotokostic
Categories: South Dakota, Sustainable Agriculture