The deadline for pesticide applicators to renew their certifications has been waived by a proclamation signed by Gov. Kim Reynolds. Iowans who were certified through Dec. 31, 2019 can retain their status this spring and now have until the end of 2020 to submit the testing or training required to renew a pesticide applicator certification.

This waiver comes after the Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship canceled its in-person testing sessions through March 31, based on coronavirus social distancing recommendations from the CDC. Applicators still need to meet pesticide certification standards by Dec. 31, 2020. They are encouraged to apply for re-certification upon completion of the testing or training requirements later this year when training is again available.

The waiver does not apply to a person seeking first-time certification. Training and testing still needs to be completed before these persons can receive state certification, but the training and testing is temporarily suspended, thus delaying their opportunity for first-time certification.

More details are available at iowaagriculture.gov/covid-19.