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Agriculture Fertilizer Certification Training

Agricultural Fertilizer Certification Training

If you DO have an Ohio Pesticide Applicator License, follow these steps:

  1. Attend a fertilizer certification training class for 2 hours offered in addition to your 3- hour pesticide recertification -- click here for available programs for private applicators. Click here for commercial applicator programs.
  2. Complete and sign a fertilizer certification form at the end of the training class.
  3. You're done. Because you already have an Ohio private applicator license, there is no charge for the fertilizer certification. You will recertify your fertilizer certification every three years along with your pesticide license.

If you DO NOT have an Ohio Pesticide Applicator License, follow these steps:

  1. Attend an initial fertilizer certification training class for 3 hours -- click here for available programs.
  2. Complete and sign a fertilizer certification form at the end of the training class.
  3. You will receive an invoice for $30 from the Ohio Department of Agriculture for your license. You will need to recertify for fertilizer certification every three years.

How long is the certification?

The agriculture fertilizer certification period is June 1 to May 30 and is valid for three years. Two hours of recertification training will be required every three years to keep the certification. Applicators who currently have a pesticide license will have their fertilizer recertification calibrate to their existing pesticide recertification cycle.

Who is exempt from the training requirement?

Applicators who are a Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) or Ohio Certified Livestock Manager are not required to attend training to become certified for fertilizer applications.

When do I need the certification?

The certification must be obtained by September 30, 2017.

What training is required for the certification?

Farmers and applicators need to attend a training course offered by Ohio State University Extension to become certified. Those who have a pesticide applicator license need to attend a two-hour fertilizer certification for private applicators or for commercial applicators.

If an applicator does not have a pesticide license, they will be required to attend a three-hour fertilizer certification.

How much is the agricultural fertilizer certification?

The agricultural fertilizer certification is $30 for a three year certification. If an applicator already has a valid pesticide license, the $30 fertilizer certification fee will be waived.

What fertilizer is included in the certification?

Fertilizer is any substance containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, or other plant nutrient in adry or liquid formulation. All application types (broadcast, side dress, sub-surface, knifing, etc.) are included in the certification requirement. The only application exempted is start-up fertilizers that are applied through a planter. For this certification requirement, lime and limestone are not considered fertilizers.

Are there any more details?

The final rules for the agricultural fertilizer certification are available at: http://codes.ohio.gov/oac/901%3A5