The Williams County Agriculture Adult Education Classes are currently being held at Edon Northwest Local Schools. This is hosted by Edon’s FFA Chapter and Advisor Paul Stoll. The 2014 Series opened in January 13 and the classes will continue to run until the end of March. These classes are free and open to the public, guests can attend any or all of these classes as schedules permit.
On March 3, the topic was “Chemical Recertification” led by Flo Chirra from the OSU Extension Agency. This class was for anyone who needed to receive their ongoing Private Pesticide Applicators Recertification. Requirements are that anyone holding these credentials attend 3 hours of approved recertification training sessions anytime during the 3 year period, or retest every 3 years. The 3 hours of recertification must include: 1 hour (minimum) of core + 1/2 hour (minimum) of credit in every category on license and additional training in any category of approved pesticide applicator training, equaling 3 total hours (minimum) of recertification training.
The first part of the nights training focused on “Protecting the Applicator and the Environment”. It is important for the Applicators to understand how products have evolved over the years but the toxicity that they still have and what that means for themselves, their families and community. The importance of using personal protection equipment was reinforced. The difference between chronic and acute effects of pesticides was given. For instance, the chronic affects can be various types of cancer, reproductive issues, allergic reaction, and liver damage. The acute effects have immediate poisoning on the victim. It is important for applicators to understand each of the products they are using. Each products packaging tells you what personal protection equipment is needed when applying as well as the levels of cautions. The second half of the presentation was presented via a recording of Dr. Mark Loux from The Ohio State University. His presentation was on various topics from the control of Marestail in No-Till Soybeans to the new products that are available for applicators.
The next meeting will be held on March 10th, with the topic of “Hicksville Auto Recyclers”, led by Courtney Glore. All meetings take place in the Edon High School Agriculture Room beginning at 7:30 p.m. Event parking is available in the lot located on the west side of the school closest to the large overhead door; you may enter in the doors nearby. As always, there will be light refreshments after each gathering!