Farmers and ranchers who need a Texas Private Applicator License will have two opportunities to complete the required training in Austin County this fall.
The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service of Austin County will offer Private Applicator License training on Friday, Sept. 4, and Friday, Nov. 13, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Austin County Extension Office, 800 E. Wendt St. in Bellville. Check-in begins 15 minutes before class.
A Private Applicator License allows agricultural producers to purchase and apply state-limited-use and federally restricted-use pesticides on land they own or control for agricultural production. Products requiring the license can include pesticides such as 2,4-D, Grazon P+D and Tordon 22K.
The training fee is $10, and the two required study manuals may be purchased for $50. Payment must be made by cash or check, with exact change requested for cash payments. Because space is limited, participants are asked to RSVP in advance.
Following the training, applicants must take the pesticide applicator exam administered through Metro Institute on behalf of the Texas Department of Agriculture. Applicants who complete the training and pass the exam with a score of 70 or higher are eligible to apply for their Private Applicator License. Information about testing locations, costs and the remainder of the licensing process will be provided during the class.
Those who need a different training date or have questions about the classes can contact Austin County Extension Agent Stacie Villarreal at 979-865-2072.
