MARQUETTE — MSU Extension is offering a four-hour review of the pesticide applicator “core manual” for state exam preparation or educational credit for recertification from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday at the MSU Upper Peninsula Research and Extension Center, E3774 University Drive, Chatham.

This four-hour review is intended to help prepare for the State of Michigan commercial and private pesticide applicator certification exams. Four re-certification credits toward renewal of current State of Michigan Pesticide Applicator Certification are available for private applicator “core,” commercial applicator “core” and categories 1A, 1B, 1C, 3A, and 3B.

The program will consist of chapter reviews of the National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Manual and a practice exam. Note: NO EXAMS WILL BE OFFERED at this program.

It is strongly suggested that participants acquire copies of the core manual and study it thoroughly before taking the state exam. If seeking commercial certification or re-certification, the study manual for the category(s) desired should also be acquired and studied. This program will cover only “core” manual material, no commercial categories.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture has changed the exam process. Exams are now offered through the Metro Institute. The following is from the MDARD website:

Computer-Based Exams: Testing centers at 18 locations across Michigan offer computer-based, in-person exams through Metro Institute, a private pesticide exam administration company authorized to conduct testing on MDARD’s behalf. Applicators do not have to be computer-savvy to successfully complete these exams. Click Metro Institute Testing Center Locations to see a map of testing center locations.