Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Cancels Upcoming Pesticide Applicator Testing Sessions

Events will not be held from March 16-31 out of an abundance of caution   

DES MOINES, Iowa (March 13, 2020) – To help slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is canceling its in-person pesticide applicator testing sessions through the end of the month.

“We’re working with public health officials and other state and federal agencies to monitor the rapidly developing COVID-19 situation,” said Secretary Naig. “The health of the public and our employees is our top priority so we are temporarily suspending in-person testing out of an abundance of caution.”

The affected in-person meetings were scheduled to take place between March 16 and 31.

  • March 16: Nevada
  • March 17: Everly, Mason City and Tama
  • March 18: Emmetsburg and Newton
  • March 23: Oskaloosa
  • March 24: Garner, Orange City and Waterloo
  • March 25: Altoona, Muscatine and Rock Rapids

Additional pesticide applicator certification testing sessions may be offered at partner locations later in the year. Visit iowaagriculture.gov/pesticide-bureau for a list of alternate pesticide applicator certification testing dates and locations.

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About the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Led by Secretary Mike Naig, the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship serves the rural and urban residents that call Iowa home. Through its 14 diverse bureaus, the Department ensures animal health, food safety and consumer protection. It also promotes conservation efforts to preserve our land and enhance water quality for the next generation. Learn more at iowaagriculture.gov.

Media Contact:
Don McDowell
Communications Director
515-281-3375
Don.McDowell@IowaAgriculture.gov