MENDOTA - University of Illinois Extension – Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, Putnam Unit is offering three Testing-Only sessions and certification program for private pesticide applicators. The sessions will be held in Henry on Jan. 29 and Feb. 5 and at IVCC in Oglesby on Feb. 26.

Certification is required to apply restricted use pesticides. The sessions are held in cooperation with the Illinois Department of Agriculture. Pre-registration is required. No walk-ins will be allowed and space will be limited due to current state COVID regulations.

The Henry sessions will take place at the Marshall-Putnam Farm Bureau Building, 509 Front St., Henry from noon–3 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 29 and Friday, Feb. 5. Registration is required one day in advance by calling (309) 364-2356.

The Oglesby session will be held at Illinois Valley Community College, Room CTC 124/125, 815 N. Orlando Smith Road, Oglesby on Friday, Feb. 26 from 9 a.m.–noon. Registration is required one day in advance by calling (815) 224-0889.

Private applicator manuals and workbooks can be purchased online or at local Extension offices in Princeton, Ottawa, Henry and Oglesby on the IVCC campus. Participants will need to bring a calculator. Calculators must be simple function calculators. No smart phones or smart devices will be allowed. Questions may be directed to Daryle Wragge, Ag Program Coordinator, at (309) 364-2356.

Mask Policy: Properly worn face coverings are required at all times within the testing locations. Those unable or unwilling to abide by the mask restrictions are directed to the IDOA online examination system at https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/agr/Pesticides. Social distancing restrictions will be enforced. Do not come to a testing session if you have a fever greater than 100.4 F, if you or a household member have tested positive for COVID-19, if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or if you are unable or unwilling to comply with the mask policy or other social distancing restrictions.

There is no charge for the testing. If you need a reasonable accommodation, please indicate when registering.