Forest Pests Pesticide Use | Massachusetts Approval #2024-000156

This course explains how to safely control pests within forest environments. It’s completely online and approved by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources. Below is an overview of what’s covered in the course.

First is a discussion around the required safety measures and risks associated with all stages of the pesticide-mixing process. Then comes a detailed explanation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). These IPM strategies and methods are included to help pest managers prevent pesticides from contaminating water sources. The environmental fate of pesticides is also discussed.

The lessons then shift to practical explanations of topics like managing forest vegetation and preventing pesticide resistance. Forestry herbicide types and modes of action are also covered.

The precautions required during and after the various methods of fumigating greenhouse plants are taught next. Environmental concerns within greenhouses, such as protective measures and exposure, are also explained.

Lastly, lessons focus on pesticide spill cleanup, disposal, and hazardous waste.

After completing this course, you will be able to:

• Identify the risks and safety measures related to mixing pesticides.
• Describe ways of protecting water sources with IPM strategies.
• Explain why IPM is a successful practice and understand the strategies needed for a successful program.
• Summarize diverse tactics used to manage herbicide resistance.
• Discuss the goals and modes of action for forest herbicides.
• Identify practices for vegetation management.
• Describe safety concerns and methods of fumigation in greenhouses.
• Summarize health and environmental concerns in greenhouses.
• Communicate methods of managing pesticide waste.