Forest Pest Management | Pennsylvania Approval #002Q53

Pest managers who finish this course will learn how to protect Pennsylvania forests, prevent tree diseases, and manage vertebrate pests. All lessons are online and self-paced, so they fit into busy schedules. Complete your training with confidence knowing that all course material is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

The course starts out by explaining integrated pest management strategies. These strategies are intended to help pest managers protect non-target organisms, minimize the impact of pesticides on water sources, and overcome pesticide resistance.

A vital part of applying these strategies includes understanding how to properly use pesticide equipment and application methods. Learn about sprayer types, maintenance, components, and operation. Banding and broadcast calibration methods are also discussed.

Then, learn about tree disease and forest pest management with lessons on how to use natural, chemical, and applied insect management techniques. Weed control and pest control herbicides are also described.

The course ends by discussing vertebrate pests, the problems they bring, and methods for damage control. There is also an overview of regulations and laws related to forest pest management.

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

• Explain what integrated pest management is and various management strategies.
• Discuss types of management methods and controls for insects within different tree environments.
• Describe key features of forest disease management and characteristics of common tree diseases.
• Identify types of forest vertebrate populations and problems and how to choose the best control method.
• Relate types of forests and specific pest threats.
• Explain types of calibration methods and techniques.
• Relate control methods for weed control, including pesticides and herbicides.
• Identify key variables in properly calibrating pesticide application equipment.
• Describe the importance of keeping pesticides out of water sources and methods to minimize the impacts of pesticide use.
• State the types of equipment necessary for pesticide application and various application methods.