Applicator Workshop - Rupert

8:00-9:00

Understanding Pesticide Product Labels

Zach Kuzniar – Cygnet Enterprises, Inc.

Application of pesticides can be a practical and efficient solution for pest management challenges. However, these products can also pose risks to humans, wildlife, and the environment, particularly when not used properly. The pesticide label contains directions for safe and effective use and is intended to provide guidelines for maximizing pest control benefits while minimizing negative impacts. Reading and understanding how to follow the label is an important first step to ensure end users can comply with the directions and precautions associated with each product. This presentation will provide information to help pesticide applicators and handlers interpret the common language presented in all pesticide labels.

9:00-10:00

Aquatic Plant and Algae Control in Canals

Travis Fuller – SePro

This presentation will cover the importance of knowing the problems of plants or algae in your system, along with control methods and tips for managing plants and algae in canals.

10:00 – 10:15

Break

10:15-11:15

Calibration, PPE, Safety

Joseph Sagers – University of Idaho  

This presentation will focus on proper calibration of boom sprayers, in addition to appropriate Personal Protective Equipment. Attendees will be taught the correct equations to properly calibrate, as well as read the instructions on the labels.

11:15-12:15

Is that a good plant or a bad plant?

Ron Patterson – University of Idaho

The first step to weed control is proper identification. This presentation will cover identification and life cycle of weeds commonly found along water rights-of-way in Southern Idaho/Eastern Oregon. Included with identification will be discussion of general control practices for irrigation systems.

12:15-1:00

Lunch

1:00-2:00

Vegetation Management in Western Irrigation Systems

David Blodget – ClearChannel VM

This presentation will cover herbicide and algaecide chemistries currently registered for use in aquatic and riparian (ditch bank) environments in the State of Idaho. Basic identification of commonly encountered aquatic and riparian weed species will be discussed. Geared towards Ditchriders and herbicide / algaecide application crews, special consideration will be given to management strategies commonly employed within Western US irrigation systems.

2:00-3:00

Idaho’s Chemigation Program Requirements

Westy Pickup – Idaho State Department of Agriculture

A discussion relating to the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) requirements for Idaho chemigators. Chemigator licensing, backflow prevention equipment, and conditions to consider when chemigating. An update on possible changes to Idaho’s Pesticide and Chemigation Rules will also be addressed.

3:00-3:15

Break

3:15-4:15

ISDA Invasive Species: Quagga EDRR in the Mid-Snake River

Cole Morrison / Madilyn Patterson – Idaho State Department of Agriculture

This presentation will outline actions taken by ISDA and cooperating agencies relating to the early detection with subsequent rapid response aimed at eradicating quagga mussels identified in the Mid Snake River region in September 2023. It will include invasive mussel biology, Idaho’s watercraft inspection program, early detection monitoring, pre-treatment surveys, chemical treatments & timing, post-treatment monitoring, as well as the logistics involved in executing a treatment of this scale in such a short period of time.

4:15-5:15

Pesticide Perfection: Practicing Proper Procedures for a Pest-Free Paradise

Jason Thomas – University of Idaho

In this presentation participants will practice reading and following label information, learn about pesticide efficacy and how to choose the best pesticide based on research information, learn about the proper timing and selection of pesticides to reduce environmental issues, learn about the importance of scouting and identifying pests and learn about the potential environmental consequences of poor pesticide choices.

5:15

Adjourn