Leading Pesticide Safety Education: Thomas County Extension
Extension Education
Sydni Ingram
County Extension Agent
University of Georgia
Thomasville
Abstract
Students enrolled in Southern Regional Technical College’s (SRTC) Habitat Manipulation course were introduced to pesticide education that is critical for their success and personal safety as future land managers by Thomas County ANR agent Sydni Ingram. Collaborating with the UGA Pesticide Safety Education Program, she led students through the Competent Pesticide Applicator Certification Program. This material covers best application techniques, management practices, and personal safety when using pesticides to manipulate land, especially when using herbicides to manage invasive species. The SRTC program’s advisory committee required this certification from Thomas County Extension, recognizing that pesticide education helps reduce preventable pesticide exposures in the workplace to both applicators and non-target organisms, while simultaneously providing a valuable certification that employers recognize. Future land managers from the Southwest Georgia Technical College Habitat Management class all gained their Competent Pesticide Applicator Certification after the agent’s presentation and experiential learning programs. This certification illustrates to future employers the student’s knowledge and initiative to use pesticides safely and judiciously. The agent's participation and presentation of information led to all students obtaining their certifications with some even pursuing commercial pesticide applicator licenses. Additionally, students recognized the value of UGA Extension resources and are actively utilizing Thomas County Extension services.
Link to poster: Ingram Research Poster- FINAL Mar 31 2025.pptx
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted only for display at AM/PIC. Poster is not to be judged, but the abstract will be published in the proceedings.
Click to view Poster
Authors: Sydni Ingram, Allison Johnson
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Ingram, S. County Extension Agent, UGA , Georgia, 31799
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Johnson, A. County Extension Agent, UGA, Georgia, 30752