The document summarizes an interactive training session for pesticide applicator recertification that utilized hands-on demonstrations and small group exercises. Participants were divided into groups that rotated through stations demonstrating proper sprayer calibration, measuring pesticides accurately, and inspecting storage tanks. Visual demonstrations using a spray simulation table showed the effects of nozzle spacing and positioning. The training received positive feedback, with attendees finding it more enjoyable than previous lectures.

1. Seeing is Believing with Pesticide Applicator Training Abstract One of the most difficult audiences to teach and reach through the creation of a meaningful interactive learning environment is the audience which is "required to attend." This is the typical audience of any recertification training for private or commercial pesticide applicators. Our training consortium took an entirely different teaching approach by utilizing small group, interactive breakout sessions. Training began with participants quickly writing down the steps to prepare a boom sprayer for the upcoming season. A visual demonstration, using a Spray Chek sprayer simulation table, graphically corroborated the effect of common errors on spray patterns; namely, boom nozzle spacing, excessive or insufficient nozzle height to target, plugged nozzles and nozzles with different spray angles. Alternatives to typical flat fan nozzles, like the Turbo TeeJet or XR (extended range) nozzles were shown. The group was divided into equal groups for three-30 minute interactive exercises. Stations consisted of: sprayer pressure gauge testing and how water-sensitive paper can be used to determine efficacy of a spray application; the inaccuracy of using common items, like a quart jar or coffee cup, to guesstimate or measure pesticides; and how to detect cracks and avoid rupturing older, sun-exposed polymer bulk tank for pesticide storage. Each attendee received an accurate 2-quart measuring cup with their certification experience. Of the 151 respondents in this year's training, only one person stated that they didn't like the teaching methods used. This unsolicited comment says it all, " Used to be as dry as high school English–now enjoyable "! Ohio State University Extension embraces human diversity and is committed to ensuring that all research and related educational programs are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, or veteran status. This statement is in accordance with United States Civil Rights Laws and the USDA. Keith L. Smith, Ph.D., Associate Vice President for Agricultural Administration and Director, Ohio State University Extension TDD No. 800-589-8292 (Ohio only) or 614-292-1868 Draper, E.A. 1 , Marrison, D.L. 2 , & Zondag, R.H. 3 1 OSU Extension, Geauga County, 14269 Claridon-Troy Road, Burton, Ohio 44021 2 OSU Extension, Ashtabula County, 39 Wall Street, Jefferson, Ohio 44047 3 OSU Extension, Lake County, 99 E Erie Street, Painesville, Ohio 44077 For more information on this workshop, please email [email_address] or leave your business card in the envelope below Demonstrating the pattern of different spray nozzles Coarse spray pattern of an Air Inducted TeeJet nozzle Chemical measurements using “guesstimation” Spray table with Turbo TeeJet nozzles