This article answers frequently asked questions about the paraquat dichloride training for certified applicators.
Do all paraquat dichloride product labels require additional training?
All products with the new labeling with the active ingredient paraquat dichloride, such as Gramoxone, Firestorm, Helmquat, and Parazone, will require additional training in order to apply these products. Remember if the new training requirement is listed on the label of the product you are using, then you MUST complete the training. All paraquat labels include a link to the training.
Who is required to take this training?
Any person intending to use paraquat must be a certified applicator and is required to take this training.
How often am I required to receive the training?
The training is required every three years. Check to make sure your training is current!
Do I need to be certified to use products containing paraquat dichloride?
These labeled products state that “Product may ONLY be mixed, loaded or applied by a certified applicator who has successfully completed the paraquat-specific training before use. Application “under direct supervision” of a certified applicator is NO LONGER allowed. In Kansas, this means that everyone purchasing and using these products has to either obtain a private applicator license (application to agricultural lands owned or operated by individuals) or a commercial applicator license (applicators applying to other people’s land for compensation). If you have been applying under someone else’s license in the past, you will need to get your own license before applying these products.
How can I complete the training requirements?
Now, two training options meet the requirements required by the EPA. One is housed on the eXtension website and can be found at: http://usparaquattraining.com. If you don’t currently have an account, you must create one before it allows you to take the training. For in-person training materials, please visit https://npsec.us/paraquat. Note that this training now costs $25. The other option is to take the training provided by Syngenta Crop Protection, which can be found at https://syngentaus.docebosaas.com/learn/signin.
This information is made available by the K-State Pesticide Safety and IPM Program. Contact your local Extension Office if you need any additional information.
Frannie Miller, Pesticide Safety and IPM Coordinator
fmiller@ksu.edu
Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Science Specialist
slancaster@ksu.edu