Pesticide labels are changing to better protect endangered species. This means applicators will want to carefully review pesticide labels for substantial changes this year and into the future. For more on the background of these label changes, check out the Herbicides and The Endangered Species Act page from the Weed Science Society of American or this article on the Endangered Species Act written by Bill Chism, a retired senior biologist with the EPA.

The Iowa State University Pesticide Safety Education Program has revised several applicator manuals and exams to reflect the updated pesticide applicator certification and training rules implemented by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship on Jan. 1.

Spray drones are increasingly being evaluated by Iowa farmers as an additional tool for crop input application. When used appropriately, these systems can provide flexibility for timely applications, reduce field traffic, and improve access to areas that are difficult to reach with traditional ground equipment.

To maintain your private pesticide applicator certification, you must either pass an exam every three years or attend an approved Private Continuing Instruction Course (P-CIC) between December 1 and April 15 each year your certification card covers. 

AMES, Iowa – The 2026 Crop Advantage Series will take place at 12 locations across the state Jan. 6–29. Each meeting will feature tailored topics selected based on local growing conditions and challenges, presented by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach specialists.