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2007
Annual Report
UC Statewide IPM Program
HIGHLIGHTS |
UC IPM launches online training program for retail
employees
Home gardeners buying pesticides often turn to store clerks to give them
information about pesticides and IPM. A new, free, online training course
on the UC IPM Web site will soon provide retail employees the background
they need to provide good answers.
Surveys show that retail employees are one of the most important sources
of information for consumers when they purchase pesticides, yet many have
little training or expertise in pesticide use.
UC IPM’s online course, partially funded through a grant from the
California Department of Pesticide Regulation and U.S. EPA, seeks to address
this educational need. The program will include two modules—the first
on pesticides and pesticide safety, and the second on integrated pest management.
The modules are intended for employees of any retail store that sells
home and garden pesticides, including nurseries, big box stores, and hardware
stores. Self-paced, each module will take about 30 to 40 minutes
to complete. The pesticide module includes information about pesticide
types, protective safety equipment, application equipment, mixing, storage,
and disposal and teaches employees how to use the label to answer questions.
The presentation is narrated and includes photographs, color illustrations,
and video clips. Short interactive quizzes reinforce the material. Persons
completing the course will be able to print out a certificate of completion.
The pesticide module will be available on the UC IPM Web site in spring 2008. A
second module on IPM practices is scheduled for release in December 2008
and will complete the course. The module's focus includes pest types, damage,
management methods, and tools available from retail outlets.
Next article >> UC IPM offers newest
information on pest management
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