Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced the deadline for pesticide applicators to renew their certifications has been waived by a proclamation signed by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds on March 22, according to a press release.

Iowans who were certified through Dec. 31, 2019, can retain their status and now have until Dec. 31, 2020, to submit the testing or training required to renew a pesticide applicator certification.

 “I want to thank Gov. Reynolds for working with the Department to find a solution that allows our farmers and agribusinesses to continue operating while upholding the pesticide testing and certification standards in our state,” Naig said. “Agriculture is a critical part of our state’s infrastructure. We will continue supporting the agriculture community to prevent supply chain interruptions during this unprecedented situation.”

This waiver comes after the department canceled its in-person testing sessions through March 31, based on social distancing recommendations from the CDC. Applicators still need to meet pesticide certification standards by Dec. 31, 2020. They are encouraged to apply for recertification upon completion of the testing or training requirements.

More details are available at iowaagriculture.gov/covid-19.