RUP CERTIFICATION: REQUIRED BY LAW

It’s a matter of law. Federated cannot release restricted use pesticides to anyone without their private applicator’s certification in hand. Growers need to have their [certification] card in hand when picking up products from any Federated location.

Restricted use pesticide (RUP) certification must be renewed every three years. “Most of them expire March 1,” said Ron Paulson, Federated’s Isanti location manager, but online options make it relatively easy to renew or apply for certification.

For certification, “you can take the online test or pick up a mail-in test from a county extension office,” said Paulson. Initial certification costs $75; recertification/renewal costs $10.

All insecticides are classified as restricted use. Certain herbicides – atrazine or any product containing atrazine are prime examples – require RUP certification.

If Federated provides custom application services, “you don’t need the certification,” said Paulson. However, growers who plan to spray their own fields need to be aware of RUP requirements. Contact your Federated Agronomist with any concerns or questions.