NC State University Agromedicine and NC State University Pesticide Safety Education Program won the 2021 Outstanding Subject Matter Program Developed by a Specialist Team Award from NCACES.

NCACES Members: Wayne Buhler, Greg Cope, Catherine LePrevost, Emily Mueller, and Alyssa Spence.

These teams were ready to step in as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) rose to the public’s attention during the COVID-19 pandemic. The use of this equipment is an effective safety control in pesticide application.  This team learned of the need for PPE training through a previous needs assessment. The program was originally piloted in the Southeast District and expanded statewide after positive feedback. The NCSU Agromedicine Program, the NC Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP), the NC Agromedicine Institute (NCAI), and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) partnered to provide:  PPE education toolkits and guides, training curriculum for existing Extension programs, and a training event for county Agents. This program targeted County Pesticide Coordinators and other Agricultural Agents. 72 counties requested toolkits; meaning each county had access to one within a one-hour drive. Over 60 Agents attended the hybrid training. This project led to the creation of two new pesticide safety courses for credit through NCDA&CS. The toolkits will be expanded to include additional protection equipment in Fall 2021.

Congrats to these teams!