By Andi Anderson
Marion County will host an important pesticide training session for the Central District in 2025, offering applicators a full day of instruction designed to promote safe and effective pesticide use.
The event will take place on November 21, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. EST at the Farm Bureau Indiana Headquarters, located at 225 S East Street in Indianapolis, Johnson County.
This session provides both new and experienced applicators with updated knowledge, guidance, and practical tools for responsible pesticide management.
The training is organized to help participants understand the latest information related to pesticide efficacy, exposure risks, and emergency preparedness. One key topic will focus on how pesticide products perform under different field conditions and how improper application can increase risks to people, crops, and the environment.
Attendees will also learn best practices for recognizing and reducing exposure risks during mixing, handling, transport, and application activities.
Another major component of the event includes emergency planning. Applicators will receive guidance on how to respond to spills, accidental exposure, weather-related challenges, and other unexpected situations. This ensures that individuals are prepared to act quickly and safely in emergency conditions.
Participants will also learn about the services offered by the Purdue Pest and Diagnostic Lab. This resource helps farmers and applicators identify pest problems, detect plant diseases, and understand pest behavior so they can make informed decisions when selecting control methods.
Weather will also be a key focus of the event. Because weather greatly influences pesticide performance, instructors will provide information about using weather data to guide application decisions. This includes understanding wind speed, temperature, rainfall timing, and inversion risks.
Finally, a 2025 regulatory update will inform applicators about the latest state and federal pesticide laws, label changes, and compliance requirements. Staying informed about regulatory updates ensures that applicators remain compliant and avoid costly errors.
The session is led by Nikky Witkowski, Porter ANR Educator, who is available for questions or registration assistance. Applicators across the Central District are encouraged to attend this training to strengthen their knowledge, improve safety practices, and support responsible pesticide use throughout the 2025 season.
Photo Credit: istock-fotokostic
Categories: Indiana, Education