By Andi Anderson
The 2026 Hardin County Private Pesticide and Fertilizer Applicator Recertification Program will take place on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the Hardin County Fairgrounds Community Building in Kenton, Ohio.
The program is designed to help private applicators meet the state’s mandatory recertification requirements for both fertilizer and pesticide use. Training will run from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with the fertilizer session from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. and the pesticide session from 9:00 a.m. to noon.
Participants are required to complete a registration form with basic information before attending the session. The recertification program fee is $15.00 for fertilizer, $35.00 for pesticide, or $50.00 for both sessions. Payments may be made by cash, check, or credit card.
Checks should be made payable to OSU Extension Hardin County. Fees may be paid on the day of the event or submitted ahead of time by dropping them off or mailing them to the OSU Extension Hardin County office at 1021 West Lima Street, Suite 103, Kenton, Ohio 43326. These fees are separate from the $30.00 renewal fee required by the Ohio Department of Agriculture.
The recertification will cover fertilizer training along with pesticide categories Core, 1, 2 and 6. Applicators who need recertification in pesticide categories 3, 4, 5 or 7 are encouraged to contact the OSU Extension office after registering. Staff will assist individuals in scheduling video sessions needed to complete training for those categories.
Attendees should also be aware that photos will be taken at the event and may appear in Ohio State University print or digital materials.
These images may be used for educational and promotional purposes. Participants who do not wish to have their photos used may notify the OSU Extension office before attending.
The Hardin County program provides an important opportunity for applicators to stay current with fertilizer and pesticide guidelines that protect crops, soil health and the environment. Recertification ensures that applicators understand safe handling practices and meet state regulations that support responsible agricultural production.
For additional details about the program, individuals may contact Nic Baumer by email at baumer.15@osu.edu or by calling the OSU Extension Hardin County office at (419) 674‑2297.
Photo Credit: ohio-state-university
Categories: Ohio, Education