RIO BLANCO COUNTY EPA PRIVATE APPLICATOR TESTING

During the winter and early spring the Rio Blanco County Weed Department and the Rio Blanco County Extension Office conduct Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) private applicator test for the general public. The test dates are posted in the local newspaper and will be posted on Rio Blanco Counties Web Site. You may also take the test on your own by obtaining a test manual through the Rio Blanco County Weed Department.

Passing the test allows you to obtain a license in which you may purchase Restricted Use Pesticides (RUP's) for use on your own property or property you lease. You do not need the license if you wish to apply general use pesticides (products you purchase over the counter that are not RUP's). Passing the test dose not allow you to contract your services to other landowners for cash, although you may trade for services with other landowners.

Purchasing RUP's require that you keep records of where, when and how much pesticide you apply on any particular property. Failure to do so is against the law and penalties can be imposed on you. The EPA has the authority to inspect your application records at any time to determine if you are applying the products according to the label.