We are entering the last few months for fertilizer applicator certification which involves attending a
training program offered by Ohio State University Extension then being issued a certification from the
Ohio Department of Agriculture. Through the first two years of the program 12,000 farmers and ag
retailers who apply fertilizer have been certified. Some common questions are answered below along with
a link to the upcoming schedule through April. Attend soon to find the most convenient meetings to your
home location.
Do I need agricultural fertilizer certification?
The certification is required if you apply fertilizer (other than manure) to more than 50 acres of
agricultural production grown primarily for sale. If you hire a co-op or other custom applicator for
fertilizer applications, you do not need the certification. If you do not have an Ohio Pesticide
Applicator License, you need to attend a three-hour class. If you have a license, you need to attend a
two-hour class.
Do I need the certification if I raise forage for my livestock?
The term “agricultural production” is defined as the cultivation, primarily for sale, of plants or any
parts of plants on more than 50 acres. If you raise forage (e.g., hay, silage, corn) for use on your
farm, and have questions about fertilizer certification, please contact the Ohio Department of
Agriculture at 614-728-6987 or email: [email protected]
When do I need the certification?
Individuals are encouraged to obtain certification as soon as possible, or when renewing their pesticide
applicator license. The certification must be obtained by September 30.
Where do I find meeting locations?
All meetings request registration with a list of locations found at http://nutrienteducation.osu.edu/.

Local meeting
locations:
• Feb. 2,  1-4 p.m.
Ole Zim’s Wagon Shed; Northern Ohio Crops Day
1387 Ohio 590, Gibsonburg
Fertilizer Certification 1-4 p.m. ; Pesticide Recertification 9 a.m.-12 noon
Contact: Allen Gahler email: [email protected] Phone: 419-334-6340
• Feb. 22, 1-4 p.m.
Luckey Farmers Inc.
1200 W. Main St., Woodville
Fertilizer Certification 1-4 p.m.; Pesticide Recertification 9 a.m.-noon.
Contact: Allen Gahler email: [email protected] Phone: 419-334-6340
• March 22, 6-9 p.m.
Wood County Fairgrounds Junior Fair Building
13800 W. Poe Road, Bowling Green
Fertilizer Certification 6-9 p.m.
Contact: Alan Sundermeier email: [email protected] Phone: 419-354-9050
There is no cost to attend the Fertilizer Certification; however, there are fees for attending Pesticide
Recertification or the full day on Feb. 2. Registration requested by calling or e-mail host contact.