Pesticide Technology, Assessment, and Policy

Staff: Nancy Breisch, Betty Marose, Terry Patton

Assessment of pesticide use patterns and trends, and the identification of potential health and environmental impacts as well as methods to mitigate adverse effects are the first steps in understanding the problems of pesticide use that accompany the benefits of these products.

Location

The University of Maryland College Park is located in a sensitive area with regard to potential pesticide impacts. Maryland has a diverse agricultural system that impinges on the Chesapeake Bay and increasingly borders on urban areas. Both agricultural and urban pesticide application have the potential for contamination of the environment if proper pesticide application practices are not followed.

Decreasing pesticide exposure of humans and the environment can be accomplished through improving applicator education and formulation of sound pesticide policies. New and emerging problems such as development of pesticide resistance and new human and environmental safety concerns also shape the direction of Entomology research, extension, and instructional programs.

Training and Certification Programs

The Department of Entomology is one of the principal sources of training, educational materials, and programs for private and commercial pesticide applicators in the region. Our pesticide recertification programs enable several hundred commercial applicators to maintain their certifications each year. Our programs are rated among the best regionally and nationally for their quality and content. Members of this focus area are regularly invited to participate in educational programs at local, regional, national, and international meetings.