Pesticide Information Office
The University of Florida's Pesticide Information and Education Program provides information, educational programs, and materials to:
- Persons who use pesticides as a part of their livelihood
- Consumers with questions about use and impact of pesticides in their daily lives
- Faculty and students
- Decision makers, such as local, state, and federal government regulators and legislators
Editorial Team
- Jay Ferrell - Chair
- Brett Bultemeier - Author
- Emily Kraus - Author
- Brent Sellers - Editor
- aaguirre1 - ICS Editor
RECENT & REVISED PUBLICATIONS
Pets and Pesticides: Benefits and Potential Risks
PI300/PI300by Emily C. KrausMay 7, 2024This publication is intended for pet owners of non-agricultural animals. It describes the benefits and risks associated with topical pesticides and collars intended to protect pets from parasites. It also describes how to protect pets from unintentional exposure to pesticides used in and around homes. Finally, it provides guidance on where to find assistance in case of an emergency.Critical Issue: 5. Individuals and Families
Understanding FDACS Pesticide Inspections
PI298/PI298by Brett Wells Bultemeier, Emily Kraus, Tamara James, and Neil RichmondApril 19, 2024Pesticide enforcement in Florida is performed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). As part of their enforcement duties, inspections of facilities, vehicles, and even people using pesticides falls under their authority. These inspections can be random or purpose driven, but all utilize the same forms to guide inspectors. Understanding the content on these forms, and purpose behind the inspections can better prepare those professionals who use pesticides to be compliant with the rules. This publication can be used to perform mock inspections and better understand the inspection process for all. Critical Issue: 1. Agricultural and Horticultural Enterprises
Integrated pest management goes hand-in-hand with safety
PI297/PI297by Emily C. KrausMarch 12, 2024This publication is geared toward pest management specialists, certified pesticide applicators, and homeowners who are managing indoor and outdoor pests. It provides a broad definition of a pest and describes integrated pest management (IPM) and pest management strategies. As opposed to other EDIS which are specific to management areas (ex: landscape, turf, vegetable) this publication can be used as a basis for all sectors of pest management. The publication also emphasizes using IPM to reduce the development of pesticide resistance and emphasizes how each aspect of IPM contributes to personal and environmental safety.Critical Issue: 3. Natural Resources and Environmental Quality
Gloves for Pesticide Applicators
PI296/PI296by Brett W. BultemeierOctober 24, 2023The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as directed by pesticide labels is an important part of compliance with pesticide use and for reducing the risk of exposure. The primary risk for exposure to pesticides is the hands and forearms, and chemical-resistant gloves are the primary way to reduce that risk. This publication discusses the type of gloves available, how to select which glove, how to clean and maintain them, as well as other important considerations to most effectively utilize this important piece of PPE.Critical Issue: 1. Agricultural and Horticultural Enterprises
Paraquat Training, Licensing, and Application Requirements
PI295/PI295by Brett W. BultemeierJuly 7, 2023Paraquat is unique among pesticides in that it requires all who use it to be licensed. After a pesticide license is attained additional training is required on a 3 year basis. Furthermore, there are specific packaging and equipment requirements to legally use this product. This document serves to outline these requirements and explain how to fulfill them for pesticide applicators in Florida and around the country. Critical Issue: 1. Agricultural and Horticultural Enterprises
