Forest Pest Management | North Carolina DACS Approved

North Carolina agricultural pest managers who finish this course will learn how to protect forests and prevent tree diseases. All lesson material is self-paced, available online from any device, and approved by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

The beginning of the course looks at integrated pest management strategies. These strategies are designed to help minimize the impact of pesticides on water sources, protect non-target organisms, and overcome pesticide resistance.

Following that is a review of pesticide equipment and application methods. Learn about sprayer maintenance, components, types, and operation. Banding and broadcast calibration methods are also discussed.

Then, learn about ways to manage tree diseases and forest pests with lessons that explain how to use natural, chemical, and applied insect management techniques. Pest control herbicides are also described in conjunction with weed control.

The course ends by discussing vertebrate pests, the problems they bring, and damage control methods. There is also an overview of laws and regulations related to forest pest management.

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

• Discuss types of management methods and controls for insects within different tree environments.
• Explain what integrated pest management is and various management strategies.
• Describe key features of forest disease management and characteristics of common tree diseases.
• Identify types of forest vertebrate populations and problems and how to choose the best control method.
• Identify key variables in properly calibrating pesticide application equipment.
• Relate types of forests and specific pest threats.
• Describe the importance of keeping pesticides out of water sources and methods to minimize the impacts of pesticide use.
• Relate control methods for weed control, including pesticides and herbicides.
• State the types of equipment necessary for pesticide application and various application methods.
• Explain types of calibration methods and techniques.