IA Pesticide Applicator study plan

List the major Iowa crop and structural pests by common name and the damage each causes

Distinguish insect, weed, disease, and vertebrate pests from beneficial organisms using field-visible signs

Identify the parts of a pesticide label and state the purpose of each required section

Explain the difference between a label and a labeling and why both are legally binding

Apply integrated pest management principles: monitoring, thresholds, and selecting control tactics in order

Compare cultural, mechanical, biological, and chemical controls for a given pest scenario

Classify formulations (EC, WP, WDG, SC, granular, bait) by handling, drift, and residue characteristics

Match an adjuvant or surfactant to a formulation and explain when it is needed

Identify the four routes of pesticide exposure and rank activities by exposure risk

Select the correct PPE for a given label signal word and formulation

Describe proper donning, doffing, and care of respirators and chemical-resistant gloves

State the Iowa and federal requirements for certified applicator status and recordkeeping

Interpret signal words, precautionary statements, and first-aid directions on a sample label

Explain acute versus chronic toxicity and how LD50 and LC50 describe hazard

Describe spill response, decontamination, and emergency procedures for a small and large spill

State restricted-entry interval and worker protection requirements for a labeled product

Summarize the Iowa Pesticide Act and FIFRA requirements for licensing, dealer records, and misuse

Explain endangered species, groundwater, and pollinator protections and how label language implements them

Describe proper storage, transport, and container disposal under Iowa rules

Explain drift, runoff, and leaching causes and name prevention practices for each

Diagnose 10 pest scenarios and select an approved control with the correct application timing

Calculate application rates, tank mixes, and area treated from label directions

Apply resistance-management principles to repeated-use scenarios

Explain calibration of spray equipment and how it prevents under- or over-application

Reconcile conflicting label directions and identify the most restrictive requirement

Explain special local needs, section 18 exemptions, and supplemental labels

State the applicator's liability for off-target movement and recordkeeping accuracy

Review all four domains using targeted practice questions and log every missed item

Re-drill weak domains identified in the week 7 error log until each is above 85 percent

Recite required label sections and signal words from memory

Walk through a full PPE and spill-response sequence without notes

Take a timed full-length practice exam under test conditions