W. Va. Code R. § 61-22-10

Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 50, December 13, 2024

Section 61-22-10 - Information Dissemination

10.1. General. Many of the participating agencies involved in the development and implementation of the state management plan have existing programs designed to distribute information associated with their respective responsibilities. Joint efforts involving state agencies, dealers, manufacturers, state agricultural associations, state commodity groups and national associations, such as the Alliance for a Clean Rural Environment

(ACRE), can improve the effectiveness of educational efforts and reach a wider audience. Communications media including magazine, newspapers, radio and television will be utilized.

10.1.a. Three major communication avenues will be utilized: licensing and certification, field agents and public education on the application of pesticides and fertilizers.

10.1.b. Audiences targeted for educational efforts include private applicators (certified and noncertified), dealers, commercial pesticide applicators, chemical sales representatives, turfcare operators, landowners, managers and home owners.

10.1.c. On-going state-wide educational programs will be utilized at each level of enforcement to alert pesticide and fertilizer users of voluntary and mandatory management practices and penalties for violations. Mechanisms for such a program include: news releases, agricultural bulletin articles, direct mail, recertification programs, satellite educational broadcasts and special certification for specific active ingredients or use patterns.

10.2. State Agencies serving major educational roles include:

10.2.a. The State Agricultural Extension Service in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture provides training for persons preparing for state department examinations as a means for qualifying for certification as private and commercial pesticide applicators (enabling use of Restricted Use Pesticides). Training qualifying for continuing education required for maintaining certification is also provided. Training on proper pesticide and fertilizer use including groundwater protection practices is also provided to non-certified pesticide applicators. All training programs are periodically updated to include information on current use and application practices, including adoption of state management plans.

10.2.b. The West Virginia Department of Agriculture will include information concerning groundwater protection and state management plans in testing materials for the certification of pesticide business, dealers, commercial and private applicators. Field agents will also publicize changes in regulations during site visits. The Department will also utilize the mass media to publicize state management plans.

W. Va. Code R. § 61-22-10