What are the three classes of pesticide applicators mentioned in the statutes?

The three classes of pesticide applicators defined in the statutes are private, public, and commercial.

Private applicators are typically individuals who apply pesticides on their own property or as part of their agricultural practices, primarily focusing on food production. All applications must adhere to safety and regulatory standards, but they are not generally intending to produce income from the pesticide application itself.

Public applicators work for governmental or public agencies, applying pesticides in settings such as parks, schools, and other public areas to control pests that may impact public health or safety. Their role includes adhering to regulations that ensure public well-being while managing pest populations.

Commercial applicators are those who apply pesticides for a fee to control pests on properties that may belong to others. They often operate through businesses that specialize in pest management and must be knowledgeable about various pests and the proper use of pesticides in compliance with state and federal law.

Understanding these classifications is critical for effective pest management and for ensuring that individuals are licensed and trained appropriately according to the nature of their work in the field of pest control. Each class follows specific guidelines that correspond to their roles and responsibilities, ensuring that pesticide application is safe, effective, and legal.