Pesticides

EPA Solicits Proposals for a Cooperative Agreement for Pesticide Applicator Education and Training

For Release:  September 27, 2016

Updated October 7, 2016: The deadline for applications has been extended from October 31 to December 21, 2016.

EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs is soliciting applications from eligible recipients to assist in carrying out pesticide applicator education and training activities. This work supports implementation of EPA’s Certification and Training Rule, which aims to reduce the risk of pesticide poisoning and injury among handlers, applicators, bystanders and the public. More information about:

The cooperative agreement will provide financial assistance to an eligible applicant to equitably distribute funds to sub-recipients for pesticide applicator education and training on the safe use of pesticides. EPA expects to provide up to $1,500,000 the first year and $1,000,000 annually thereafter, depending on the agency’s budget, for a total of five years (2017 through 2021).

EPA’s Certification and Training Rule establishes rules and procedures as well as standards of competency for pesticide applicator certification. State pesticide regulatory agencies set certification requirements and administer the program. Pesticide Safety Education Programs educate and train persons to prepare for certification or to maintain existing certification. Since 1975, EPA has provided funding for pesticide applicator training and education activities. EPA’s goal is to protect people, ecosystems and the environment from the risk of pesticide-related illness and injury. 

EPA must receive proposals through Grants.gov no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on December 21, 2016. For more information on this Request for Proposals, visit opportunity number EPA-HQ-OPP-2016-001 at Grants.gov.