Pest Definition and Categorization PDF

**Learning objectives and answers** **1.** **Pest Definition and Categorization** -------------------------------------- [ ***Define the word pest.***] **Pest:** A pest is any organism that causes damage to crops, stored food, livestock, people, or property. This can include insects, rodents, we...

**Learning objectives and answers** **1.** **Pest Definition and Categorization** -------------------------------------- [ ***Define the word pest.***] **Pest:** A pest is any organism that causes damage to crops, stored food, livestock, people, or property. This can include insects, rodents, weeds, fungi, bacteria, and viruses. ***[Discuss why not all organisms are considered pests.]*** **Not All Organisms Are Pests:** - - ***[List the major categories of pests.]*** 1. 2. 3. 4. ***[Outline the benefits of correctly identifying pests.]*** - - - ***[Specify the main goals of pest management.]*** 1. 2. 3. 4. ***[Outline points to consider before choosing to manage pests]*** - - - - ***[Explain why specific pests may or may not be named on a pesticide label.]*** - - - ***[List some of the key ideas and goals of Integrated Pest Management.]*** - - - - - - By understanding these concepts, you can make informed decisions about pest management and protect your property and the environment. **2.** ***[Describe how an insect\'s mouth Parts determine what kind of damage they can cause.]*** An insect\'s mouthparts determine how it feeds and the type of damage it can inflict. Here are the primary types: - - - - ***[Describe the structural features of anthropods.]*** Arthropods, a diverse group of animals that includes insects, arachnids, and crustaceans, share several key structural features: - - - - ***[Explain how to tell the difference between insects and arachnids and why it matters.]*** The primary difference between insects and arachnids is the number of legs. Insects have six legs, while arachnids have eight. Additionally, insects have three body segments (head, thorax, and abdomen), while arachnids have two (cephalothorax and abdomen). It\'s important to distinguish between insects and arachnids to correctly identify pests and choose appropriate control methods. For example, insecticides are effective against insects but not arachnids. ***[Describe the differences between simple and complete metamorphosis and why it matters.]*** - - Understanding the life cycle of a pest can help you time control measures effectively. For example, targeting larvae with insecticides is often more effective than targeting adults. ***[Explain how temperature and humidity affect insect development.]*** Temperature and humidity significantly influence insect development, behavior, and survival. Optimal temperature and humidity conditions can accelerate development and increase reproduction rates. Conversely, extreme temperatures or low humidity can slow development or even kill insects. ***[List the advantages and disadvantages of using insecticides.]*** **Advantages:** - - **Disadvantages:** - - - It\'s important to use insecticides responsibly and as a last resort. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) emphasizes the use of multiple control methods, including cultural, biological, and chemical, to minimize the need for insecticides. **3.** ***[Explain what determines whether a given plant is a weed.]*** A plant is considered a weed when it is growing where it is not wanted and competes with desirable plants for resources like water, nutrients, and sunlight. Weeds can be native or non-native species, and their impact can vary depending on the location and context. ***[List the two main goals of weed management]*** The two main goals of weed management are: - - ***[Explain the terms "monocotyledon" and "dicotyledon".]*** These terms refer to the number of cotyledons (seed leaves) that a plant embryo has. - - ***[Distinguish grasses from broadleaves.]*** Grasses and broadleaves have different growth habits and leaf structures. - - ***[Describe the lifecycles of propagation of annual, biennial, and perennial plants.]*** - - - ***[Outline what is needed to kill annual, biennial and perennial weeds and when it is easiest to do so.]*** - - - ***[Explain the effects of soil texture, organic matter, pH, and herbicide resistance on herbicide activity.]*** **These factors can influence herbicide effectiveness:** - - - - ***[Describe how and when to make basal-bark and cut-stump treatments.]*** - - ***[List steps to take when applying herbicides to minimize adverse effects in urban areas.]*** - - - - - - - - **4.** ***[Define plant disease and explain what causes disease.]*** **A plant disease is a condition that impairs a plant\'s normal growth and function, often leading to reduced yield or death. It occurs when a susceptible host plant, a virulent pathogen, and favorable environmental conditions converge over time.** ***[List the major groups of plant pathogens describe how each are spread from plant to plant.]*** **The major groups of plant pathogens include:** - - - - ***[List the four requirements for plant disease to occur.]*** 1. 2. 3. 4. ***[Describe clues that help you distinguish plant disease from plant injury.]*** - - ***[List examples of abiotic agents that induce plant injury.]*** **Abiotic factors, such as environmental stresses, can cause plant injury. Some common abiotic agents include:** - - - - - - ***[List factors that call for using pesticides for Disease Control.]*** **Pesticide use should be a last resort, but may be necessary in certain situations:** - - - ***[Explain some of the characteristics of making a foliar fungicide treatment.]*** **Foliar fungicide treatments are applied to plant foliage to protect against fungal diseases. Key characteristics of these treatments include:** - - - - - - **5.** ***[Describe factors that complicate management of pest mammals.]*** - - - - - ***[Explain the pesticide restrictions that pertain to control of mammals.]*** - - - - ***[Drive the damage that tests discussed in this chapter can cause to Turf and landscapes.]*** - - - - ***[Outline the management options for controlling the pests discussed in this chapter.]*** - - - - - - - **Important Considerations:** - - - - **6.** ***[Define the word pesticide.]*** A pesticide is any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest. This includes insects, rodents, fungi, weeds, and other organisms that can damage crops, property, or human health. ***[List ways that pesticides can be grouped.]*** Pesticides can be grouped based on their target pest: - - - - - ***[Define the term "mode of action".]*** The mode of action of a pesticide refers to the specific way in which it kills or controls a pest. This can involve interfering with the pest\'s nervous system, disrupting its metabolic processes, or inhibiting its growth and development. ***[Define the characteristics of pesticides (EG selectivity persistence Etc) discussed in the chapter.]*** - - - - ***[Explain how those characteristics affect Pest Management and potential environmental problems.]*** - - - - ***[List the different types of pesticide names you can find on a products label.]*** - - - ***[Outline the characteristics of the insecticide groups discussed in this chapter.]*** - - - - ***[Outline what an herbicide needs to do to kill weeds.]*** An herbicide must interfere with a weed\'s physiological processes, such as photosynthesis, respiration, or cell division. This can be achieved through various mechanisms, such as disrupting the plant\'s hormone balance or inhibiting enzyme activity. ***[Distinguish between protectant and post-infection fungicides and how they are used.]*** - - - ***[The different kind of rodenticides and important characteristics of each.]*** - - - **7.** ***[Define the term formulation.]*** A formulation is a mixture of active ingredients and other substances designed to deliver a pesticide product in a specific way. It determines the physical form of the pesticide (e.g., liquid, powder, granule) and its effectiveness in controlling pests. ***[Describe the functions of active and other ingredients.]*** - - - - - - ***[Explain the information about formulations you might find on a pesticide label.]*** Pesticide labels provide crucial information about the formulation, including: - - - - - - ***[List things to consider when choosing among different formulations.]*** - - - - - ***[Summarize the advantages and disadvantages of the types of formulations discussed in this chapter.]*** - - - - - - - - - - - - ***[Identify the health concerns associated with different formulations.]*** - - - ***[Describe the function of adjuvants and how they differ from other ingredients.]*** Adjuvants are substances added to pesticide formulations to enhance their performance. They can improve the wetting, spreading, adhesion, or penetration of the pesticide. Adjuvants are not active ingredients and do not directly kill or control pests. They work by improving the physical and chemical properties of the pesticide, making it more effective. **8.** ***[Identify the most prominent Federal pesticide law and which agency oversees it.]*** The most prominent federal pesticide law is the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). It is overseen by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ***[Describe what is involved in the registration of pesticides.]*** Pesticide registration involves a rigorous process where manufacturers must submit data to the EPA demonstrating the product\'s effectiveness, safety, and environmental impact. This data includes information on the chemical composition, toxicology, environmental fate, and efficacy of the pesticide. ***[Explain why some products are classified as restricted use and who may use such products.]*** Restricted use pesticides are considered more hazardous than general-use pesticides. They can only be used by certified applicators or under the direct supervision of a certified applicator. This restriction is in place to protect human health and the environment ***[Describe and contrast the difference between a private applicator, a commercial applicator for hire, and a commercial applicator not for hire.]*** - - - ***[Explain the significance when state and federal law differs and identify which law takes precedence.]*** If state and federal laws conflict, the more stringent law takes precedence. In most cases, federal law will take precedence, but it\'s essential to consult with local regulatory agencies for specific guidance. ***[Explain who must keep records of pesticide applications and for how long records must be kept.]*** - - - ***[List the information that must be part of a pesticide application record.]*** - - - - - - - ***[Summarize some of the rules involving the transportation of pesticides.]*** - - - ***[Explain how to know when you need it to follow Transportation rules.]*** You must follow transportation rules when transporting pesticides by any mode, including vehicle, rail, or air. This includes transporting pesticides to and from application sites. ***[Explain when you need a permit to control mammals and birds.]*** Permits may be required to control certain mammal and bird species, especially in urban or sensitive areas. Consult with local regulatory agencies to determine specific permit requirements. **9.** ***[Describe the main purpose of a pesticide label and it\'s legal implications for an applicator.]*** A pesticide label is a legally binding document that provides essential information about the product, including its intended use, application rates, safety precautions, and environmental impact. Failure to follow label directions is a violation of federal and state law. ***[Describe the difference between the terms labels and labeling.]*** - - ***[List the five times when you should read the relevant parts of a label.]*** 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. ***[Outline the kinds of information you can find on a label.]*** - - - - - - - - - - ***[List the signal words that you may find on a pesticide label.]*** - - - ***[Define what a signal word is and how it relates to the relative toxicity of a pesticide.]*** Signal words indicate the relative toxicity of a pesticide. A higher signal word indicates a more toxic product. ***[List the four ways you may legally deviate from label directions.]*** 1. 2. 3. 4. ***[Explain which directions you should follow when a product label has changed.]*** Always follow the most recent label information. If a product label has changed, discard the old label and follow the instructions on the new label. ***[Compare the types of information you can find on a pesticide label and it\'s SDS sheet.]*** - - Both documents are important for safe and effective pesticide use. **10.** ***[Define the terms risk toxicity and exposure and explain how they relate to the potential for pesticides to cause harm to people.]*** - - - The combination of toxicity and exposure determines the level of risk. A highly toxic pesticide with low exposure poses less risk than a moderately toxic pesticide with high exposure. ***[Distinguish between and give examples of contact effects and systemic effects of pesticides.]*** - - - ***[List the four routes that pesticides can enter your body.]*** 1. 2. 3. 4. ***[Give examples of work habits that lead to pesticide exposure via these four routes.]*** - - - - ***[Explain how pesticides formulation and body part exposed affects how much pesticide is absorbed through the skin.]*** The formulation of a pesticide can affect how easily it is absorbed through the skin. For example, liquid formulations are more easily absorbed than solid formulations. Additionally, the body part exposed can influence absorption rates. For instance, absorption through the skin on the hands is higher than through the skin on the arms or legs. ***[Compare and explain the difference between acute and delayed effects.]*** - - ***[Describe the relationship between a pesticide's toxicity and it\'s LD50 and or LC50.]*** - - - - A lower LD50 or LC50 indicates a more toxic pesticide. ***[Describe how pesticides are assigned to toxicity categories and given signal words.]*** Pesticides are assigned to toxicity categories based on their LD50 or LC50 values. The signal word on the label indicates the toxicity category: - - - ***[Describe as some of the general symptoms of pesticide exposure.]*** - - - - - - It\'s important to follow label directions and safety precautions to minimize exposure to pesticides. If you experience symptoms of pesticide exposure, seek medical attention immediately. **11.** ***[List precautions you should take besides wearing PPE to reduce your exposure to pesticides.]*** In addition to wearing appropriate PPE, here are some precautions to minimize pesticide exposure: - - - - - - - ***[Explain what features make for Effective PPE also explain how these features might reduce worker acceptance of PPE.]*** Effective PPE should be: - - - - However, these features can sometimes reduce worker acceptance due to: - - - ***[Recognize that no material is resistant to all chemicals and that some are not resistant to any.]*** ***[Outline how to properly use PPE such as work clothes spray suits and eye protection.]*** - - - - - - - - - ***[Describe how the types of gloves to wear when handling pesticides and how to wear them.]*** - - - - ***[Discuss and describe the common types of respirators you might use.]*** - - - - - ***[Explain the importance of fitting a respirator and how often a person should do so.]*** It\'s crucial to have a respirator fit-tested to ensure it provides adequate protection. A fit test evaluates the seal between the respirator and your face. This should be done annually or whenever there\'s a change in facial hair or respirator model. ***[Describe how to wash and when to discard PPE.]*** - - - - - - - By following these guidelines and prioritizing safety, you can significantly reduce your exposure to pesticides and protect your health. **12.** ***[Explain when you should assume that a pesticide exposure has occurred.]*** You should assume pesticide exposure if you: - - - - - ***[List the types of information on labels and SDSs that can help you respond to pesticide exposure.]*** Pesticide labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) provide valuable information for responding to exposure: - - - - ***[Outline when medical attention is warranted.]*** Seek immediate medical attention if you experience: - - - ***[Proper actions to take when a victim needs medical attention.]*** - - - ***[Outline first aid of procedures used in cases of dermal inhalation and eye exposure.]*** - - - - - - - - ***[Describe the guidelines for inducing vomiting after an oral exposure.]*** **Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a medical professional.** Inducing vomiting can worsen the situation in some cases, especially with certain pesticides. ***[Explain how to recognize and respond to shock.]*** Signs of shock include: - - - - To respond to shock: - - - - ***[Describe some of the common symptoms of heat stress.]*** Heat stress symptoms include: - - - - - - - - ***[Outline the first aid procedures used in cases of heat stress.]*** - - - - - ***[Specify when medical attention is necessary for someone experiencing heat stress.]*** Seek immediate medical attention if: - - - **13.** ***[List some benefits of having a proper storage area for your pesticides.]*** - - - - ***[List steps to take to restrict access to pesticides.]*** - - - - ***[Describe what you can and cannot store in pesticide storage areas.]*** **Store:** - - - **Do Not Store:** - - - ***[Outline some of the features of a proper pesticide storage facility.]*** - - - - - ***[List the precautions you should take before putting a pesticide into storage.]*** - - - - ***[Describe how to arrange pesticides in storage to protect the products and containers.]*** - - - - ***[Describe the short-term storage of pesticides at a mixing and loading or application site.]*** - - - - ***[Explain what would trigger you to imply with the pesticide bulk storage rule ATCP 33.]*** You would need to comply with ATCP 33 if you store or handle bulk pesticides (liquid or dry) in containers larger than 55 gallons or undivided quantities greater than 100 pounds. This includes mixing and loading operations. **14.** ***[Explain why mixing and loading pesticides poses a significant Hazard to the environment and the people who perform these tasks.]*** Mixing and loading pesticides poses significant hazards to the environment and workers due to: - - - - ***[Specify where you may never mix load or clean application equipment with respect to a well or service water both state law and label prohibitions.]*** **State Law and Label Prohibitions:** - - ***[Explain when you would need to perform the above tasks over a spill containment service also called a mixing and loading pad.]*** A spill containment pad, or mixing and loading pad, is required when: - - ***[List what you cannot do in regards to using "Waters of the state".]*** You cannot: - - ***[Describe precautions you must take to protect the water supply when mixing and loading.]*** - - - - ***[Describe how to properly rinse pesticide containers and list of the benefits of doing so.]*** - - **Benefits of Rinsing:** - - - ***[Describe the two types of chemical incompatibility that can happen when mixing pesticides and explain how to avoid them.]*** Two types of chemical incompatibility can occur: 1. 2. **Avoiding Incompatibility:** - - - - **15.** ***[Describe when pesticide becomes waste and who is responsible for disposing of it.]*** A pesticide becomes waste when: - - - - **Who is Responsible for Disposal?** The person who generates the pesticide waste is responsible for its proper disposal. This typically includes farmers, homeowners, and businesses that use pesticides. ***[List steps you can take to reduce the amount of pesticide waste you generate.]*** To reduce pesticide waste: - - - - ***[Compare and contrast solid versus hazardous waste.]*** - - ***[Specify which type of pesticide waste you may dispose of in a sanitary landfill.]*** Only **solid waste**, such as triple-rinsed pesticide containers, can be disposed of in a sanitary landfill. ***[Explain why landfill operators May refuse to accept a certain pesticide waste.]*** Landfill operators may refuse to accept pesticide waste if it is not properly labeled, packaged, or if it exceeds the landfill\'s capacity limits. ***[Describe your options for disposing of pesticide containers and other Solid Waste.]*** - - - ***[Explain how to deal with leftover liquid pesticides unwanted banned and unidentified pesticides and other pesticides a solid waste.]*** - - - - - - - - - - ***[Outline the criteria for a chemical to be classified as hazardous.]*** A chemical is classified as hazardous if it exhibits one or more of the following characteristics: - - - - ***[List your options for disposing of hazardous waste.]*** - - ***[Explain your liability for disposing of hazardous waste.]*** As the generator of hazardous waste, you are legally responsible for its proper disposal. Improper disposal can result in significant fines and penalties. It is crucial to follow all applicable regulations and guidelines to ensure safe and legal disposal. **16.** ***[Explain the importance of emergency planning.]*** Emergency planning is crucial for minimizing the impact of accidents, spills, and other emergencies involving pesticides. It helps to: - - - - ***[Explain what triggers your need to comply with emergency planning and Community right-to-know reporting requirements.]*** You may need to comply with emergency planning and right-to-know reporting requirements if you: - - - ***[Describe who you must report to if you do need to comply with these requirements.]*** If you are required to comply with these requirements, you may need to report to: - - - ***[List the main features of a facility site plan.]*** A facility site plan should include: - - - - - ***[Define what constitutes a spill.]*** A spill is any accidental release of a hazardous substance, including pesticides, into the environment. ***[List the agencies that you may need to report a spill to.]*** You may need to report a spill to: - - - ***[Describe some of the conditions where you would need to report a spill.]*** You may need to report a spill if it: - - - - ***[List the "3 Cs" of spill management.]*** 1. 2. 3. ***[Explain in more detail what to do in each stage of the "3 Cs".]*** 1. - - - 2. - - - 3. - - - ***[Describe the type of assistance state agencies will provide for a spill event.]*** State agencies can provide assistance with: - - - - **17.** ***[Define the terms residue and tolerance.]*** - - ***[Describe why the EPA sets pesticide tolerances on food and what can happen if they are exceeded.]*** The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets pesticide tolerances to ensure that food is safe for consumption. If these tolerances are exceeded, the food may be considered unsafe and could pose health risks to consumers. ***[List actions you can take to prevent excessive pesticide residues.]*** To prevent excessive pesticide residues: - - - - - - ***[Summarize the legal definition of a landscape and explain its significance to pesticide applications you make in this certification category. ]*** A landscape, as defined by Wisconsin law, is any area of land, including residential, commercial, industrial, or public lands, that is not cultivated for agricultural production. This definition is significant for pesticide applications in landscape settings because it determines the specific regulations and restrictions that apply to pesticide use in these areas. ***[Outline your responsibilities for notification regarding pesticide applications to your customer a person on the landscape registry or other interested persons.]*** As a pesticide applicator, you are responsible for notifying your customer and any person on the landscape registry about pesticide applications. This notification should include: - - - - ***[Specify who may enter a posted site during an REI.]*** Only authorized personnel, such as licensed pesticide applicators or trained workers, may enter a posted site during a Restricted-Entry Interval (REI). ***[With respect to posting a treated site; explain when posting up treated sites is required, describe what types of signs may need to be posted, describe where signs should be posted and when they must be posted and taken down, identify who is responsible for posting the site.]*** - - - - By following these guidelines, you can help ensure the safe and effective use of pesticides while protecting human health and the environment. **18.** ***[Describe the pesticide application methods you might use in Turf and landscapes.]*** Several methods can be used to apply pesticides in turf and landscape settings, including: - - - - ***[List the types of sprayers you might use and describe some of their characteristics.]*** - - - ***[List the main components of hydraulic sprayers and their importance.]*** - - - - - - ***[Outline the important characteristics of nozzles.]*** - - - ***[Describe the distribution pattern of granular applicators.]*** Granular applicators distribute pesticides in a uniform pattern over the target area. The pattern can be adjusted to achieve the desired coverage. ***[List steps you can take to keep your equipment in good condition.]*** To keep equipment in good condition: - - - - - - **19.** ***[Explain the purpose and importance of pesticide applicator calibration.]*** Pesticide applicator calibration ensures that the correct amount of pesticide is applied to the target area. This is crucial for: - - - - ***[List what variables affect the spray weight and how they do so.]*** Several factors influence spray weight: - - - - ***[Identify the tree controlling factors that determine a uniform application when making a backpack application on a percentage basis.]*** To ensure uniform application with a backpack sprayer, consider these factors: - - - - ***[Outlining the steps needed to make an application on a area basis with a backpack sprayer.]*** 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. ***[List the four basic stages in calibrating a broadcast sprayer.]*** 1. 2. 3. 4. ***[List the steps in calibrating a hose reel sprayer.]*** 1. 2. 3. 4. ***[Describe how determine how much pesticide product and/or spray mix you need per acre or 1000 square feet, tankful and entire treated area. ]*** To determine the amount of pesticide product and spray mix needed: 1. 2. 3. 4. ***[List and explain the variables that affect the product rate of granular applicators.]*** The rate of granular application can be affected by: - - - - **20.** ***[Explain ways that a pesticide can move from the site of application.]*** Pesticides can move from the site of application through various processes: - - - - ***[Explain ways that pesticides can end up in animals including humans.]*** Pesticides can enter the food chain and accumulate in the tissues of animals, including humans. This can occur through: - - - ***[Explain how pesticides can get into surface or groundwater and Define the terms point and nonpoint source pollution.]*** **Point Source Pollution:** Pollution from a specific, identifiable source, such as a factory or wastewater treatment plant. **Nonpoint Source Pollution:** Pollution from diffuse sources, such as runoff from agricultural fields or urban areas. Pesticides can enter surface water or groundwater through: - - - ***[Describe how different characteristics of pesticides (e.g. absorption solubility etc.) can affect movement of a pesticide from a Target site.]*** - - - - - ***[Outline how site conditions affect the movement of pesticides.]*** - - - - - ***[List some management practices to help prevent contamination of surface and groundwater.]*** - - - - - - - - - - **21.** ***[Describe common ways that non-target plants and animals become exposed to pesticides and how to prevent or minimize such exposure.]*** - - - ***[Explain the terms pest Resurgence and secondary pest outbreak and the problems they cause.]*** - - ***[Summarize the label information regarding pollinator protection.]*** **Label information regarding pollinator protection:** - - - - - ***[Explain who is responsible for advanced notification to beekeepers.]*** - - - - - ***[Describe the kinds of impacts pesticides can have on Fish and Wildlife]*** - - - - - - **22.** ***[Describe the impact that pesticide resistance can have on Pest Management.]*** - ***[Describe how pesticide resistance arises in a pest population.]*** - ***[List the factors that influence the development of resistance in a pest population.]*** - - - - - ***[List the four practices that are the foundation of resistance management.]*** - - - - - **23.** ***[Describe why it is important for applicators to be professional.]*** - - - - ***[List the areas that are important to professionalism and how you can exhibit those qualities]*** - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ***[Explain what stewardship means in terms of pesticide use.]*** Pesticide stewardship involves using pesticides responsibly and minimizing their impact on the environment and human health. It\'s about using pesticides only when necessary and in the correct manner. ***[List the important aspects of stewardship.]*** - - - - - - - By practicing professionalism and good stewardship, pesticide applicators can help protect the environment and ensure the safe and effective use of pesticides. **Why Professionalism Matters:** - **Areas of Professionalism and How to Exhibit Them:** - **Pesticide Stewardship** ------------------------- **Meaning of Stewardship:** **Important Aspects of Stewardship:**