We need your help!

Plus important Pesticide Program updates

Molly Burgan
September 03, 2026

**Call for sample drop-off sites

Dr. Shaohui Wu (Turfgrass Health Specialist), teamed with Dr. Horacio Lopez-Nicora (Soybean Pathologist and Nematologist) and Todd Hicks (Turfgrass Pathogen Specialist), is planning to re-conduct the nematode survey on golf course greens and low-cut sports fields this autumn and is looking for sample drop-off sites across the state (refrigeration not needed).

If you are interested in the survey program and would like to serve as a volunteer to receive soil samples, please contact Dr. Wu and send the address information to [email protected].

For industry representatives, if you are interested in helping your customers to take soil samples and would like your contact information to be listed on the sampling instruction page, please email Dr. Wu as well.

Thank you!

Important message from ODA regarding changes to Ohio’s Pesticide Program below…

Many of you will recall, Ohio’s pesticide rules were updated this year to align with new U.S. EPA standards included in House Bill 96 and House Bill 10. These new rules will take effect on January 1, 2027. We will continue highlighting the changes in our recertification sessions, outreach efforts, and educational programming throughout the rest of 2026 and beyond. Beginning in the spring of 2027, our inspectors will also begin incorporating more formal communication about these requirements through routine inspection reports and related materials to help ensure awareness.

An attachment is included that outlines the new requirements taking effect.

	Ohio Pesticide Certification Training Updates_FINAL_7-2026.pdf453.85 KB • PDF File

Note that our website is loaded with information on license renewal, exams, re-certification credits, etc.

Revisions to study guides, exam content, and required training for individuals working under “direct supervision” will be rolled out in phases with support from many of you—our industry partners, federal agencies, and the OSU Pesticide Safety and Education Program. We will work to make sure that there are no gaps in opportunities to get licensed in any categories through this transition.

Thank you for your input and support which was critical to getting us to the point of implementation of these important changes to Ohio’s Pesticide Program. If you have any questions or need clarification, please contact our team at 614-728-6987 or [email protected]

Keep up with the Buckeye Turf News by reading the article linked below!

🌱 Turf Team Times

Drs. Shetlar, Wu, Gardner, and Nangle talk latest things in turf in Ohio this week.

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WATCH BY CLICKING HERE

🏨 OTF Conference & Show: Reserve Your Room Today!

Planning your trip to Columbus for the OTF Conference & Show? Special group room blocks are now available at our partner hotels. Make sure to lock in your discounted rate before space fills up!