What is prohibited for a holder of a Qualified Applicator Certificate in the "Plant Agriculture" category?

The role of a holder of a Qualified Applicator Certificate in the "Plant Agriculture" category is specifically focused on the application of pesticides and overseeing their proper use. While they are allowed to supervise the application of restricted materials and general use pesticides on agricultural crops, selling or supervising others in the sale of agricultural pesticides falls outside the scope of their certification. This restriction is in place to ensure that individuals who sell pesticides have the appropriate licensure and training to provide guidance to pesticide users, which is separate from the responsibilities of applying those pesticides.

The focus on application and oversight emphasizes the importance of ensuring safe and effective use of pesticides in agricultural settings, which is a critical aspect of pest management. By prohibiting holders of the Qualified Applicator Certificate in the "Plant Agriculture" category from selling pesticides, it reinforces the separation of responsibilities and maintains safety standards in the industry. This ensures that those involved in selling pesticides are adequately trained and informed about the products being sold.