PA Pesticide Applicator Exam Core Info Latest Update Graded A+

PA Pesticide Applicator Exam Core Info Latest Update Graded A+ Bioaccumulation The accumulation of a substance, such as a toxic chemical, in various tissues of a living organism. Biomagnification Accumulation of pollutants at successive levels of the food chain abiotic factors natural control measures within the environment. EX: climactic factors, air/water pollution, topographic features. Biological Control The use of natural enemies to control pests. EX: Predators, Parasites, Pathogens Cultural Control These are Practices that reduce pest establishment, reproduction, dispersal and survival. EX: Mowing, irrigation, aeration, fertilization and sanitation. Genetic control Making use of plant varieties that are naturally resistant to insect feedings. Mechanical/Physical control Kills a pest directly or makes its environment unsuitable EX: Rodent traps, deer fences, mulches, barriers Regulatory control Removal of pests that cant be controlled at a local level. Utilizes quarantines to prevent entry of pests at airports or ocean ports and can be used to remove pests with government power. (i.e. draining standing water that provides breeding sites for mosquitos.) Mode of action How chemicals kill a pest Site of action The specific biological system affected within the pest Economic threshold The point at which the economic loss caused by pest damage outweighs the cost of applying a pesticide. (Treat pests when they pass the economic threshold) Economic injury level the pest population density that causes losses equal to the cost of control measures Action threshold the predetermined level at which pest control is needed Certified applicator A person qualified to apply or supervise the application of restricted-use pesticides. Private applicator A certified applicator who uses or supervises the use of any restricted-use pesticide to produce an agricultural commodity. Commercial applicator A certified applicator who uses or supervises the use of pesticides for purposes other than those covered under a private applicator certification. Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) set pesticide limits in food, & all active and inactive ingredients must be screened for estrogenic/endocrine effects. (Amended FIFRA) Review old pesticides and aggregate/cumulative exposure.