Who is responsible for keeping records of pesticide applications?

The responsibility for keeping records of pesticide applications falls to any commercial applicator and anyone using a Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP). This includes not just licensed professionals but also general individuals applying pesticides who meet the criteria. Maintaining detailed records is a crucial practice because it provides a documented history of pesticide use, contributes to responsible application practices, and helps ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. These records can include information such as the type of pesticide used, the amount applied, the specific locations of application, and dates of application. Such documentation is essential for tracking effectiveness, managing potential environmental impacts, and ensuring safety for both applicators and the public.

While government agencies and certified professionals have roles in pesticide regulation, the requirement to keep records applies more broadly to anyone who engages in pesticide application, particularly those managing RUPs, which are subject to stricter regulations due to their potential risks to health and the environment.