DATE: February 27, 2008
CONTACT:
Tracy E. Outlaw, (864) 646-2150
tracyo@clemson.edu
WRITER:
Tracy E. Outlaw, (864) 646-2150
tracyo@clemson.edu
Pesticide regulation department launches new Web site
CLEMSON — The Clemson University Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) has launched a new Web site to help property owners and pest-control professionals.
The Web site address is http://www.clemson.edu/public/regulatory/pesticide_regulation/.
“South Carolina’s pest-management community and the South Carolina public will find the Web site to be much more helpful and educational,” said Tracy Outlaw, director of public information for DPR. “It’s been given a total face-lift. Anyone can find what they need quickly and effortlessly.”
The site is arranged into sections according to the areas that DPR serves, from pest-management professionals to homeowners.
South Carolina pesticide applicators can visit the site to for information about licensing and exams or they can renew their licenses online. They also can download forms such as the Official S.C. Wood Infestation Report and get information on how to protect endangered species when performing pest-management programs.
Homeowners in South Carolina can visit the DPR Web site to download information about anything from selecting the best termite treatment for their homes to how to select a pest-control company or a professional lawn-care service. The DPR Enforcement History database can help them find if enforcement actions have been taken against an applicator or company they are considering.
A new feature to the site is the Request Our Assistance link that lets visitors as for allows the public to ask for information about pesticides or pesticide use or if they have a concern or complaint regarding a pesticide application, a S.C. Wood Infestation Report, or any other related issue.
The DPR works to protect health, property and the environment in South Carolina by promoting the safe and proper use of pesticides. Programs include applicator licensing and education, pesticide container recycling, integrated pest management in schools, endangered species protection, groundwater protection and the worker protection program.
DPR is the enforcement and investigative authority in South Carolina for pesticide use, alleged pesticide misuse, substandard termite treatments and the S.C. Wood Infestation Report.
Pesticide Regulation is a part of Clemson’s Regulatory Services, which is composed of four departments: the Department of Pesticide Regulation, the Department of Plant Industry, the Plant Problem Clinic and the Agricultural Service Lab. Since 1890, Regulatory Services has been an integral part of the Clemson University mission. In fact, fees for quality-assurance inspections of fertilizer once were the backbone of the university’s financial support.
Regulatory Services and its programs are part of Clemson University’s public service activities, which include regulatory, research and extension roles.
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