The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) has issued an announcement that notes pesticide license testing “will resume at select UF/IFAS Extension offices on May 18.”

The agency is looking at the COVID-19 pandemic situation county by county in the Sunshine State, and a news release notes that some counties will not open for a while as a result. To learn the status of specific locations, visit PestEd.IFAS.ufl.edu/update-on-testing, a web page that will be updated as more locales open.

“Testing is currently operating by appointment only, and walk-ins will likely be turned away as a health precaution to control crowd size and maintain social distancing,” according to the news release. “There will also be requirements for your safety and the safety of others, which will be explained when you call to make your appointment. Participant safety is of highest concern and it is highly recommended that you wear a face covering throughout the exam.”

The mission of UF/IFAS is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources, and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.

Online, the UF/IFAS website can even be a resource for non-Florida-based professionals. For example, at EDIS.ifas.ufl.edu/in1269, UF’s Pest Management University Director (and Pest Management Professional magazine Editorial Advisory Board member) Dr. Faith Oi co-authored the “Homeowner’s Guide to Selecting a Pest Control Service.”