The Georgia Department of Agriculture has released the 2026 schedule for its Using Pesticides Wisely (UPW) training program, which is held in partnership with UGA Extension. The program provides guidance on the safe and effective application of Over-the-Top dicamba products according to updated Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) label requirements.
Since 2015, the UPW initiative has conducted over 200 training events and trained more than 20,000 applicators in safe pesticide use. The department reports a 90% reduction in pesticide drift complaints since the program began. Between 2023 and 2024, nearly 5,000 producers completed the required training.
While fulfilling federal requirements for Over-the-Top dicamba application, the program also offers best practices in pesticide use and regulatory compliance relevant to all growers. More information about the UPW program can be found at https://www.agr.georgia.gov/dicamba.
Training sessions are scheduled throughout March at various locations across Georgia, including Bainbridge, Moultrie, Hawkinsville, Sylvester, Reynolds, Cartersville, Camilla, Dawson, Quitman, Blackshear, Statesboro, Vidalia, Tifton, Douglas, Waynesboro, Swainsboro, Danielsville and Dublin.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture supports agricultural activities statewide through partnerships with farmers and initiatives such as Georgia Grown (https://agr.georgia.gov). The department also promotes consumer interests and works to ensure food safety across Georgia (https://agr.georgia.gov). Tyler Harper currently serves as commissioner (https://agr.georgia.gov).
According to its official website (https://agr.georgia.gov), the agency fosters agritourism opportunities while regulating animal health and plant protection. Established in 1874, it continues to connect producers with consumers through programs like Georgia Grown.
