Confinement site manure applicators are certified for three years. Applicators can become certified initially by either taking a two-hour training session or passing a test. If the applicator becomes certified by training, then the applicator must complete a two-hour training annually during each of the three years covered by the certificate. If one session of training is missed, a make-up test must be passed before the next three-year round of certification begins.

All confinement site applicator certificates expire on December 31 of the third year of the certificate. Certified confinement site applicators can continue to apply manure in January and February of the year following expiration of their certificate, but must renew their certificate by March 1. If the application is received (or postmarked) after March 1, no manure may be applied until the certificate is renewed. A late fee of $12.50 will also be charged for late applications.

The certification fee for confinement site manure applicators is $100 paid once every three years. In addition to the certification fee, applicators are charged an education fee each time they attend a training session or take a test. For more information, see the confinement site manure applicator fact sheet (DNR 116) (*.pdf file). For a list of training locations and dates see the Manure Applicators Certification Program. To schedule a training session, contact your county Extension office. To schedule a testing time, contact one of the DNR field offices.