This publication is a training manual for the private pesticide applicator's permit of the Michigan Department of Agriculture. The information presented in this manual is designed to assist prospective private applicators to meet certification requirements under federal guidelines. The primary focus of this publication is on agricultural pesticide use. The nine sections explain the following: (1) pesticide laws and regulations; (2) pests; (3) pest control; (4) pesticides; (5) labels and labeling; (6) protecting man-using pesticides safely; (7) protecting the environment; (8) safe use precautions; and (9) application equipment. The laws and regulations section outlines federal and state pesticide legislation including penalities, pesticide classification, transportation and safety. Section 2 briefly describes different types of pests and how they affect crops. Section 3 discusses the various methods of pest control including mechanical and biological. The next section talks about different types of pesticides, factors affecting their activity, and different formulations. Sections 6, 7, and 8 detail pesticide safety. Section 9 discusses the different types of application equipment and how they are used. At the end of each section are self-help study questions. A glossary of terms and an application for certification are included. (MR)