Manure Service Representative (Commercial)

About

A commercial manure service representative works for a commercial manure service that charges a fee for and is in the business of transporting, storing, handling, or applying manure on the land. Certified commercial manure representatives evaluate field conditions and the nutrient content of manure from different storage systems; evaluates crop nutrient needs to determine if proposed application rates are appropriate; reads and interprets manure management plans; and, calibrates and operates equipment to prevent over-application of manure that might create runoff leading to surface or groundwater contamination.

Code Citation Iowa Code 459.315; IAC Chapter 65

Who Applies Commercial manure services and it’s employees who charge a fee for and are in the business of transporting, storing, handling, or applying manure on the land. Commercial applicators who handle septic tank or other private waste need a different license.

When To Apply Rolling application period for initial certificate that will expire annually on March 1. Renewals must be postmarked by March 1.

Initial Requirements Formal education or supervised practice is not required to become certified as a commercial manure service representative. However, an applicant must take three hours of training annually or pass an examination administered by the Department of Natural Resources. A training is offered by Iowa State University Extension in early January or online. The online training can be found by clicking this link: https://elearning-dnr.iowa.gov/ Those commercial applicators who handle septic tank or other private waste need an additional license.

Duration From time of application for certification to March 1.

Processing Time Please allow 30 days.

Fee Structure Application: $200 (one-year business license) Certification: $75 (excludes business manager) Education: $25 each certified applicator and manager Renewal: $200 (one-year business license – Check with certifying authority for details) Certification: $75 (excludes manager) Education: $25 Exam: $25 Education fee

Renewal Requirements Applicants must take three hours of training or pass an examination annually administered by the Department of Natural Resources. Applicants can contact their local Extension office for information on training courses or check the website at: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/immag/

Exam An individual must attend three hours of training approved by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or pass an examination for initial certification and to renew a certificate. Exams are given at the DNR field offices, but must be scheduled in advance. Special needs can be accommodated if requested at least 30 days in advance.