The Green Industry Management Practices (GI-BMPs) teach environmentally safe landscaping practices that help conserve and protect Florida’s ground and surface waters. They can also save the Florida homeowner money, time, and effort; increase the beauty of the home landscape; and protect the health of your family, pets, and the environment.

If you receive money to mow a lawn, prune, or cut down trees, apply herbicides to landscapes, you are a Green industry Professional. ALL Green Industry Professionals in Osceola County are required to have Green Industry Best Management Certifications. Those that apply chemical fertilizer or a weed and feed herbicide must also obtain the Florida Commercial Fertilizer Application that is achieved by attending the same Green Industry course and applying for the license when the test is passed. Separate herbicide licenses may also apply. All Florida Fertilizer licenses must be renewed every 4 years by obtaining Continuing Education Credits. If a GIBMP license holder did not gain 4 CEUs within 4 years then retaking the exam is required to maintain his license. Certification and licensure is statewide, but each county may have stricter rules. Prior to working within a particular county be certain to check their local ordinance.

Trainings are available online or in classroom style. Online trainings do not provide continuing education to those needing to renew a license. Registrations for all classes may be found on the website of https://gibmp.ifas.ufl.edu/. This is inclusive of online or in person training. Courses are currently available in both English and in Spanish. Prices may vary between counties and may be found online.

To study for your course, see the English/Spanish online manuals here: http://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/professionals/BMP_manual.htm. Your knowledge will enhance the services you provide to your clients and will also assist you in educating your client to make their practices, Best Management Practices also.

Certification/licensure under GIBMP DOES NOT authorize:

• The application of pesticides to turf or ornamentals, including pesticide/fertilizer mixtures;
• The operation of a pest control business; or
• The application of pesticides or fertilizers by unlicensed or uncertified personnel under the supervision of the certified person
• For more information on plant disease and any other related horticulture topic, contact Grantly Ricketts at UF/IFAS Extension in Osceola County at 321-697-3000 or email at gricketts@ufl.edu.

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