Join us for the 2026 LCA Pesticide and Fertilizer Recertification Conference, January 21, 2026, at the beautiful Turf Valley Resort, located at 2700 Turf Valley Rd, Ellicott City, MD 21042.

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Agenda

8:00 – 8:30 AM
Breakfast | Registration | Exhibits

8:30 – 8:45 AM
DC Pesticide Update
Speaker: TBD

Get up-to-date information on pesticide policies and regulations in Washington, D.C. This session will outline key compliance requirements, new initiatives, and resources to help professionals operate responsibly within the District.

8:45 – 9:25 AM
Disease Control & Strategies
Speaker: David Clement

This session will explore effective approaches to diagnosing and managing plant diseases in ornamental crops and landscapes. Dr. Clement will share insights on integrated pest management (IPM), biological control options, and emerging technologies—including drone applications and resistant cultivars—to help green industry professionals stay ahead of new and existing plant health challenges.

9:25 – 10:05 AM
Native Plant Pests; Equal Opportunity Offenders
Speaker: Heather Zindash

Native plants are increasingly popular in sustainable landscapes, but they are not immune to pest pressures. Heather Zindash will guide attendees through common pest and disease issues affecting native plants in production settings. Learn how to identify problems early and implement IPM strategies that balance cultural, biological, and chemical controls for healthy, resilient plants.

10:05 – 10:20 AM
Morning Break

10:20 – 11:00 AM
Invasive Landscape Pest Update
Speaker: Laura Nixon

This session will provide the latest updates on two significant pests impacting ornamental landscapes: crape myrtle bark scale and box tree moth. Laura Nixon will cover identification, life cycles, and management strategies to help professionals protect valuable plantings and stay informed about emerging threats.

11:00 – 11:40 AM
Managing Water Quality
Speaker: Kelly Billing

Poor water quality leads to unsightly conditions that limit enjoyment and have the potential to become unhealthy. Issues can be remedied with various actions that are non-chemical. Plants, along with other tools, can lower nutrient levels improving water quality. New products work with nature rather than using chemicals to treat unsightly algae. The side effect is beautification.

11:40 AM – 12:30 PM
Lunch | Exhibits

12:30 – 1:10 PM
Turf & Landscape Nutrient Management
Speaker: Chuck Schuster

Proper nutrient management is essential for healthy turf and landscapes. Join Chuck Schuster as he discusses best practices for soil fertility, nutrient application, and environmental stewardship. This session will provide practical strategies to maintain vibrant landscapes while minimizing nutrient runoff and protecting water quality.

1:10 – 1:50 PM
Soil Testing & Interpretation: Turning Numbers Into Turf Decisions
Speaker: Nathan Glenn, MBA, University of Maryland Extension

Soil testing is required for phosphorus decisions—but many applicators still misinterpret results. This talk walks through sampling protocols, Maryland’s Fertility Index Value (FIV) system, pH management, and translating laboratory reports into compliant fertilizer programs.

 1:50 – 2:05 PM

MD Pesticide Update
Speaker: Stephen Goff, Maryland Dept. of Agriculture

Learn about the latest changes in Maryland’s pesticide regulations, compliance requirements, and enforcement priorities. This session will provide practical guidance for applicators and businesses to ensure safe, legal, and effective pesticide use across the state.

2:05 – 2:20 PM
Afternoon Break

2:20 – 3:00 PM
Elements of a Compliant Inspection
Speaker: Shannon Rotella, MDA

Compliance inspections are critical for maintaining industry standards and regulatory requirements. In this session, Shannon Rotella will break down the key elements of a compliant inspection, offering practical tips for preparation and execution. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of what inspectors look for and how to ensure smooth, successful evaluations.

3:00 – 3:30 PM
VA Pesticide Update
Speaker: TBD

Stay current on Virginia’s pesticide laws and regulatory updates. This session will cover recent legislative changes, compliance expectations, and best practices for maintaining proper application standards and recordkeeping.

3:30 – 4:00 PM
CEU Form Completion & Confirmation

4:00 PM
Event Close

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