Background
The purpose of the Education and Promotion Team (EPT) is to assist the MDA in coordinating education and outreach efforts aimed at preventing the contamination of water by pesticides. The EPT was established through the Minnesota Pesticide Management Plan (PMP) as a first step in in developing general education and promotion strategies to prevent water resource degradation.
The EPT assists with the review and design of educational and promotional activities; promotes Best Management Practices (BMPs) and provides education on how their use will protect water; and identifies opportunities for cooperation among agencies, organizations, and other interested parties. The role and responsibilities of the EPT are described on p. 51 of the Minnesota Pesticide Management Plan.
Joining the Team
The EPT is open to all interested parties. The current team includes representatives from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, University of Minnesota Extension, the Board of Water and Soil Resources, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and industry groups, among others. If you would like to join the EPT, please contact Naworaj Acharya at naworaj.acharya@state.mn.us.
The MDA also maintains a smaller EPT “Core Team” to assist with planning the annual full team meeting.
Meetings
The EPT meets at least once annually to review and design educational and promotional prevention activities for water resource protection. Additional information can be found on the PMP EPT Meeting Agenda and Notes page.
