As the end of the year approaches, it is important for those of us with Certified Animal Waste Operators (CAWO) certifications to make sure certain requirements have been met. Here are a few friendly reminders.

CAWOs are required to pay an annual $10 certification renewal fee. Operators should have received an invoice in the mail from the Water Pollution Systems Operators Certification Commission (WPSOCC). If you have not received an invoice or are not sure about your payment, you can check and pay online by going to http://deq.nc.gov/op-cert-pay. You will need to enter your certification number.

CAWOs must also receive six hours of continuing education credits (CEC) every three years. Failure to do so will result in having to retake the initial certification class and exam. To find out if you need continuing education credits, feel free to call the Sampson County Cooperative Extension office at (910) 592-7161. Ask for Max Knowles, and I will help you find out if and when you need credit hours to retain your certification. There are still a few opportunities to receive continuing education credits this year; however, most of these programs require preregistration. So, be sure to check your status as soon as possible.

We are excited to announce the opportunity for a complete six hours of approved continuing education credits at the Sampson County Center, 93 Agriculture Place (in the livestock arena), Clinton NC 28328 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 14.

We ask that you please call 910-592-7161 to preregister for the event.

Max Knowles is an extension agent specializing in livestock with the Sampson County Cooperative Extension Center and can be reached by calling 910-592-7161.