An update from Patrick M. Thompson and Chris Hunnicutt of the NCPMA Wildlife Committee:
Recently, members of the NCPMA Board of Directors along with a representative from NWCOA met with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission to discuss new licensing and certification regulations that will be taking place in 2023. As many of you know, the Commission has been discussing making these changes for some time, and we as an association want to make sure our members receive the most accurate information as this new structure rolls out. Overall, this meeting was very positive, and we look forward to rolling out the new structure in congruence with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
In the past, licensing consisted of taking a two-day course followed by a test to become a Wildlife Control Agent. This license was renewed every three years by taking a two-day renewal course and paying the license fee. This has all changed and Wildlife Control Agents must comply with the following before January 2023.
The new structure will create two new designations. There will be the primary licensee who will be referred to as the Wildlife Control Agent. They will be the primary person associated with any permits and other wildlife activities. The second tier will be called a Certified Wildlife Technician. This person will be allowed to assist the primary licensee in wildlife work. Both designations will require renewal yearly.
The yearly renewal for the primary licensee will require taking an in-person and/or online course and paying the license fee. If you are not a Wildlife Control Agent and would like to obtain this license, you will be required to take a two-day course followed by a test. The Certified Technician will be able to renew their certification through online learning modules, which will be available in December 2022 through the Wildlife Resources Commission. The licensee will pay a $52.00 fee for their license and the Certified Technician will pay $25.00. As of January 2023, this new structure will go into play.
Our association will also be working closely with the Wildlife Resources Commission and NWCOA to create our own training programs to accommodate our members as well. There will be more details to come as we develop these offerings. In the meantime, NWCOA sanctioned courses are approved to renew your license.
Thank you all for your continued support of the North Carolina Pest Management Association. Our members are truly the backbone of our association. If anyone has questions regarding these changes, please feel free to reach out to any representatives from the NCPMA Wildlife Committee.
