At Extension, we offer opportunities for professionals to expand their technical expertise and maintain their important licensure. This spring, we are pleased to offer continuing education opportunities in stormwater control, turfgrass, pesticide safety, and more. These classes are essential for professionals wanting to gain expert knowledge on industry standards and best practices. If you are a professional looking to expand your knowledge, the program list below provides development opportunities in New Hanover County.

Regional Turfgrass Conference

This program provides pest management information concentrating on turfgrass management. We will focus on commercial and residential landscapes, but it is also applicable to other managed turfgrass areas. All presentations are made by NC State University faculty or extension associates.

March 17, 2026 | Various Times | 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC

Pond Management Workshop

Learn how to identify and control aquatic weeds as well as best management practices for the health of ponds and other SCMs. This course is designed for professionals in pond management, land/pond owners, HOA landscape committees, Extension Master Gardeners℠ , or others interested in an in-depth look at pond management.

March 31st | 9 am - 12 pm | 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington

Certified Plant Professionals Review & Exam

The Certified Plant Professionals review and exam is ideal for professionals and for those looking to learn more about what knowledge is required to become a Certified Plant Professional. This review focuses on plant identification and questions from the CPP study manual, followed by the exam on April 7.

April 6 - 7  | 9 am | 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC

Pesticide Safety School

The spring 2026 Pesticide Safety Schools are designed for individuals seeking initial licensing in one or more pesticide subcategories. Whether you work in agriculture, landscaping, pest control, or other fields requiring pesticide application, this two-day training provides the foundational knowledge needed to obtain your license.

May 12 - 13, 2026 | 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC

Innovations in Plant Breeding for the Nursery and Landscape Industry by Dr. Tom Ranney

Presentation by NC State's Dr. Tom Ranney. Please check back for more information.

May 19 | Time TBD | 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC

SCM Maintenance and Inspection Certification

This certification program trains professionals in stormwater regulations, stormwater management devices used in NC, and inspection and maintenance requirements. This class is ideal for commercial landscapers, property managers, homeowner associations, professional engineers, as well as municipal and county landscape personnel.

June 10 - 11 | 8:30 am - 5:00 pm & 8:30 am - 2:30 pm | 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC