Who must maintain records of pesticide applications according to regulatory guidelines?

The requirement for record-keeping of pesticide applications is specifically mandated for commercial applicators and those using restricted-use pesticides. This regulation is in place to ensure accountability and traceability of pesticide use for safety and environmental protection purposes.

Commercial applicators for-hire have a professional responsibility to document the pesticides they apply, including details such as the pesticide used, the application site, and the date of application. This information is crucial for regulatory compliance and for tracking the potential impact on public health and the environment.

Individuals who use household pesticides typically do not have the same level of responsibility or regulatory scrutiny as commercial applicators. Similarly, agricultural producers may have specific reporting requirements but may not always need to maintain records in the same way that commercial services are required to do. Thus, option C encompasses the broadest set of professionals who must adhere to strict documentation standards, reflecting the importance of these records in managing pesticide use responsibly.