Top 11 Soil Conservationist Certifications

Certifications are important for soil conservationists in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge. They are proof that the individual has gone through rigorous training and is qualified to perform the duties associated with a soil conservationist. Additionally, certifications provide employers with assurance that the individual is committed to their profession and has met certain standards of competency. This can help employers make decisions about which candidate to hire for a given position. Certifications also show potential clients or collaborators that an individual is knowledgeable in their field and can be trusted to provide reliable services.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Soil Conservationists and explain how they can help to further a soil conservationist's career.

What are Soil Conservationist Certifications?

Soil conservationist certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in strategies to protect and conserve soil. The certification is based on the standards developed by the Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS). To become certified, applicants must pass an examination that covers topics such as soil erosion control, soil fertility management, nutrient cycling, crop rotations, and other land use practices. Certified soil conservationists are better able to advise farmers, ranchers, and other landowners on how to maximize their land’s productivity while protecting it from environmental degradation.

The certification can help individuals who wish to pursue a career in soil conservation by providing recognition of their expertise. It can also help employers identify qualified candidates for positions related to soil conservation. For example, government agencies may require applicants for certain positions to be certified in order to demonstrate the necessary skills and knowledge for the job. Additionally, organizations involved in promoting or funding activities related to soil conservation may prefer applicants who have earned this certification. Ultimately, having a soil conservationist certification can give individuals an advantage when seeking employment or grants related to this field.

Pro Tip: When considering soil conservationist certification, make sure to research the various organizations offering it. Different organizations may have different requirements and certifications, so it's important to find the one that best suits your needs. Additionally, make sure to check for any continuing education requirements or other updates that may be necessary to maintain your certification.

Related: What does a Soil Conservationist do?

Top 11 Soil Conservationist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Soil Conservationists today.

1. Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS)

Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS) is a professional certification program offered by the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in soil science and related disciplines. The certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as soil fertility, plant nutrition, soil physics, hydrology, soil biology, and land use management.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for CPSS certification. To become certified, applicants must first complete an SSSA-approved coursework or equivalent experience in soil science and related disciplines. They must also submit proof of at least three years of professional experience in the field. After completing these requirements, applicants must pass the Certified Professional Soil Scientist Exam administered by the SSSA.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether you are a member of SSSA or not. For non-members, it costs $450; for members it costs $350. Additionally, there may be other fees associated with taking the exam such as travel expenses or application fees.

2. Certified Crop Adviser (CCA)

Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate the knowledge, experience, and commitment necessary to provide sound advice in crop production. The CCA program is administered by the American Society of Agronomy (ASA) and the Certified Crop Adviser Board (CCAB).

To become a Certified Crop Adviser, an individual must pass an exam that covers topics related to crop production, soil science, nutrient management, pest management, water management, and other related topics. The exam consists of two parts: a core exam and a specialty exam.

The core exam is designed to test general knowledge of crop production practices and principles. It takes approximately three hours to complete. The specialty exam tests knowledge specific to one or more areas of crop production such as soil fertility, irrigation management, pest control, or weed management. It takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CCA certification program you must have at least two years of practical experience in crop production or a related field. You must also have completed at least 30 hours of continuing education credits within the past five years from approved sources such as universities or extension offices.

The cost for taking the CCA exams varies depending on where you take them and what type of exams you are taking. Generally speaking, it will cost around $400-$500 for both exams combined.

3. Certified Soil Conservationist (CSC)

A Certified Soil Conservationist (CSC) is an individual who has met the qualifications and requirements set forth by the Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS). The CSC is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in soil and water conservation.

To become a CSC, individuals must meet the following criteria:

1. Have a minimum of three years of professional experience in soil and water conservation;

2. Hold a four-year degree in soil science, agronomy, or related field from an accredited college or university;

3. Complete at least 40 hours of continuing education related to soil and water conservation within the past five years;

4. Pass an examination administered by the SWCS that covers topics such as soil erosion, hydrology, nutrient management, irrigation management, pest management, wildlife habitat management, and watershed management;

5. Submit documentation of their qualifications to the SWCS for review; and

6. Maintain their certification through continuing education every five years.

The process to become a CSC typically takes several months to complete depending on how quickly you can obtain all required documents and submit your application materials to the SWCS for review. The cost to become a CSC varies depending on whether you are already an SWCS member or not. If you are not an SWCS member, then you will need to pay both an application fee ($50) and an examination fee ($150). If you are already an SWCS member then only the examination fee applies ($150).

4. Certified Rangeland Manager (CRM)

Certified Rangeland Manager (CRM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of rangeland management. The certification program is administered by the Society for Range Management (SRM).

To become a CRM, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an exam, and agree to abide by SRM’s Code of Professional Conduct. The educational requirement includes either a bachelor’s degree in range science or its equivalent from an accredited college or university, or at least five years of professional rangeland management experience.

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as range ecology, grazing systems, plant identification, soil science, fire ecology, wildlife management, and more. Applicants must score at least 70% on the exam to be certified.

The process typically takes about 6 months from start to finish. To get started, applicants must submit an application with all required documentation to SRM along with the $150 application fee. Once approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam. After passing the exam and agreeing to abide by SRM’s Code of Professional Conduct, applicants will receive their official CRM certificate in the mail.

The total cost of becoming a Certified Rangeland Manager is $350 ($150 application fee + $200 exam fee).

5. Certified Professional Agronomist (CPAg)

Certified Professional Agronomist (CPAg) is a professional certification program that recognizes agronomists who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field. The certification is offered by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America. It is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated their knowledge and experience in the areas of soil science, crop science, and agronomic principles.

To become certified as a CPAg, you must meet certain educational requirements and pass an exam administered by the American Society of Agronomy. The exam consists of two parts: a written section and an oral examination. The written portion covers topics such as soil fertility, plant nutrition, weed control, crop production systems, pest management strategies, and more. The oral examination focuses on your ability to apply your knowledge to practical situations.

The process typically takes about six months to complete from start to finish. First you must submit an application for certification along with proof of your educational qualifications. Once approved, you will be sent study materials for the exam and can begin preparing for it at your own pace. After passing the exam you will receive your certificate in the mail within four weeks.

The cost for becoming certified as a CPAg varies depending on where you live but generally ranges from $400-$600 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

6. Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control (CPESC)

Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control (CPESC) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of erosion and sediment control. The CPESC certification is awarded by the International Erosion Control Association (IECA) and recognizes professionals who demonstrate an understanding of best management practices for erosion and sediment control, stormwater management, and other related topics.

The CPESC certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive written examination that covers areas such as: soil science, hydrology, engineering principles, water quality regulations, stormwater management, construction site planning & design, erosion & sediment control BMPs, inspection & maintenance procedures, and other related topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions with a passing score of 80%.

The process to obtain the CPESC certification takes approximately three months from start to finish. To get started you will need to register online with IECA. Once registered you will need to complete an application packet which includes providing proof of your education background (college transcripts or diploma), work experience (2 years minimum), references (3 professional references), and payment of fees ($295). After submitting your application packet it will be reviewed by IECA staff for approval. If approved you will receive an email notification with instructions on how to schedule your exam at one of the many testing centers across the US.

The cost for the CPESC certification is $295 which covers the cost of registration and exam fees.

7. Certified Professional in Stormwater Quality (CPSWQ)

Certified Professional in Stormwater Quality (CPSWQ) is a professional certification program offered by the National Environmental Training Association (NETA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in stormwater quality management. The CPSWQ certification is intended to provide a way for individuals to demonstrate their commitment to the field of stormwater quality and establish themselves as knowledgeable, experienced professionals.

The CPSWQ certification requires candidates to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics including: stormwater regulations, best management practices, monitoring and assessment techniques, watershed management, and other related topics. Candidates must also have at least two years of documented experience in the field of stormwater quality management.

It typically takes about 6 months for an individual to complete the requirements for the CPSWQ certification. The first step is to submit an application with supporting documentation that demonstrates your qualifications and experience in stormwater quality management. Once your application has been approved, you will be eligible to register for the exam. After passing the exam, you will receive your official certificate from NETA indicating that you are now a Certified Professional in Stormwater Quality (CPSWQ).

The cost of obtaining the CPSWQ certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of NETA. Non-members must pay a one-time fee of $395 USD while members only need to pay $295 USD. This fee includes access to study materials and practice exams as well as registration for the actual exam itself.

8. Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB)

A Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB) is a professional designation given to individuals who have completed a rigorous program of education and experience in the field of wildlife biology. This certification is administered by The Wildlife Society, a professional organization for wildlife biologists.

To become certified, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology or related field;
• Have at least five years of full-time professional experience in wildlife management or research; and
• Pass an exam administered by The Wildlife Society.

The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral presentation. The written portion covers topics such as population dynamics, ecology, conservation biology, and species management. The oral presentation tests the applicant’s knowledge and ability to communicate their ideas effectively.

The cost to take the exam is $325 for members of The Wildlife Society and $425 for non-members. It typically takes six to eight weeks to receive results from the exam. Those who pass will receive their CWB certification within four weeks after passing the exam.

9. Certified Wetland Scientist (CWS)

A Certified Wetland Scientist (CWS) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have met the highest standards of wetland science and management. The CWS certification is administered by the Society of Wetland Scientists, which sets the criteria for certification. To become certified, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in wetland science or related field, at least five years of verifiable experience in wetland science or management, and must pass an examination.

It typically takes between one and two years to obtain the CWS certification. During this time, applicants must complete the necessary coursework and gain the required experience. After meeting these requirements, applicants can apply for the exam online. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as hydrology, ecology, soils, plant identification, laws and regulations related to wetlands, and more.

The cost for taking the CWS exam is $350 USD for members of the Society of Wetland Scientists (SWS) and $450 USD for non-members. There may also be additional fees associated with becoming a member of SWS or renewing your membership each year.

10. Certified Professional Hydrologist (CPH)

A Certified Professional Hydrologist (CPH) is a professional designation for hydrologists who have demonstrated a high level of competency in the field. The certification is offered by the American Institute of Hydrology (AIH), which is an organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the practice of hydrology. To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an exam, and demonstrate their commitment to ongoing professional development.

It typically takes two to three years to complete the process of becoming a CPH. The first step is to submit an application with proof of education and work experience. Once approved, applicants must then take and pass a comprehensive examination that covers topics such as hydrological principles, water resources management, and environmental regulations. After passing the exam, applicants must demonstrate their commitment to ongoing professional development by completing continuing education courses or attending conferences related to hydrology.

The cost for obtaining CPH certification varies depending on the applicant’s circumstances but typically ranges from $350-$600 USD. This includes the cost of application fees, exam fees, and any relevant continuing education courses or conferences attended.

Overall, obtaining CPH certification can be a lengthy process but it provides individuals with recognition that they have achieved a high level of expertise in their field and can be used as evidence of competence when applying for jobs or advancing in their careers.

11. Certified Forestry Technician (CFT).

Certified Forestry Technician (CFT) is a professional certification program offered by the Society of American Foresters (SAF). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in forest management. The CFT program provides recognition for those who are committed to their profession and have achieved a level of competency that meets or exceeds SAF standards.

The CFT program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities through a combination of education, work experience, and successful completion of an exam. To be eligible for the CFT certification, applicants must hold at least an Associate’s Degree in Forestry or a closely related field from an accredited college or university. Applicants must also possess at least two years of full-time professional experience in forestry or closely related fields.

The CFT exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as forest ecology, silviculture, timber harvesting, forest management planning and policy, and forest health. The exam is administered twice per year at various locations throughout the United States. The cost to take the exam is $225 USD plus applicable taxes and fees.

The time it takes to get certified varies depending on the individual's background and experience level; however, it typically takes between 12-18 months to complete all requirements for certification.

Do You Really Need a Soil Conservationist Certificate?

It depends on what you plan to do with the certificate. If you are looking to work in soil conservation, then yes, you will need a soil conservationist certificate. The certification is used to demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills necessary for successful soil conservation practices. It is also used as a way of verifying your qualifications when applying for jobs in the field.

The certification is offered by many universities and organizations around the world, including the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Depending on where you live, there may be local or regional providers as well. Generally speaking, these programs involve completing coursework and/or examinations related to soil science, ecology, agronomy and other related topics.

In some cases, employers may require that applicants have a certain level of certification before they can be considered for a job in soil conservation. This is often due to the complex nature of this type of work and its importance in protecting our environment from damage caused by improper land management practices.

If you are looking to pursue a career in soil conservation or related fields, then obtaining a soil conservationist certificate could be beneficial in helping you stand out from other applicants who may not have this knowledge or experience. Additionally, having this type of certification can give employers confidence that an applicant has the necessary skillset required for success in their role.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a soil conservationist certificate will depend on your individual goals and interests within this field. It could be a valuable addition to your qualifications if it’s something that makes sense for your career path.

Related: Soil Conservationist Resume Examples

FAQs About Soil Conservationist Certifications

1. What is a Soil Conservationist Certification?

Answer: A Soil Conservationist Certification is a professional certification that verifies an individual's knowledge and expertise in soil conservation methods and practices. It is awarded by the Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS).

2. How do I become certified as a Soil Conservationist?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Soil Conservationist requires completing educational requirements, passing an exam, and meeting experience requirements outlined by the SWCS.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Soil Conservationist?

Answer: Benefits of certification include recognition of your knowledge and skills in soil conservation, increased job opportunities in the field, higher salaries, and access to resources from the SWCS.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Soil Conservationist?

Answer: The amount of time needed to become certified depends on individual experience levels and educational background; however, the process typically takes between six months and one year.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, continuing education is required for maintaining your certification status. You must complete at least 30 hours of approved training every three years to remain eligible for recertification.