Certification
Certified Crop Adviser (CCA)
American Society of Agronomy
Median earnings
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Completion
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The CCA and Certified Professional Agronomist (CPAg) programs certify and support agronomists serving on the front lines of sustainable agronomy.
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Skills taught
Apply plant nutrition principles including macronutrient and micronutrient classification, functions, mobility, and regional deficiency and excess concernsAnalyze soil fertility processes including nutrient transformations, cation exchange, nitrogen cycling, and the influence of soil characteristics on nutrient uptakeConduct soil sampling and plant tissue analysis to interpret nutrient sufficiency levels and support in-season and season-long nutrient management decisionsSelect and calculate nutrient sources and application methods including commercial fertilizers, manure, biosolids, and organic inputs based on crop response relationshipsManage soil pH and liming programs by calculating lime requirements and evaluating liming material quality and incorporation needsDevelop nutrient management plans incorporating yield goals, crop nutrient needs, manure application rates, 4R principles, and environmental risk assessmentAssess soil properties including formation processes, organic matter dynamics, structure, and survey interpretation to support crop production and land use decisionsEvaluate soil hydrology including infiltration, water storage, runoff, leaching, and field capacity parameters across Northeast soil typesDesign and manage drainage and irrigation systems selecting appropriate methods based on soil drainage class, crop water requirements, and water quality considerationsAssess and remediate soil health conditions including compaction, organic matter levels, and biological indicators using appropriate management practicesApply soil conservation practices including erosion prediction methods, tillage system selection, and structural conservation measures to reduce erosion and sedimentationManage watershed hydrology by identifying non-point source pollution pathways, hydrologically sensitive areas, and Total Maximum Daily Load implications for agricultureControl agricultural non-point and concentrated source pollution by implementing best management practices in compliance with Clean Water Act and related regulationsImplement integrated pest management programs using economic thresholds, scouting methods, and pest identification to guide management decisionsManage weeds, plant diseases, and arthropod pests by selecting appropriate cultural, biological, and chemical control strategies for Northeast cropping systemsSelect, apply, and store pesticides in compliance with label requirements, safety regulations, and environmentally sound use practicesProtect human health from pesticide exposure through proper PPE selection, re-entry interval compliance, and safe handling proceduresEvaluate crop adaptation, tillage systems, seeding factors, and planting decisions based on Northeast regional conditions and cropping system objectivesMonitor crop growth stages and manage forage harvesting factors to optimize yield and quality across key Northeast cropsDesign cropping systems incorporating cover crops, crop rotation, and soil health practices to meet agronomic and environmental objectives