CFGP:
Certification as a Forage and Grassland Professional signifies that the designated individual has met the basic qualifications to be able to carry out professional work in the field, and has not been found to engage in unprofessional conduct. Persons possessing the professional credentials indicating that they can plan critical conservation practices and implement sound resource management of pasture, hayland, and grazed cropland may be certified as such by the American Forage and Grassland Council.
Critical conservation practices are those that address critical resource needs such as: gully, sheet, rill, and streambank erosion; plant health and adaptation, and contaminated runoff. Such practices include but are not limited to: prescribed grazing, water supply alternatives, stream crossings, fencing, and livestock trails and walkways.
For complete details please review the CFGP Guidelines
How CFGP works with TSP:
Certified Forage and Grassland Professionals will have the opportunity to qualify as Technical Service Providers (TSPs) based on their AFGC credentials and the completion of a one day training session offered by the NRCS at the AFGC Conference. The training focuses on the unique aspects of grazing and forage planning, management application of practices, including the required elements that are unique to USDA program participants. A new opportunity will be available for AFGC TSPs to become certified in conservation planning for lands enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) or Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP). Attend this workshop for more details on this and other potential conservation work.
The Technical Service Providers Program:
The TSP Program opens up new opportunities for AFGC members to work directly with clients who are participating in conservation programs with the NRCS. The Farm Bill allows farmers a choice in using a technical service provider to plan and design conservation systems including grazing and forage management practices in conjunction with Farm Bill Programs. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) now provides financial assistance to qualified farmers for hiring TSPs to plan for grazing management through a Conservation Activity Plan. AFGC members who become Technical Service Providers can help service the need for grazing and forage planning and management.
CFGP Brochure
CFGP Application
This program requires individuals to take an exam. How difficult would it be to create an online sample exam that individuals could register to take and then get immediate results…is this even possible?
