by Steven Thoms
There are many certifications available to green industry professionals and here is a list:
Certified Green Industry Professional (CGIP) – This program is offered by the Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA). CGIP certification is earned by individuals taking a very in-depth, four-hour exam on horticulture and other related information geared towards specialties including: landscape contractor, designer, and manager. Learn more at www.plantmichigangreen.com. Once there, click on the “Certified Green Industry Professional” link on the right side of the page.
APLD Certified Landscape Designer – This program is offered by the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD). This certification is earned by submitting work which is then evaluated by professional peers. Learn more at www.apld.org and click on “Find a Landscape Designer.”
ISA Certified Arborist – This program is offered by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). This certification was developed for professional arborists in order to provide the public and those in government with a means to identify those professionals who have demonstrated, through a professionally developed exam and education program, that they have a thorough knowledge of tree care practices. Learn more at www.isa-arbor.com.
ICPI Certified Concrete Paver Installer – This program is offered by the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI). There are currently two levels of certification with the first level incorporating classroom hours and an exam for basic brick paver installation knowledge and the second level aimed at more advanced brick paver knowledge. Learn more at www.icpi.org.
Certified SRW Installer (CSRWI) – This program is offered by the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA). There are currently two levels of this certification on how to install segmental retaining walls; a basic course with an exam and an advanced course with an exam. Learn more at www.ncma.org.
Certified Irrigation Contractor (CIC). This program is offered by the Irrigation Association. CIC’s have a minimum of three years of irrigation related experience and pass a written exam on general irrigation and specialty topics. Learn more at www.irrigation.org.
Landscape Industry Certified (LIC) – This program is offered by PLANET, an international landscape organization. Learn more at www.landcarenetwork.org. PLANET has several subcategories of the LIC:
Certified Landscape Professional (CLP) – The exam is a 4-hour multiple choice test covering business management topics.
Certified Landscape Technician (CLT) – The exam is a written and hands-on test. Candidates choose to test in Hardscape Installation, Softscape Installation, Turf Maintenance, Ornamental Maintenance, or Irrigation.
Certified Horticultural Technician (COLP) – This course emphasizes tree and shrub maintenance procedures. Candidates concentrate on landscape trees and ornamental woody plant physiology, health care management, and establishment.
Certified Lawn Care Manager (CTP) – This study material covers the essential knowledge needed by an effective turf grass manager in northern growing zones. The study leads to a mastery of weed, insect, and disease identification/control, as well as diagnosis of common turf grass problems. The material supports Integrated Pest Management concepts, pesticide safety, and customer relations in northern climates.