CCAs are individuals who have completed rigorous coursework and passed exams on nutrient, soil, water and pest management, enabling them to help growers produce crops economically and in an environmentally sound manner. Nitrogen management certification prepares CCAs to work with farmers to comply with new state regulations for tracking and reporting nitrogen inputs on farms, efforts that are aimed at minimizing the leaching of nitrogen into the underground aquifer.
The 2015 training sessions are sponsored by the UC California Institute for Water Resources, a statewide program that develops research-based solutions to water-related challenges in California.
“Over the next two years, our focus will be on groundwater quality and quantity,” said Doug Parker, director of the institute. “Our role is to provide policy makers and agricultural practitioners the best science possible on managing and protecting California groundwater.”
The nitrogen management training curriculum was developed by a group of UC ANR faculty, specialists and advisors. The first day is a general session with presentations on the nitrogen cycle in crop production systems, nitrogen sources, irrigation and nitrogen management, and nitrogen budgeting. The second morning will have concurrent sessions on annual and permanent crops and will include nitrogen planning practices.
CCAs must attend both days of the training to receive nitrogen management certification and 11 hours of continuing education credit units. (No DPR credit units will be given.) The registration deadline is Jan. 2. To register, go to the California Association of Pest Control Advisors Education website (CAPCA ED) Registration is online only; no on-site registration will be available. The registration fee is $160.
Nitrogen management training will be offered at the following locations:
Fresno – Jan. 13-14, 2015
Ramada Inn Fresno (University) – Shaw Rooms A, B, C
324 E. Shaw Ave., Fresno, CA 93710
Register online - Fresno
San Luis Obispo – Feb. 24-25, 2015
Courtyard by Marriott – Grand Ballroom
16-5 Calle Joaquin Rd., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Register online – San Luis Obispo
Sacramento – March 10-11, 2014
Sacramento Scottish Rite Temple – Bruno Room
6151 H St., Sacramento, CA 95819
Register online - Sacramento
For more information, contact the CDFA Fertilizer Research and Education Program at (916) 900-5022, frep@cdfa.ca.gov.