What is a CCA?
The Certified Crop Adviser Program (CCA) is one of the professional certification programs offered by the American Society of Agronomy (ASA). It is a voluntary program providing a base standard level through testing and raising that standard through continuing education.
BECOME CERTIFIEDSupporting Ranchers & Farmers
Over 13,000 men and women serve our nation’s farmers and ranchers as Certified Crop Advisers, providing information and expertise on crop production, crop protection, and natural resource management.
Continuing Education
To maintain the certification, the CCA must earn 40 hours of continuing education every two years. The program has averaged a 94% renewal rate.
Qualifications
Each CCA has to pass two exams (international and local) and submit credentials detailing their education, crop advising experience, and two references. They must sign and adhere to a code of ethics.
Competency Areas
The exams cover four major competency areas: nutrient management, soil, and water management, integrated pest management, and crop management. Continuing education must also fall into one of these four areas to be valid for CCA Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
Local Boards and Coverage Areas
The program is administered locally by 37 state/regional/provincial boards called “Local Boards” throughout the United States and Canada. The Northwest Certified Crop Adviser (NWCCA) covers six states (AK, ID, NV, OR, UT, WA) and 1 Canadian province (BC). Far West Agribusiness Association administers it in Weiser, ID.