Certifications
Certified Irrigation Designer
CIDs establish specifications and design drawings for landscape irrigation projects. CIDs:
- Evaluate site conditions and determine water availability and use requirements.
- Select the most effective irrigation equipment, methods and materials for the application.
- Develop efficient and cost-effective irrigation designs that meet the plant’s watering requirements.
- Prepare comprehensive plans and specifications that include construction details, equipment or materials, as well as appropriate irrigation schedules.
- Ensure the installation matches the design intent.
- Provide direction to the end user on system use, scheduling and maintenance.
Certified Irrigation Contractor
The purpose of the certified irrigation contractor program is to certify that a US or international candidate has met an advanced level of competency in the execution of contracts or subcontracts to install, repair and/or maintain irrigation systems. The CIC must conduct business in such a manner that irrigation projects meet the specifications and requirements of the contract.
CICs install, maintain and repair irrigation systems. CICs:
- Execute irrigation projects to meet all specifications and requirements.
- Prepare installation sites, including layout, staking, excavation, boring, trenching, grading and backfilling.
- Cut and join pipe, know the limitations of different piping systems and understand basic hydraulics.
- Lay out and install piping and water delivery components; backflow prevention components; mechanical, hydraulic and electrical irrigation controls; and other irrigation system components.
- Troubleshoot and repair irrigation components and systems.
- Understand good business practices, construction contracts and their legal rights and obligations, and licensing laws and codes in their state.
CLIAs quantify and analyze landscape irrigation water use. CLIAs
- Collect site data.
- Make maintenance recommendations and perform minor repairs.
- Perform field measurements and observations.
- Determine irrigation uniformity and efficiency.
- Develop a basic irrigation schedule.
- Work with a water manager or property owner to manage overall irrigation water use.
CGIAs quantify and analyze turf irrigation water use for golf courses. CGIAs
- Collect site data.
- Make maintenance recommendations and perform minor repairs.
- Perform field measurements and observations.
- Determine irrigation uniformity and efficiency.
- Develop a basic irrigation schedule for greens, tees and fairways.
- Work with a golf course superintendent to manage overall irrigation water usage and decisions.
ASHS Certified Horticulturists (CH) are practicing horticulturists who are skilled and knowledgeable in all areas of horticulture. Those with the ASHS CH certification were required to pass a rigorous four-hour exam based on the following areas of horticulture:
- Landscape Design and Maintenance
- Production of Fruits, Vegetables, Turf, and Ornamental Plants
- Shipping and Handling of Final Product
- Propagation
- Monitoring and Testing,
- Diagnosing and Managing Plant Problems
- Business Practices