Prairie CCA - Growers

Are CCA's different from a crop scout who is a Professional Agrologist or one that has a university degree?

The fact is that many CCA's are Professional Agrologists, as well as, they hold a university degree or diploma in agriculture. Most CCA's view the program as a means to prove their agronomic knowledge to employers and customers, as well as, a formalized system to ensure they are receiving the proper training and updates.

There are several characteristics of the CCA program that make it unique. First of all, the program is based on demonstrated knowledge and work experience, not formal education. All CCA's must have met the stringent knowledge requirements as set out by the local and international exam committees in the areas of crop management, soil and water management, nutrient management and integrated pest management. Currently, approximately only 50% of the candidates who challenge the exam actually pass. Also, depending on their level of formal education, persons may need up to 4 years of crop scouting experience in order to become a CCA. Secondly, unlike other programs, CCA's must participate in a continuing education program aimed specifically at keeping their agronomic skills current, at least 40 hours of approved courses every two years. Finally, and perhaps the most important distinction between CCA's and others who do not belong to any program, is that CCA's must sign and uphold a code of ethics that states he/she must act honestly and in a way that puts the grower's best interests first and foremost.

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