How the Certification Process Works
Your Path to NRCS Conservation Planner Certification
NRCS Conservation Planner certification establishes the core knowledge and skills needed to deliver high-quality conservation planning. Follow these steps to navigate your path to conservation planner certification.
Step 1: Understand the Planner Designation Levels
There are four planner designation levels, each with its own required training and experience. Each level is completed through a combination of online coursework (AgLearn), on-demand webinars, in-person training, and on-the-job experience.
Explore the planner levels through our short video series or review the level descriptions below.
Level 1: The Foundation
Level 2: Strengthening Planning Skills
Level 3: Independent Plan Creation
Level 4: Leadership & Training
Step 2: Talk With Your Supervisor
Before enrolling, discuss your certification goals with your supervisor or district leadership. Many employers support certification through paid training time, course fees, or travel assistance.
Use our Supervisor Support Request Letter Example to help guide the conversation and formally request support.
Step 3: Understand the Time & Training Commitment
Each certification level requires a different mix of:
- Online coursework (AgLearn and on-demand webinars)
- In-person training
- On-the-job experience and mentoring
Level 1 can often be completed entirely online, while higher levels require additional in-person training and applied experience. Reviewing expectations up front can help you plan your time and set realistic goals.
Get an overview of the estimated hours, course types, and on-the-job experience for each certification level.
Step 4: Review Required Coursework
Each certification level has a defined set of required courses and experience. Most coursework is tracked through AgLearn, NRCS’s training platform, which allows you to:
- Load the appropriate Conservation Planner program
- Track completed and remaining courses
- Receive updates as requirements change
Step 5: Connect with NCPP for support
NCPP can help connect you with the appropriate training coordinator and support you throughout the certification process.
What Happens Next?
Once you’ve selected your certification level and loaded the appropriate program in AgLearn, you’ll begin completing required coursework and training. As you progress, you’ll work with mentors, supervisors, and state reviewers to meet experience and quality assurance requirements before advancing to the next level.
Find Your Contact By Region
Connect with your NCPP representative for personalized guidance and support.
Northeast
Southeast
North Central
South Central
Northern Plains
Southwest
Pacific
Certification Levels
Level 1: NRCS Conservation Planner
Level 1 certification establishes the core competencies for beginning conservation planners. While Level I planners are not fully certified, they may conduct many planning activities under the review and approval of a Level 3 or 4 planner. This certification can be completed entirely online and does not expire.
Training Requirements
- This certification can be completed entirely online with an AgLearn account.
- Conservation Planning, Part 1
- Conservation Planning Business Tools (if applicable)
- Water Quality Series
- Soils and Web Soil Survey
- Cultural Resources and Environmental Evaluation training
- State-specific requirements and supervisor certification
Estimated time to complete: 30-40 hours
Level 2: NRCS Conservation Planner
Level 2 planners can plan independently within their approved scope but cannot certify full conservation plans. This level helps bridge the gap between Levels 1 and 3 and allows planners to pursue specialty certifications, such as Comprehensive Nutrient Management Planning (CNMP).
Training Requirements
- All Level 1 requirements
- Conservation Planning, Part 2
- Water Quality coursework
- Specialty-specific training (e.g., CNMP)
- State-specific requirements and supervisor certification
Estimated time to complete: 30-40 hours (4-5 hours of on-demand training plus a multi-day in-person Conservation Planning, Part 2 course)
Level 3 (Certified): NRCS Conservation Planner
Level 3 is the primary certification for planners delivering conservation planning assistance. Level 3 planners may write and certify conservation plans independently and may carry specialty certifications.
Training Requirements
- All Level 2 requirements
- Resource Management System (RMS) plan completion with a mentor
- Soil Health and Sustainability
- Economics, communications, and resource-specific training
- State-specific requirements and supervisor certification
Estimated time to complete: 40-60 hours (20-25 hours of on-demand online training plus two multi-day in-person courses and completing an RMS plan with a mentor.)
Level 4 (Master Certified): NRCS Conservation Planner
Level 4 certification is for experienced planners addressing complex planning situations and mentoring others. This level includes leadership, training, and state-level review responsibilities.
Training Requirements
- All Level 3 requirements
- Conduct state quality reviews
- Instructor and mentorship experience
- Advanced communications, economics, and natural resource coursework
- State-specific requirements and supervisor certification
Estimated time to complete: Varies (depends on course scheduling and opportunities to complete required on-the-job experience such as quality assurance reviews and instructor support)
Specialty Certifications
Specialties (i.e. CNMP) can be added to your planner designation once you are at least a Level 2 planner.
NRCS CNMP Specialty – See Requirements. In addition to coursework that can be taken in person or found in AgLearn, two CNMP plans must be submitted and approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about the certification process.
How long does it take to get certified?
Timing depends on the level. Level 1 can often be completed in 30-40 hours and entirely online. Higher levels require additional coursework, in-person training, and experience that may take several months to a year or more.
Can I complete the training online?
Much of the training is available through AgLearn and on-demand webinars. Some levels also require in-person courses and on-the-job training.
What is AgLearn and why do I need it?
AgLearn is NRCS’s training platform. You’ll load your selected Conservation Planner program in AgLearn to track progress, complete courses, and receive updates.
Do I need to be certified to do conservation planning work?
Level 1 planners may perform many planning tasks but must have their work reviewed by a Level 3 or 4 planner. Higher levels allow more independence and certification authority.
Do NRCS planner certifications expire?
Level 1 certifications do not expire. Levels 2-4 require state quality assurance reviews at least once every three years to maintain designation.
Still have questions? We’re happy to help. Contact us at training@wearencpp.com.
