A certified crop adviser assists farmers in planning and growing their fields to their full potential. This level of certification indicates that the individual is knowledgeable about soil, nutrients, water, crops, and pests. They use this data to provide advice to farmers and, on occasion, to work on their own farms. Once certified, at least in some jurisdictions, a certified crop adviser must adhere to a code of ethics that ensures they put the needs of the farmer ahead of their own in order to achieve the best possible results on the farm.
A certified crop adviser is capable of performing a wide range of tasks. He or she has a wealth of knowledge about soil conditions and how to improve them through crop rotation, fertilizers, and the planting of specific crop varieties. A certified crop adviser understands how to test soil to determine which nutrients are present and which need to be added.
Another important aspect of a certified crop adviser’s job is water. This means he or she is aware of the most effective ways to use water to help crops grow to their full potential. A certified crop adviser has specialized knowledge in areas such as water usage, irrigation systems, and flooding. He or she will advise a farmer on how to best utilize available water in order to save money while also providing the crops with the nutrients they require to thrive. If a flood occurs, a certified crop adviser can assist a farmer in determining the best course of action.
A certified crop adviser’s job is to determine which types of crops grow best in specific geographical areas. He or she assists a farmer in deciding which crops to grow on the farm in order to maximize profits while also being beneficial to the soil. Pest management is also a part of this job, and it entails looking at the different types of pests in the area and figuring out how to get rid of them or get them back to a healthy state.
The crop adviser also considers livestock-related issues, such as growing crops to feed them. When advising a farmer on the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly practices, the adviser considers whether the farm has livestock. A certified crop adviser can also take classes in a variety of specialized subjects, such as growing organic foods and creating natural wind barriers.