By Blake Jackson
A new certification system launched in Pennsylvania is helping local conservation district staff design and approve farm conservation projects faster. The Practice Approval System (PAS) was created by the Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission and Penn State Extension’s Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training.
PAS allows conservation staff to work directly with farmers on simple projects funded through the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP). This includes installing fences for grazing, creating pasture watering systems, and managing stormwater in fields.
The new system is designed to ease delays by removing the need for outside engineering certification for certain projects. Staff are trained and certified in specific practice areas so they can plan, design, and approve projects independently. This helps move projects forward faster and saves money.
“We are most looking forward to districts feeling confident in their capacity and ability to move farmer applications for conservation projects into successful contracts and then completed projects,” said Jennifer Fetter, director of the Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training and Penn State Extension water resources team leader. “District staff are talented and dedicated. They just needed the infrastructure to provide quality assurance, training and support tools — which is a big part of the new certification program.”
The first certification package focuses on grazing systems. Staff complete training courses, real-world examples, mock plans, and final project reviews. Ongoing spot checks ensure quality and provide continuing education.
The PAS idea was supported by engineering firm Herbert, Rowland & Grubic Inc., and helps reduce project backlogs and focus engineering firms on complex projects like manure storage.
“I’m excited for districts to finally have access to a program that empowers them to make decisions, design projects and certify those projects independently,” said Jacob Tomlinson, extension educator. “It’s a major step forward in building local capacity. The launch of PAS will provide critical support for getting Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program funding on the ground.”
“With the conservation district able to provide all aspects of a project to the farmer, it greatly increases the impact of the ACAP funds,” said Justin Challenger, director of financial and technical assistance programs at the commission. “It streamlines the projects and places the capabilities to complete them in the hands of a local entity that knows the county best.”
With strong support and fast uptake, Pennsylvania hopes PAS will boost conservation across the state, improving soil and water health for both farms and communities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business