HR-5048 : Still Just a Bill

Nutrient Management Technical Service Provider Certification Act of 2018

This bill amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to provide alternative certification methods for third-party technical service providers (TSPs). (TSPs provide technical expertise to agricultural producers on behalf of the Department of Agriculture [USDA] Natural Resource Conservation Service to assist in planning and implementing conservation measures.)

USDA must approve certain professional certifications that meet or exceed national criteria and were established by:

• the USDA,
• an agriculture-related retailer,
• a farmer cooperative,
• the American Society of Agronomy, or
• the National Alliance of Independent Crop Consultants.

A qualified certification includes a certifications as:

• a Certified Crop Advisor by the American Society for Agronomy,
• a Certified Professional Agronomist by the American Society for Agronomy, and
• a Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan Specialist by USDA.