In any professional field, accredited certifications can be a great way to demonstrate knowledge and skill. The inherent value of degrees, education, and certifications are a qualifier for many industries to ensure high quality standards are followed. The green industry is no exception, with many different certifications offering proficiency in:
- Landscape construction/maintenance standards
- Plant identification and plant utilization knowledge
- Tree Risk Assessment and Healthcare
- Irrigation design and installation
- Turfgrass maintenance/installation practices
- Safe and functional architectural design
- And many more green industry skills!!
These certifications serve a dual purpose. They provide green industry professionals with opportunities to learn and maintain essential skills, while also standardizing practices to give customers peace of mind. In North Carolina, several certifications/licenses are required to conduct certain work within our state. These include:
- NC Landscape Contractor license
- NC Licensed Irrigation Contractor license
- NC Landscape Architecture license
- NC Pesticide license
- Many others depending on locality and zoning ordinances!
These accreditations allow certain work to be completed legally. They are also a great way to market one’s business to local clientele and demonstrate a high standard of skills, knowledge, and expertise. This allows a green industry professional or business to set itself apart from the competition and highlight proficiency in skills to customers.
To learn more, and to connect with the local Green Industry here in Buncombe County, check out our local Green Industry Resources page located on our homepage under local resources. Here, you can learn more about:
- Various green industry certifications
- Text alert sign-ups for new and emerging diseases and pests
- Take advantage of a full calendar for upcoming classes and schools to maintain or obtain new certifications
- Factsheets on common pests and diseases found in the landscape, and many more resources!
If you have questions about how to utilize these resources and programs, reach out to Luke Owen who is located at the Buncombe County Cooperative Extension Center at 828-255-5522 or by email at lcowen@ncsu.edu.
