Agriculture Certifications

Certified Agricultural Irrigation Specialist

Certification gives you a competitive edge. Become a certified agricultural irrigation specialist and

  • add instant credibility with customers and employers.
  • increase job opportunities.
  • demonstrate your commitment to efficient water management.
  • qualify to become a USDA Technical Service Provider.

CAIS Overview

Certified agricultural irrigation specialists manage and operate on-farm irrigation systems. They

  • understand surface irrigation methods and pressurized systems, including microirrigation and sprinklers.
  • evaluate crops and determine water availability and use requirements.
  • understand soil-plant-water relationships and how salinity affects irrigation.
  • select the most effective irrigation methods and equipment for the application.
  • develop efficient and cost-effective irrigation schedules that meet the crop’s water requirement. 

Becoming a CAIS

To become a CAIS, you must:

  1. Register for the exam. Field experience with management and operation of on-farm irrigation systems is recommended. Intermediate math skills are recommended to be successful.
  2. Pass the agriculture irrigation specialist exam. The three-hour exam includes 100 equally weighted, multiple-choice questions on soils, evapotranspiration, system types, irrigation scheduling, salinity, drainage, efficiency and distribution uniformity.
  3. Comply with the Select Certified Code of Ethics.
  4. Remain in good standing. CAISs must submit 20 continuing education units per two-year cycle.

CAIS Exam Fees

Agriculture Irrigation Specialist Exam Fee — $200 (Member), $450 (Nonmember)
Exam Retake Fee — $150 (Member), $275 (Nonmember)
Annual Renewal Fee (one certification) — $75 (Member), $125 (Nonmember); plus $25 for each additional certification

See the Certification Candidate Handbook for exam policies, procedures and fees outside of North America.