EPA Invites comment on Certification Endorsement Drafts

 

The Environmental Protection Agency has posted draft specifications to recognize certification programs for irrigation professionals. The agency is establishing criteria for recognizing programs in three areas; system design; installation and maintenance; and auditing. Irrigation certification programs and irrigation controllers are among the first categories that will be eligible for recognition through the EPA Water Efficiency Program. The program is designed to identify water-efficient products and services to help consumers make water-wise choices. Products and certifications that meet the program?EUR??,,????'???s standards will be allowed to bear the EPA Water Efficiency Program label, which will be unveiled later this year.

According to the draft documents, each of the certification categories would require independent oversight, previous experience for applicants, independently administered exams with validated questions, and a renewal process that requires verification of maintained proficiency. The Irrigation Association Certified Irrigation Designer, Certified Irrigation Contractor, Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor and Certified Golf Course Irrigation Auditor programs meet these criteria.