Exam Study Materials

Foundations of Applied Agronomy The series provides a comprehensive online learning experience that covers topics in nutrient management, soil and water management, pest management, and crop management. In-field practitioners will review the knowledge and skills that are most needed by a Certified Crop Adviser (CCA).

Preparing for the International Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) Exam The Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) Exam is based on performance objectives which can be thought of as areas of expertise that a CCA should possess. This manual is an excellent study guide for use while preparing for the International CCA Exam. 157 pages. 8.5 x 11 inches. 2019 Edition

This series can be used to prepare for the 4R NMS Specialty Certification Exam. The performance objectives for the exam may be found here. (PDF)

The CCA is expected to have background knowledge of the Performance Objectives (POs) in the Nutrient Management Competency Areas used in preparation for the ICCA Exam. These POs address soil testing and plant tissue analysis, nutrient sources, nutrient placing and timing, and nutrient management planning. To some degree, the 4Rs are reflected in each of these areas. The POs for the 4R Nutrient Management Specialist go beyond the basics to integrate the knowledge in developing plans that meet the 4R goals as well as comply with appropriate state and national regulations, as appropriate.

This study guide was developed to support the current Performance Objectives for 4R Nutrient Management Specialist.

The Colorado CCA Exam Study Guide contains a hyperlinked performance objective document that is broken up by section of the Colorado CCA Exam and supporting PDF factsheets. The factsheets will help individuals study materials that may be on the Colorado CCA Exam. It is designed so that a wide range of the Colorado CCA Exam Performance Objectives are covered although not all specific objectives may be contained on any one test. Factsheets may cover materials that could pertain to one or more sections of the Colorado CCA Exam.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach offers an online review course to prepare individuals for the Iowa CCA exam. The course includes presentations and practice exams on crop management, pest management, nutrient management, and soil and water management.

MCSP Publications. This publication covers all of the learning objectives for the CCA exam, plus it will be an excellent reference for you when your certification is complete. A special price is available for all CCA exam registrants. To get that price, call 1-217-403-1101.

The Ontario CCA Program office has study guides available to assist you in preparing for the Ontario exam. The Ontario CCA Study guide is updated annually to reflect changes in the Ontario exam Performance Objectives. The manual contains complete coverage of the Ontario Performance Objectives and includes 20 pages of color plates for insect and disease identification. 312 pages $80.00 Canadian To order or for more information contact Sarah Lindsay at 519-787-4322 or Send Message.

The Pennsylvania CCA Program in conjunction with Penn State Extension offers an online study guide for all those preparing for the Pennsylvania CCA Exam. This online resource includes updated scientific information, pictures, the most recent legislative changes, and interactive features such as dynamic graphics and practice exam questions. The study guide is only available on-line. A one-time fee of $99 applies and provides one year of access to this resource as you prepare for the exam.

The resources listed in the PDF document can be used to prepare for the Resistance Management Specialty Exam. The performance objectives for the exam may be found here. (PDF)

The resources can be found on IPM and Resistance Management web sites or advanced college level course books and materials that put theory into practice.

Pest resistance (fungus, pathogen, insect, weeds) is a huge issue in agriculture. Companies spend millions on developing products to manage each of these pests, yet they continue to adapt to these new products over time. What can we learn about the pathways of resistance that can help us manage pests? This series is also meant as a review for the CCA Resistance Management Specialty Exam.  The performance objectives for the exam may be found here. (PDF)

Main Channel
1. Overview
2. Fungicide
3. Insecticides
4. Herbicides

This series can be used to prepare for the Sustainability Specialty Certification Exam. The performance objectives for the exam may be found here. (PDF)

“Sustainability” is a term you likely encounter in your personal and professional lives. But how do you apply this concept in your daily work as a Certified Crop Adviser (CCA), consultant, or agricultural professional?

In this ten-part training series, funded by CHS Inc., you will learn how the concept of sustainability is being increasingly researched and applied by numerous practitioners in production agriculture. From 4R nutrient management to integrated pest management (IPM), precision agriculture, conservation tillage, cover crops, and soil health, this series explores the ins and outs of sustainable agronomy via presentations, the Fieldprint® platform, and a virtual-farm sustainability tour. Gain access to resources that you may not have known were out there, making you a more efficient and effective agronomy adviser.

By the end of the series, you can expect to be knowledgeable in the latest concepts in sustainable agronomy and have a clear idea of how to implement sustainable management practices for the benefit of you and your grower clients.

Soil science fundamentals for field crops (videos) 
Field crop forage fundamentals (videos)
Weed, insect, disease IPM for field crops (videos)