The Nutrient Management Adviser Certification Programme defines the standards for people to meet to provide certified nutrient management advice.

As part of the programme, advisers are required to have successfully completed the Massey University intermediate and advanced courses in Sustainable Nutrient Management in New Zealand Agriculture.

Each course includes, as part of the programme, use of Overseer as a tool to determine the effect of farm practices on the nutrient requirements for sustainable production.

Until March 31, 2014, and at the discretion of the Standard Setting Group, nutrient management advisers who have more than five years of experience and have achieved a professional standard in New Zealand may be permitted to complete the certification process without holding the Massey University Sustainable Nutrient Management Intermediate and Advanced papers.

However, these advisers must meet the following criteria:
• Have published academic papers.
• Have spoken at an international conference on a topic related to nutrient management advice.
• Have been published in industry publications.
• Be recognised as an expert in New Zealand competent to deliver both Massey University Sustainable Nutrient Management Intermediate and Advanced courses.

After March 31, 2014 all advisers will be required to have passed both Massey University courses.

The Nutrient Management Adviser Certification Programme website contains a range of information, including details about the programme and those people who are either certified nutrient management advisers or working towards their certification, as well as details on how to apply to become a certified nutrient management adviser.

For more information on the Nutrient Management Adviser Certification Programme, to find a certified adviser, or to apply to become a nutrient management adviser, go to: www.nmacertification.org.nz

For more information on the Massey University courses in Sustainable Nutrient Management in New Zealand Agriculture, go to: www.massey.ac.nz/~flrc/
(Source - Fertiliser Association of New Zealand)