Landscape Certifications
Certified Golf Irrigation Auditor
Certification gives you a competitive edge. Become a certified golf irrigation auditor and
- add instant credibility with customers and employers.
- increase job opportunities.
- demonstrate your commitment to efficient water management.
- qualify for the EPA WaterSense program.
CGIA Overview
CGIAs quantify and analyze turf irrigation water use for golf courses. CGIAs
- collect site data.
- make maintenance recommendations and perform minor repairs.
- perform field measurements and observations.
- determine irrigation uniformity and efficiency.
- develop a basic irrigation schedule for greens, tees and fairways.
- work with a golf course superintendent to manage overall irrigation water usage and decisions.
Becoming a CGIA
To become a CGIA, you must:
- Register for the exam. Recommended: one year of irrigation-related work experience.
- Pass the golf irrigation auditor exam. The three-hour exam includes 125 equally weighted, multiple-choice questions on golf course irrigation procedures, soil-plant-water relationships, irrigation scheduling and equipment/technology.
- Submit a golf irrigation audit. Audits must be completed independently and verified by an IA-certified professional in good standing within one year of acceptance into the certification program. The following further outlines this requirement:
- Comply with the Select Certified Code of Ethics.
- Remain in good standing. CGIAs must submit 20 continuing education units per two-year cycle.
CGIA Exam Fees
Golf Irrigation Auditor Exam Fee — $250 (Member), $495 (Nonmember)
Exam Retake Fee — $200 (Member), $325 (Nonmember)
Audit Resubmission Fee — $75 (Member), $125 (Nonmember)
Annual Renewal Fee (one certification) — $50 (Member), $100 (Nonmember)
Annual Renewal Fee (two or more certifications) — $100 (Member), $150 (Nonmember)
See the Certification Candidate Handbook for exam policies, procedures and fees outside of North America.