CBLP Level 1 Training – Registration For Winter Courses is Open!

Registration now for winter 2019-20 Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional (CBLP) certification. CBLP is a voluntary, regional credential for professionals who design, install, and maintain sustainable landscapes in the Bay watershed.  Visit http://cblpro.org/get-certified/ for information, and to apply for certification.

CBLP offers two levels of training and certification:

  • Level 1 is a baseline certification in design, installation, and maintenance of sustainable landscapes, emphasizing proper management of stormwater best management practices (BMPs)
  • Level 2 is an advanced credential in design or installation, focusing on stormwater BMPs

CBLP’s active learning program engages participants to develop critical thinking, problem solving, and collaborative practice skills. We focus on the unique ecology and regulatory environment of the Bay region, but all are welcome to attend.

Level 1 consists of one two-day class that combines classroom learning about conservation landscaping (native plants, natural communities, habitat, soils, invasive plant management) and stormwater BMPs, with a field-based maintenance practicum. The class also covers BMP inspection and verification protocols. Level 1 candidates are required to pass a written examination after the class.

Candidates receive unlimited access to CBLP’s online webinar series on sustainable landscaping topics and a copy of CBLP’s sustainable landscape maintenance manual, as well as access to exam preparation tutorials. Additional resources are available via free download or purchase.

Level 1 certification exams will be given in multiple locations. Because this is a Bay-wide credential, candidates may take the class or exam in any location. The Level 1 fee, including the exam, webinars, and materials, is $445.

Several Level 1 classes are planned for this session:

  • December 10-11, 2020 – Lancaster, PA
  • January 23-24, 2020 – Derwood, MD
  • February 25-26, 2020 – Norfolk, VA
  • March 24-25, 2020 – Annapolis, MD
  • Delaware – TBA

Level 2 is held twice each year in various locations. Our November Level 2 course is sold out. The next Level 2 Intensive Seminar will be held in summer 2020 in Lancaster, PA.

A searchable, online directory of CBLP-certified landscape professionals is available at http://cblpro.org/directory/

Level 1 candidates must have a degree, certificate, or certification in a related green infrastructure field, or have professional experience. To qualify for Level 2, professionals must complete Level 1 and demonstrate experience designing or installing stormwater BMPs. To date, CBLP has certified 466 Level 1, and 67 Level 2 professionals from Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia. Eventually, CBLP will be offered in all states in the Bay watershed.

For more information, visit http://cblpro.org or contact Katie Pinkham, at katie@cblpro.org