Practice Approval System: A Certification Process for Conservation Professionals to Design Agricultural Best Management Practices
Extension Education
Kayli Rentzel
Ag & Civil Engineering Educator
The Pennsylvania State University
Mount Wolfe
Abstract
File will not remain in submission when saved. Link to file: PAS Poster NACAA 2026.pdf
The Practice Approval System (PAS), funded by the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP), was developed to address a growing need for consistent technical assistance in implementing agricultural best management practices. Increased funding availability and demand for conservation practices in Pennsylvania highlighted significant gaps in technical capacity, variability in practice design, and heavy reliance on external engineering support. The objective of PAS is to build technical capacity and consistency among conservation professionals through a standardized training and certification program. To achieve this, PAS utilizes a training model consisting of five components: Ag Conservation Keystones Training, Fundamentals Training, Applied Training, Mock Plan Review, and a Real-World Project. The program incorporates instructor-led sessions, hands-on classroom activities, independent assignments, and supervised real-world applications. Standardized tools and design documents were developed to ensure consistency across projects. Evaluation data demonstrates strong program impact. Following the Grazing Management training, 73% of participants reported increased knowledge of best management practices, and 87% reported increased confidence in applying them. Additionally, 69% indicated their plan to provide more technical assistance to landowners. These results suggest that PAS is an effective model for improving technical competency and workforce development within conservation districts. PAS contributes to more consistent and effective implementation of agricultural best management practices, supporting long-term environmental and ACAP programmatic goals.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
Click to view Poster
Authors: Kayli Rentzel
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Rentzel, K. Ag & Civil Engineering Educator, Penn State Extension, Pennsylvania, 17347