What Is the Reimbursement Program?
This professional development reimbursement program is funded by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative through a new program called Technical Resources and Assistance for Implementing Nutrient Management (TRAIN). This program supports agricultural professionals who serve Michigan’s portion of the Western Lake Erie Basin (WLEB). This funding provides up to $1,500 per individual to attend training and workshops and obtain or maintain certifications to expand technical knowledge and skills for managing nutrients in the WLEB. Content must align with TRAIN’s mission to improve water quality and promote soil health across the basin by getting more nutrient management practices on the ground
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Eligibility is open to individuals and organizations providing agricultural technical support or services within the Michigan portion of the WLEB. You may apply if you are:
- A technical service or assistance provider, agronomist, or certified crop advisor (CCA) who serves producers in Michigan’s Western Lake Erie Basin;
- A staff member of a Conservation District within the basin (Monroe, Lenawee, Hillsdale, or Washtenaw Counties); or
- A private-sector partner who works directly with producers to implement nutrient management practices.
Eligible Expenses
Reimbursements are capped at $1,500 per individual for expenses directly associated with attending an eligible event, including:
- Registration or certification fees
- Travel: mileage for personal vehicles at $0.72/mile, commercial flights, rental cars, public transportation, parking
- Lodging
How to Apply
- If your training, conference, workshop, or certification is listed below, we will reimburse you.
- If it is not listed on the "certifications and trainings" or "conferences and workshops" tabs, email [email protected] to inquire if it qualifies.
- Attend/participate in your chosen event/certification.
- Keep all receipts and documentation of attendance.
- Complete the reimbursement form on the TRAIN website within 45 days of your event. You may submit reimbursement for registration fees paid for before the event.
Once submitted, the TRAIN team will review your submission and may contact you for additional information. Expect a reimbursement check within 3–4 weeks.
Certifications & Trainings
The Michigan Manure Hauler Certification Program aims to prevent manure application problems, promote responsible application, increase nutrient management implementation, and raise professionalism and knowledge among applicators. The voluntary program offers three certification levels and provides a clear path from training to certification and third-party audit, with potential insurance premium reductions as incentives. To achieve Level 1 certification, applicants must pass an online course with a score of 80% or higher.
Variable Rate Technology (VRT) training through Ag Leader Academy equips participants with the knowledge and skills to optimize precision agriculture tools for efficient nutrient management. Learners gain hands-on experience using Ag Leader’s SMS software to analyze field data, generate management zones, and apply variable rate prescriptions for seed, fertilizer, and crop protection products. The self-paced online modules and virtual support resources help both beginners and advanced users make data-driven decisions to improve productivity and sustainability.
The Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) and Certified Professional Agronomist (CPAg) programs recognize agronomy professionals who demonstrate excellence and ethical commitment to sustainable agriculture. Earning these respected credentials requires rigorous exams and ongoing professional development, ensuring up-to-date, science-based expertise. Certification signals to employers and growers that holders are trusted advisors dedicated to quality and continuous learning.
The 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification Program is built on the foundation of the 4R of Nutrient Stewardship: Right Source at the Right Rate, at the Right Time and in the Right Place. This program is not currently available in Michigan but you may be able to participate through Ohio’s program by contacting Aaron Heilers at [email protected] or (614) 326-7520.
Conferences & Workshops
2027 application is closed. Application for the 2028 cohort will open in July.
Participants will attend interactive learning modules to receive training and resources from SWCS staff and partners. They will fine-tune and expand their skills and networks to further advance conservation and their career. Through the year, participants will gain professional skills like time management, event planning, public speaking, and creating community. They will network with and receive guidance from peers, program alumni, and other leaders across disciplines to develop their leadership style and build confidence in their roles. The 2027 cohort registration is closed at this time, however this is an annual program that will reopen applications for the 2028 cohort in July 2027. The program page still contains valuable information on what you can expect the event to look like next year!
November 1-4, 2026 | Portland, OR
CANVAS 2026, formerly the ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting brings together the crop, agronomic, environmental, and soil science communities to inspire change and advance scientific discovery. This premier event features keynote presentations on innovation and emerging leaders, technical sessions, hands-on workshops, field tours, award ceremonies, and dynamic networking opportunities. With over 3,000 abstracts covering cutting-edge research, participants can dive into the latest advancements and ideas in the field. Students are encouraged to join specialized programming, including career workshops and networking events. Visit the exposition to explore the newest products and technologies in agronomy, crop, and soil sciences.
November 4-5, 2026 | Goshen, Indiana
Register by October 23rd.
Join Purdue Extension and MSU Extension for this year’s in-service workshop. The theme is Weathering Water Extremes: Connecting Soil Health, Drainage, Irrigation, and Farm Resilience. You will have the opportunity to hear from experts on soil health and management, see real world examples through farm tours and farmer conversations, and take home practical tools and strategies to improve farm resilience. There are 9 Soil and Water CCA credits pending for this workshop.
February 3-4, 2027 | Bavarian Inn Lodge, Frankenmuth, Michigan
Registration opens early December.
This is a great opportunity for networking and hearing talks from innovative farmers. Speakers will share their experiences with diversified farming systems, cover crops, no-till, grazing, food-grade grains, and new crop markets. Both RUP and CCA credits may be available. Registration is only $50 per person, and scholarships are available through GreenStone (registration cost only) and Michigan SARE (travel cost only). Save the date and stay tuned for registration information!
February 2, 2027 | Grand Rapids, MI
February 4, 2027 | Fort Wayne, IN
February 10, 2027 | Frankenmuth, MI
February 11, 2027 | Waldo, OH
February 16, 2027 | Champaign, IL
These workshops reinforce key concepts in soil fertility, chemistry, and crop nutrition through interactive discussions and real-world agronomic problem-solving. Seminars are led by certified crop advisors and professional agronomists, covering topics such as soil properties, CEC, base saturation, pH, and nutrient management. Attendees can earn CCA credits: 3.5 in Nutrient Management, 1.5 in Soil and Water Management, and 1.0 in Crop Management. While the 2026 workshop dates have passed, these workshops occur annually and will be open for 2027 registration in late fall. Register at least 2 weeks prior to the event on the event page and explore valuable information on what you can expect the workshops to look like!