CPGP · Standards & Curriculum

Certified Prescribed Grazing Practitioner

Field-level certification for operators and service providers.

Program overview

The CPGP credential validates the core competencies required to plan, execute, and document prescribed grazing contracts for vegetation management, fire-fuel reduction, and ecological restoration.

Who it's for: Owner-operators, contract grazers, and service providers delivering prescribed grazing in the field.

Standards

CPGA-S100 Site Assessment
Vegetation inventory, target species ID, terrain, water, and risk assessment.
CPGA-S110 Grazing Plan Design
Stocking density, paddock layout, residency time, and rest intervals.
CPGA-S120 Animal Care in the Field
Daily welfare checks, water and shade access, and emergency response.
CPGA-S130 Contract Documentation
Client agreements, scope of work, monitoring records, and outcome reports.

Curriculum

Module 1 — Foundations of Prescribed Grazing

16 hrs

History and ecology of targeted grazing
Vegetation types and palatability across Canadian biomes
Regulatory framework and CPGA Code of Practice

Module 2 — Site Assessment & Planning

24 hrs

Reading topography, soils, and water sources
Target vs. desirable species identification
Hazard mapping (toxic plants, predators, public access)

Module 3 — Livestock Management on Contract

32 hrs

Species and breed selection for target vegetation
Portable fencing and water systems
Daily monitoring and welfare checks

Module 4 — Operations, Safety & Biosecurity

24 hrs

Transport and unloading protocols
Predator deterrence and guardian animal use
Biosecurity between sites

Module 5 — Client Relations & Reporting

24 hrs

Scoping and pricing contracts
Photo-monitoring and outcome documentation
Public engagement and signage

Assessment

Online proctored knowledge exam (100 questions, 75% pass)
Submitted grazing plan for a real or case-study site
In-person field skills evaluation by a CPGA assessor

Recertification: Renew every 3 years with 30 hours of continuing education and proof of active practice.