University of ÁùºÏ±¦µä Cooperative Extension invites local green-industry professionals, including landscapers and nursery workers, to attend Extension's first-ever Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL) training Oct. 15-16. The training will prepare participants to take the certification exam on Oct. 17, becoming some of the first ever QWEL-certified professionals in northern ÁùºÏ±¦µä.
The training is part of Extension's new Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper Certification (QWEL) Program. Professionals certified by the program, which was designed by the Sonoma-Marin Saving Water Partnership and is recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency, will be listed on the , where local landowners can find them for hire. In addition, certified QWEL professionals can use the QWEL logo on their trucks and business cards as a means of marketing their qualifications with their customers.
The training will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Oct. 15 and 16, with the water audit 9:30 a.m. to noon, Oct. 17. Classes are taught by Cooperative Extension and Truckee Meadows Water Authority faculty and staff, and industry professionals. Participants will be provided with local water, soil and plant information; basic and advanced irrigation principles; and hands-on water audit skills they can use in the field.
Cost for the training is $100 and includes the water audit, class supplies, lunches for Oct. 15 and 16, and refreshments. The certification exam is 1-4 p.m., Oct. 17, and the cost is $50. Both the training and the certification exam are at the Washoe County Cooperative Extension office, 4955 Energy Way in Reno.
Registration is a two-step process, beginning at the . For more information on classes or certification, contact Jenn Fisher at fisherj@unce.unr.edu or 775-336-0249. Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance should call at least three days prior to the class they intend to attend.
