Certification > Becoming a Certified Grounds Manager (CGM)

For those interested in becoming a Certified Grounds Manager (CGM), there is a very specific prescribed procedure.

CRITERIA

A candidate must meet one of the three criteria below:

1. A Bachelor of Science in a recognized green industry field, including management and four years of experience in the field of grounds maintenance, of which two years are supervisory.
2. A two year degree from a recognized college or junior college, plus six years of experience in the grounds maintenance field with a minimum of three years of supervisory experience.
3. Eight years in the grounds maintenance field, with a minimum of four years of supervisory experience.

EXAMINATION PROCESS

The examination process consists of two parts.

1. Part One is administered by an approved proctor and covers a core of basic principles of grounds management, consisting of one hundred true/false and multiple choice questions. The applicant taking the examination is required to answer these particular questions without referring to notes or reference materials. A minimum passing grade of 70% is required.

   The Closed Book Test Contains Questions On:

   Insects and Diseases
   Soils
   Trees and Shrubs
   Turfgrass
   Chemicals and Fertilizers
   Management
   
   Part Two is the open book exam. This is a newly revised take home examination to be completed by the applicant based on personal experience and the local situation. Candidates have 1 year to complete this open book test for review by the committee.
   

2. The Open Book Test Consists Of The Following:

   Site Inventory
   Operations Inventory
   Turf Management
   Trees, Shrubs and Ground Covers
   Irrigation
   Pavings
   Management Skills
   Budgets and Finances
   Application and examination fees for PGMS members is $150. You may also join PGMS and apply for the program simultaneously by paying $300.

Download the Application Form