The BC Institute of Agrologists regulates the profession and protects the public interest in British Columbia's environment and natural resources by ensuring safe, competent, and ethical practice.
As of September 1, 2022, only those individuals registered with BCIA will be able to dispense agrology advice in British Columbia. Any individual practicing agrology and not registered with BCIA may be prosecuted in British Columbia for unauthorized practice. The sole exemption is a farmer working their own land.
How Does BCIA Protect the Public Interest in the Sustainable and Ethical Use of Natural and Environmental Resources?
Accreditation
Stringent educational admission requirements for acceptance into BCIA. New registrants must complete a one or two-year articling program with mentor supervision and complete program elements before being granted full professional status.
Ethics
Registrants must complete mandatory ethics training and sign a professional oath.
Continuing Professional Development
BCIA is committed to offering professional development opportunities for registrants to enhance their professional knowledge, competencies, and skillsets.
Professional Development Audit Program
Registrants must meet the required annual and three-year professional development minimums or will be subject to review and action.
BCIA Bylaws, Policies and Standards
Ensuring that information pertaining to bylaws, policies and standards, such as complaints and discipline, are accessible to the public.
The public and registrants may use BCIA's fair and comprehensive complaint process to address incompetent or unethical practices by registered agrology professionals or unregistered individuals giving agrology advice or using an agrologist title, designation or professional seal without authorization.