CBLP Level 1

CBLP Level 1: Green Infrastructure and Sustainable Landscape Training

Whether you’re just starting your career or want to build a stronger foundation in green infrastructure, this sustainable landscaping certification gives you the knowledge and skills to design, install, and maintain Bay-friendly landscapes that work with nature.

CBLP Level 1 is the entry point for professionals who want to advance their careers while protecting the environment.

Green Infrastructure Training Designed for Landscape- and Environmental Professionals

CBLP professional certifications are designed for those working in landscape, stormwater, environmental and related fields.

Level 1 is our baseline credential in sustainable landscaping and green infrastructure. From there, experienced professionals can continue to Level 2 to deepen their skills in site assessment, soil and tree protection, natural communities, and design or installation of best management practice (BMP) treatment trains.

Our certification support professionals such as:

green infrastructure training classroom session

  • Arborists and foresters
  • Engineers
  • Green infrastructure, Low Impact Development (LID), stormwater professionals
  • Urban planners
  • Grounds managers and other maintenance professionals
  • Landscape architects and designers
  • Horticulturists
  • Landscape contractors and technicians
  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM) technicians or licensed pesticide applicators
  • Nutrient management (fertilizer) planners
  • Soil and environmental scientists
  • Other related professionals

Green Infrastructure Training is Ideal for:  Landscape professionals with a degree in a related field of study, credentials or work experience in landscaping or related fields.

Beyond the practical knowledge I gained through completing the CBLP Level 1, I also have been introduced to a fantastic network of accessible, like minded individuals all striving to educate the community on more impactful maintenance of stormwater attributes. 

Adam Smith, Level Green Landscaping

What you’ll learn:

  • Sustainable landscape design, installation, and maintenance
  • Working with native plants, soils, and habitat systems
  • Stormwater BMPs and their role in watershed health
  • Ecosystem thinking and invasive species management

Learning format:

  • Option 1: Two full in-person training days
  • Option 2: Two half-days online + one in-person field day
  • Includes access to self-paced videos, webinars, and study resources
  • Final exam (online, available in English or Spanish) required for certification
  • Also available at community colleges (Community College of Baltimore County, Anne Arundel Community College, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College) 

You must complete all required sessions to take the exam. Testing accommodations are available by request.

green infrastructure training for landscape and environmental professionals

Why professionals choose CBLP’s Level 1 Green Infrastructure Training:

  • Real-world, hands-on training with regional experts
  • Respected and regionally recognized credential
  • Discounts on future events and trainings
  • CEUs available from multiple professional associations
  • Join a growing community of sustainability-minded professionals
  • Get listed on the CBLP certificate holder directory and receive a certified badge

Program schedule:

January–March and July–September

Recertification: CBLP Level 1 requires recertification every two years. Certified professionals must complete and log 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUS) every two years and pay a $150 recertification fee to maintain their certification.

Cost:

$475 (includes all materials, online resources, and exam)

Discounts are available for employers sending 3+ participants. Scholarships may be available through regional partners and the CCLC Scotty Scholars Fund. Email katie@cblpro.org to inquire about funding opportunities before registering.

In-Person Option

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM:

  • August 14-15, Washington, DC
  • August 19-20, Frederick, MD
  • August 20-21, Richmond, VA
  • September 8-9, Haymarket, VA
  • September 10-11, Easton, MD
  • September 17-18, State College, PA

Hybrid Option 

  • July 29 & 30, 9:00 AM – 12:15 PM, plus 1 field day:
  • August 20- Frederick, MD
  • August 21 – Richmond, VA
  • September 9 – Haymarket, VA
  • September 11 – Easton, MD
  • September 18 – State College, PA

CEUs Are Available From:

  • American Society of Landscape Architects (LA CES)
  • Association of Professional Landscape Designers
  • Delaware Nursery and Landscape Association
  • Delaware Urban Nutrient Managers
  • International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
  • Maryland Nursery Landscape and Greenhouse Association
  • Pennsylvania Landscape and Nursery Association
  • Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association
  • Virginia Society of Landscape Designers
  • Virginia DEQ Stormwater Inspectors and Planners

Highly experienced? You may be able to test out of Level 1 and move directly to Level 2. Contact katie@cblpro.org for more info.

More information about CBLP Level 2

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