4R Designation
A professional credential for nutrient advisors delivering science-based 4R fertilizer recommendations.
What is 4R Designation?
The 4R Designation program trains professional agrologists (P. Ags) and Certified Crop Advisors (CCAs) in the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship. Designated specialists are qualified to develop 4R Nutrient Stewardship Plans and support farmers in implementing practices that improve nutrient efficiency, productivity, and environmental performance.
Getting Started
1
Complete 4R Training
Fertilizer Canada offers a three-part online training program covering the principles and application of the 4Rs. Completion of the program and exam earns CCAs 5.5 continuing education credits.
2
Submit Your Attestation
Submit the attestation confirming that you have completed the required training and have the expertise to prepare and sign 4R Nutrient Stewardship Plans. Attestation forms can be sent to 4rdesignated@fertilizercanada.ca.
3
Support Growers with 4R Plans
Provide growers with information and guidance to implement 4Rs. Use Fertilizer Canada’s tools and templates to build 4R plans tailored to crop, soil, and regional conditions. Provide ongoing guidance to help farmers implement and refine their nutrient strategies.
4
Submit Acres
Designated nutrient specialists report the acres operating under 4R Nutrient Stewardship on behalf of their grower customers. Acre reporting recognizes growers for adopting sustainable fertilizer practices and contributes to national tracking of 4R implementation.
Acre Counting
Each year, Fertilizer Canada reports how many acres across Canada are under 4R Nutrient Stewardship. Acre counting recognizes growers for their commitment to sustainable nutrient management and provides the sector with credible data that supports advocacy, environmental reporting, and program development.
9,057,447 acres
9,057,447 acres were managed using 4R practices across Canada in 2024.
Related Resources
e-learning
Want to deepen your knowledge? Check out our e-learning platform for courses and resources on fertilizer use, safety, and sustainability.
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Find a Local 4R Agri-Retailer
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4R Explainer
Understand how 4R Nutrient Stewardship – Right Source @ Right Rate, Right Time, and Right place – works and how it can help optimize nutrient uptake.
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4R’s Across Canada
See how Fertilizer Canada has collaborated with agriculture stakeholders and provincial governments to promote and enhance the implementation and adoption of 4R practices across Canada.
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