Technical Service Provider Orientation

Technical Service Provider Orientation (NRCS-NEDC-000191)

Overview

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) implemented the Technical Service Provider (TSP) Initiative, and created TechReg, the TSP Internet website, to launch a new industry of certified professionals who provide technical assistance to landowners, ranchers and agricultural producers across America. Technical assistance may include conservation planning, design, installation, and checkout of approved conservation practices. .

The TSP Orientation Course is a required NRCS course with no pre-requisites. However, it refers to other courses and source materials that you should acquaint yourself with as you work through the course modules. Upon completion this web-based course, there is a test. You must receive a score of 80 percent to successfully complete this training. Completion of this course will familiarize you with the process you should utilize in providing technical services as a Certified Technical Service Provider. Above all, it will point you to critical information sources that, along with your knowledge, skills and ability, will help you succeed. Modules found in this course:

  • Module 1 �Introduction to the USDA/NRCS TechReg Website
  • Module 2 �TSP Registration and Certification Process
  • Module 3 �Not-to-Exceed (NTE) Rates
  • Module 4 �Hiring the TSP
  • Module 5 �Roles and Responsibilities
  • Module 6 �Administrative Processes
  • Module 7 �Technical References and Tools

 

Objectives

Upon completion of this module you will be able to:

  • Locate technical resources
  • Complete the TSP Certification process
  • Complete the EE Worksheet; and
  • Understand how and when producers are reimbursed for your service
  • Deliver an acceptable work product
  • Understand the roles and responsibilities of NRCS, the producer and the TSP

 

Prerequisites

None

Delivery Method

Web-based

Duration

Varies

Target Audience

This course is for those seeking TSP certification or recertification.

NEDC Contact

Webmaster

Technical Contact

Angel Figueroa

Enrollment

Enrollment instructions are provided below.  Be sure to select the appropriate link to ensure successful enrollment. 

USDA Employees

Proceed to the Aglearn to login using your USDA eAuthentication ID and password.  This is the same as your WebTCAS ID and password.
Select Catalog, Select Natural Resources Conservation Service under Subject Area Menu, Choose the course name by select the button Launch content or Add to Learning Plan to register and complete the course.

District Employees with Aglearn account

Proceed to the Aglearn to login using your USDA eAuthentication ID and password. This is the same logon ID and password used for the TechReg TSP application or profile.
Select Catalog, Select Natural Resources Conservation Service under Subject Area Menu, Choose the course name by select the button Launch content or Add to Learning Plan to register and complete the course.

If you do not have an account.  Specific instructions on securing a USDA user account and password are located at getting started.  For further assistance contact the USDA state office in your state for assistance in obtaining an eAuthentication ID and password and AgLearn account.

Technical Service Providers

Proceed to the Aglearn to login using your USDA eAuthentication ID and password. This is the same logon ID and password used for the TechReg TSP application or profile.
Select Catalog, Select Natural Resources Conservation Service under Subject Area Menu, Choose the course name by select the button Launch content or Add to Learning Plan to register and complete the course.

If you are anticipating becoming a Technical Service Provider please review the entire process at TechReg.  Please familiarize yourself with this process if you have not already done so.  Specific instructions on securing a USDA user account and password are located at getting started.

Other USDA Customers

For those not in the above categories contact the USDA state office in your state for assistance in obtaining an eAuthentication ID and password and AgLearn account.
To obtain this contact information for your state you can go to the Aglearn website click on contact us. Scroll down to NRCS and click on the link that says state contacts.