Do you know of a local landscaper or water professional who would benefit from receiving expert knowledge in efficient irrigation practices and sustainable landscaping this new year?
If so, Coachella Valley Water District is hosting a free regional Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL) certification training, in collaboration with California Water Efficiency Partnership (CalWEP), in March for Spanish speakers. The training consists of attending 20-hour certification workshops over four weeks at CVWD’s Palm Desert Administration Building.
What is QWEL?
QWEL is an EPA WaterSense-labeled Professional Certification Program that presents educational materials to participants in irrigation system audits. The program is a part of the Sonoma-Marin Saving Water Partnership, and is designed to provide a better understanding of landscape water management within the landscape industry.
QWEL-certified instructors administer the program, and trainings include an irrigation audit and exam, both of which are required to earn the QWEL professional certification.
Upcoming 2026 QWEL Workshop Dates at CVWD’s Palm
Desert Administration Building:
- Wednesday, March 4
- Wednesday, March 11
- Wednesday, March 18
- Wednesday, March 25
QWEL trainings cover a broad range of topics, including:
- Reducing runoff and overspray
- Selecting and installing efficient irrigation equipment
- Developing irrigation schedules and programming irrigation controllers
- Water management and preservation of other valuable resources
To become a QWEL certified professional, participants must:
- Attend a QWEL certification training and pass the QWEL exam with a score of 75% or higher.
- Complete an irrigation system audit using the QWEL irrigation audit form.
- Maintain their certification with two continuing education units (CEUs) each calendar year.
- Pay an annual fee of $20 to renew their certification.
To register for the upcoming training, visit qwel.net. To hire a QWEL-certified professional, visit the QWEL website and enter your zip code for a list of qualified landscapers near you!
