CODE OF PRACTICE

A Guideline To The Ethical Responsibilities Of Agrologists

The purpose of the following guideline is to clarify the intent of the Code of Ethics and the understanding of the nature of the professional obligations that arise out of that document. Throughout, it is recognized that membership is a right granted by the public to Agrologists to practice Agrology in such a way that the public interest is served. It is also understood that, just as the Agrologist has an obligation to conduct business in an ethical and competent manner, colleagues and the Institute share the moral responsibility of protecting other Agrologists and the field of Agrology against any unfounded and unjust criticisms.

1. Among Agrologists' professional obligations to the Public is the responsibility:
   1. to practice only in those fields where Agrologists’ training, ability and experience make them professionally qualified;
   2. to express a professional opinion only when it is founded on adequate knowledge and experience, and where Agrologists have an understanding of the situation and context against which this opinion is being offered;
   3. to advocate and practice good stewardship of agricultural resources based on sound scientific principle(s);
   4. to extend public knowledge of agriculture and to promote truthful and accurate statements on sustainable agricultural systems and environmental matters; and
   5. to have proper regard for the safety of others in all work.

2. Agrologists’ responsibility to the Client or Employer is:
   1. to act conscientiously and diligently in providing professional services;
   2. except as required by law, to maintain the confidentiality of client and employer information unless given the explicit consent of the client or employer;
   3. to obtain a clear understanding of the client's or employer's objectives;
   4. to inform the client or employer of any action planned or undertaken by the client or employer that Agrologists believe is detrimental to good stewardship or in breach of known laws or regulations;
   5. to refuse any assignment that creates a conflict of interest; and
   6. to not accept compensation from more than one employer or client for the same work, without the consent of all.

3. Agrologists’ responsibility to the Profession is:
   1. to inspire confidence in Agrology by maintaining high standards in conduct and work;
   2. to support activities for the advancement of the profession;
   3. Where Agrologists believe another individual may be guilty of infamous or unprofessional conduct, negligence or breach of the Agrologist Act or bylaws:

                                                    i.     to raise the matter with that individual; and

                                                   ii.     if not resolved or if otherwise deemed necessary, to inform the

                                                           Registrar of the Provincial Institute of Agrologists in writing; and

3. 4. to state clearly on whose behalf professional statements or opinions are made. to sign and seal only those plans, reports and other documents for which Agrologists are professionally responsible and which were prepared by them or under their direction.

4. Agrologists’ professional responsibility to other Agrologists is:
   1. to abstain from undignified or misrepresentative public communication with or about Agrologists;
   2. to give credit for professional work to whom credit is due; and
   3. to share knowledge and experience with other Agrologists.