Elements and Performance Criteria
- Assess the physical properties of an irrigated soil
- The profile of an irrigated soil is described
- Soil texture and structure within the soil layers is determined
- Tests for organic matter level in a soil are interpreted
- Test for slaking and dispersion in an irrigated soil is undertaken
- The infiltration rate for an irrigated soil is assessed
- Soil moisture levels are measured
- The impacts of cultivation and watering practices on the physical properties of a soil are described
- Define soil moisture properties using industry terms
- Monitor soil chemical properties
- Assess soil health and plant growth under irrigation
- Implement strategies to optimise the irrigation growing environment for plants
- Soil husbandry practices to reduce risks of compaction and erosion are undertaken
- Watering schedule is implemented and monitored
- Frequency of watering is adjusted if necessary, based on available moisture, soil properties and plant response
- Soil and plant moisture status and irrigation requirement is reported to supervisor