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Elements and Performance Criteria

  1. Install surface irrigation systems
  2. Complete water measurement and tail-water works
  3. Operate pumps and siphons
  4. Measure and interpret water levels, flow rates and volume of water used
  5. Monitor drainage and tail-water systems
  6. Inspect and maintain a surface irrigation system

Range Statement


Performance Evidence

The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.

The candidate must provide evidence that they can:

adjust and monitor check valves

build and maintain irrigation structures, channels and beds

carry out running repairs on irrigation delivery and drainage systems

carry out shut down procedures, clean equipment and dispose of waste

check pressure at the head works and control valves

check the serviceability of siphons

identify variations in water flow and distribution

inspect irrigation systems

install pumps and pipelines

measure water usage

perform system commissioning tasks

prepare irrigation beds

remove and replace gates, slides and doors

remove and replace valves and filters

start and move siphons and spiles and check flow

start up the system

undertake minor repairs of equipment

use roto-buck for bed preparation


Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

principles and practices of surface irrigation

behaviour of water on varying terrain and soil types

calculations for installing surface irrigation systems

characteristics and operation of components

components of a surface irrigation system

environmental impacts of surface irrigation installation

soil characteristics

soil water retention testing techniques

water quality and water filtration techniques

common operational and maintenance problems

common operational problems

environmental impacts of irrigation maintenance

maintenance requirements – routine and end of season

surface irrigation system components

weed control methods