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Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Assess and measure slope using simple tools
   • Identify issues with slope such as erosion gullies, plant growth, water pooling
   • Use a plumb bob and 3-4-5 triangle or similar to calculate fall
   • Record slope profile and fall in several places across a wide slope
2. Peg out contours
   • Step an A frame across the slope to find and peg the contour
   • Use an A-frame and water level to check contour pegging
   • Label or flag contour pegs to avoid confusion
3. Prepare to shape earth
   • Select tools and equipment for earth shaping work
   • Hire small machinery if necessary or if the job is a big one
   • Hire a contractor if the job demands and follow any legislative requirements
   • Check weather forecasts and condition of soil before digging
4. Shape earth for nutrient capture and storage
   • Use manual or mechanical digging system to shape the earth
   • Avoid damage to underground structures, services, roots of trees and building foundations
   • Follow the design requirements and clarify any anomalies
5. Test earth shaping work
   • Confirm that earth shaping holds water (or drains, as required)
   • Confirm that earth shaping of berms, swales or terraces will not erode or pool water
   • Rake, sweep or compact to even any discrepancies
   • Test earth shaped structure by watering or opening valves and adjust as required
6. Complete earth shaping work
   • Line earth shaped swales or ponds according to design
   • Plant contour banks or terraces according to design
   • Mulch any exposed soil or surfaces or fill, depending on climate and permaculture design requirements
   • Clean up any surplus or waste materials from the earth shaping work in an environmentally safe manner
   • Return tools, equipment and storable materials to storage

Range Statement

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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:

identify issues with slope

measure slope using simple tools

peg out contours

shape earth for nutrient capture and storage

test earth shaping work

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Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

permaculture principles and practices in relation to nutrient capture and storage in earthworks

behaviour of water in the natural environment

natural water flows

earth shaping components common in permaculture systems, such as:

swales

berms

dams

terraces

grey water reed bed systems

ponds

manual digging techniques

operation of small earth-moving equipment

soil testing for earthworks

working with slopes and contours

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