This unit applies to workers on cropping enterprises who operate under limited supervision from others with checking only related to overall progress. It is usually done within established routines, methods and procedures where some discretion and judgment is required in the selection of equipment and materials, organisation of work, services, actions and the achievement of outcomes within time and budgetary constraints.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Assess agricultural crop condition, growth and requirements

1.1. Crops are monitored to assess their needs, and observations are recorded and reported.

1.2. Pests and diseases are identified, monitored and reported at nominated threshold levels.

1.3. Sites for regular measurement of soil moisture are established in consultation with directions.

1.4. Soil probe is used to measure moisture levels and soil water percentage calculated.

2. Apply fertiliser and amendments

2.1. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) hazards are identified; risks assessed and suitable controls are implemented.

2.2. Suitable personal protective equipment is selected, used and maintained.

2.3. Specialist sprays are applied according to label directions and industry standards for growth stages, taking into account specialist advice if required.

2.4. Chipping or spot spraying is carried out as required.

2.5. Crop growth stages and keys are assessed, recorded and reported.

2.6. Water is applied according to the identified need and the directions of management.

2.7. All applications are undertaken in the full consideration of adverse environmental impacts.

3. Monitor crop condition, growth and requirements

3.1. Crop maturity is monitored and the possible need for further applications is reported to the manager.

3.2. The health of the crop is continually monitored and deviation from expected growth and vigour is reported as required.

3.3. Observations of crop ripening are reported for the timing of harvest to be determined by contractors and property manager.

4. Complete cleaning and hygiene operations

4.1. Equipment is cleaned in accordance with manufacturer's specifications, organisational procedures and regulations.

4.2. All containers, leftover fluids, waste and debris from the maintenance and servicing work are disposed of safely and appropriately.

4.3. All required records and documentation are completed accurately and promptly in accordance with organisational requirements.

Required skills

detect differences and variations in crop growth

report/communicate such differences to the supervisor/farm owner

observe and report on health and growth of the crop

monitor pests and disease in crops

assess crop maturity

apply sprays and fertilizers as directed

measure soil moisture and relate data to crop requirements

use literacy skills to read, interpret and follow organisational policies and procedures, follow sequenced written instructions, record accurately and legible information collected and select and apply procedures for a range of tasks

use oral communication skills/language competence to fulfil the job role as specified by the organisation, including questioning techniques, active listening, clarifying information and consulting with supervisors as required

use numeracy skills to estimate, calculate and record routine workplace measures

use interpersonal skills to work with and relate to people from a range of cultural, social and religious backgrounds and with a range of physical and mental abilities.

Required knowledge

appropriate legislative requirements, manufacturer's instructions and organisation procedures/instructions

potential hazards associated with the operation of basic tools and equipment

general machine maintenance procedures

machinery operating principles and safe operating methods

environmental impacts associated with the operation of machinery and equipment in a harvesting context

organisation recording and reporting procedures

symptoms of crop lacking health and vigour

signs of pest and disease infestation, moisture stress and nutrient deficiencies

hygiene requirements for agricultural crops and equipment that comes into contact with the crop

types and uses of herbicides, insecticides and other pesticides and alternative pest control methods (non-chemical)

OHS and pesticides legislative and enterprise requirements.

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to workplace operations and satisfy holistically all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge and include achievement of the following:

monitor crops for levels of pests and diseases and moisture

implement pest and disease control strategies

monitor the health and maturity of the crop.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Competency requires the application of work practices under work conditions. Selection and use of resources for some worksites may differ due to the regional or enterprise circumstances.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole.

Crops may include:

wheat and coarse grains

cotton

grain legumes

oilseeds

sugar

temperate pastures

tropical pastures.

Unit sector

Broad acre cropping

This unit contains employability skills.