Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to provide bee pollination services. This unit applies to beekeepers who analyse information and exercise judgement to complete a range of advanced skilled activities and demonstrate deep knowledge in a specific technical area.
They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Assess pollination service requirement | 1.1 confirm with client the pollination services to be provided 1.2 Determine number and types of colonies required for crop 1.3 Assess strength and condition of bee colonies for their suitability for use as crop pollinators 1.4 Assess risk of pollination problems with client and agree and establish process to monitor risk 1.5 Provide technical information to client |
2. Price and formalise agreement for pollination services | 2.1 Identify and calculate costs in providing pollination services 2.2 Confirm with client the price for pollination services 2.3 Make and document formal agreement with client |
3. Monitor pollination performance of bee colonies | 3.1 Liaise with client on spraying programmes 3.2 Monitor crop within appropriate timeframe for evidence of bee foraging and pollination efficiency 3.3 Take remedial action where required 3.4 Demonstrate hive strength and condition to client 3.5 Maintain swarm control 3.6 Carry out bee husbandry practices |
4. Comply with industry and legislative requirement | 4.1 Obtain appropriate health certificates and permits where bees are to be moved across state borders 4.2 Follow appropriate pollination code of practice 4.3 Comply with all Apiary Acts and other relevant Acts and regulations and local government regulations affecting beekeeping |
Evidence of Performance
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:
assess hive condition and suitability for pollination
calculate strength and numbers of bee colonies required to pollinate crop
identify suitable locations within crop or site for hive placement
manage the pollination process by honey bee colonies
monitor chemical use near hives
monitor climate and weather
monitor hive activity on target crop
negotiate a price for pollination with a customer.
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
chemicals used on crops to be pollinated and available alternatives
environmental and climatic factors affecting bee foraging behaviour and pollination
essential elements of a valid contract
how to manage the health and performance of bee colonies
pollination requirements of major crops in locality of operation, including nearby crops and plants that may be more attractive to foraging bees
the nutrition and water requirements of bees
where to locate colonies to maximise pollination
how to negotiate a price and formalise an agreement for pollination services.
Assessment Conditions
Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.
Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency
Range Statement
Sectors
Beekeeping (BEK)