Application
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to manage a surface irrigation system.
It applies to individuals 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. All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures.
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. Ensure the surface irrigation system is prepared for operation | 1.1 Assess staff training needs for carrying out pre-start checks and routine servicing and arrange training for those that require it 1.2 Program or adjust the irrigation controller to meet the required schedule 1.3 Develop procedures for adjusting valves and checking filters and emitters |
2. Develop and implement start-up and shutdown procedures for a surface irrigation system | 2.1 Develop start-up procedures for the system 2.2 Provide training in priming pumps and setting gates to commence irrigating 2.3 Develop shut down sequence and isolation procedures 2.4 Specify soil conditions for operation and maintain tracks to reduce compaction |
3. Measure performance of a surface irrigation system | 3.1 Record variations in pressures at the head works and control valves 3.2 Water flow rates are measured and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures 3.3 Measure and record water flow rates 3.4 Identify and record variations in water flow and distribution 3.5 Measure and record pump performance parameters as necessary 3.6 Measure and record variations in pump performance parameters where relevant 3.7 Inspect distribution, drainage and water measurement systems and identify and fix malfunctions in system and record actions 3.8 Identify and record factors external to the system that may cause interference |
4. Review system performance status | 4.1 Record system pressures and variations 4.2 Record system flow rates and variations 4.3 Calculate and record distribution uniformity and mean application rates 4.4 Determine and record watering depth 4.5 Measure quantity and quality of tail water, and amount of water reused 4.6 Calculate energy use and water efficiency and compare to industry benchmarks |
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:
develop procedures and providing training to staff to:
carry out running repairs on irrigation delivery and drainage systems
carry out shut down procedures
check pressure at the head works and control valves
set up pipes, system equipment and outlets
use siphons
develop procedures for starting up, carrying out operational checks and shutting down
identify and record variations in water flow and distribution
identify adverse environmental impacts of irrigation activities and take appropriate remedial action
implement and follow workplace health and safety and environmental requirements
measure and recording water flow rates
provide supervision and training
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices of surface irrigation management
calculating irrigation efficiency using records to review an irrigation system
critical measures for moisture availability:
evapotranspiration
field capacity
infiltration rates
readily available water
water holding capacity
wilting point
environmental impacts of irrigation using water from any ground or underground source
main components of surface irrigation systems
physical soil characteristics such as infiltration rate, water holding capacity and wetted volume in the root zone
pump types used in surface irrigation systems and their operating requirements
pump types used in surface irrigation systems and their operation
set up of headwater, tail water, channels and beds
soil moisture testing techniques
water in soils and plants
water requirements of plants and crops consistent with sound environmental management
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
Irrigation (IRG)