AHCLSC310
Implement a tree transplanting program


Application

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to implement a tree transplanting program.

This unit applies to individuals who take responsibility for their own work and for the quality of the work of others. They use discretion and judgement in the selection, allocation and use of available resources. 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. Prepare for tree transplantation

1.1 Liaise with local authorities and information services to determine location of services and utilities, local by-laws and regulations governing the transplanting and transportation of trees

1.2 Inspect tree to ensure the appropriate transplanting operations are implemented

1.3 Identify hazards, assess risks and implement control measures

1.4 Select and use personal protective equipment (PPE)

1.5 Select, prepare and use tools, equipment and machinery necessary to implement tree transplanting

1.6 Select, prepare and use root ball and crown treatments according to the requirements of the species to ensure the tree remains viable throughout the transplanting process

1.7 Notify local residents and authorities where necessary as part of preparing site for transplanting activities

1.8 Confirm assets, property and vegetation related to work zone activities are protected, relocated, or secured from potential damage during transplanting

2. Implement transplanting operations

2.1 Excavate the soil around the root zone and undercut the root ball with minimum stress to the plant

2.2 Prune roots where required to meet the appropriate Australian Standard

2.3 Stabilise tree as the root system is undercut and apply anti-transpirants as a root soak or foliar spray to maintain viability of the plant

2.4 Bind root ball with appropriate material to ensure adequate soil is retained and keep moist prior to transportation and installation

2.5 Lift tree and secure for potential storage or transportation using safe lifting techniques

2.6 Prepare and handle tree or shrub to minimise damage during transportation

2.7 Implement appropriate drainage and soil improvements

2.8 Re-install and stabilise the tree

3. Maintain health and viability of transplanted tree

3.1 Apply water to the transplanted tree over a sustained period to minimise leaf loss and promote new growth

3.2 Apply anti-transpirants and provide nutritional requirements of the species

3.3 Install tree protection devices to provide adequate support and protection

3.4 Monitor tree condition and site to ensure the plant remains healthy

3.5 Clean, maintain and store tools, equipment and machinery at completion of work

3.6 Record completed transplanting program and report to management or the client

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:

locate existing services and utilities, local by-laws and regulations

determine tree transplanting requirements from specifications

prepare tools and equipment, tree and new site for tree transplanting

calculate tree mass and size for safe removal

bind and wrap root balls and crowns

lift, reinstall and stabilise a tree


Evidence of Knowledge

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

the principles and practices of tree transplanting

causes of stress in trees resulting from transplanting, storage and transportation

environmental impact of tree removal and transplantation

principles and methods of operating tree moving equipment

problems and methods relating to the aftercare of trees during their establishment period

requirements for securing and signage when transporting trees on road vehicles

safety procedures and potential hazards of removing and transplanting trees

the relevant Australian Standards and codes of practice

tree anatomy and physiology as it relates to transplanting trees

tree transplanting techniques


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

Landscape (LSC)