Application
This unit of competency covers the development and management of a plan to provide a reliable supply of quality water on a property. The plan will review trading rules and regulations and the costs associated with supply and use of all classes of water. Testing of water is undertaken to assess suitable quality for stock, domestic and irrigation purposes. The plan will include efficient use of minimum quantity of water and maintain the quality of the water in storage and the reticulation system. New farming practices can be improved by the selection and management of pastures and crops. Water is managed to protect sensitive areas from degradation. New and innovative methods of treatment and re-cycling are assessed. The quality of water leaving the farm and down- stream impact is monitored.
All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, work health and safety legislation and codes, and sustainability practices.
This unit is applicable to persons who have a role in managing the farm. This unit is likely to require consultation with external experts, such as water authorities, shire council planning personnel, irrigation suppliers and State Government departments.
No occupational licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements 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. Develop a plan for strategic and sustainable use of water on the farm | 1.1 Determine the feasibility of trading water on the short term profitability of the farm and the long term implications 1.2 Contact the authorities to determine rules and regulations for the trading and use of water 1.3 Investigate the availability of different classes of water and the regulations for its use and select suitable crops for each class 1.4 Select appropriate recycling options in the whole farm plan 1.5 Analyse purification options on the basis of their merits and suitability for the environment and the enterprise 1.6 Evaluate information from water management specialists and incorporate in relevant aspects of water management 1.7 Review options, develop and implement strategies to use water efficiently by computer controlled irrigation systems and remote operation |
2. Design a water supply and management system for the farm | 2.1 Identify planning parameters that affect the design of the water system 2.2 Carry out water testing to determine the suitability for stock, crops, pesticide and domestic use 2.3 Draw a plan and layout of a farm water system, including provision for drainage, recycling and back up water supply |
3. Develop and implement a plan to protect watercourses and water quality on the farm | 3.1 Develop a strategy to protect the areas susceptible to degradation and contamination 3.2 Identify the environmental implication of water use and run off 3.3 Work with community groups to plan a strategy for water quality improvement in the district 3.4 Develop a strategy to improve the biodiversity of water storage areas and watercourses |
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:
analyse weather patterns, rainfall and variability
take water samples for testing and interpret test results
fence eroded areas, dams, streams and rivers to protect vegetation and water quality
research and source a wide range of local indigenous plants specific to revegetation area
select pasture and crop species
construct drains and effluent collection sites
calculate the total farm water requirement for the enterprise, natural areas, farmhouse and garden
analyse financial return from purchased water
irrigate crops and pastures efficiently
map erosion, salt and problem areas
compare pumps and other equipment for energy efficiency
calculate the cost of production including purchased water, storage, transfer and application
fill out applications and forms for licensing and registration
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
the variation and risk associated with weather patterns
volume of water used for production and living
the classes of water required for production
the various sources of water and suitable storage
methods of water quality testing
water efficient pasture and native species
crop cultivation methods for moisture retention and optimum production
efficient irrigation practice
methods of recycling water
the water cycle
the impact of water shortage on natural systems
the causes and consequences of contaminated water
the legal aspects of licensing, registration and trading of water
methods of transferring water using renewable energy
appropriate management when water and rain are limited
water purchasing and water trading policies and procedures
Assessment Conditions
Competency is to be assessed in the workplace or simulated environment that accurately reflects performance in a real workplace setting.
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
Sustainability (SUS)