Application
This unit of competency describes the outcomes required to plan, implement and monitor the development of preferred stem shape or number of branches, using techniques such as pruning and pest control.
The unit applies to those who coordinate stem improvement in a forest environment.
No licensing, legislative, regulatory, or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions. |
1. Plan stem improvements | 1.1 Obtain and review relevant information for impact on stem improvement planning. 1.2 Identify and select methods of intervention in line with required product. 1.3 Determine and document measurable performance indicators, specifications and targets. 1.4 Identify, seek and obtain required approvals from relevant authorities. 1.5 Document and communicate stem improvement plan and its performance indicators to appropriate personnel. |
2. Implement and monitor stem improvement | 2.1 Identify and coordinate resources required for stem improvement activities. 2.2 Implement stem improvement plan to ensure stem health and growth are maintained. 2.3 Carry out systematic checks to ensure compliance requirements are adhered to 2.4 Monitor and adjust stem improvement activities as required 2.5 Identify and control risks and hazards in the work area. |
3. Review stem improvement | 3.1 Assess and evaluate data from operations to confirm methods and ensure budgets are in line with the plan. 3.2 Identify issues and impediments to stem improvement activities and program costs and document. 3.3 Recommend changes to stem improvement operations to improve costs effectiveness. 3.4 Record, report and disseminate information about stem improvement processes to appropriate personnel |
Evidence of Performance
A person demonstrating competency in this unit must satisfy all of the elements, performance criteria and foundation skills of this unit.
plan and coordinate a safe and effective stem improvement operation that includes one or more of the following methods:
pruning using mechanical or hand tools
using chemicals or biological agents
follow organisational policies and procedures for coordinating stem improvement that includes:
recycling pruned material
disposing of pruned material that cannot be recycled due to chemicals or biological agents used
identify and recommend methods and strategies to manage stem quality and growth
determine and document measurable performance indicators, specifications and targets for work
supervise staff to carry out stem improvement
monitor stem improvement operation for efficiency and effectiveness
document results from stem improvement activities and prepare a report for appropriate personnel.
Evidence of Knowledge
A person competent in this unit must be able to demonstrate knowledge of:
regulations, standards, codes of practice and safe practices for coordinating stem improvement
environmental protection requirements, including the safe disposal of waste material and chemicals
pruning techniques for target species
tools and equipment used for stem improvement operations, and their safe use and maintenance including:
pruners
jacksaw
pouch
steps
epicormic remover
pole saw
ladder
climbing gear
recognition and identification of species and plant identification sources
approvals and documentation required for use of chemical or biological agents
effective communication methods
hazards that may apply to stem improvement activities including:
adverse weather conditions
adverse terrain conditions
use of machinery
use of chemicals or biological agents
procedures for recording and reporting workplace information.
Assessment Conditions
The following resources must be made available:
site that requires stem improvement operations
resources and tools for stem improvement including:
pruners
jacksaw
pouch
steps
epicormic remover
pole saw
ladder
climbing gear
relevant personnel for the purposes of communicating information
workplace requirements and site standards for coordinating thinning operations.
Competency is to be assessed in the workplace or a simulated environment that accurately reflects performance in a real workplace setting.
Assessor requirements
Assessors must:
hold the appropriate assessor competency standards as outlined in regulations; and
be able to demonstrate vocational competencies at least to the level being assessed; and
be able to demonstrate how they are continuing to develop their VET knowledge and skills as well as maintaining their industry currency and assessor competence.
Foundation Skills
This section describes those core and employment skills that are essential to performance and are not explicit in the performance criteria. | |
Numeracy skills to: | analyse operational costs and output to determine effectiveness of work. |
Oral communication skills to: | supervise operational staff and contractors to work efficiently and effectively. |
Planning and organising skills to: | determine a stem improvement plan taking into consideration the site conditions, species and methods supervise operational staff and contractors to work efficiently and effectively. |
Range Statement
Not Applicable
Sectors
Forest Growing and Management