What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole

Competence in managing controlled growing environments requires evidence that the environmental requirements of plants can be determined a management plan for a controlled environment system can be developed the controlled environment system can be monitored and remedial actions implemented

The skills and knowledge required to manage controlled growing environments must be transferable to a different work environment For example this could include different growing environments and systems plant varieties and enterprise procedures and policies

What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace to transfer the skills to other contexts and to deal with unplanned events The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below

legislation and regulations relating to the controlled environment systems

techniques and methods of implementing optimal growing conditions for a range of horticultural crops

controlled environmental conditions in regard to crop plant physiology growth stages and product quality and quantity

quality production methods and techniques for a range of controlled environment plants

market requirements for crop quantity and quality

monitoring analysis and recording systems

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria

To achieve the performance criteria appropriate literacy and numeracy levels as well as some complementary skills are required These include the ability to

communicate and negotiate verbally and in writing with staff managers suppliers clients and consultants

research information using available technology

record information according to enterprise and industry standards

document plans specifications and work procedures and write reports

prepare budgets

use a range of financial analysis tools to determine viability of the system

What processes should be applied to this competency standard

There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life which are required in all jobs They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions Some of these are covered by the key competencies although others may be added The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this competency standard Following each question a number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency needs to be demonstrated where not required perform the process perform and administer the process and perform administer and design the process

How can communication of ideas and information be applied

Results of analysis and monitoring and selection of resources and equipment should be communicated with the manager orally and in writing There is likely to be negotiation with contractors suppliers and members of the work team to achieve the program objectives

How can information be collected analysed and organised

Information will need to be obtained from assessment of environmental factors and controls and monitoring Information obtained should be analysed and outcomes discussed with senior management and other members of the work team Information about environmental control strategies should be organised and presented as a documented plan

How are activities planned and organised

The planning process should proceed in an orderly and efficient manner Timely and appropriate information needs to be available for decisionmaking Work activities of self and others may need to be planned and organised in order to meet enterprise objectives within time constraints

How can team work be applied

Management of a controlled growing environment will involve working with other members of a team to optimise growing conditions and achieve enterprise objectives within time constraints

How can the use of mathematical ideas and techniques be applied

Mathematical concepts may be required to measure quantities distances depth and calculate areas resources costs ratios scales and application rates and analyse data from instruments and external agents

How can problemsolving skills be applied

Problems relating to detrimental plant symptoms changing conditions availability of resources tools equipment and machinery costs environmental issues and monitoring may arise during management of the controlled environment and require problemsolving skills to rectify

How can the use of technology be applied

Technology will be required to record store and communicate ideas and information It will also be used to research relevant information obtain and analyse data from tests and production statistics and to produce the plan

Are there other competency standards that could be assessed with this one

This competency standard could be assessed on its own or in combination with other competencies relevant to the job function

There is essential information about assessing this competency standard for consistent performance and where and how it may be assessed in the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package All users of these competency standards must have access to the Assessment Guidelines Further advice may also be sought from the relevant sector booklet

What crop plants are relevant to this standard?

What environmental parameters may be identified for the specific crop plants?

What available information resources may be used to research specific crop requirements?

What controlled growing environments may require management for optimal growing conditions?

What environmental factors of the site may need to be assessed?

What structures, machinery and equipment may be required to manipulate environmental conditions?

What other resources may be required to manipulate environmental conditions?

What OHS hazards may be identified in the work area?

What controls may be introduced to minimise the risk of OHS hazards?

What detrimental environmental impacts may be considered for managing conditions of the controlled growing environment?

What management objectives may influence the development of the management plan?

What indicators and thresholds would apply when monitoring the controlled environment?

What remedial action may be required for crops that are below defined thresholds?