Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to select plant and animal species for permaculture systems. It requires knowledge of permaculture needs analysis and bioregional analysis and plant and animal species and their interrelationships.
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.
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. Assess the system needs | 1.1 Undertake a needs analysis of the permaculture system and its main elements 1.2 Identify possible plant and animal combinations to suit the permaculture system design 1.3 Compile a list of possible plants and animals to suit the design |
2. Research plant and animal systems | 2.1 Research the plants and animals and any varieties or breeds that the needs analysis has identified 2.2 Observe other working systems that may inform the new design 2.3 Assess local availability of chosen varieties and breeds |
3. Select plant and animal species for the permaculture system | 3.1 Determine appropriate combinations of plant and animal species for the permaculture system 3.2 Ensure ancillary needs such as housing, prepared ground, shelter and fodder are available and in place before establishing the new plant and animal systems 3.3 Obtain plants and animals elements for the permaculture system 3.4 Monitor plant and animal systems during the establishment phase |
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:
assess permaculture system needs
research plants and animals to inform the new permaculture system design
select plant and animal species for a permaculture system
monitor plant and animal systems during the establishment phase
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
permaculture principles and practices related to species selection
permaculture needs analysis
bioregional analysis
plant and animal species and their interactions and interrelationships
permaculture combinations – guilds, companions, nurse plants and animal companions
EVCs (Ecological Vegetation Classes)
indigenous animals and plants
what grows or thrives locally – plants, animals, birds, insects, fish, frogs, reptiles
food, fodder and medicinal plant species suitable for chosen animals
integrated plant and animal systems such as chicken tractors, cell grazing, aquaculture systems
basic research techniques
using primary data sources:
original data gathered by the researcher
local wisdom
weather observations
flora and fauna observations
using secondary data sources:
data provided by government departments and agencies
publications
reference books, websites and journals
official weather data
communication techniques
Assessment Conditions
Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs. Assessors must also hold a nationally accredited Certificate III (or higher) in Permaculture. Completion of a Permaculture Design Course (PDC) is not sufficient at this level.
Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.
Range Statement
Sectors
Permaculture (PER)