Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to develop a soil use map for a property.
This unit applies to individuals who analyse information and exercise judgement to complete a range of advanced skilled activities and demonstrate deep knowledge in a specific technical area. They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems. 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. Collect information for soil mapping | 1.1 Confirm soils samples collected for off-site assessment by soil testing agencies used recommended procedures 1.2 Collect soil physical, chemical and biological information 1.3 Determine the acceptable soil parameters for specified plants from published data and records 1.4 Collect information about areas of cultural significance and habitats of biodiversity on the property 1.5 Collate research outcomes |
2. Analyse soil information | 2.1 Classify the soil types of the sample area according to standards for soil classification 2.2 Compare collected results with established parameters for land use and production 2.3 Evaluate soil characteristics to determine whether they can be altered to meet land use needs 2.4 Determine readily available water values for irrigation sites |
3. Plot topography and soil survey data on property map | 3.1 Map interpreted results 3.2 Identify potential uses of the soil for purposes of land classing, land capability, areas of cultural significance and habitats of biodiversity 3.3 Define property boundaries and features 3.4 Identify paddocks or irrigation areas 3.5 Plot contour or spot level information 3.6 Plot soil sampling sites on map 3.7 Determine soil profile and irrigation characteristics for each sampling site and irrigation area and index to the map 3.8 Index the Readily Available Water values for irrigation sites 3.9 Plot areas of specific concern on the map and index descriptions to the map |
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 survey results
determine soil characteristics
identify adverse environmental impact of irrigation activities and take appropriate action
interpret soil analyses results
perform a soil survey
plot topography and soil survey data on a property map
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices for developing soil use maps
environmental impacts of irrigation, using water from any ground or underground source
methods and techniques of soil sampling
nutrient availability in soils
physical and chemical properties of soils
readily available water
soil analyses results
soil quality factors
soil types and profiles
soil water retention testing techniques
water table and salinity
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
Soils and media [SOL]