Application
This unit of competency covers the development and management of a plan to improve the biodiversity on the property with the view to improving profitability and sustainability of the production system, as well as the long-term viability of the farming enterprise. The focus is to protect, enhance and manage natural areas in balance with the production enterprise. Improved biodiversity is considered a core part of the vision for the property, providing improved profitability, personal fulfilment, community benefits, and the long-term sustainability of soil, water, and local flora and fauna.
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 a person who has a role in managing a farm. This unit is likely to require consultation with family members and a range of external institutions, groups, government departments and individuals.
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. Undertake an audit to determine the health and range of biodiversity on the property | 1.1 Map the existing features and soil types on the property for protection 1.2 Obtain a list of local native flora and fauna species specific to habitat types and assess the health and diversity of native vegetation areas and isolated trees in comparison to the local or regional list 1.3 Analyse soil samples for chemical and biological content and assess the health and diversity of the grasslands and pasture 1.4 Analyse water samples and assess the health and diversity of the riparian zone |
2. Develop and implement a management plan to improve water quality and biodiversity on the farm | 2.1 Plan and implement grazing management strategies to achieve the target ground cover for soil protection for natural areas and pasture 2.2 Protect retained vegetation and provide access for pest plant and animal control and continue to monitor biodiversity of these areas 2.3 Develop a plan to restore and revegetate areas to improve number and range of species of flora and fauna 2.4 Monitor water quality and quantity and develop and implement strategies to prevent contamination and reduce run off 2.5 Review all chemicals and fertilisers used on the farm to identify their potential impact with the view to minimising the effects on the biodiversity through reduced use where possible 2.6 Monitor soil fertility and soil biology in pasture by soil testing and develop strategies to improve soil biota 2.7 Develop and implement a plan to control weeds and pests by using methods that reduce the impact on biodiversity 2.8 Apply for funding to assist with biodiversity project work on the farm and in the local community |
3. Evaluate benefits of improved biodiversity othe farm | 3.1 Estimate the benefits that will include increased financial value from the farm enterprise and the improved sale, resale or capital value of the farm as a result of the improvement in biodiversity 3.2 Identify personal benefits that biodiversity may contribute to the individual, the farm and the wider community 3.3 Identity the benefits to the environment of improved biodiversity 3.4 Survey the number and diversity of flora and fauna species annually on the farm 3.5 Monitor water quality and quantity leaving the property in comparison to initial values and local benchmarks 3.6 Work with Landcare groups and other community groups to develop plans to extend corridors and improve water quality beyond the farm |
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 natural areas, vegetation type, species, health and value
assess vegetation ground cover and the risk of erosion
identify plants using a field guide and recognise endangered species
identify weed species using a field guide
take soil tests and water sample tests and interpret test results
map natural areas and plan improvements on a whole farm plan
calculate financial value of planned improvements
calculate costs and prepare implementation plan for improvements
record personal and family values and goals
recognise saline areas
identify bird, frog and macro-invertebrates and estimate populations by a field survey
communicate and work co-operatively with Landcare and community groups
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
complex interdependence of plants and animals
greater the biodiversity the greater the resilience to change
need for maintaining biodiversity within a particular species, maintaining the number of different species, and maintaining the range of ecosystem types
indigenous plants in revegetation projects
how to manage pests, diseases and weeds in natural areas
water cycle
value of biodiversity on the pasture production and the animal enterprise
consequences of contamination and pollution of water, air and soil
methods of restoration and regeneration of vegetation
benefit of natural areas for personal health, family activities and pleasure
philosophy of working with nature to improve the environment for future generations
value of natural areas in improving the aesthetic value of the farm
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)