Develop and manage a plan for sustainable supply and use of water on a farm

Unit of competency Outline

Information current as of
21/10/2026 11:43 AM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Unit of competency

National Code
AHCSUS501

State Code
BAM64

TGA Status
Deleted

DTWD Status
Deleted

Current Release Number
1.00

Current Release Date
27/06/2016

View on TGA

State Implementation and Classification

Approved Date

12/01/2017

Original Release Date

27/06/2016

Nominal Hours

Field of Education

059999 - Agriculture, Environmental And Related Studies, N.e.c.

Description

This unit of competency covers the development and management of a plan to provide a reliable supply of quality water on a property. The plan will review trading rules and regulations and the costs associated with supply and use of all classes of water. Testing of water is undertaken to assess suitable quality for stock, domestic and irrigation purposes. The plan will include efficient use of minimum quantity of water and maintain the quality of the water in storage and the reticulation system. New farming practices can be improved by the selection and management of pastures and crops. Water is managed to protect sensitive areas from degradation. New and innovative methods of treatment and re-cycling are assessed. The quality of water leaving the farm and down- stream impact is monitored.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 persons who have a role in managing the farm. This unit is likely to require consultation with external experts, such as water authorities, shire council planning personnel, irrigation suppliers and State Government departments.No occupational licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

General notes

N/A

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Develop a plan for strategic and sustainable use of water on the farm

1.1 Determine the feasibility of trading water on the short term profitability of the farm and the long term implications
1.2 Contact the authorities to determine rules and regulations for the trading and use of water
1.3 Investigate the availability of different classes of water and the regulations for its use and select suitable crops for each class
1.4 Select appropriate recycling options in the whole farm plan
1.5 Analyse purification options on the basis of their merits and suitability for the environment and the enterprise
1.6 Evaluate information from water management specialists and incorporate in relevant aspects of water management
1.7 Review options, develop and implement strategies to use water efficiently by computer controlled irrigation systems and remote operation

2. Design a water supply and management system for the farm

2.1 Identify planning parameters that affect the design of the water system
2.2 Carry out water testing to determine the suitability for stock, crops, pesticide and domestic use
2.3 Draw a plan and layout of a farm water system, including provision for drainage, recycling and back up water supply

3. Develop and implement a plan to protect watercourses and water quality on the farm

3.1 Develop a strategy to protect the areas susceptible to degradation and contamination
3.2 Identify the environmental implication of water use and run off
3.3 Work with community groups to plan a strategy for water quality improvement in the district
3.4 Develop a strategy to improve the biodiversity of water storage areas and watercourses

No information

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
BDD8	AHC50116	Diploma of Agriculture	Qualification