Combat Problem Plants...

Specific Outcome1:
Identify all key target problem plant species in a conservation area.


AC1: The concept "Problem Plants" is defined as it applies to nature conservation.
- Plants can cause problems in natural areas by:
   - Aggressive - Out competes other indigenous plants; Their space, water, nutrients.


AC2: Problem plants in the area of operation is identified and listed.
- Gifblaar (Indigenous), Queen of the night (Exotic), Milkweed (Indigenous), Black Wattle: Australian Acacia (Exotic).


AC3: The harmful impact that these plants have on this environment is explained.
- Cross reference to SO1,AC1 eg. Gifblaar - poisonous.


Specific Outcome 2:
Apply the appropriate control methods accurately and safely.


AC1: A suitable method of control is applied while taking relevant factors into consideration.
- First you have to identify them, then choose the appropriate control method suitable to the problem plant.
-Mechanical, Chemical, Biological, integrated.


AC2: A justification is given for the method of control that was selected and applied.
- Safety equipment is needed, Human Resources, and skill of workers.
- eg. Cutting of plants - Physical.


AC3: The advantages  and disadvantages of the methods used is explained.
- Efficient and easy
- Human and Animal poisoning.
AC4: Appropriate control methods are applied safely.
- OHS - Rubber gloves, Gas masks, for chemical control.


Specific Outcome 3:
Operate and maintain equipment used in the control of problem plants.


AC1: A demonstration is given of competence in handling and maintaining equipment.
- cross reference to my practical assessment with the assessor.
-(Work with axes, pangas, chainsaws and backpack sprays.)


AC2: Appropriate tools are selected for the task on hand.
- Chemical: Backpack sprays
- Mechanical: Panga, Axe, Slasher and rake.


AC3: Selected tools are operated safely and efficiently according to operational and manufacturers requirements.
- Observation: Axe, Slash, Backpack sprays


AC4: Equipment is maintained in good working order.
- Backpack spray; Check water, see if pump action works, No leaks, check if nozzles is in a good working order.


Specific Outcome 4:
Keep record of treated areas by means of recognized method.


AC1: Areas where problem plants have been identified and/or treated is indicated on suitable maps for record keeping purposes. 
- Indicate on map - Where problem plants are
                             - Priorities 
                             - Use GPS coordinates.


AC2: The plants treated and their precise location is recorded on a area map.
- Apply control methods - note all necessary information on the map.


AC3: The area of operation is located by means of appropriate markings on a map in order to keep record of treated areas.
- Follow up and indicate on your map.


Specific Outcome 5:
Carry out appropriate follow up procedures.


AC1: A map or other references is used to locate previously treated areas to enable follow up procedures.
- Cross reference to SO4, AC3 answer.


AC2: The impact/success of previous interventions is monitored to identify the need to follow up procedures.
- Effectiveness is needed to be more effective in the future.(Costs and labor)


AC3: The necessity for future interventions is assessed through evaluation of the impact of previous interventions.
- Cross reference to SO4.


AC4: An accurate record is kept of findings.
- Record on your map
- Record GPS coordinates etc.


AC5: Follow up treatment is implemented where necessary.
- Cross reference to SO4.


- Sticker, Spreader and a Buffer - Fulvic acid (30% > effect)
- Combine the chemicals.