AHCSOL502 - Manage soils to enhance sustainability

This unit of competency standard covers the process of assessing soil characteristics, developing and implementing a plan to improve the health of soils, and monitoring and reviewing the results.Soil chemistry, physical chemistry and biology are used in understanding the analysis of soil tests, and the importance of the role of soil biota in soil structure and plant nutrition. Strategies to combine improved production with improved soil biota are considered, and the opportunity to increase biodiversity by strategic use of unproductive land is covered.Healthy soils are the basis of all sustainable land-based production systems. The principles of developing healthy soils involve improving soil structure, increasing soil macronutrients and micronutrients to optimum levels, balancing exchangeable cations, achieving optimum pH, eliminating toxic nutrient levels, and enhancing activity of soil biota.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 a land based production business. This unit is likely to require consultation with external experts, such as pasture consultants, fertiliser representatives, contractors, extension officers from State Agricultural Departments, agronomists and producer groups.No occupational licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.