Practical Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, learners will be able to:
- Interpret an approved invasive alien species control programme.
- Derive practical activities from the approved control programme.
- Select appropriate tools, equipment and materials.
- Plan and prepare for invasive alien species control operations.
- Follow approved invasive alien species control procedures.
- Work safely and professionally during invasive alien species control activities.
Overview
Invasive alien species management requires careful planning, correct equipment selection and strict adherence to approved operational procedures.
During this practical module, learners will complete a practical case study consisting of three integrated tasks that simulate the planning and implementation of an invasive alien species control programme.
The activities provide practical experience in interpreting control programmes, preparing equipment and applying approved control procedures within a conservation environment.
Before You Begin
Before commencing this practical module, ensure that you:
- Have completed the relevant Knowledge Modules.
- Understand invasive alien species management principles.
- Are familiar with the approved control programme.
- Understand workplace safety requirements.
- Know the organisational procedures that apply to invasive alien species control.
Equipment Required
Depending on the approved control programme, equipment may include:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Approved field tools.
- Control equipment.
- Recording sheets.
- Mapping or navigation equipment.
- Communication equipment.
- Materials required for the approved control activities.
Before beginning, ensure that all equipment is safe, functional and suitable for the planned activity.
Safety Requirements
Learners must:
- Wear appropriate PPE.
- Follow all organisational safety procedures.
- Use tools and equipment correctly.
- Protect indigenous vegetation and wildlife.
- Work only within approved control areas.
- Report hazards immediately.
- Follow mentor or facilitator instructions at all times.
Practical Case Study
Invasive Alien Species Control Programme
You are assigned to assist with an approved invasive alien species control programme within a protected conservation area.
Your responsibilities include:
- interpreting the approved programme,
- preparing for field operations,
- selecting appropriate equipment,
- implementing approved control procedures,
- recording observations during the operation.
All activities should be completed safely and according to organisational procedures.
Practical Task 1: Interpret the Approved IAS Control Programme
Scenario
Before field operations begin, you are provided with an approved invasive alien species control programme.
Practical Activity
Review the programme and:
- identify the objectives of the programme,
- identify the control activities to be completed,
- determine the sequence of work,
- prepare an operational work plan.
The learner should demonstrate an understanding of the approved programme before practical implementation begins.
Practical Task 2: Select and Prepare Tools, Equipment and Materials
Scenario
You are responsible for preparing all equipment required for the planned invasive alien species control activities.
Practical Activity
Select and prepare:
- appropriate tools,
- required equipment,
- operational materials,
- personal protective equipment.
Inspect all equipment before use and confirm that it is suitable for the planned activities.
Practical Task 3: Implement IAS Control Procedures
Scenario
You are required to participate in invasive alien species control activities within the designated operational area.
Practical Activity
Carry out the approved activities by:
- following organisational procedures,
- using equipment correctly,
- working safely,
- protecting indigenous biodiversity,
- recording observations throughout the activity.
Demonstrate professionalism and environmental responsibility throughout the operation.
Facilitator Assessment Checklist
The facilitator should verify that the learner can:
Approved Programme
☐ Interpret the approved invasive alien species control programme.
☐ Identify the required operational activities.
Equipment Preparation
☐ Select appropriate tools and equipment.
☐ Prepare equipment correctly.
☐ Demonstrate safe equipment handling.
Practical Implementation
☐ Follow approved IAS control procedures.
☐ Work safely throughout the activity.
☐ Protect indigenous biodiversity.
☐ Demonstrate professional field conduct.
Portfolio of Evidence (PoE)
The learner’s Portfolio of Evidence should include:
Task 1
- Operational work plan.
- Summary of the approved IAS control programme.
Task 2
- Equipment preparation checklist.
- List of selected tools and materials.
- Equipment inspection records.
Task 3
- Field observation records.
- Photographs of practical activities.
- Practical activity report.
- Learner reflection.
- Mentor observations.
Practical Assessment Checklist
| Assessment Criteria | Competent | Not Yet Competent | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interpret an approved IAS control programme | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Select and prepare appropriate tools and equipment | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Follow approved invasive alien species control procedures | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Demonstrate safe work practices | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Protect biodiversity during field operations | ☐ | ☐ |
Learner Reflection
After completing this practical activity, reflect on the following:
- Which part of the invasive alien species control programme required the most preparation?
- Why is selecting the correct tools and equipment important?
- How did following approved procedures contribute to the success of the activity?
- What practical skills would you like to improve before participating in future invasive alien species control programmes?