Table of Contents
Task B-6 Applies horticultural practices
Task Descriptor
Landscape horticulturists identify plants and requirements to manage health, growing conditions, pests, diseases and invasive species. They apply horticultural principles to sustain and promote plant life and the growing environment.
B-6.01 - Identifies plants and plant requirements
Essential Skills: Reading, Document Use, Thinking
B-6.01 - Identifies plants and plant requirements
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Skills
| Reference Code |
Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| B-6.01.01P |
examine plant characteristics through visual, touch and other senses |
plant characteristics are described |
| B-6.01.02P |
compare plant characteristics with reference material to determine classification, identification and growing requirements |
plant classification, identification and growing requirements are determined using reference material |
| B-6.01.03P |
assess health and vigour of plant to determine requirements |
health and vigour is identified based on observed plant characteristics and requirements are determined |
| B-6.01.04P |
assess location for suitability based on growth habits, function and cultural requirements of plants |
plant location is determined based on growth habits, function and cultural requirements of plants |
Range of Variables
- cultural requirements of plants include: light, moisture, soil type, hardiness, nutrients, tolerance (salt, wind, drought)
Knowledge
| Reference Code |
Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| B-6.01.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants used for plant identification |
explain the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants and its use in plant identification |
| interpret the use of dichotomous keys to classify plants |
| use plant morphology to categorize plants to the family level |
| use plant morphology to categorize plants on the list to the genus and species level |
| B-6.01.02L |
demonstrate knowledge of plants, their characteristics and cultural requirements |
apply principles of basic plant science |
| define terminology associated with plant science |
| identify plant characteristics |
| describe the cultural requirements of plants |
| identify considerations for the selection of plants based on specific uses |
| identify plant categories |
| explain the purpose of the Plant Hardiness Zone Map |
| B-6.01.03L |
demonstrate knowledge of plant growth and development |
identify the factors which impact plant growth and development |
| identify plant anatomy and differences in morphology |
| explain the biological processes of a plant |
| B-6.01.03L |
demonstrate knowledge of plant nutrient requirements |
identify plant nutrients and describe the impact of nutrient deficiencies/excess on plants and plant growth |
Range of Variables
- International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants includes: family, genus, species, variety/cultivar
- plant morphology includes: leaves/needles, flowers/fruits/seeds, buds, bark, growth habits
- basic plant science includes: botany, physiology
- plant characteristics include: form, foliage and foliage pattern, stems and bark, bud, fruit, flower, size, colour
- specific uses include: residential applications, commercial applications, reclamation/restoration, location, environment
- plant categories include: coniferous trees, coniferous shrubs, deciduous trees, deciduous shrubs, herbaceous, woody, broad leaf evergreen, turfgrass, vines, weeds, annuals, perennials, biennials, edibles, native, non–native, invasive species
- factors include: temperature, hardiness, growing medium, air quality (carbon dioxide, oxygen, humidity), light, water, pests and disease, environmental stresses, plant life cycle
- plant anatomy includes: cell types, tissues, organs
- biological processes include: reproduction, photosynthesis, respiration, transpiration, hormonal communication, dormancy
B-6.02 - Manages plant health and growing conditions
Essential Skills: Reading, Thinking, Continuous Learning
B-6.02 - Manages plant health and growing conditions
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Skills
| Reference Code |
Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| B-6.02.01P |
determine plants’ exposure to environmental conditions |
plants’ exposure to environmental conditions is identified |
| B-6.02.02P |
determine factors that lead to plant stress |
factors that lead to plant stress are determined by inspecting plants for signs and symptoms of plant diseases, deficiencies and environmental impacts |
| B-6.02.03P |
identify signs and symptoms of plant stress |
signs and symptoms of plant stress are identified |
| B-6.02.04P |
collect growing mediasamples |
representative media samples are collected by using various techniques according to industry practices |
| B-6.02.05P |
collect water samples |
representative water samples are collected using various techniques according to industry practices |
| B-6.02.06P |
test growing media and irrigation water samples manually or by lab analysis |
growing media and irrigation water sample properties are identified through sample testing |
| B-6.02.07P |
pexamine foliar samples to identify nutrient deficiencies, diseases and pests |
plant health and nutrient deficiencies, diseases and pests are identified based on foliar samples using reference materials, resources and test results |
| B-6.02.08P |
interpret test results |
plan of action is determined based on test results |
| B-6.02.09P |
identify air quality conditions that affect interior and exterior plants |
air quality conditions that affect interior and exterior plants are determined |
| B-6.02.10P |
adjust plant selection and placement |
plant selection and placement are adjusted according to growing conditions |
| B-6.02.11P |
develop plan for implementing corrective measures |
plan for corrective measures is put in place according to findings and plant requirements |
| B-6.02.12P |
amend growing conditions to meet plant requirements |
growing conditions are amended according to plant requirements |
| B-6.02.13P |
measure and apply fertilizer and amendments |
fertilizer and amendments are used according to plant requirements and test results |
| B-6.02.14P |
remove and dispose of pest and disease-ridden plant parts |
pest and disease–ridden plant parts are removed and disposed of to prevent spreading of pests and diseases according to jurisdictional regulations and horticultural practices |
Range of Variables
- environmental conditions include: light, wind, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, moisture, reflective heat load
- plant stress includes: biotic and abiotic factors
- signs and symptoms of plant diseases, deficiencies and environmental impacts include: discolouration, wilting, defoliation, foliar burn, mould
- growing media includes: native soil, soilless medium, manufactured soil, compost
- properties include: texture, drainage capacity, pH, nutrients, organic matter, pore space, bulk density, electrical conductivity (EC), contaminants
- growing conditions include: microclimate, topography, natural habitat, pH level, soil type and depth, growing environment, water availability, available space, humidity, shelter, light, plant hardiness zone
- corrective measures include: fertilization, liming, adding organics, neutralizing water, correcting drainage
- fertilizer and amendments include: foliar feed, injection, liquid and granular applications
Knowledge
| Reference Code |
Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| B-6.02.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of growing media conditions and properties |
identify growing media conditions and properties |
| apply tests such as pH, air quality and nutrient tests |
| identify treatment methods |
| B-6.02.02L |
demonstrate knowledge of soil types and soil amendments |
identify physical soil characteristics to consider when determining the suitability for plant growth |
| describe the implications of soil management on the practice of environmental stewardship |
| identify types of growing media and describe their characteristics and applications |
| identify the soil characteristics that impact soil chemical and biological properties |
| explain the procedures used for taking soil samples |
| identify types of soil tests and describe their characteristics and applications |
| identify types of soil amendments and describe their characteristics and applications |
| identify the considerations when selecting soil amendments |
| describe the procedures used to apply and incorporate soil amendments |
| describe the procedures for storing, transporting and disposing of soil, soil amendment products and packaging according to jurisdictional regulations |
| interpret soil test results |
| B-6.02.03L |
demonstrate knowledge of plant health |
define characteristics of normal plant growth |
| identify signs and symptoms of plant stress |
| describe companion planting procedures |
| identify IPM principles |
| identify Canadian and regional landscape standards and jurisdictional regulations |
| B-6.02.04L |
demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of fertilizers |
identify types of fertilizers and describe their characteristics and applications |
| define terminology associated with fertilizers |
| describe the analysis and formulation of fertilizers |
| identify hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to fertilizers and their use |
| describe the implications of fertilizer management on the practice of environmental stewardship |
| B-6.02.05L |
demonstrate knowledge of jurisdictional regulations pertaining to fertilizers |
describe jurisdictional regulations pertaining to fertilizers |
| B-6.02.06L |
demonstrate knowledge of the procedures and equipment used for the application, handling, transport, storage and disposal of fertilizers |
describe the procedures and equipment used and calibration for the application of fertilizers |
| describe the procedures and equipment used to store, dispose and transport fertilizers |
Range of Variables
- growing media includes: native soil, soilless medium, manufactured soil, compost
- properties include: texture, drainage capacity, pH, nutrients, organic matter, pore space, bulk density, electrical conductivity (EC), contaminants
- soil amendments include: organic, inorganic
- physical soil characteristics include: soil formation, drainage, aeration/porosity, water retention, compaction, soil texture/structure
- soil characteristics that impact soil chemical and biological properties include: nutrient availability, chemical composition (soil acidity/alkalinity, soil salinity, cation exchange capacity), organic matter, biological activity, texture
- plant stress includes: biotic and abiotic factors
B-6.03 - Prunes plant material
Essential Skills: Reading, Document Use, Thinking
B-6.03 - Prunes plant material
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Skills
| Reference Code |
Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| B-6.03.01P |
establish pruning objectives |
pruning objectives are established by assessing plant species, structure, health and environment |
| B-6.03.02P |
select pruning types |
pruning types are selected according to plant morphology, anatomy, physiology, maturity, time of year and type of plant materia |
| B-6.03.03P |
sanitize tools |
tools are sanitized according to industry practices |
| B-6.03.04P |
select pruning methods and required tools and equipment |
pruning methods and required tools and equipment are selected according to size of limb and task |
| B-6.03.05P |
organize and dispose of pruned material |
pruned material is piled with cut stems facing the same direction for efficient removal and disposed of according to sanitation and jurisdictional regulations |
| B-6.03.06P |
cut, pinch and deadhead plant material |
plant material is cut, pinched and deadheaded according to industry practices and pruning objectives |
Range of Variables
- pruning types include: shearing, heading, thinning, cleaning, canopy raising, crown balancing, reducing, restoring
- pruning methods include: 3–cut method, flush cut, heading, reduction, removal
- tools and equipment include: hedge trimmers, shears, saws, secateurs, pruners, loppers
Knowledge
| Reference Code |
Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| B-6.03.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of the procedures used to inspect, use, maintain, store and transport pruning tools and equipment |
describe the procedures used to inspect, use, maintain, store and transport pruning tools and equipment |
| describe procedures for cleaning and sanitizing pruning tools and equipment |
| B-6.03.02L |
demonstrate knowledge of the procedures for pruning |
define terminology associated with pruning |
| identify hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to pruning |
| describe the purpose of pruning |
| describe pruning methods and techniques |
| identify factors that affect pruning times |
| describe methods to organize debris for efficient handling |
| B-6.03.03L |
demonstrate knowledge of the procedures for the disposal of diseased and infested plant parts |
describe the procedures for removing plant parts and disposal of diseased and infested plant parts |
Range of Variables
- tools and equipment include: hedge trimmers, shears, saws, secateurs, pruners, loppers
- purpose of pruning includes: plant appearance, structure, plant growth requirements, unwanted growth, plant health, prevention of winter damage
- pruning methods include: 3–cut method, flush cut, heading, reduction, removal
- factors include: dormancy, flower period, growth response, wind and frost damage, scorch
B-6.04 - Manages pests, diseases and invasive species
Essential Skills: Reading, Document Use, Thinking
B-6.04 - Manages pests, diseases and invasive species
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Skills
| Reference Code |
Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| B-6.04.01P |
determine environmental and site conditions that lead to plant stress |
conditions that lead to plant stress are determined by inspecting site |
| B-6.04.02P |
inspect plants visually |
pest population and damage is inspected and identified |
| B-6.04.03P |
identify pests, diseases, invasive species and beneficial insects |
pests, diseases, invasive species and beneficial insects are identified by visually inspecting plants and using resources |
| B-6.04.04P |
determine course of action for managing pests and invasive species |
course of action is determined and complies with jurisdictional regulations |
| B-6.04.05P |
monitor pest populations, spread of disease and damage characteristics |
pest populations, spread of disease and damage characteristics are documented |
| B-6.04.06P |
monitor biological control populations |
biological control populations are documented |
| B-6.04.07P |
establish injury and action thresholds |
injury and action thresholds are established according to economics, aesthetics and plant health |
| B-6.04.08P |
select treatment and control methods |
treatment and control methods are selected according to types of pests, diseases and environment that minimizes negative impact on native or existing ecosystem, and jurisdictional regulations |
| B-6.04.09P |
identify and calibrate pesticide application equipment |
pesticide application equipment is selected and calibrated according to required application and manufacturers’ specifications |
| B-6.04.10P |
prevent infestation of pests, diseases and invasive species |
infestation of pests, diseases and invasive species is prevented by using prevention strategies |
| B-6.04.11P |
apply treatment methods |
treatment methods are applied in compliance with jurisdictional regulations |
| B-6.04.12P |
document the use of pest control products |
use of pest control products is documented according to jurisdictional regulations |
| B-6.04.13P |
monitor results of treatment |
results of treatment are monitored to evaluate efficacy |
| B-6.04.14P |
identify quarantine protocols |
quarantine protocols are identified, according to jurisdictional regulations and industry practices |
| B-6.04.15P |
dispose of pest and disease-ridden plant material and invasive species |
pest and disease–ridden plant material and invasive species are disposed of according to jurisdictional regulations |
Range of Variables
- damage includes: leaf disfiguration, notching, stippling, discoloration
- prevention strategies include: rotating crops, selecting pest–resistant varieties and cultural methods, supporting and encouraging native ecosystem, physical observation
- treatment methods include: cultural, mechanical, biological, chemical
- quarantine protocols include: early detection and eradication; restricting movement of plant parts or soil; sanitation practices for vehicles, attachments and tools; import/export restrictions; containment or destruction of contaminated materials
Knowledge
| Reference Code |
Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| B-6.04.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of types of pests and diseases and the procedures used to manage them |
define terminology associated with pest and disease management |
| identify the considerations for selecting and applying pest and disease management measures |
| define the components of an integrated pest management (IPM) program |
| describe the implications of IPM on the practice of environmental stewardship |
| identify methods used for pest and disease management and treatment |
| identify common types of pests and describe their characteristics and life cycles |
| identify common types of diseases and disorders and describe their characteristics and life cycles |
| identify causes of diseases |
| identify pathogens |
| identify biotic factors |
| identify abiotic factors |
| identify the factors for selecting and applying pest and disease management measures |
| describe the procedures used to implement pest and disease management measures |
| B-6.04.02L |
demonstrate knowledge of jurisdictional regulations and documentation pertaining to pest and disease management |
identify jurisdictional regulations pertaining to pest and disease management |
| describe documentation pertaining to pest and disease management |
| B-6.04.03L |
demonstrate knowledge of pest control products, formulations and application equipment |
identify specific tools, equipment and products relating to pest and disease management and describe their applications and procedures for use |
| B-6.04.04L |
demonstrate knowledge of the procedures used to handle, transport, apply, store and dispose of pest and disease management products and tools |
identify hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to pest and disease management |
| describe the proceduresassociated with the handling, transportation, storage and disposal of pest and disease management related products and materials |
| describe how to select, apply and record pest and disease management measures |
Range of Variables
- considerations include: pest/disease populations, injury levels, action thresholds, beneficial insect pest populations
- methods include: regulatory, physical/mechanical, cultural, biological, chemical
- common types of pests include: arthropods, nematodes, birds and mammals, weeds
- common types of diseases and disorders include: blight, leaf spot, scab, gall, rust, canker, bacterial wilts, fungi, rot and mildew, bacterial and fungal turfgrass diseases
- causes of diseases include: pathogens, nematodes, nutrient deficiencies
- pathogens include: viruses, bacteria, fungi
- biotic factors include: diseases, insects, animals
- abiotic factors include: temperature, light, mechanical damage, nutrition
- factors for selecting and applying pest and disease management measures include: site analysis, pest/disease populations, injury levels, action thresholds, monitoring techniques
- procedures include: management techniques, preparation, equipment selection, equipment calibration, application techniques
- documentation includes: pest and disease monitoring, treatment and management records, evaluation of pest and disease management methods, pesticide application records
Task B-7 Applies environmental practices
Task Descriptor
Landscape horticulturists, as environmental stewards, identify and apply environmental best practices to develop, conserve, preserve, protect and reclaim natural habitats and ecosystems to sustain a healthy environment.
B-7.01 - Practices environmental stewardship
Essential Skills: Thinking, Working with Others, Continuous Learning
B-7.01 - Practices environmental stewardship
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Skills
| Reference Code |
Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| B-7.01.01P |
select and use sustainable horticultural and landscaping materials |
horticultural and landscaping materials that minimize negative impact on environment and ecosystems are used |
| B-7.01.02P |
select and use recycled and recyclable materials |
recycled and recyclable materials are used for operations when possible |
| B-7.01.03P |
select and maintain tools and equipment that minimize negative impact on environment and ecosystems |
tools and equipment that minimize negative impact on environment and ecosystems are used and maintained |
| B-7.01.04P |
source local materials and equipment |
materials and equipment from local sources are used when possible |
| B-7.01.05P |
select permeable surfaces and maximize green space |
landscape projects are implemented to reduce impermeable surfaces and maximize green space |
| B-7.01.06P |
perform on–site recycling/composting |
soil and plant parts are recycled/composted on site using eco-methods based on environmental stewardship principles |
| B-7.01.07P |
organize work flow |
work flow is organized in a manner that minimizes negative impact on environment |
| B-7.01.08P |
incorporate on–site elements into naturalized green spaces |
naturalized green spaces include on–site elements |
Range of Variables
- horticultural and landscaping materials include: plants, paving and natural stones, wood, mulch, soil, lighting and irrigation components
- negative impacts on environment include: compaction, fuel emission, noise pollution
- tools and equipment include: mulching mowers, aerators, equipment that uses rechargeable batteries, hybrid and energy–efficient engines, sharp mowing blades
- ecosystems include: meadows, ponds, parks, urban landscape
- eco–methods include: mulch mowing, composting, chipping, recycling leaves
- elements include: native plants, natural materials found on site, locally sourced materials, bioswales, raingardens, natural stormwater management, wildlife habitat structures
Knowledge
| Reference Code |
Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| B-7.01.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of environmental stewardship principles |
define ecosystems |
| describe the function, purpose and structure of natural ecosystems |
| describe preservation, conservation and regeneration principles and applications related to plant life, habitat, water table and water quality |
| describe the impact of the environment and landscapes on psychosocial health |
| B-7.01.02L |
demonstrate knowledge of landscaping practices that support environmental stewardship |
describe methods of increasing biodiversity and stormwater mitigation |
| identify environmental waste management best practices |
| identify site protection |
| identify products and practices for reducing harm and positively impacting the environment |
| describe practices for maximizing green space and permeable surfaces |
Range of Variables
- ecosystems include: meadows, ponds, parks, urban landscape
- environmental waste management best practices include: reduce, reuse, recycle
- site protection includes: silt fencing, erosion control, amending native soil, let–it–lay, adjusting mowing height
B-7.02 - Practices biodiversity enhancement
Essential Skills: Thinking, Working with Others, Continuous Learning
B-7.02 - Practices biodiversity enhancement
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Skills
| Reference Code |
Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| B-7.02.01P |
select plants that ensure diversity within landscapes |
plants are selected based on their attractiveness to a variety of macro– and micro–organisms, pest–resistance and are suited to the environment conditions and according to jurisdictional regulations |
| B-7.02.02P |
select bio–diverse enhancement strategies |
bio–diverse enhancement strategies are selected according to jurisdictional regulations |
| B-7.02.03P |
select edible plants to be included in landscapes |
edible plants are used in landscape to enhance biodiversity and engage the public |
| B-7.02.04P |
create a variety of habitats to support a range of species |
a variety of habitats to support a range of species are created to enhance biodiversity |
| B-7.02.05P |
select pest and disease control methods that are compatible with a variety of organisms |
control methods that are compatible with a variety of organisms are selected |
Range of Variables
- environment conditions include: soil type, light, pH, humidity and moisture availability, wind, exposure, native habitat
- bio–diverse enhancement strategies include: selecting plants that attract pollinators and wildlife; ensuring inter–relationships in nature; creating or maintaining wetlands; changing maintenance practices to preserve habitat by cleaning up in the spring; creating habitat and structures; encouraging moss growth
Knowledge
| Reference Code |
Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| B-7.02.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of biodiversity |
define biodiversity |
| describe the value and purpose of biodiversity |
| identify the jurisdictional regulations related to biodiversity |
| list the benefits of plants |
| describe the value of environmental, economic and social impact of the tree canopy |
| explain the inter–relationships between species |
| B-7.02.02L |
demonstrate knowledge of the practice of biodiversity |
identify native species, plant varieties and organisms that ensure diversity within landscapes |
| identify the differences between invasive and native species |
| describe bio-diverse enhancement strategies |
| describe the purpose and procedure for including edible plants in landscapes |
| define a variety of habitats to support a range of species |
| describe pest and disease control methods that are compatible with a variety of organisms |
| B-7.02.03L |
demonstrate knowledge of including biodiversity within a landscape design and the development process |
explain the benefit of and risks of not including biodiversity within a landscape design and the development process |
Range of Variables
- benefits of plants include: climate change mitigation, carbon capturing, symbiotic relationships
- bio–diverse enhancement strategies include: selecting plants that attract pollinators and wildlife; ensuring inter-relationships in nature; creating or maintaining wetlands; changing maintenance practices to preserve habitat by cleaning up in the spring; creating habitat and structures; encouraging moss growth
B-7.03 - Practices soil stewardship
Essential Skills: Continuous Learning, Numeracy, Thinking
B-7.03 - Practices soil stewardship
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Skills
| Reference Code |
Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| B-7.03.01P |
select soil stewardship methods |
soil stewardship methods that minimize impact on native soils are selected |
| B-7.03.02P |
assess growing media composition based on conditions |
growing media composition is assessed for conditions using various test methods |
| B-7.03.03P |
collect and label growing media samples, determine requirements for soil testing and send to lab |
requirements for soil testing are determined, growing media samples are collected, labelled and sent to lab |
| B-7.03.04P |
interpret test results |
test results are interpreted to determine requirements for growing media according to environmental practices |
| B-7.03.05P |
select and apply fertilizers and amendments |
fertilizers and amendments that support plant health and minimize environmental impacts are selected and applied |
| B-7.03.06P |
cultivate soil based on situation |
soil is cultivated while minimizing environmental impact on soils |
Range of Variables
- growing media include: native soil, soilless media, manufactured soil, compost
- conditions includes: texture, moisture levels, porosity, soil microbiome
- test methods include: visual, ribbon tests, probes
- soil testing includes: pH, nutrient, deficiency levels, micro-activity levels, organic content
- environmental impact on soils includes: compaction, depletion of organic matter, destruction of soil structure, damage to soil microbiome, hardpan, erosion, introduction of invasive species, diseases and pests, damage to root systems
Knowledge
| Reference Code |
Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| B-7.03.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of growing media |
identify types of growing media and describe their characteristics and applications |
| B-7.03.02L |
demonstrate knowledge of soil types and soil amendments |
identify types of soil |
| identify types of soil amendments and describe their characteristics, and procedures used to apply and/or incorporate them |
| identify types of soil tests and describe their characteristics and applications |
| explain the procedures used for taking soil samples |
| B-7.03.03L |
demonstrate knowledge of interpreting test results |
interpret test results |
| explain how to develop recommendations based on test results |
| B-7.03.04L |
demonstrate knowledge of selecting and applying fertilizers and amendments |
describe the procedures used to apply and/or incorporate fertilizers and amendments |
| B-7.03.05L |
demonstrate knowledge of minimizing harm to soil structure, health and microbiome |
describe the difference between good soil structure and poor soil structure |
| describe the impact of cultivation on the soil structure, health and microbiome |
| identify situations in which cultivating is required |
| describe how minimum tillage and other methods of cultivation minimize harm to soil structure, health and soil organisms |
| B-7.03.06L |
demonstrate knowledge of conserving soil and preserving soil health |
explain the economic and environmental reasons for conserving soil and preserving soil health |
| describe site protection measures that minimize environmental impact |
| explain bulk soil storage procedures that minimize environmental impact |
| describe methods to prevent soil erosion and siltation |
| explain the reasons for using the cut and fill method |
Range of Variables
- growing media include: native soil, soilless media, manufactured soil, compost
- soil amendments include: organic, inorganic
- soil organisms include: bacteria, beneficial fungi (mycorrhizae), worms, centipedes, viruses, nematodes, planaria, protozoa, mites, ground beetles, rove beetles, pill bugs
- environmental reasons include: sequestering carbon, minimizing spread of pests, diseases and invasive species, minimizing damage to soil structure, reducing inputs and outputs
B-7.04 - Practices water stewardship
Essential Skills: Thinking, Continuous Learning, Document Use
B-7.04 - Practices water stewardship
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Skills
| Reference Code |
Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| B-7.04.01P |
assess site features and determine low impact development (LID) practices |
LID practices are identified |
| B-7.04.02P |
collect and label water samples, and send to lab |
water samples are collected, labelled and sent to lab for testing |
| B-7.04.03P |
interpret test results |
test results are interpreted to determine water quality |
Range of Variables
- low impact development (LID) practices include: rain barrels, infiltration trenches, bioswales, bioretention cells, rain gardens, green roofing, smart irrigation, xeriscaping, permeable surfacing, water harvesting systems, downspout disconnect, stormwater ponds
- testing includes: determine pH, contaminants, nutrient and deficiency levels
Knowledge
| Reference Code |
Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| B-7.04.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of landscaping practices that support water stewardship |
identify water retention and weed prevention materials |
| identify water retention practices |
| identify LID practices |
| describe the benefits and application of efficient irrigation systems |
| identify xeriscape principles |
| describe erosion control methods |
| explain methods for protecting endangered species in waterways |
| explain methods for preventing the spread of invasive species in waterways |
| explain methods to prevent pesticides, fertilizers and pollutants from reaching waterways |
| describe the benefits of preserving urban forest tree canopy to maintain leaf surface and promote water infiltration |
| describe riparian restoration |
| describe the benefits and use of reclaimed water systems |
| identify jurisdictional regulations relating to water stewardship
|
Range of Variables
- low impact development (LID) practices include: rain barrels, infiltration trenches, bioswales, bioretention cells, rain gardens, green roofing, smart irrigation, xeriscaping, permeable surfacing, water harvesting systems, downspout disconnect, stormwater ponds
- erosion control methods include: cover cropping, silt fencing, mulching, groundcovers, bales, erosion control mats, gabion baskets