Course Title: Develop a water quality monitoring program

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term1 2023

Course Code: ENVI5117C

Course Title: Develop a water quality monitoring program

Important Information:

Please note that this course may have compulsory in-person attendance requirements for some teaching activities.

To participate in any RMIT course in-person activities or assessment, you will need to comply with RMIT vaccination requirements which are applicable during the duration of the course. This RMIT requirement includes being vaccinated against COVID-19 or holding a valid medical exemption.

Please read this RMIT Enrolment Procedure as it has important information regarding COVID vaccination and your study at RMIT: https://policies.rmit.edu.au/document/view.php?id=209.

Please read the Student website for additional requirements of in-person attendance: https://www.rmit.edu.au/covid/coming-to-campus


Please check your Canvas course shell closer to when the course starts to see if this course requires mandatory in-person attendance. The delivery method of the course might have to change quickly in response to changes in the local state/national directive regarding in-person course attendance.

School: 530T Built Environment and Sustainability

Campus: City Campus

Program: C5418 - Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management

Course Contact: Thierry Demathieu

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 8359

Course Contact Email: thierry.demathieu@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Trainer/Assessor: Nicole Fergusson

nicole.fergusson@rmit.edu.au

Nominal Hours: 120

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

None

Course Description

In this course you will develop the skills and knowledge required to establish requirements for monitoring water quality and developing a program to monitor water quality in a given site. This includes carrying out water monitoring activities and evaluating program effectiveness.

The course applies to individuals working in the role of manager concerned with gathering information for land or water management purposes, which may include consultation with specialists such as hydrologists and hydrographers. They also analyse information and exercise judgement to complete their duties with a deep knowledge in water management. They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems.



National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

AHCNRM510 Develop a water quality monitoring program

Element:

1. Determine water quality monitoring program requirements

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Consult with client to identify scope, objectives and constraints in a program brief 1.2 Research and evaluate background information relevant to survey type and site 1.3 Determine water quality indicators to be measured, frequency and volume of sampling required to meet program brief 1.4 Establish procedures for data collection, processing and reporting according to program brief and legislative requirements 1.5 Seek estimates of costs and source of funds for the program 1.6 Identify and assess workplace health and safety hazards for conducting the sampling program 1.7 Provide a survey strategy to stakeholders for discussion and approvals according to program brief

Element:

2. Undertake a site analysis

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Identify and record biophysical elements of the site 2.2 Identify and record resource management factors contributing to water quality 2.3 Survey site biota according to program brief 2.4 Identify and evaluate sampling points for safety, accessibility and opportunities for repeatable data collection

Element:

3. Plan monitoring program

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Select suitable sites for repeatable monitoring to obtain representative samples 3.2 Source laboratory and field equipment for monitoring program, and determine costs 3.3 Confirm suitability and availability of laboratory and field equipment 3.4 Confirm surveyor access to site for duration of the monitoring program 3.5 Document workplace health and safety controls and emergency procedures for the program according to workplace policies 3.6 Document environmental sustainability policies and procedures and biosecurity measures 3.7 Document sampling techniques to be used 3.8 Document methods of data collection, monitoring and field techniques for field operators 3.9 Present survey schedules and procedures to stakeholders and client for approval

Element:

4. Monitor water quality

Performance Criteria:

4.1 Carry out water quality monitoring tasks according to plan 4.2 Transport, store and treat samples to preserve the reliability and fidelity of sample results 4.3 Monitor surveying process for accuracy, and compliance with the survey plans and procedures 4.4 Implement contingency plans when problems arise, whilst continuously assessing and evaluating the plan for errors and inconsistencies

Element:

5. Evaluate program

Performance Criteria:

5.1 Record and save data according to plan requirements 5.2 Analyse data collected according to industry policies and guidelines and scientific standards 5.3 Draw outcomes, conclusions or trends from the monitoring program using industry standards for interpretation of water quality data and appropriate evidence and reasoned arguments 5.4 Seek advice from client as to satisfaction with monitoring program in terms of the process and outcomes 5.5 Provide report on outcomes to client with recommendations for changes and improvements for any further monitoring activities

Learning Outcomes


On successful completion of this course you will have developed and applied the skills and knowledge required to demonstrate competency in the above elements. 


Details of Learning Activities

Theme
An introduction to the unit, to Water Quality Monitoring and to Waterwatch
we will explore the qualities and properties of water that make it so unique and vital.
We will have lab work on campus to explore the properties of water and to learn how to conduct the chemical and physical water testing.
Water Resources; Rivers of Melbourne; Catchments
Our Monitoring Program: Our Client, Our site
Stony Creek site familiarization
Safety on Site  - Waterborne disease
Week 3 will be our first site visit to meet our client and do our first set of tests.
Developing a Monitoring Program: Assessment 1
We will cover everything you need to complete Assessment 1
Aquatic Macroinvertebrates and  Prep for Macroinvertebrate Lab.
Why we sample macroinvertebrates.
How to identify macroinvertebrates
This week you will have a laboratory session where we will sort, identify and score macroinvertebrates.
Biological survey methods, and we will start looking at Water Standards (SEPP/ERS)
This week we will cover Biological survey methods: AUSRIVAs, SIGNAL, ALT
SEPP/ERS Environmental Water Standards
Urban Wetland and Water Quality
Wetlands, and their role in water quality management.
Fieldwork: Trin Warren Tamboore Wetland
Riparian Vegetation, and Habitat Survey
Role and function of riparian vegetation and Waterwatch Habitat Survey as a tool for assessing water quality
Revision for Knowledge Test
Water Quality Fieldwork: On Site at Stony Creek for Water Quality Sampling #2
The Mid-semester break is a scheduled break in the semester. No teaching or assessment will occur during this time. Also, your Trainer/Assessor won't be available during this time. If you need to contact them, please email them via your student email account, and they will respond once they return from the break. 
Water Issues and Pollution
Heavy Metals and Other Contamination
Water-borne Diseases and Microbes in water
Laboratory Session on Campus testing for E-coli and algae
Water Treatment:
The urban water cycle and how our drinking and waste water are treated
Bringing it all together: Water Quality Monitoring Reports
Data Analysis
We will explore ways of analysing, presenting and interpreting our results from the water quality monitoring at Stony Creek.
Review and Recap – Assessment Work
Fieldtrip to Western Treatment Plant


Teaching Schedule

Session or Week Theme Assessments
  Session One: Introduction: What is water quality monitoring; Waterwatch; The properties of Water Assessment 1: Monitoring Plan
Week 1: 6-12 February An introduction to the unit, to Water Quality Monitoring and to Waterwatch Assessment 2: knowledge Assessment
  we will explore the qualities and properties of water that make it so unique and vital. Assessment 3: Practical Water Testing
  We will have lab work on campus to explore the properties of water and to learn how to conduct the chemical and physical water testing. Assessment 4: Monitoring Report
Week 2 Water Resources; Rivers of Melbourne; Catchments All written Assessments (1,2,4)
  Our Monitoring Program: Our Client, Our site All 4 Assessments
Week 3 Stony Creek site familiarization
  Safety on Site  - Waterborne disease
  Week 3 will be our first site visit to meet our client and do our first set of tests.
  Developing a Monitoring Program: Assessment 1 Assessment 1
Week 4 We will cover everything you need to complete Assessment 1
  Aquatic Macroinvertebrates and  Prep for Macroinvertebrate Lab. All 4 Assessments
Week 5 Why we sample macroinvertebrates.
  How to identify macroinvertebrates
  This week you will have a laboratory session where we will sort, identify and score macroinvertebrates.
  Biological survey methods, and we will start looking at Water Standards (SEPP/ERS) Assessment 2 and 4
Week 6 This week we will cover Biological survey methods: AUSRIVAs, SIGNAL, ALT
  SEPP/ERS Environmental Water Standards
  Urban Wetland and Water Quality Assessment 2, 3, 4
Week 7 Wetlands, and their role in water quality management.
  Fieldwork: Trin Warren Tamboore Wetland
Census DateLinks to an external site.  31 May The Census Date is the last day you can withdraw from this course without financial penalty. If you need to withdraw from this course, you must do so before this date to avoid additional student fees.   
  Riparian Vegetation, and Habitat Survey Assessment 2, 3, 4
Week 8: 27 March - 2 April Role and function of riparian vegetation and Waterwatch Habitat Survey as a tool for assessing water quality
  Revision for Knowledge Test Assessment 2, 3, 4
Week 9 Water Quality Fieldwork: On Site at Stony Creek for Water Quality Sampling #2
Mid-semester break 10 - 16 April The Mid-semester break is a scheduled break in the semester. No teaching or assessment will occur during this time. Also, your Trainer/Assessor won't be available during this time. If you need to contact them, please email them via your student email account, and they will respond once they return from the break.   
  Water Issues and Pollution Assessment 2, 3, 4
Week 10 Assessment 2 completed in class
  Heavy Metals and Other Contamination Assessment 3 and 4
Week 11
ANZAC Day, Public holiday, 25 April No teaching or assessment will occur on ANZAC Day. Additionally, RMIT staff will not be available during this time. If you need to contact them, please email them via your student email account, and they will respond once they return from the break.   
  Water-borne Diseases and Microbes in water Assessment 3 and 4
Week 12 Laboratory Session on Campus testing for E-coli and algae
  Water Treatment: Assessment 3 and 4
Week 13 The urban water cycle and how our drinking and waste water are treated
  Site Visit to Stony Creek
Week 14 Bringing it all together: Water Quality Monitoring Reports Assessment 3 and 4
  Data Analysis Assessment  4
Week 15 We will explore ways of analysing, presenting and interpreting our results from the water quality monitoring at Stony Creek.
  Review and Recap – Assessment Work Assessment 3 and 4
Week 16 Fieldtrip to Western Treatment Plant
Week 17 Assessment - reviews, meetings, etc All
12-18 June Assessment All
Queens Birthday, Public Holiday 12 June No teaching or assessing will occur on the Queen's Birthday. Additionally, RMIT staff will not be available during this time. If you need to contact them, please email them via your student email account, and they will respond once they return from the break.   
Official Results Release DateLinks to an external site. Important: It is your responsibility to check your results on this date.  
29-Jun-23 Your official results for this course will be released on this date. Your teacher will not inform you of your final result. It will only be available via My Student Record on RMIT's website.   
  It is not your Trainer/Assessors responsibility to let you know your final result.   
  Your teacher will not be available to comment on your assessment or final results from 18-29 June 2022. After this date, you can contact them to talk about your final result if you need it.   


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References


Other Resources


Overview of Assessment

Assessment for this course is ongoing throughout the semester. Your knowledge and understanding of course content is assessed through participation in class exercises, oral presentations and through the application of learned skills and insights to your written tasks. Full assessment briefs will be provided and can be found on CANVAS. 


Assessment Tasks

Date Details Due
Week 4 Assignment Assessment One: Water Quality Monitoring Plan as per Client Brief due by Sunday 23:59
Week 10 Assignment Assignment 2: Knowledge Assessment due by Sunday 23:59
Week 14 Assignment Assessment 4:Water Quality Monitoring Report due by Sunday 23:59
By Week 14 Assignment Assignment 3: Practical Assessment due by Sunday 23:59


Assessment Matrix

Element Performance criteria        
    AT1:  AT2: Knowledge Assessment AT3: AT4:    Product - Water Quality Monitoring Report
Product - Water Quality Monitoring Plan as per Client Brief  Collecting and Testing Water Samples
1. Determine water quality monitoring program requirements 1.1 Consult with client to identify scope, objectives and constraints in a program brief  A1; A2; C1     1.1, 1.4, 1.5
1.2 Research and evaluate background information relevant to survey type and site  B1; B2; B3     1.2, 1.5
1.3 Determine water quality indicators to be measured, frequency and volume of sampling required to meet program brief C1; C2; C3     2.2, 2.3
1.4 Establish procedures for data collection, processing and reporting according to program brief and legislative requirements A3; C1; C2     2.2, 2.3, 3.2
1.5 Seek estimates of costs and source of funds for the program C5     2.4
1.6 Identify and assess workplace health and safety hazards for conducting the sampling program B3   1a-c, 2a, 4, 5 a-b,6a,b 2.6, 2.7
1.7 Provide a survey strategy to stakeholders for discussion and approvals according to program brief B3; C1-7     1-Jun
2. Undertake a site analysis 2.1 Identify and record biophysical elements of the site B1; B3     1.3, 2.5 
2.2 Identify and record resource management factors contributing to water quality A1; B1     1.1,1.3
2.3 Survey site biota according to program brief       2.2, 2.5, 3.2
2.4 Identify and evaluate sampling points for safety, accessibility and opportunities for repeatable data collection B1-3   1 2.5
3. Plan monitoring program 3.1 Select suitable sites for repeatable monitoring to obtain representative samples B2; B3   1; 2e 2.5
3.2 Source laboratory and field equipment for the monitoring program and determine costs C5     2.4
3.3 Confirm suitability and availability of laboratory and field equipment C5   3a 2.2, 2.4
3.4 Confirm surveyor access to site for the duration of the monitoring program B2     2.5
3.5 Document workplace health and safety controls and emergency procedures for the program according to workplace policies B3; C6     2.7
3.6 Document environmental sustainability policies and procedures and biosecurity measures C6     2.6, 2.8
3.7 Document sampling techniques to be used C1; C2   3d-k 2.2, 2.3, 5.3
3.8 Document methods of data collection, monitoring and field techniques for field operators C2, C3   3a-k 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.6
      3.1, 3.2
3.9 Present survey schedules and procedures to stakeholders and client for approval A1; A2; C1-7; D1; D2     2.2, 3.1
4. Monitor water quality 4.1 Carry out water quality monitoring tasks according to plan     45078 2.2, 2.3, 2.5, 2.6, 2.8, 5.3
4.2 Transport, store and treat samples to preserve the reliability and fidelity of sample results     4 2.3
4.3 Monitor surveying process for accuracy and compliance with the survey plans and procedures       1.5, 3.1, 4, 5.1- 5.3
4.4 Implement contingency plans when problems arise, whilst continuously assessing and evaluating the plan for errors and inconsistencies     2e 2.1, 2.7
5. Evaluate program 5.1 Record and save data according to plan requirements     3e-f 3.2
5.2 Analyse data collected according to industry policies and guidelines and scientific standards     3f 3.1,3.2
5.3 Draw outcomes, conclusions or trends from the monitoring program using industry standards for interpretation of water quality data and appropriate evidence and reasoned arguments       5.1, 5.2, 5.3
5.4 Seek advice from client as to satisfaction with monitoring program in terms of the process and outcomes D2     5.1, 5.2
5.5 Provide report on outcomes to client with recommendations for changes and improvements for any further monitoring activities       5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 6,7
           
  Foundation Skills
    AT1:  AT2: Knowledge Assessment AT3: AT4:        
  Product - Water Quality Monitoring Plan as per Client Brief  Collecting and Testing Water Samples Product - Water Quality Monitoring Report
       
  Writing:        
  Record outcomes of sampling and incorporate into monitoring program reports and documentation, expressing ideas and exploring complex issues, and ensuring accurate, succinct and logically constructed text Plan   Fieldwork 3e Report – all 1-7
  Numeracy:        
  Capture, record and analyse monitoring data and use statistical analysis calculations to help formulate conclusions D1 A7; B1; D7 3d; 3i 3
  Performance Evidence    
  An individual demonstrating competency must satisfy all of the elements and performance criteria in this unit.  AT1: AT2:  Knowledge Assessment AT3: AT4: Product - Water Quality Monitoring Report
  Product - Water Quality Monitoring Plan as per Client Brief Collecting and Testing Water Samples
     
  There must be evidence that the individual has, on at least one occasion, developed and implemented a water quality monitoring program according to a specific client brief and legislative and workplace policies and procedures. Plan      
  There must also be evidence that the individual has:  
  Consulted with client and established the scope, objectives, constraints, and quality monitoring requirements in a program brief A1; A2     1.1,1.2, 3.1
  Conducted research and site analysis to select suitable monitoring sites B1; B2; B3   1a; 2a; 2e 1.3
 
  Developed and implement a monitoring plan in accordance with program brief  A; B; C     1-Jul
 
  Evaluated the program using data analysis, consultation with client and assessment against program objectives D1; D2     3.1, 3.2, 4, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3
  Collected, transported and treated samples to preserve sample integrity     2, 3, 4 2.3
  Analysed data according to scientific standards and workplace policies and procedures    A1, A6, A7, A8, A9, A10, B1-10, C1-5, D6, D7, D8, E1, E2 3d, 3f, 3i, 3k 3.1, 3.2, 4, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3
  Applied work health and safety practices      1, 4, 5, 6 2.7, 3.2
  Incorporated sustainability practices and biosecurity procedures into monitoring program     1b, 4c, 4d, 6a, 6b 1.2, 2.6, 2.8
  Developed evidence-based conclusions from analysis and reasoned arguments      3b, 3g 5.1, 5.2, 5.3
  Produced written reports to workplace standards       6,7
  Knowledge Evidence    
    AT1: AT2:  Knowledge Assessment AT3: AT4: Product - Water Quality Monitoring Report
  Product - Water Quality Monitoring Plan as per Client Brief Collecting and Testing Water Samples
     
  An individual must be able to demonstrate the knowledge required to perform the tasks outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit. This includes knowledge of:        
  Water quality principles and factors including:  
  ·  Hydrological cycle D1
  ·  Aquatic ecology   A4; B2; B3; B5; B6; C2; D2; D3   4
  ·  Water quality indicators   A1-6, A10; 3b, 3g 2.1, 3.2
  B3-5; B7, B9; C1-C4; D2
  ·  Chemical principles   A3,4,10; B1, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10; C1 3 2.1,3.2
  Catchment and coastal management issues contributing to surface and groundwater quality   B2; B6; C3; D1-5 1 1.1, 1.2, 1.3
  Standard techniques to assess ecological health of aquatic sites B1; B2; B3 A1; A2, B8; B9; C3 ; C4 1, 6 2.5
  Mathematical sampling techniques   B1; B7; B8; B9; C2, C3   2.3, 3.2
  Sampling methods for maintaining accuracy and veracity of test results, including:
  Sampling techniques and range; C2, C3 A1; A5; A9; B7; B8; B9; B10; C2, C3; C4; E1; E2 1-6 2.2, 3.2
  Storage methods and treatments to preserve sample integrity;   A9; B7; B10; C2 4  
 
  Statistical modelling for sampling;   A7, D7    
  Location and frequency of sampling; B1-3, C1-3 A8; C4 1, 2  
 
  Sampling methods for different analysis C1, C2, C3 A1; A9; A10; B7; B9; B10; C1; C2; C3; C4 1-6  
  Analytical techniques appropriate to water quality monitoring, including       3.2
  ·  Statistical analysis   A7, D7    
  ·  comparative analysis   B4; B9; C2; C4 3f, 3k  
  ·  chemical   A3; A4; A10;  1-6  
  B1,4,5,7,9,10
  C1; E2
  ·  physical   A3, A5, A6; B3; C3; D7 1-6  
  ·  biological   A1, A4; B9; C2; D2, D5; E1    
  Data storage and management systems   C4; D6 3e, 3j 3.1
  Accepted scientific processes and standards for data collection and analysis   A1, A7; B2, B7, B9, B10; C2, C4; D6; E1 1-6 2.1, 2.3, 3.1,
  3.2, 5.3
  Health and safety legislative requirements and codes of practice, including hazard identification, assessment and control measures B3; C6 A1; B8; C5; D8 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 2.6, 2.7

Other Information

Part of the requirements for Vocational Education is regularly engaging with your Trainer/Assessor. Your Trainer/Assessor is obligated to observe you in class and observe your assessments in each class as scheduled. Therefore, you are required to attend all classes as they are scheduled. 

You are required to attend a minimum of 85% of your classes. If you miss classes, you will need to provide a medical certificate to your Trainer/Assessor for classes that result in you not meeting the 85% requirement.

If you fail to attend the minimum required classes and engage in each class, your trainer/assessor will not accept your assessment submissions. You will be required to attend an in-person interview with your trainer/assessor at a time determined by them. Failure to attend this interview will result in your assessment being rejected. Additionally, the trainer/assessor reserves the right to reject your assessment based on the interview's outcome. This is required to ensure RMIT meets the Standards set for RTOs to ensure the validity of your work. 

For more information, see Assessment rules.

To complete this course, you must achieve a Satisfactory Result in all assessment results. Please see the assessment resubmission rules regarding extra submissions. Additionally, ensure that you are fully aware of the rules about Extensions of time. 

To be clear, if you fail any assessment, you can not pass the course and will need to repeat the course at a later date. 

For more information, please speak with your Trainer/Assessor directly.

All assessments will be submitted electronically through Canvas, this includes your re-submission too.

Only Word and PDF documents are accepted, please do not attempt to upload any other file types, these will be considered as submissions and you will receive Not Yet Satisfactory for that assignment.

Course Overview: Access Course Overview