Photo AI
4.1 State FIVE important factors that a farmer must consider when doing pre-harvest planning of any crop - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 4
4.1 State FIVE important factors that a farmer must consider when doing pre-harvest planning of any crop. 4.2 Describe FIVE good practices of handling agricultural ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:4.1 State FIVE important factors that a farmer must consider when doing pre-harvest planning of any crop - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
State FIVE important factors that a farmer must consider when doing pre-harvest planning of any crop.
Answer
-
Readiness of crop: Ensuring that the crops are ripe and ready for harvest is essential to maximize yield and quality.
-
Harvest equipment serviced: Proper maintenance of harvesting equipment is crucial to avoid breakdowns during the harvest.
-
Availability of labor: Adequate labor resources need to be planned to manage the harvest efficiently.
-
Clean storage area: A clean area for storing harvested crops must be ensured to maintain quality and prevent contamination.
-
Available transport: Having transport ready for moving harvested products to market or storage facilities is vital.
Step 2
Describe FIVE good practices of handling agricultural products to ensure that the consumer gets products of high quality.
Answer
-
Correct disposal of waste: Prevent contamination of the products being handled.
-
Health of workers: Ensuring that workers are healthy to avoid transmitting diseases through the harvested produce.
-
Personal hygiene: Workers must maintain high hygiene standards to reduce contamination risks.
-
Correct handling methods: Using appropriate techniques to minimize physical damage and spoilage of produce.
-
Proper packaging and transport: Ensuring products are well-packaged and transported to maintain product integrity during distribution.
Step 3
Complete the table below in the ANSWER BOOK. Give an example of a fresh harvested agricultural product that is stored as indicated.
Answer
| STORAGE METHOD | EXAMPLE OF PRODUCT |
|---|---|
| Cold storage at temperatures below 10 °C | Vegetables (e.g., carrots) |
| Freezing rooms at –20 °C | Frozen fruits (e.g., berries) |
| Silos | Grains (e.g., wheat) |
| Stainless steel tanks between 0 °C and 3 °C | Milk |
Step 4
Name FIVE advantages of bulk storage of agricultural products.
Answer
-
Reduced exposure to air: Less spoilage occurs as the area exposed to air is minimized.
-
Cost efficiency: Bulk storage is generally cheaper than individual packaging.
-
Easier handling: Handle large quantities at once, which saves time.
-
Faster processing: Bulk handling speeds up the logistics of storage and distribution.
-
Reduced labor: Less manpower is required to manage large volumes if stored in bulk.
Step 5
List FOUR favourable growing conditions under which micro-organisms thrive.
Answer
-
Correct food product: Certain foods provide the optimal nutrients for growth.
-
Moisture: Sufficient water is crucial for microbial activity.
-
Suitable temperature: Most microorganisms thrive at temperatures between 20 °C and 37 °C.
-
Air/oxygen: Many organisms need oxygen for respiration.
Step 6
Evaluate the suitability of the following packaging materials for meat and related products:
Answer
4.6.1 Polystyrene: It is lightweight and can be molded to fit products, but it does not absorb odors and is hygienic.
4.6.2 Cardboard: While eco-friendly, it does not withstand moisture and is not easy to clean, making it less suitable for meat products.
Step 7
Step 8
State THREE advantages of planning.
Answer
-
Smooth operations: Planning ensures the farm runs efficiently without interruptions.
-
Anticipating changes: Effective planning allows farmers to adjust in advance to market trends or environmental changes.
-
Establishing goals: Helps set clear objectives for farm operations.
Step 9
State THREE advantages of coordination.
Answer
-
Eliminates duplication: Ensures resources are used efficiently.
-
Better cooperation: Improved teamwork among workers leads to enhanced productivity.
-
Functional organization: A well-coordinated farm is more productive and reactive to challenges.
Step 10
Describe the effect of motivation on workers and their productivity.
Answer
Motivation boosts worker morale, leading to increased job satisfaction and confidence. Encouraged employees often display higher levels of productivity, innovation, and loyalty. A motivated workforce tends to collaborate better, leading to a more efficient fulfillment of tasks.
Step 11
Step 12
Describe a flyer, of not more than half a page, that the farmer may use to advertise to attract visitors to the farm.
Answer
The flyer should include:
- Location of the farm: Highlighting interesting nearby landmarks.
- Contact details: Phone number and email for inquiries.
- Facilities available: List accommodations, dining options, and activities (e.g., bird watching, hiking).
- Descriptions of events: What visitors can experience, e.g., guided farm tours or workshops.
- Visual appeal: Use attractive images and easy-to-read layout, making sure it does not exceed an A4 page.