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Mechanisation implies the partial replacement of labour by making a capital investment - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 2
Mechanisation implies the partial replacement of labour by making a capital investment. 2.1.1 Name FOUR factors farmers should consider when deciding to introduce m... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Mechanisation implies the partial replacement of labour by making a capital investment - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Name FOUR factors farmers should consider when deciding to introduce machinery in their farming practices.
Answer
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Cost of Equipment: Farmers must evaluate the initial cost and ongoing expenses associated with machinery, ensuring it fits within their budget.
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Efficiency of Equipment: Machinery should demonstrate the ability to perform tasks more efficiently than manual labour, saving time and increasing productivity.
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Quality of the Equipment: The reliability and durability of the machinery need consideration, as better quality equipment leads to fewer breakdowns and maintenance costs.
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Time Saving: Farmers should consider how machinery can save time in the farming process, allowing for quicker completion of tasks and the possibility of expanding operations.
Step 2
Briefly discuss FOUR reasons why farmers would rather use machinery than manual labour.
Answer
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Simplifies Supervision: Machinery can reduce the number of workers needed, allowing farmers to focus on managing fewer individuals effectively.
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Increases Labour Efficiency: With machinery, one operator can perform the work of multiple manual labourers, leading to greater efficiency.
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Eliminates Fatigue: Using machinery can greatly reduce physical strain on workers, reducing fatigue and improving work-life balance.
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Less Dependence on Weather Conditions: Machinery is less affected by weather, allowing farmers to work in various conditions that might halt manual labour.
Step 3
Name THREE factors which influence land use for livestock grazing.
Answer
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Palatability of Forage: This affects livestock’s willingness to graze; more palatable species attract grazing.
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Topography: The physical landscape can impact accessibility and the density of livestock that can graze.
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Water Availability: Adequate water resources are necessary for the survival and productivity of livestock.
Step 4
Classify the descriptions below according to the type of capital and the term of credit (short, medium or long term) as used in agriculture.
Answer
2.4.1 Monthly account at the veterinarian - Short term credit
2.4.2 Production loan at the cooperative - Short term credit
2.4.3 Mortgage at a commercial bank - Long term credit
2.4.4 Loan at a commercial bank - Medium term credit
Step 5
Give TWO important elements of a farm budget.
Answer
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Estimated/Expected Probable Income: This should outline the anticipated revenues from farming activities based on previous records and market analysis.
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Distribution of Funds Over the Period of the Budget: A well-defined plan for how funds will be allocated to various expenses throughout the farming cycle.
Step 6
Compile a budget for a farm enterprise of your choice.
Answer
Farm Enterprise: Poultry Farming
(a) Heading and Timeframe:
- Type of Budget: Poultry Farming Budget
- Timeframe: One Year
(b) Content Entries:
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Item: Chickens
- Number: 100
- Unit Price: $5
- Total Price: $500
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Item: Feed
- Number: 100 bags
- Unit Price: $20
- Total Price: $2000
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Item: Vaccination
- Number: 100 doses
- Unit Price: $1
- Total Price: $100
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Item: Equipment
- Number: 1
- Unit Price: $300
- Total Price: $300
Total Budget: $2900
Step 7
Name TWO methods this farmer can use to increase the field water capacity of the soil.
Answer
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Add Organic Material: Incorporating compost or plant residues can improve soil structure and enhance its ability to retain moisture.
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Minimum Tillage: Practicing minimum tillage can help maintain soil integrity and enhance water retention capabilities.
Step 8
Describe FOUR ways to improve the soil reaction.
Answer
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Adding Dolomite Agricultural Lime: This helps to adjust soil pH towards neutral, facilitating better nutrient uptake.
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Organic Matter Addition: Introducing organic matter can improve nutrient availability and soil structure.
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Increase Magnesium Level: Raising magnesium levels in the soil can be conducive for specific crops that require higher magnesium.
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Adjust Soil pH: Efforts to maintain the soil pH between 6 and 7 can significantly improve overall soil health.
Step 9
Discuss THREE negative effects associated with the excess use of herbicides.
Answer
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Environmental Pollution: Excessive herbicide usage can contaminate water sources through runoff, adversely affecting aquatic life.
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Impact on the Food Chain: Residual chemicals in the soil and plants can disrupt ecosystems and harm both vegetation and herbivores.
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Harm to Beneficial Microorganisms: High herbicide concentrations can kill beneficial soil microorganisms vital for nutrient recycling and maintaining soil health.
Step 10
Name and discuss the negative aspects of farming practices related to the same crop on the same crop consecutively.
Answer
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Monoculture: Planting the same crop continuously can lead to soil depletion, as specific nutrients become exhausted more quickly.
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Pest and Disease Accumulation: Consistent planting of a single crop can lead to increased pest populations and disease proliferation, necessitating more chemical interventions.
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Decrease in Biodiversity: Repeated cultivation of the same crop reduces biodiversity in the farming system, making it more vulnerable to environmental changes.