2.1 Farm land is a valuable asset to the farmer - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 1

A decrease in the value of farm land indicates a reduction in the worth of the farmer's assets. This could be due to poor management, adverse weather conditions affecting crop yields, or pests degrading soil quality. Such decreases can also stem from the depreciation of fixed assets associated with farming.

Productive workers efficiently transform inputs into outputs, thereby enhancing farm productivity. This can be quantified using productivity metrics, where productivity is defined as the ratio of output (such as crop yield) to input (like labor hours).

Absenteeism can lead to decreased productivity due to several factors. For instance, when a worker is absent, their tasks may remain unperformed, directly impacting overall output. Additionally, training new or temp workers often requires time and resources, which further strains productivity. The cumulative effect may lead to a negative work environment.

Farmers can promote worker health by providing access to medical facilities and ensuring a safe work environment. Implementing regular health check-ups and wellness programs can also reduce illness. Furthermore, educating workers about nutrition and physical well-being, along with offering incentives for maintaining health, will help sustain worker productivity.

A suitable grazing camp must provide adequate shade and shelter for animals, ensuring that clean and fresh drinking water is always available. The camp design should also consider appropriate topography and natural barriers to restrict livestock movement, preventing overgrazing and ensuring sustainability.

1. A plough pan can hinder water infiltration, leading to poor drainage.
2. It restricts root development of crops, reducing nutrient uptake.
3. Soil erosion can occur if the plough pan disrupts the natural soil structure, leading to diminished agricultural productivity.

To resolve issues related to a plough pan, the farmer can utilize deep tillage methods with a ripper to break up compacted layers in the soil. Additionally, crop rotation with deep-rooted crops can help penetrate the plough pan, facilitating soil aeration and moisture retention.

2.7.1 GPS: Global Positioning System provides precise geographical locations, allowing farmers to optimize field activities.

2.7.2 GIS: Geographic Information System processes spatial data, enabling effective farm management.

2.7.3 VRT: Variable Rate Technology utilizes data for applying inputs (fertilizers, seeds) at variable rates across fields.

1. The cost of purchasing and maintaining implements can be significant.
2. Implements require skilled personnel for operation, increasing labor complexity.
3. Breakdowns can lead to delays in farming operations, affecting productivity.

1. Cost of procuring the implement.
2. Quality and durability of the equipment.
3. Suitability for specific farming needs and conditions.
4. Availability of service and spare parts for maintenance.

Launching an agritourism branch diversifies income sources, thereby buffering the farm against market fluctuations. It also provides educational opportunities and promotes direct sales, creating a stable cash flow that can mitigate the financial impacts of poor harvests or other agricultural risks.