2.1 Name FOUR functions of soil in crop production - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1

Contour ploughing helps prevent soil erosion by following the natural contours of the land. This technique minimizes runoff and allows water to soak into the soil rather than flowing over the surface, which reduces soil erosion potential.

Contour ploughing involves creating ridges or furrows along the contour lines of the land. This practice allows for the effective channeling of surface water by directing it into specific waterways and holding it on the fields, which assists in reducing soil erosion and supports water accumulation for storage in dams.

Contour ploughing involves ploughing along the contours of the land to reduce water runoff while maintaining the slope's natural shape. In contrast, terracing involves reshaping the land into flat levels or steps to create flat surfaces on a slope, which helps in managing water overflow and prevents soil erosion.

Greyish clay soil has moderate drainage capabilities due to its fine texture, which may lead to slower water infiltration. However, its capacity to retain moisture is beneficial for crops, although excessive water can lead to temporary waterlogging.

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14 and indicates the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. A pH of 7 indicates neutrality, while a pH of 7.8 suggests that the soil is slightly alkaline which can be beneficial for certain crops, as it indicates a balanced nutrient availability.

To improve the pH of the soil, one can add gypsum or agricultural lime (calcium carbonate) which helps in reducing acidity and balancing the soil's pH.

The young farmer should consider:

1. Reducing Tillage: Implementing no-till or reduced-till farming practices to minimize soil disruption and improve soil structure.

2. Cover Crops: Planting cover crops during the off-season to enhance soil fertility and reduce erosion.

3. Organic Matter: Adding organic matter such as compost to improve soil health, moisture retention, and nutrient availability.

Fair labour practices ensure that workers are not overburdened and can perform their tasks effectively. When workers feel valued and are working in safe conditions, they are more likely to efficiently determine optimal locations for buildings and facilities, enhancing productivity and sustainability.

The different types of capital in a farming venture include:

1. Fixed Capital: e.g., buildings and dams
2. Working Capital: e.g., livestock, implements, equipment
3. Financial Capital: e.g., cash reserves for operations
4. Human Capital: e.g., skills and labor of the workers.

The farming methods represented are:

• A: Semi-intensive production
• B: Extensive production/Free range
• C: Intensive production

Labour requirements and technological dependence:

(a) Labour Requirements: Method B (Extensive) has low labour requirements, while Method C (Intensive) requires high labour input.

(b) Dependence on Technology: Method B relies on minimal technology, whereas Method C heavily depends on advanced technology.

Method A (Semi-intensive production) can be regarded as organic farming as it generally emphasizes natural processes, less use of synthetic chemicals, and focuses on animal welfare.

GIS (Geographic Information Systems) is a type of precision farming technology that can assist in dividing natural veld into camps by providing spatial data and mapping capabilities.

A suitable camp for animal production requires:

1. Adequate Water Supply: Clean and fresh drinking water must be available.
2. Forage Accessibility: The camp should have enough palatable fodder for grazing animals.
3. Proper Topography: The landscape should support efficient movement of the animals and include adequate grazing areas.

A stock farmer can use GPS tracking devices and remote cameras to monitor animal locations and movements. Automated systems like geo-fences can send alerts if animals stray outside designated areas, ensuring effective management without constant human oversight.

2.8.1 Maintenance budget 2.8.2 Cash flow budget 2.8.3 Whole farm budget 2.8.4 Partial budget 2.8.5 Enterprise budget

This statement is not true because:

1. Dynamic Nature of Operations: Budgets should be constantly updated as operational conditions and expenses change.

2. Performance Tracking: Ongoing monitoring allows farmers to measure progress and adjust as needed.

3. Corrective Actions: Regular updates help in identifying variances, allowing for timely corrective actions and improved financial planning.