Photo AI
2.1 Farm land is a valuable asset to the farmer - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 2
2.1 Farm land is a valuable asset to the farmer. 2.1.1 Explain what it means when the value of farm land increases. 2.1.2 Explain what it means when the value of f... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2.1 Farm land is a valuable asset to the farmer - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain what it means when the value of farm land increases.
Answer
When the value of farm land increases, it generally signifies that the land has become a more valuable asset for farmers. This can occur due to investments made in fixed assets on the farm such as cultivation practices, grazing improvements, or better water management. Additionally, the condition of the land, including soil quality and health, may improve, resulting in increased net worth. Over time, as both supply and demand fluctuate, the land's value may appreciate due to its inherent characteristics, making it more desirable for agricultural production.
Step 2
Explain what it means when the value of farm land decreases.
Answer
A decrease in the value of farm land can occur for several reasons. Poor management practices, such as inadequate cultivation or ineffective water usage, can lead to a decline in land productivity. Additionally, if the condition of the soil deteriorates, the value may drop due to insufficient development or nutrient retention. This can stem from neglect or a lack of necessary assets, leading to reduced fertility and lower crop yields, ultimately reflecting a decline in the land's worth.
Step 3
Explain what it means when workers are productive.
Answer
Productivity among workers refers to their ability to efficiently transform inputs into outputs in the agricultural context. A productive worker is one who maximizes the use of their skills and time to achieve optimal results in farm operations, whether through faster planting, effective harvesting, or managing livestock. Productivity can also be quantified through metrics such as the output per hour worked or the efficiency of resource utilization.
Step 4
Describe possible reasons why absenteeism leads to a decrease in productivity.
Answer
Absenteeism can significantly impact productivity for several reasons. When workers are frequently absent, it can create gaps in required labor, which leads to tasks being left undone. This situation may escalate if additional time and resources must be allocated for training new or temporary workers. Additionally, regularly absent workers may lead to increased workloads for those who are present, resulting in fatigue and stress, further compounding the issue of decreased overall productivity.
Step 5
Discuss ways in which the farmer can help workers to stay healthy.
Answer
Farmers can implement several strategies to help maintain the health of their workers. Ensuring access to proper healthcare services, such as regular medical check-ups or providing health insurance plans, is crucial. Educating workers about health issues, diseases prevention, and nutrition can foster a healthier workplace. Moreover, enhancing working conditions by implementing safety measures and promoting work-life balance can reduce stress and fatigue, leading to improved well-being among workers.
Step 6
Describe the principles that must be considered to make a grazing camp suitable for animal production.
Answer
To ensure a grazing camp is effective for animal production, several principles must be followed: animals need adequate shade and shelter to protect them from extreme weather; access to clean and fresh drinking water is essential; careful consideration of topography and environmental conditions helps in managing grazing patterns; ensuring sufficient food supply tailored to the specific needs of the animals; and maintaining safety by avoiding areas with poisonous plants.
Step 7
State THREE disadvantages of a plough pan (plough sole).
Answer
- A plough pan can lead to shallow root development, as plant roots struggle to penetrate the compacted layer of soil.
- It can result in poor water drainage, causing water to accumulate on the surface and potentially fostering disease in crops.
- Soils affected by a plough pan often yield lower agricultural outputs due to limited nutrient availability and restricted growth conditions.
Step 8
Describe how the farmer can solve the problem in QUESTION 2.4.1.
Answer
Farmers can address the issue of a plough pan by employing deep tillage practices to break up the compacted soil layer. Utilizing specific implements, such as rippers or subsoilers, can help to aerate the soil and allow roots greater opportunity to expand. Additionally, alternating row crops may aid in maintaining soil health and reducing the buildup of a compacted layer over time.
Step 9
Distinguish between the different farming methods.
Answer
| INPUT: Labour | INPUT: Land | OUTPUT: |
|---|---|---|
| Intensive Farming | more/high | low/small |
| Extensive Farming | less/low | high/big/more |
| Intensive farming typically requires more labor and capital investment, leading to higher outputs within smaller areas of land, whereas extensive farming relies on larger land areas with comparatively less labor input, yielding less per unit area. |
Step 10
Explain EACH of the following concepts and its aim within precision crop farming.
Answer
2.7.1 GPS: GPS (Global Positioning System) pinpoints precise locations on Earth, enabling farmers to efficiently manage fields and crop yields.
2.7.2 GIS: GIS (Geographic Information System) processes various inputs and helps in analyzing land use, thereby supporting informed decision-making related to farming practices.
2.7.3 VRT: VRT (Variable Rate Technology) utilizes data-driven applications to optimize field inputs like fertilizers and water, making farming more efficient and sustainable.
Step 11
Study the implements below and classify them as either primary or secondary implements.
Answer
Based on typical agricultural implement classifications:
- IMPLEMENT A: Secondary
- IMPLEMENT B: Primary
- IMPLEMENT C: Primary Primary implements are often used for deeper soil cultivation, while secondary implements typically prepare or refine the soil's surface after primary tillage.
Step 12
State THREE disadvantages of the use of implements.
Answer
- Implements can be costly to acquire and maintain, impacting the overall budget of farming operations.
- They require skilled operators, which may lead to labor shortages or increase training costs.
- Over-reliance on implements can lead to soil compaction, reducing overall soil health and productivity.
Step 13
Name FOUR aspects that must be considered when purchasing farming implements and farming equipment.
Answer
- Cost of purchasing the implement or equipment, ensuring it fits the budget.
- Quality of the implement to withstand rigorous field conditions.
- Compatibility with existing machinery to avoid additional investment.
- Effectiveness and capacity - ensuring the equipment meets the specific farming requirements.
Step 14
Explain how starting an agritourism branch on a farm can reduce risks associated with commercial farming.
Answer
Starting an agritourism branch allows farmers to diversify their income sources beyond traditional yields. This can buffer against market volatility by generating revenue through tourism-related activities. Additionally, agritourism can promote community engagement and increase consumer awareness of farm practices, fostering loyalty and support. Such initiatives can create a direct market for products, reducing reliance on fluctuating commodity prices.