Leaving Cert Agricultural Science Grassland: Draw a labelled diagram of a pad

Draw a labelled diagram of a paddock grazing system - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question a - 2018

Question a

Draw a labelled diagram of a paddock grazing system. State one advantage of a paddock grazing system. State one disadvantage of a paddock grazing system. Describe t... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Draw a labelled diagram of a paddock grazing system - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question a - 2018

Step 1

Draw a labelled diagram of a paddock grazing system.

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Answer

To illustrate a paddock grazing system, draw multiple paddocks (at least 10) arranged around a central road or pathway. Include labels for:

Water supply
Fencing
Gates
Direction of movement of livestock
Re-growth of grass
Indication of paddock resting periods
Movement patterns of livestock. This representation shows effective management and grazing techniques.

Step 2

State one advantage of a paddock grazing system.

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Answer

One advantage of a paddock grazing system is that it allows for controlled grazing, which can help in preventing overgrazing. This system can improve grass health and yield by allowing pastures to recover and re-grow.

Step 3

State one disadvantage of a paddock grazing system.

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Answer

A disadvantage of a paddock grazing system is the potential high initial cost of setting up multiple paddocks and the requirement of a reliable water supply and fencing for each paddock.

Step 4

Describe three steps involved in making good quality hay, and give the reason for each step.

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Answer

Use good grass variety (e.g., PRG): Selecting a high-quality grass variety ensures better nutritional value for hay.
Dry hay in good weather: Making hay in dry conditions prevents spoilage and retains quality.
Store hay under cover: Keeping hay dry and away from moisture helps prevent mold and maintains its quality.

Step 5

State how a farmer can ensure the production of good quality silage.

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Answer

A farmer can ensure the production of good quality silage by using high-quality grass and harvesting it at the right time, ideally when the grass is at an early growth stage. Proper packing and sealing of silage are essential to avoid exposure to air, which can lead to spoilage.

Step 6

List three simple tests a farmer can carry out to determine the quality of silage, and state the purpose of each test.

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Answer

Leaf-to-stem ratio test: A higher ratio indicates better quality, as it signifies more leaf matter compared to stems.
Squeeze test: Assessing the moisture content helps determine if the silage is suitable for storage; ideal moisture keeps it from spoiling.
Smell test: A good quality silage emits a sweet, fermented smell; an off odor indicates potential spoilage.

Draw a labelled diagram of a paddock grazing system - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question a - 2018

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Draw a labelled diagram of a paddock grazing system - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question a - 2018

Draw a labelled diagram of a paddock grazing system.

State one advantage of a paddock grazing system.

State one disadvantage of a paddock grazing system.

Describe three steps involved in making good quality hay, and give the reason for each step.

State how a farmer can ensure the production of good quality silage.

List three simple tests a farmer can carry out to determine the quality of silage, and state the purpose of each test.

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