Water is the single most important substance for any living being - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1

1. Rainfall intensity and duration: The amount and length of time rainfall occurs can affect how much water actually penetrates the soil.

2. Tempo of evaporation: Areas with high evaporation rates may lose much of the rain before it can be absorbed by the soil.

3. Soil condition: The texture and moisture-retaining capacity of the soil will influence the effectiveness of rainfall.

4. Topography: The slope of the land can affect water runoff and how much is absorbed.

Trampling by livestock reduces the availability of feed by compacting the soil and damaging plants. This leads to decreased plant growth and can lower the overall carrying capacity of a camp, as fewer animals can be supported if feed resources are diminished.

1. Give extra feed to animals: Supplementary feeding can help ensure that lactating cows have adequate nutrition.

2. Remove animals earlier: Early weaning of calves might be necessary to reduce the feed demand during periods of low availability.

The agricultural term for the relationship shown in the graph is the Law of Diminishing Returns.

Marginal yield refers to the additional income obtained from the incremental increase in inputs. Specifically, it is the increase in output resulting from the use of one more unit of input, which can be represented as the change in yield per unit increase in fertiliser applied.

Point A on the graph signifies a point where the increase in inputs does not result in a corresponding increase in profitable income. Beyond this point, further increases in fertiliser lead to smaller increments in yield or could potentially result in losses due to the costs of additional inputs exceeding the gains in output.

2.4.1 G

2.4.2 F

2.4.3 A

2.4.4 E

1. Production capital: This is capital that is obtained through the sale of goods, ensuring that the farm has the necessary cash flow.

2. Savings: Farmers can save money from previous seasons, which can then be reinvested into the farm.

1. Capital is scarce: In many cases, farmers may struggle to obtain the necessary financial resources.

2. Capital is expensive: High-interest rates can make borrowing costly for farmers.

3. Additional requirements for capital: Often, farmers may lack the necessary collateral or credit history to secure loans.

Conventional planters typically have a lower cost compared to no-till planters.

Conventional planters incur higher cultivation costs compared to no-till planters.

Conventional planters require less traction and smaller tractors, while no-till planters need greater pull from bigger tractors.

1. Droplet size: The size of the droplets affects how far they travel and how they interact with wind.

2. Wind speed: Greater wind speeds can carry spray away from the target area.

3. Applicator height from crop: The height at which the spray is applied can impact its efficacy and drift.

1. Low returns on high development costs: Agritourism initiatives often require significant upfront investment for limited return.

2. Lack of essential skills: Many farmers may lack expertise in hospitality or marketing, which are crucial for successful agritourism.

3. Poor infrastructure: Insufficient roads, services, and facilities can deter potential visitors.

1. Small market segment: Niche markets typically focus on a specific, smaller audience with distinct needs.

2. Targeted clients: Businesses tailor their products or services to meet the particular desires of their niche clientele.

3. Higher price range: Products in niche markets often command a premium price due to their specialized nature.

1. Price in relation to a new one: Compare the cost of the second-hand implement to a new one.

2. Condition of the implement: Ensure the used implement is still functional and not overly worn.

3. Possible expansion: Consider if the implement can accommodate potential future improvements or expansions in farm operations.