Topic 7

Spatial Organization of Agriculture

How farming activities are arranged across space based on economic and environmental factors

Subsistence Agriculture

Farming mainly for the farmer’s family with little surplus for sale

Commercial Agriculture

Farming primarily for sale in the market

Key Difference Subsistence vs Commercial

Subsistence focuses on survival, commercial focuses on profit

Plantation

A large commercial farm found mostly in the tropics that grows one or two crops

Plantation Crops

Sugar, coffee, cotton, cocoa, and rubber

Mixed Crop and Livestock Farming

System where crops and animals are raised together

Advantages of Mixed Farming

Reduces risk and provides multiple sources of income

Dairy Farming

A commercial agriculture practice focused on milk and dairy products

Location of Dairy Farming

Near urban areas due to perishability of milk

Grain Farming

Large-scale commercial farming of grains like wheat and corn

Location of Grain Farming

Mid-latitude regions with flat land

Livestock Ranching

Raising animals on large areas of land

Location of Livestock Ranching

Dry regions where crop farming is difficult

Mediterranean Agriculture

Farming adapted to hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters

Mediterranean Crops

Olives, grapes, citrus fruits, and vegetables

Agricultural Location Factors

Climate, soil, market access, and transportation

Technological Influence

Technology allows farming in less favorable environments

AP Exam Tip

Be able to compare agricultural practices and explain their spatial patterns