agricultural systems and productivity

What are the inputs to agricultural systems?

Physical, human and economic factors that determine the type of farming

What are agricultural processes?

Activities carried out to turn inputs to outputs. Vary depending on inputs and also level of technology available

What are agricultural outputs?

Products from the farm, the crops cultivated and animals reared

What are physical environmental factors influencing agriculture?

Temperature- dictates length of growing season

Precipitation- important factor in determining water supply. Seasonal distribution very important

Wind and storm frequency

Soil quality

Relief variables

How does soil quality influence agriculture?

Fundamental to successful agriculture, determined by factors such as depth, texture, structure, mineral content, pH, aeration, capacity to retain water and vulnerability to leaching

What is arable farming?

Farming of cereal and root crops

Give an example of Arable farming?

Potato, Tyrell’s crisps, hand fried brand or crisps which sold for £40 million

What is pastoral farming?

Involves livestock rearing and can be subsistence

Give an example of pastoral farming

South American Pampas, thrive in the temperate climate

What is mixed farming?

Both arable crops and livestock, commercially sensible in allowing flexibility

What is intensive farming?

High investment in labour and or capital such as machinery, glasshouses and irrigation systems. Produces high yields per hectare often from small areas of land.

What is commercial farming?

Typically involves farmers and agribusiness maximising profits by specialising in single crops or raising one type of animal. Often high investment of capital into land, contractors

What is subsistence farming?

Involves the direct production of sufficient food to feed the family or community involved, with any excess produce sold or bartered

What is extensive farming?

Uses low inputs of labour, machinery and capital but involves large areas of land, yields per hectare are consequently low. Opposite of intensive farming