Discuss at least two differences occurring in these two photos

Types of Farming

AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES CAN BE DIVIDED IN TWO WAYS: 1. Type of Farming 2. Farming Practices

FARMING CAN BE DESCRIBED AS DIRECTED TOWARD EITHER SUBSISTENCE OR CASH-CROPPING

Subsistence Farming: Subsistence farmers grow crops and raise livestock to meet the immediate food needs of their families Produce many different agricultural products, often on small farms Any surplus production may be sold or traded to meet the family’s other needs This is the dominant form of agriculture in developing countries

Cash-Crop Farming: Cash-Crop farmers’ produce is sold in local and world markets Very large farms They may not use any of the products they grow or raise This is the dominant form of agriculture in more developed countries

Farming practices can be described as either intensive or extensive:

Intensive Agriculture: Involves farming a small amount of land in a concentrated fashion Uses large amounts of labour and capital The application of chemical fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides

Intensive Agriculture (cont...) The purchase and maintenance of planting, cultivating, and harvesting machinery Produces high crop yields per unit of land Typical forms of intensive farming include: fruit and vegetable growing, vineyards, livestock feedlots, hog factory farms

Extensive Agriculture: Uses large amounts of land with limited amounts of labour and capital The crop yields depend primarily on natural soil fertility, terrain, climate, and the availability of water Produces low crop yields per unit of land Examples include grain and oil-seed farming, ranching, and most forms of mixed farming

INTENSIVE SUBSISTENCE FARMING CASH-CROP FARMING EXTENSIVE

Organic Farming Organic farming uses no synthetic chemicals or fertilizers. The farmer relies on crop rotation and tillage to maintain weeds and build up organic matter. It is limited in the types of crops grown, which are mainly cereals. The soil may take on a physical difference after several years of organic farming. It has more organic matter in it and particles adhere more. As a result, there is less silt and erosion is minimal. Farmers also claim that the profit margin is quite good.