(a)(i) Explain the term farm surveying. [2 marks] (ii) State four reasons why farm surveying is important [4 marks] (b) Enumerate six problems facing agricu...

(a)(i) Farm surveying

Farm surveying is the process of measuring and mapping out a piece of farmland to determine its size, shape, boundaries, position and the relative levels of points on it, so that a plan of the farm can be drawn.

(a)(ii) Four reasons why farm surveying is important

• It shows the exact size, shape and boundaries of the farmland.
• It helps in proper planning and layout of the farm, structures and roads.
• It helps to settle boundary disputes and provides proof of ownership.
• It helps in determining the slope of the land for drainage, irrigation and erosion control.

(b) Six problems facing agricultural development in West Africa

• Inadequate capital and poor access to credit.
• Use of crude/simple tools and low level of mechanisation.
• Poor storage, processing and transportation (marketing) facilities.
• Land tenure problems that limit access to large farmland.
• Pests, diseases and unfavourable/unreliable weather.
• Inadequate improved inputs (seeds, fertilizer) and poor extension services.
• (Also: illiteracy of farmers and rural-urban migration of youths.)

(c) Four factors that affect the efficiency of draught animals

• The health and physical condition of the animal.
• The age and breed/size of the animal.
• The feeding and nutrition of the animal.
• The nature/type of the soil and the load or implement being pulled.
• (Also: the weather/temperature and how well the animal is trained.)