CGU4U1~ World Geography: Human Patterns and Interactions

Kopyto

AGRICULTURE

KI 4: Challenges for Farmers

“It’s the same problem but for different reasons.”

Text p. 351 - 360

COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURE

1.  Why is it difficult for commercial farmers to make a good income? Give an example.

2.  Food supply ______and demand is ______.

3.  What three policies does the US government have in place to avoid excess production?

4.  How much did the US spend in 2005 on farm subsidies?

5.  How does Europe compare with the US regarding farm subsidies?

SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

6.  What is sustainable agriculture?

7.  What does the term ‘organic’ mean?

8.  How much of US land complies with organic standards?

9.  What was the percentage of World farmland was certified organic?

10.  What country is the leader in organic agriculture?

11.  What are the three principal practices that differentiate sustainable agriculture from conventional? Briefly explain each.

12.  What are the two main challenges facing subsistence farmers?

13.  Explain the Boserup thesis.

14.  What two ways do farmers intensify land production?

15.  How do LDCs manage to provide export crops?

STRATGIES TO INCREASE FOOD SUPPLY

16.  Complete the chart:

Strategy / Challenges
Expand land area for agricultural use
Higher productivity
Identify new food sources
Increase exports from other countries

AFRICA

17.  Which areas suffer the most in Africa regarding agricultural production?

18.  Should African governments change their agricultural policies? Explain.

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