Large Scale Farming: Characteristics and Importance

Large scale farming is a system of agriculture where crops are grown or animals are raised on a very large area of land mainly for sale and profit. It is also known as commercial agriculture because the main aim is to produce food and raw materials for the market, not just for family use.

In many countries, including Nigeria, large scale farming plays an important role in feeding the population and supporting the economy. Unlike small farms that use simple tools and family labour, large scale farming uses modern machines, improved seeds, chemicals, and skilled workers to produce large quantities of food.

This type of farming is common in developed countries, but it is also growing in developing countries due to increased demand for food and industrial raw materials.

Meaning and Characteristics of Large Scale Farming

Large scale farming refers to agricultural production carried out on a wide area of land using modern technology, hired labour, and large capital investment for commercial purposes.

Characteristics of Large Scale Farming

• Large land size:
  Large scale commercial farm is done on extensive land areas that may cover several hectares. This allows farmers to produce crops or rear animals in large quantities.
• Use of machines:
  Modern machines such as tractors, harvesters, planters, and irrigation systems are used instead of simple tools like hoes and cutlasses.
• High capital investment:
  A lot of money is required to start and maintain large scale farming. Farmers spend money on land, machinery, seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and labour.
• Use of hired labour:
  Workers are employed to carry out different farm activities such as planting, weeding, harvesting, and processing.
• Production for sale:
  The main aim is to produce food and raw materials for sale in local and international markets.
• Use of improved technology:
  Farmers use improved seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and scientific methods to increase production.
• Specialization:
  Farmers may focus on one type of crop or animal, for example, only rice farming or poultry farming.
• Efficient management:
  Large farms are well organized and managed like businesses, with proper planning and record keeping.

Types of Large Scale Farming

There are different types of Large scale commercial farms depending on what is produced and how it is managed.

1. Arable farming: involves the large-scale cultivation of crops such as maize, rice, wheat, and cassava. Crops are grown in large quantities mainly for sale.
2. Pastoral farming: involves the rearing of animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats on a large scale. It focuses on livestock production.
3. Mixed farming: is a type of farming where both crops and animals are produced on the same farm. This helps farmers make better use of resources.
4. Plantation farming: involves growing a single crop like cocoa, oil palm, rubber, or tea on a large area of land. It is mainly for export and commercial purposes.
5. Mechanized farming: uses modern machines such as tractors, planters, and harvesters to carry out farming activities on a large scale.
6. Commercial farming: is done mainly for profit. Crops and animals are produced in large quantities for sale in markets and industries.
7. Intensive farming: involves using a lot of labour, capital, and inputs to get high yield from a large farm.
8. Extensive farming: involves using large areas of land with less labour and inputs. Yield per area may be lower, but total production is high due to the size of the land.
9. Dairy farming: involves the rearing of cattle mainly for milk production on a large scale.

Importance of Large Scale Farming

Large scale commercial farm is very important to individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.

• Increases food production:
  It helps to produce large quantities of food to feed the growing population.
• Creates employment:
  Many people get jobs as farm workers, machine operators, managers, and marketers.
• Provides raw materials for industries
  Crops like cotton, cocoa, and oil palm are used in industries to produce goods.
• Generates income for farmers:
  Farmers earn money from selling their products in local and international markets.
• Promotes export:
  Agricultural products are exported to other countries, bringing in foreign exchange.
• Improves standard of living
  Income from farming helps people live better lives.
• Encourages development of rural areas:
  Roads, electricity, and other facilities are developed in farming communities.
• Supports government revenue:
  Taxes and export duties from agricultural products contribute to national income.

Challenges of Large Scale Farming

Despite its advantages, Large scale agriculture also faces many challenges.

• High cost of operation:
  Machines, fertilizers, chemicals, and labour are very expensive.
• Unpredictable weather:
  Drought, floods, and irregular rainfall can affect production.
• Pest and disease attack:
  Crops and animals can be destroyed by pests and diseases.
• Market problems:
  Fluctuation in prices can reduce farmers’ profits.
• Environmental problems:
  Overuse of chemicals can damage soil and water.
• Lack of skilled labour:
  Skilled workers are needed to operate machines and manage farms.
• Poor storage and transportation:
  Lack of good storage facilities can lead to spoilage of produce.
• Government policies:
  Changes in government policies can affect farming activities.

Difference between Large Scale and Small Scale Farming

Large Scale Farming	Small Scale Farming
Done on large land areas	Done on small land areas
Uses machines	Uses simple tools
Requires high capital	Requires low capital
Uses hired labour	Uses family labour
Produces for sale	Produces for family use and small sales
Uses modern technology	Uses traditional methods
High output	Low output
Well organized	Less organized

Summary

Large scale agriculture, also known as commercial agriculture, is an important part of modern agriculture. It involves the use of large land, machines, and capital to produce food and raw materials mainly for sale. There are different types such as plantation farming, livestock farming, and mixed farming.

This system of farming helps to increase food production, create jobs, and support the economy. However, it also faces challenges like high cost, pests, and environmental issues.

Students should understand how large scale agriculture works and why it is important. With proper management and government support, Large scale commercial farm can continue to improve food supply and economic development in many countries.

Revision Questions

1. What is large scale agriculture and why is it also called commercial agriculture?
2. List and explain four characteristics of large scale farming.
3. Mention five types of large scale agriculture and give one example each.
4. State five importance of large scale farm to a country.
5. Differentiate between large scale farming and small scale farming.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

1. What is large scale farming?
   Large scale commercial is the production of crops or rearing of animals on a large area of land mainly for sale and profit.
2. Why is it called commercial agriculture?
   It is called commercial agriculture because the products are mainly produced for sale in markets, not just for family use.
3. What machines are used in large scale farming?
   Machines like tractors, harvesters, planters, and irrigation equipment are commonly used.
4. What are examples of large scale farming?
   Examples include plantation farming, commercial grain farming, livestock farming, dairy farming, and mixed farming.
5. What is the main aim of large scale agriculture?
   The main aim is to produce large quantities of food and raw materials for sale and profit.
6. What are the advantages of large scale farming?
   It increases food production, creates jobs, provides raw materials for industries, and supports the economy.
7. What problems do large scale farmers face?
   They face challenges like high cost of operation, pests and diseases, poor weather conditions, and market price fluctuations.
8. How is large scale farming different from small scale farming?
   Large scale agriculture uses large land, machines, and high capital for commercial purposes, while small scale farming uses small land, simple tools, and is mainly for family use.

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