(a) Define the term farmstead. (b) List four factors to be considered in planning a farmstead. (c) Explain the importance of the factors listed in (b) above. (d) Give two reasons for planning a farmstead.
Explanation
(a) Farmstead: This can be defined as farm house and all production and processing structures.
(b) Factors to Consider in Planning a Farmstead: (i) Topography (ii) Soil type (iii) Accessibility (iv) Health/Hygiene (v) Water supply (vi) Nearness to market (vii) Drainage.
(c) Importance of: Topography: (i) Living quarters should be located on the highest elevation - to provide good view of the farm. (ii)Animal quarters to be located far from the living quarters. (iii) Locate crops such as vegetables on low lying areas where moisture content is high. (iv) Fish ponds are located on slopy grounds. (v) Irrigation farms are best sited on flat grounds. Soil Type: (i) Crop farms are sited on soils that are fertile. (ii) Pastures on less fertile soils. (iii) Farm building and structures are best located on poor soils. (iv) Farrn roads are best constructed on well drained poor soil.
Accessibility: (i) Locate facilities within walking distance. (ii) To facilitate the transportation of farm inputs. (iii) For evacuation of farm produce. (iv) Good accessibility makes marketing of farm produce possible.
Water Supply: (i) Adequate water supply is needed for human and animal use. (ii) Livestock structures are located close to source of water supply for easy cleaning. (iii) Water is required for irrigation purposes.
Health/Hygiene: (i) Erect livestock units against wind direction. (ii) Locate animal units far away from the dwelling houses to avoid health hazards.
Nearess to Market: (i) Reduces distribution/transport cost. (ii) Exposes products to many buyers. (iii) Reduces the need for farm storage facilities.
Drainage (i) Adequate drainage is important to avoid water logging. (ii) Gentle slope facilitates proper drainage. (iii) Good drainage makes movement easier within the farm.
(d) Reasons for Planning Farmstead: (i) Allows for proper utilisation of resources without wastage. (ii) Makes the farmer to be more responsive to market demand. (iii) Encourages efficiency of farm activities. (iv) It makes coordination and control of farm operations easier.