Back to: Jss1 Agricultural Science (PVS)

Factors of Production

The creation of output from input is referred to as production. The factors of production are the resources or inputs that are used in the production of goods and services. There are traditionally four factors of production:

1. Land: This includes all natural resources such as forests, oil and gas reserves, water bodies, and mineral deposits.
2. Labor: This refers to the human effort and skills that are required for the production of goods and services.
3. Capital: This includes all the physical tools, machinery, and equipment that are used to produce goods and services.
4. Entrepreneurship: This refers to the ability to organize and manage resources effectively in order to create a successful business.

Factor  of Production (Land) 

Land is a vital factor of production and pertains to the area where productive activities such as cultivation of crops, raising of animals and construction of farmsteads are conducted. It is considered the most significant asset of any farmer, and its proper utilization is critical to the success of agricultural production.

 Land for agricultural production can be acquired in the following ways

1. Purchase: This involves buying the land outright and assuming full ownership. It is a common way of acquiring land, and it gives the buyer complete control and decision-making power over the land. The buyer becomes responsible for all taxes, fees, and maintenance associated with the land. Purchasing land can be expensive, and the buyer may need to obtain financing to complete the transaction.
2. Lease/Rent: This refers to paying the landowner (individual or government) a stipulated amount of money to gain access to using the land for a specified period. The lease/rental agreement outlines the terms of use, such as the duration of the lease, the payment schedule, and any restrictions on the use of the land. This method allows the user to access the land without the financial burden of purchasing it outright. However, the user may not have full control over the land and may be subject to restrictions imposed by the landowner.
3. Gift: This is the voluntary transfer of land ownership from one party to another without the expectation of compensation. A gift can be made during the lifetime of the giver or after their death through a will. This method of acquiring land is a generous act and may be subject to tax implications.
4. Inheritance: This involves acquiring land ownership after the death of the previous owner, who may have passed on the land through a will or without one. The heir or heirs become the new owners of the land and may assume any tax, fee, or maintenance obligations associated with the land. Inheritance can be a complicated process, especially if there are multiple heirs or if the will is contested.

The availability of land for agricultural practices is largely influenced by a variety of factors, some of which are listed below:

1. Population Growth: Land is a limited resource that cannot be increased within a geographical area. As the population grows, the availability of land for agriculture decreases, and this can lead to higher competition for land and decreased productivity.
2. Land Tenure System: The way in which land is acquired and distributed can have a significant impact on agricultural practices. For instance, if land is held by a few individuals or corporations, it may be difficult for small-scale farmers to access land.
3. Topography: The physical features of the land, such as its slope, elevation, and soil characteristics, can impact agricultural productivity. For example, areas with steep slopes may be more difficult to cultivate, while areas with poor soil fertility may require more inputs to produce crops.
4. Ecological and Fertility Status of the Soil: The fertility and health of the soil can have a significant impact on agricultural productivity. Factors such as soil acidity, nutrient content, and organic matter content can affect crop growth and yield.
5. Economic Factors: Economic considerations such as the cost of land, availability of capital, and cost of cultivation can influence agricultural practices. For instance, if the cost of land is high, farmers may be less likely to invest in agricultural production.
6. Socio-cultural Factors: Traditional and religious beliefs can also impact agricultural practices. For example, some cultures may have certain taboos or restrictions on the use of particular crops or animals.
7. Climatic Factors: Climate conditions such as rainfall, temperature, and humidity can affect agricultural productivity. Areas with unpredictable weather patterns or extreme conditions may be less conducive to agricultural practices.

Characteristics of Land

The land is a crucial factor of production in the economy and it has some essential characteristics which differentiate it from other factors of production. Here are ten characteristics of land:

1. Limited Supply: The quantity of land on the earth’s surface is finite, and it cannot be created artificially. Thus, land is a scarce resource, and its supply is fixed.
2. Heterogeneous: All the lands are not identical in terms of their fertility, location, and suitability for specific purposes. Each piece of land differs from others in terms of natural resources, climate, soil quality, and topography.
3. Immobility: Land is immobile, and it cannot be shifted from one place to another. Unlike labour and capital, which can be relocated from one country or region to another, land cannot be moved to another location.
4. Indestructibility: Land is indestructible and can last indefinitely. It cannot be destroyed or used up entirely like other factors of production.
5. Interdependence: Land is interdependent on other factors of production, such as labor and capital, for its optimum utilization. For example, a piece of land may require labor and capital inputs to produce crops or build structures.
6. Utility: Land has utility value, which means it can be used to produce goods and services, such as agriculture, forestry, mining, and construction.
7. Durability: Land is durable, which means its value remains stable over time. Unlike capital goods, which depreciate over time, land maintains its value, and in some cases, its value may increase.
8. Rent: Land generates rent, which is a payment made by the tenant to the landowner for the use of the land. Rent is determined by the location, quality, and productivity of the land.
9. Public goods: Some types of land, such as parks, beaches, and wildlife reserves, provide public goods and services that are not directly related to economic production but have important social and environmental benefits.
10. Natural Resource Base: Land is a source of natural resources, such as minerals, water, forests, and wildlife, which are essential inputs for many economic activities. The sustainable management of these natural resources is crucial for the long-term survival of human societies.

USES OF LAND

Land uses is broadly divided into two:

AGRICULTURAL USES OF LAND

There are many different ways in which farmers and agriculture make use of land. Here are common uses of land in agriculture:

1. Crop production: The most common use of land in agriculture is to grow crops. Farmers use land to plant and cultivate crops such as wheat, corn, soybeans, rice, and many others.
2. Livestock grazing: Farmers also use land to provide grazing areas for livestock, such as cows, sheep, and goats. Grazing can take place on natural grasslands or on cultivated pastures.
3. Dairy farming: Land is used to grow crops for dairy cows, and to provide grazing areas for them. Land is also used to produce silage, hay, and other feed for the cows.
4. Poultry farming: Land is used to build chicken coops, and to provide outdoor areas for chickens to roam and forage.
5. Fish farming: Farmers use land to build fish ponds or tanks, where fish are raised and harvested for food.
6. Forestry: Land can be used to grow trees for timber, pulp, and paper production.
7. Horticulture: Farmers use land to grow fruits, vegetables, and flowers, often in greenhouses or other protected environments.
8. Beekeeping: Farmers can use land to keep bees, which are essential for pollinating crops and producing honey.
9. Hunting and trapping: Farmers can use land for hunting and trapping animals such as deer, rabbits, and squirrels.
10. Wildlife conservation: Farmers can use land for wildlife conservation, providing habitat for endangered species, and preserving natural areas for future generations.
11. Forestry: Land is used for the cultivation of trees for commercial purposes, such as timber production, paper making, and other forest products.
12. Game Reserve/Wildlife Conservation: Land is set aside for the protection and conservation of wildlife species, such as elephants, lions, and other endangered species.
13. Livestock Production: Land is used for the production of livestock, including fish farming, beekeeping, and pig farming.
14. Crop Farming: Land is used for the cultivation of crops such as wheat, corn, and vegetables, which are important for food production.
15. Collateral for Loans: Land can be used as collateral for loans, as it is an asset that can be used to secure a loan or other forms of credit.

Non-Agricultural Uses of Land

1. Residential: Land can be used for residential purposes, including the construction of houses, apartments, and other residential buildings.
2. Commercial: Land can also be used for commercial purposes, such as the construction of office buildings, shopping malls, and other commercial structures.
3. Industrial: Land can be used for industrial purposes, including the construction of factories, warehouses, and other industrial facilities.
4. Transportation: Land can be used for transportation purposes, including the construction of roads, highways, and airports.
5. Recreational: Land can be used for recreational purposes, including the construction of parks, playgrounds, and other recreational facilities.
6. Educational: Land can be used for educational purposes, including the construction of schools, colleges, and universities.
7. Health: Land can be used for health-related purposes, including the construction of hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities.
8. Religious: Land can be used for religious purposes, including the construction of temples, churches, and other religious buildings.
9. Governmental: Land can be used for governmental purposes, including the construction of government buildings, courthouses, and other public facilities.
10. Residential and commercial mixed use: Land can also be used for mixed purposes, such as the construction of buildings that combine residential and commercial spaces, providing a convenient and efficient use of land resources
11. Mining Purposes: Land is used for mining activities, such as the extraction of petroleum, gold, and other natural resources.
12. Energy: Land can be used for energy-related purposes, including the construction of wind farms, solar power plants, and other renewable energy facilities.
13. Water management: Land can be used for water management purposes, including the construction of dams, reservoirs, and other water storage facilities.
14. Waste management: Land can be used for waste management purposes, including the construction of landfills, recycling facilities, and other waste management structures.
15. Mining: Land can be used for mining purposes, including the extraction of minerals, oil, and natural gas from the earth.

Land Appreciation

1. Fallowing: Allowing farmlands to rest and rejuvenate, which helps in regaining its lost nutrients, and making it more fertile.
2. Addition of Fertilizers or Manure: Adding nutrients to the soil to increase its fertility, which in turn increases crop yield and overall land value.
3. Use of Clean and Uninfected Inputs: Planting materials such as seeds that are free of diseases or pests help in maintaining soil health and increasing land value.
4. Weeding/Clearing: Removing weeds that compete with crops for nutrients and space helps to enhance soil health, which leads to a better yield and higher land value.
5. Good and Appropriate Soil Tillage: Proper soil tillage helps in preventing soil erosion, which maintains soil quality, and ultimately increases land value.
6. Irrigation: Artificial application of water to soil helps supplement insufficient rain, which can increase crop yield and land value.
7. Good Access Roads: Properly constructed access roads enable farmers to access their farms easily, which increases land value.
8. Good Drainage: Artificial removal of excess water from soil helps to promote crop growth and increases land value.
9. Increase in Population Density: A rise in population density leads to an increase in demand for land, which results in higher land value.

Land Depreciation

1. Erosion Menace: This removes topsoil and reduces soil fertility, which ultimately leads to a decline in land value.
2. Infestation by Weeds: Weeds compete with crops for nutrients and space, reducing crop yield and ultimately decreasing land value.
3. Infestation by Pests: Pests damage crops and reduce their yield, resulting in decreased land value.
4. Infestation by Diseases: Diseases also reduce crop yield, leading to a decrease in land value.
5. Continuous Cultivation without Fertilizers or Manure: Overcultivating without adding nutrients can lead to soil depletion, which reduces land value.
6. Abuse on Land: Overgrazing, bush burning, and other forms of land abuse can damage the soil, leading to a decrease in land value.
7. Dumping of Toxic Materials: Dumping toxic waste on the land can reduce soil fertility, ultimately leading to a decrease in land value.
8. Water-logging: Water-logging reduces soil fertility and decreases the amount of land available for farming, which leads to a decrease in land value

Importances of land to Agricultue

Land is a fundamental resource in agriculture, and its importance cannot be overstated. Here are reasons why land is so critical to agriculture:

1. Growing crops: The primary function of agricultural land is to grow crops. Farmers need land to plant their crops and harvest them when they are ready. Without land, agriculture would not be possible.
2. Livestock production: Agricultural land is also used to raise livestock, such as cattle, pigs, and chickens. These animals require land for grazing, and farmers need space to construct barns and other buildings to house them.
3. Soil quality: Agricultural land is also important because it provides soil, which is necessary for crop growth. Soil quality is essential because it affects crop productivity and determines which crops can be grown in a particular area.
4. Water source: Agricultural land is also important because it often provides a water source for irrigation. This is particularly important in arid regions where water is scarce.
5. Biodiversity: Agricultural land can support a wide range of biodiversity, including plants, insects, and animals. This biodiversity is critical for maintaining healthy ecosystems and for pollination and pest control.
6. Food security: Agricultural land is essential for food security, as it provides the raw materials necessary to produce food. Without land, we would not be able to produce the crops and livestock needed to feed the world’s growing population.
7. Economic benefits: Agricultural land provides economic benefits to farmers, rural communities, and the wider economy. It supports jobs and generates income through the sale of crops and livestock.
8. Environmental benefits: Agricultural land can provide a range of environmental benefits, such as carbon sequestration and water filtration. It can also help prevent soil erosion and reduce the use of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
9. Cultural significance: Agricultural land often has cultural significance, particularly in rural areas. It can be an important part of local traditions and customs and can help to maintain a sense of community and identity.
10. Land use planning: Agricultural land is also important for land use planning. It is essential to ensure that land is used effectively and sustainably to meet the needs of both present and future generations. Proper land use planning can help to prevent soil degradation, water pollution, and other environmental problems.

Factors of Production

The creation of output from the input is referred to as production. The factors of production are the resources or inputs that are used in the production of goods and services. There are traditionally four factors of production:

1. Land: This includes all natural resources such as forests, oil and gas reserves, water bodies, and mineral deposits.
2. Labour: This refers to the human effort and skills that are required for the production of goods and services.
3. Capital: This includes all the physical tools, machinery, and equipment that are used to produce goods and services.
4. Entrepreneurship: This refers to the ability to organize and manage resources effectively in order to create a successful business.

Factor  of Production (Land) 

The land is a vital factor of production and pertains to the area where productive activities such as the cultivation of crops, raising of animals and construction of farmsteads are conducted. It is considered the most significant asset of any farmer, and its proper utilization is critical to the success of agricultural production.

 Land for agricultural production can be acquired in the following ways

1. Purchase: This involves buying the land outright and assuming full ownership. It is a common way of acquiring land, and it gives the buyer complete control and decision-making power over the land. The buyer becomes responsible for all taxes, fees, and maintenance associated with the land. Purchasing land can be expensive, and the buyer may need to obtain financing to complete the transaction.
2. Lease/Rent: This refers to paying the landowner (individual or government) a stipulated amount of money to gain access to using the land for a specified period. The lease/rental agreement outlines the terms of use, such as the duration of the lease, the payment schedule, and any restrictions on the use of the land. This method allows the user to access the land without the financial burden of purchasing it outright. However, the user may not have full control over the land and may be subject to restrictions imposed by the landowner.
3. Gift: This is the voluntary transfer of land ownership from one party to another without the expectation of compensation. A gift can be made during the lifetime of the giver or after their death through a will. This method of acquiring land is a generous act and may be subject to tax implications.
4. Inheritance: This involves acquiring land ownership after the death of the previous owner, who may have passed on the land through a will or without one. The heir or heirs become the new owners of the land and may assume any tax, fee, or maintenance obligations associated with the land. Inheritance can be a complicated process, especially if there are multiple heirs or if the will is contested.

The availability of land for agricultural practices is largely influenced by a variety of factors, some of which are listed below:

1. Population Growth: Land is a limited resource that cannot be increased within a geographical area. As the population grows, the availability of land for agriculture decreases, and this can lead to higher competition for land and decreased productivity.
2. Land Tenure System: The way in which land is acquired and distributed can have a significant impact on agricultural practices. For instance, if the land is held by a few individuals or corporations, it may be difficult for small-scale farmers to access land.
3. Topography: The physical features of the land, such as its slope, elevation, and soil characteristics, can impact agricultural productivity. For example, areas with steep slopes may be more difficult to cultivate, while areas with poor soil fertility may require more inputs to produce crops.
4. Ecological and Fertility Status of the Soil: The fertility and health of the soil can have a significant impact on agricultural productivity. Factors such as soil acidity, nutrient content, and organic matter content can affect crop growth and yield.
5. Economic Factors: Economic considerations such as the cost of land, availability of capital, and cost of cultivation can influence agricultural practices. For instance, if the cost of land is high, farmers may be less likely to invest in agricultural production.
6. Socio-cultural Factors: Traditional and religious beliefs can also impact agricultural practices. For example, some cultures may have certain taboos or restrictions on the use of particular crops or animals.
7. Climatic Factors: Climate conditions such as rainfall, temperature, and humidity can affect agricultural productivity. Areas with unpredictable weather patterns or extreme conditions may be less conducive to agricultural practices.

Characteristics of Land

The land is a crucial factor of production in the economy and it has some essential characteristics which differentiate it from other factors of production. Here are ten characteristics of land:

1. Limited Supply: The quantity of land on the earth’s surface is finite, and it cannot be created artificially. Thus, land is a scarce resource, and its supply is fixed.
2. Heterogeneous: All the lands are not identical in terms of their fertility, location, and suitability for specific purposes. Each piece of land differs from others in terms of natural resources, climate, soil quality, and topography.
3. Immobility: Land is immobile, and it cannot be shifted from one place to another. Unlike labour and capital, which can be relocated from one country or region to another, land cannot be moved to another location.
4. Indestructibility: Land is indestructible and can last indefinitely. It cannot be destroyed or used up entirely like other factors of production.
5. Interdependence: Land is interdependent on other factors of production, such as labour and capital, for its optimum utilization. For example, a piece of land may require labor and capital inputs to produce crops or build structures.
6. Utility: Land has utility value, which means it can be used to produce goods and services, such as agriculture, forestry, mining, and construction.
7. Durability: Land is durable, which means its value remains stable over time. Unlike capital goods, which depreciate over time, land maintains its value, and in some cases, its value may increase.
8. Rent: Land generates rent, which is a payment made by the tenant to the landowner for the use of the land. Rent is determined by the location, quality, and productivity of the land.
9. Public goods: Some types of land, such as parks, beaches, and wildlife reserves, provide public goods and services that are not directly related to economic production but have important social and environmental benefits.
10. Natural Resource Base: Land is a source of natural resources, such as minerals, water, forests, and wildlife, which are essential inputs for many economic activities. The sustainable management of these natural resources is crucial for the long-term survival of human societies.

USES OF LAND

Land uses are broadly divided into two:

AGRICULTURAL USES OF LAND

There are many different ways in which farmers and agriculture make use of land. Here are common uses of land in agriculture:

1. Crop production: The most common use of land in agriculture is to grow crops. Farmers use the land to plant and cultivate crops such as wheat, corn, soybeans, rice, and many others.
2. Livestock grazing: Farmers also use the land to provide grazing areas for livestock, such as cows, sheep, and goats. Grazing can take place on natural grasslands or on cultivated pastures.
3. Dairy farming: Land is used to grow crops for dairy cows, and to provide grazing areas for them. The land is also used to produce silage, hay, and other feed for the cows.
4. Poultry farming: Land is used to build chicken coops, and to provide outdoor areas for chickens to roam and forage.
5. Fish farming: Farmers use the land to build fish ponds or tanks, where fish are raised and harvested for food.
6. Forestry: Land can be used to grow trees for timber, pulp, and paper production.
7. Horticulture: Farmers use the land to grow fruits, vegetables, and flowers, often in greenhouses or other protected environments.
8. Beekeeping: Farmers can use the land to keep bees, which are essential for pollinating crops and producing honey.
9. Hunting and trapping: Farmers can use the land for hunting and trapping animals such as deer, rabbits, and squirrels.
10. Wildlife conservation: Farmers can use the land for wildlife conservation, providing habitat for endangered species, and preserving natural areas for future generations.
11. Forestry: Land is used for the cultivation of trees for commercial purposes, such as timber production, paper making, and other forest products.
12. Game Reserve/Wildlife Conservation: Land is set aside for the protection and conservation of wildlife species, such as elephants, lions, and other endangered species.
13. Livestock Production: Land is used for the production of livestock, including fish farming, beekeeping, and pig farming.
14. Crop Farming: Land is used for the cultivation of crops such as wheat, corn, and vegetables, which are important for food production.
15. Collateral for Loans: Land can be used as collateral for loans, as it is an asset that can be used to secure a loan or other forms of credit.

Non-Agricultural Uses of Land

1. Residential: Land can be used for residential purposes, including the construction of houses, apartments, and other residential buildings.
2. Commercial: Land can also be used for commercial purposes, such as the construction of office buildings, shopping malls, and other commercial structures.
3. Industrial: Land can be used for industrial purposes, including the construction of factories, warehouses, and other industrial facilities.
4. Transportation: Land can be used for transportation purposes, including the construction of roads, highways, and airports.
5. Recreational: Land can be used for recreational purposes, including the construction of parks, playgrounds, and other recreational facilities.
6. Educational: Land can be used for educational purposes, including the construction of schools, colleges, and universities.
7. Health: Land can be used for health-related purposes, including the construction of hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities.
8. Religious: Land can be used for religious purposes, including the construction of temples, churches, and other religious buildings.
9. Governmental: Land can be used for governmental purposes, including the construction of government buildings, courthouses, and other public facilities.
10. Residential and commercial mixed-use: Land can also be used for mixed purposes, such as the construction of buildings that combine residential and commercial spaces, providing a convenient and efficient use of land resources
11. Mining Purposes: Land is used for mining activities, such as the extraction of petroleum, gold, and other natural resources.
12. Energy: Land can be used for energy-related purposes, including the construction of wind farms, solar power plants, and other renewable energy facilities.
13. Water management: Land can be used for water management purposes, including the construction of dams, reservoirs, and other water storage facilities.
14. Waste management: Land can be used for waste management purposes, including the construction of landfills, recycling facilities, and other waste management structures.
15. Mining: Land can be used for mining purposes, including the extraction of minerals, oil, and natural gas from the earth.

Land Appreciation

1. Following: Allowing farmlands to rest and rejuvenate, which helps in regaining their lost nutrients, and making them more fertile.
2. Addition of Fertilizers or Manure: Adding nutrients to the soil to increase its fertility, which in turn increases crop yield and overall land value.
3. Use of Clean and Uninfected Inputs: Planting materials such as seeds that are free of diseases or pests helps in maintaining soil health and increasing land value.
4. Weeding/Clearing: Removing weeds that compete with crops for nutrients and space helps to enhance soil health, which leads to a better yield and higher land value.
5. Good and Appropriate Soil Tillage: Proper soil tillage helps in preventing soil erosion, which maintains soil quality, and ultimately increases land value.
6. Irrigation: Artificial application of water to soil helps supplement insufficient rain, which can increase crop yield and land value.
7. Good Access Roads: Properly constructed access roads enable farmers to access their farms easily, which increases land value.
8. Good Drainage: Artificial removal of excess water from soil helps to promote crop growth and increases land value.
9. Increase in Population Density: A rise in population density leads to an increase in demand for land, which results in higher land value.

Land Depreciation

1. Erosion Menace: This removes topsoil and reduces soil fertility, which ultimately leads to a decline in land value.
2. Infestation by Weeds: Weeds compete with crops for nutrients and space, reducing crop yield and ultimately decreasing land value.
3. Infestation by Pests: Pests damage crops and reduce their yield, resulting in decreased land value.
4. Infestation by Diseases: Diseases also reduce crop yield, leading to a decrease in land value.
5. Continuous Cultivation without Fertilizers or Manure: Overcultivating without adding nutrients can lead to soil depletion, which reduces land value.
6. Abuse on Land: Overgrazing, bush burning, and other forms of land abuse can damage the soil, leading to a decrease in land value.
7. Dumping of Toxic Materials: Dumping toxic waste on the land can reduce soil fertility, ultimately leading to a decrease in land value.
8. Water-logging: Water-logging reduces soil fertility and decreases the amount of land available for farming, which leads to a decrease in land value

Importances of land to Agricultue

The land is a fundamental resource in agriculture, and its importance cannot be overstated. Here are reasons why land is so critical to agriculture:

1. Growing crops: The primary function of agricultural land is to grow crops. Farmers need land to plant their crops and harvest them when they are ready. Without land, agriculture would not be possible.
2. Livestock production: Agricultural land is also used to raise livestock, such as cattle, pigs, and chickens. These animals require land for grazing, and farmers need space to construct barns and other buildings to house them.
3. Soil quality: Agricultural land is also important because it provides soil, which is necessary for crop growth. Soil quality is essential because it affects crop productivity and determines which crops can be grown in a particular area.
4. Water source: Agricultural land is also important because it often provides a water source for irrigation. This is particularly important in arid regions where water is scarce.
5. Biodiversity: Agricultural land can support a wide range of biodiversity, including plants, insects, and animals. This biodiversity is critical for maintaining healthy ecosystems and for pollination and pest control.
6. Food security: Agricultural land is essential for food security, as it provides the raw materials necessary to produce food. Without land, we would not be able to produce the crops and livestock needed to feed the world’s growing population.
7. Economic benefits: Agricultural land provides economic benefits to farmers, rural communities, and the wider economy. It supports jobs and generates income through the sale of crops and livestock.
8. Environmental benefits: Agricultural land can provide a range of environmental benefits, such as carbon sequestration and water filtration. It can also help prevent soil erosion and reduce the use of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
9. Cultural significance: Agricultural land often has cultural significance, particularly in rural areas. It can be an important part of local traditions and customs and can help to maintain a sense of community and identity.
10. Land use planning: Agricultural land is also important for land use planning. It is essential to ensure that land is used effectively and sustainably to meet the needs of both present and future generations. Proper land use planning can help to prevent soil degradation, water pollution, and other environmental problems.