ART-ANALYSIS

Art-Analysis



Art-Analysis

Question 1: Based on the information provided in the diagrams/maps, assess the strengths and weaknesses of the infrastructure that existed on Southern Plains

Strengths

Weaknesses

Fencing design

Land Quality (good land quality - above average for the country)

Training and Expertise

Scenic Landscapes + Topography (-from a tourist point of view)

Decrease in Margins - Price Pressure

Labour shortage + price of labour (can't compete)

Limit on output [high cost]

Tracks and access

High % of full time farmers

Age profile is positive

Centrally located in country - access

(Urban pressures) Infrastructure and development projects

Movement out of farming - farm accession

Isolation (one man farms) in farming

Shade and shelter

Tourism potential

Well maintained - high reinvestment into farms

High ownership of land

Good Co-op structure

Increased administration

Environmental restrictions - inequitable implementation urban/rural and around the country and EU

Cost of administration and monitoring - products can only carry so much cost

Watering systems

Back-up service by Co-ops and others

Good reputation/profile - Nationally (Brand Name)

Producing commodities in a high cost environment - other countries do not have to pay the environmental cost

Negative Quality image - Consumer +Social + Press

Storage Capacity

Back-up facilities - including Crèches, Playschools

Stock yards

Milk Quota Production Capacity

Loss of bargaining power

Lack of branding - trust

Product Suitability

Need higher quality

Lack of diversity

Lack of confidence by consumer in products

Buildings and sheds

Equestrian

Climate - favourable - allows diverse enterprise mix

Lack of value added products

People feel that food should be cheap

Farmers have no control over prices

Bord Bia

Loss of connection

Question No. 2.a) Use the diagram provided in the answer sheet to 're-fence' Southern Plains, plus other associated improvements.

Most types of fence can be used with cattle, so most cattle producers assess factors such as expense, ease of construction and expected life of the fence when considering fencing strategy. In the past, woven wire and barbed wire were the most common fence types; however, high-tensile fencing is rapidly gaining popularity in Tennessee. Fence height for perimeter cattle fences should be a minimum of 54 inches. When bulls are penned separately from cows, special attention must be paid to construction. Heavy posts with thick-gauge wire or cables are required, or electric fence may be effectively used. Fences for handling facilities must be strong enough to withstand heavy usage, tall enough (60 inches minimum) to prevent escape, and clearly visible. Treated wood or heavy wire panel fences are preferred.

Fencing is a costly investment. The location and arrangement may affect production efficiency, so it makes good sense to plan before you build. This is true whether you are installing a fence around the farm or a pasture for the first time, or replacing an old, worn-out fence. Evaluate existing fences. If they are in good shape, you may want to plan new fences around them. If they are old and falling down, it may be cheaper in the long run to replace them. Pay attention to water resources when planning your fence arrangement. Wise placement of fences can result in being able to use the same water source in two, three or even three or more pastures. Fencing cattle away from ponds and using freeze-proof overflow tanks can improve water quality and ...