Farmers are responsible for managing and maintaining agricultural land and the crops and livestock that grow on it. Some of the tasks that farmers typically perform include:
- Planning and Planting: Farmers plan what crops to plant and when to plant them, based on factors such as weather patterns, soil conditions, and market demand. They may also use fertilisers, pesticides, and other inputs to optimise crop yields.
- Irrigation and Water Management: Farmers manage water resources, including irrigation systems, to ensure that crops receive the right amount of water at the correct times.
- Harvesting and Storage: Farmers harvest crops at the peak of ripeness, using specialised equipment to collect and transport them. They may also store crops in silos, barns, or other storage facilities to protect them from pests and spoilage.
- Livestock Care: Farmers raise and care for animals such as cattle, pigs, and chickens. This involves providing food, water, and shelter, and monitoring their health and well-being.
- Marketing and Sales: Farmers market and sell their products to consumers, either directly through farmers’ markets and other retail outlets or through wholesalers and distributors.
- Equipment Maintenance: Farmers maintain and repair their farming equipment, such as tractors, ploughs, and combines, to ensure that they operate safely and efficiently.
- Record Keeping and Bookkeeping: Farmers keep detailed records of their activities, such as crop yields, expenses, and income, to track their progress and make informed decisions about future farming operations.