4 ms·
For each crop, to maximize yield is to maximize profit. In fact, those are usually the same thing. Unless some requirement must be met, like moisture, protein o
by chicob 7y ago
For each crop, to maximize yield is to maximize profit. In fact, those are usually the same thing. Unless some requirement must be met, like moisture, protein or sugar content (i.e. corn or barley), in which case a given yield can mean different profits.
Farmers have poor leverage on produce retail prices, and depending on the soil and climate they have, the local markets and distributors, a limited range of crops is available. Once chosen, they simply maximize yield.
As for permanent crops, farmers simply maximize yield.
- Retric 7y agoSeveral methods like hydroponics are generally not cost effective even though they increase yields. More realistic examples are Center Pivot Irrigation Systems which don’t utilize all available land. https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=B882&title=Factors%20to%20Consider%20in%20Selecting%20a%20Farm%20Irrigation%20System https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=B8...
- chicob 7y agoSure, but that doesn't mean increasing yield is not increasing profit for regular agricultural practice. Fringe agriculture like hydroponics becomes cost effective when having no other means of production rises produce prices just enough. And central pivot irrigation increases total production, and average yields as well, when the alternative is rainfall. Many central pivots near me have permanent crops in most of the corners, usually with drip irrigation. Also worthy of notice is not all land lots are neat squares, and some corners end up being quite small.
- Retric 7y agoThat’s something of a ‘no true Scotsman’ argument. In areas with high average rainfall central pivot are often not supplemented by other irrigation systems or different crops. Sure, drip could increase yields slightly, but it’s not considered to be worth both the expense and hassle. In other words, standard agricultural practice varies by location to maximize profit by increasing yield, when it’s cost effective to do so. PS: Posting that feels like a really nitpicking argument as I think we both agree with what’s going on. But, I get annoyed when people talk about maximizing yield as a shorthand for maximizing profit. It’s something of a social convention where you can’t say you’re trying to make more money even when talking about how you make more money.