What Factors Determine the Modern Global Geography of Agriculture?

Soil

• Soils are composed of primarily minerals, then water, air and organic matter. They are classified by the relative percentages of these components and also by the mineral composition itself. Mineral particles are grouped into three sizes from smallest to largest: clay, silt and sand. Rice, for example, has roots which thrive when saturated in water. Therefore, this crop grows best in soil rich with clay, which does not absorb water well. Such soil can be found all over the world, notably in the southern United States and throughout Asia. Loamy soil, with a more even balance of clay, silt and sand, is friendly soil for soybeans, grown throughout the Midwestern and southern states in the U.S. and in the northeast provinces of China.

Climate

• Temperature, precipitation, wind and humidity all play a part in the spatial design of global agriculture. Antarctica has soil suitable for agricultural production, but the atmosphere does not cooperate. The Midwest and Great Plains of the United States, on the other hand, benefit from their location, receiving air flowing from the Gulf of Mexico, the Rocky Mountains, Canada and the Northeast. Situated thusly, these regions get a mix of dry and humid air, both warm and cold. States planting corn and cereal grains, like Missouri, require such balanced weather patterns for success. In the same way, cotton grows best in mildly tropical climates, typical of the northern region of New South Wales in Australia, the only source of the crop in that country.

World Trade

• The volume of crops planted and livestock raised are increasingly dependent on available overseas markets. Colombia, for example, purchases most of its wheat from the U.S., Canada and Argentina. Among the three suppliers, those that have implemented trade agreements gain an edge over their competitors. This, in turn, influences planting decisions for both winners and losers. Meanwhile, China, first among nations in pork production, nevertheless posts a strong demand for hog cuts and organ meats that are generally shunned by U.S. consumers. Despite its ability to grow the largest number of swine, China must import to feed its even larger population of people.

Government Policy

• The settlement and vitality of agricultural production are affected by the programs initiated by government. Most every country has an agency charged with promoting rural development, a concept of flexible meaning. Yet rural development traditionally entails strengthening the infrastructure and common resources of rural dwellers and farm communities. This translates into capital improvement projects for hospitals and libraries, providing Internet connection to local schools, road improvement and conservation programs. Improving the quality of life for farm families is central to keeping the next generations on the farm. In this way, government policies work to stabilize population geography, preventing rural exodus.