Farmers of the

Central Valley

Why study agriculture?

What does it take to have a successful farm?

What does it take to have a successful farm?

Stage 1: Nursery

Before the farmers can plant...

Each nursery must prepare 120 “seedlings”

Supplies:

• Stirring plate
• Food dye
• Scissors
• Water
• Drying paper

grape

pistachio

almond

walnut

Before the farmers can plant...

Each nursery must prepare 120 “seedlings”

Supplies:

• Stirring plate
• Food dye
• Scissors
• Water
• Drying paper

grape

pistachio

almond

walnut

Stage 2: Background

What is the goal of every farmer?

To make a profit!

At least, to not go broke...

Profit = Income - Expenses

Expenses

Income:

​

Profit = Income - Expenses

Expenses

Income:

​

Profit = Income - Expenses

Expenses

Income:

​

Profit = Income - Expenses

Expenses

Income:

​

Profit = Income - Expenses

Expenses

Income:

​

Profit = Income - Expenses

Expenses

Income: Sell your crop(s)

​

Profit = Income - Expenses

Expenses

Income:

​

** the value of your crop CHANGES**

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Some specific market rules for our simulation:

1. REDUCED SUPPLY: If less than 16 total acres of any crop is grown, its market value triples.

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1. CORNER ON THE MARKET: If you are the only person selling a crop, it doubles in value.

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1. INCREASED SUPPLY: If everyone sells the same crop, its value decreases by one half.

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1. MARKET FLOOD: If more than 600 acres of one crop is grown in total, its market value drops to one fourth of the original value.

Stage 2: Deciding what to plant

What is the best plan for your farm?

On the 2nd page of your handout, make your planting strategy. Tomorrow we will plant!