HAVRLAND B., KAPILA P., KREPL V., SRNEC K.
Abstract
A new methodological approach was conceived in the
concept of ATMP (Agricultural Technology Management Program) and has proved
its appropriateness for extension services in both developed as well as less
developed countries although it has been to date, judged on the level of its
potential and not actual field application. The Program is meant to provide
the art of work to the extension worker in providing sound and exact technological
advice based upon both the availability of technological information (particularly
on machinery sets and agronomic requirements) and rapid economic (costs) calculations.
The program demonstrates an attempt to put into practice the concept of “precision
technology” based on precision machinery inputs. It has only recently
been completed and its comprehensive testing has commenced. Preceding field
survey carried out in Zambia (August – Sept. 2003) supplied basic data
for technologies design and economic calculations. Four different technologies
were conceived on various technological levels: 1. Hand-tool, 2. Mixed-hand-tool
+ animal draft, 3. Mixed-hand-tool + animal draft + mechanized and 4. Purely
mechanized technology. All technologies were designed for Zambian conditions.
The economic appropriateness of the respective technologies has been judged
according to the main parameters of the crop budget that were selected for export
to the comparison table. The parameters included in the comparison table were
displayed in chart form. This enabled to a better comparison different parameters
of the technologies. The main economic indicators that have been considered
are the gross and net margins and own market price per ton of the product.
Key words:
ATMP; precision agriculture; crop budget; comparison table; farm inventory;
corporate business plan