Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources Career Cluster

Which of the following methods were early humans primarily dependent on for their source of food, clothing and shelter?

• Hunting and gathering

• Farming

• Ranching

• Manufacturering

Answer explanation

Agriculture was not always the norm. Early humans were primarily dependent on hunting and gathering wild plants and animals for their sources of food, clothing, and shelter. Domestication of livestock, plants, and crops marked the beginning of agriculture as we know it.

How long has agriculture contributed to the growth and development of civilization?

• 5,000 to 8,000 years

• 1,000 to 3,000 years

• 10,000 to 12,000 years

• 18,000 to 20,000 years

Answer explanation

Agriculture has contributed to the growth and development of civilization for approximately 10,000 to 12,000 years. As agricultural methods evolved, so did civilization. Careers in the agriculture, food, and natural resources cluster strive to provide food, fiber, and natural resource products we use on a daily basis.

Which of the following refers to the products produced for a source of income?

• Income crops

• Harvest Crops

• Gross Crops

• Cash Crops

Answer explanation

When the new world was discovered, the Native Americans had long domesticated crops such as squash, beans, peas, and corn. Toward the beginning of the 16th century, the need for agricultural products increased as civilization grew. During this time, agriculture was vital to feeding the growing population, and to serve as a source of income commonly known as cash crops.

When was the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) established?

• 1917

• 1854

• 1776

• 1862

Answer explanation

The United States Department of Agriculture, or USDA, was established in 1862. The USDA provides leadership concerning agriculture, food, and natural resources and their products. The USDA consists of 29 agencies which regulate the usage of and production of agriculture, food, and natural resource products for Americans and others worldwide.

Which of the following sectors of agriculture has to do with the business aspect of Agricultural Careers?

• Agribusiness

• Animal Systems

• Environmental Services

• Plant Systems

Which of the following is considered to be the largest industry in the United States?

• Crop Production

• Agribusiness

• Food Processing

• Livestock Production

Answer explanation

Agribusiness is considered to be the largest industry in the United States due to the amount of output and employment opportunities. Agribusiness professionals supervise all phases of production, and advise producers about production options based on market conditions, federal programs, diseases, and soil conditions. Agribusiness professionals also select, purchase, and sell agricultural supplies, serve as sales agents, and assist in maintaining facilities

Which of the following is the minimal requirement for professionals in agribusiness?

• Masters Degree

• Bachelors Degree

• High School Diploma

• Associates Degree

Answer explanation

Most everyone employed in agribusiness has, at minimum, received a high school diploma. However, the demand for people with post-secondary education has increased. Analyzing the details and opportunities agribusiness has to offer can help you determine if this career path will fit your lifestyle and preferences.

In which year was the Animal Welfare Act put into place?

• 1956

• 1966

• 1946

• 1976

Which of the following was NOT mentioned as an important skill for professionals in environmental services?

• Physical Stamina

• Problem Solving Skills

• Communication Skills

• Analytical Skills

Match the following

• Cash Crop

• machine utilized for separating seeds from cotton

• Cotton Gin

• plants and animals being tamed for food and fiber purposes

• Domestication

• crops produced for their commercial value

• McCormick Reaper

• machine utilized for grain harvesting