FARMING is an activity that takes place in physical space. A good farm map forms the basis on which successful planning can take place. This is particularly so when dealing with livestock and rangeland management issues or when discussing events or infrastructure development needs. Farm planning is essential to enable the farmer to utilise his/her natural resources in a sustainable manner. Although most farmers already have a basic map of their farm, in many cases these are outdated, or have not benefited from the latest technology. Thus, in an effort to support farmers with their management planning, Agra ProVision now offers customised farm mapping services. Another way thatAgra ProVision provides solutions geared to− wards improved productivity and business success. Maps can be developed with different levels of detail, depending on client needs. Maps provide a clear image of the farm boundaries, inner fences and the location of infrastructure such as boreholes and water points. It enables the farmer to plan ahead, assist staff to carry out day to day operations and provide accurate measurements of the area for herd and crop management. Farm maps are used in livestock farming for guidance in proper rangeland management and rotational grazing. Maps can be provided in a range of sizes, with the standard size being theA1 size. Farmers working with maps can utilise precision farming technology to optimise farm inputs and target applications, thereby substantially improving production and returns. Frank Wittneben, Agra ProVision’s Technical Adviser for Livestock Production, and who oversees the production of maps, notes that farm size matters, because land is the foundation from which the entire operation runs. “As a farmer, you need exact data about your land to be able to maximise your farm’s potential production. Farm mapping is fast becoming the most accurate way to obtain essential information to assist the farmer to develop meaningful budgets for the farms sustainability,” he said. He continued: “In unfortunate cases such as veld fires, the farmer can submit the maps to the labourers and neighbours for assistance. This is how important and relevant the maps are to a farming set up.”