The role of small farm equipment; Land preparation; Irrigation; Seeding and planting; Plant protection and soil fertility; Harvesting; Threshing; Grain drying; Improving research and development, manufacturing, marketing, extension and use of small farm equipment.

This book contains the proceedings of HMM2012, the 4th International Symposium on Historical Developments in the field of Mechanism and Machine Science (MMS). These proceedings cover recent research concerning all aspects of the development of MMS from antiquity until the present and its historiography: machines, mechanisms, kinematics, dynamics, concepts and theories, design methods, collections of methods, collections of models, institutions and biographies.

This training of trainers (ToT) manual aims to provide insights into the operation, maintenance and basic repair of farm machinery. It provides an overview of the main concepts of equipment that can facilitate sustainable agriculture practices, with examples and guidelines on the topic. Its objective is to provide extension officers, technicians, mechanics, and youth with the necessary information and skills to become trainers and deliver technical capacity sessions on this topic. There is a mix of theory and practice in this training. Participants must have the time to individually perform the different tasks described in the modules with close supervision. The training manual comprises four modules: ? Module 1 covers different tractors as a power source and power take-off operations. ? Module 2 focuses on the implements and equipment attached to tractors for field operations. ? Module 3 is about harvest, post-harvest and storage technologies. ? Module 4 covers general aspects and tips for maintenance, spare parts and replacements.

Volume 3 of this series of the Handbooks in Economics follows on from the previous two volumes by focusing on the fundamental concepts of agricultural economics. The first part of the volume examines the developments in human resources and technology mastery. The second part follows on by considering the processes and impact of invention and innovation in this field. The effects of market forces are examined in the third part, and the volume concludes by analysing the economics of our changing natural resources, including the past effects of climate change. Overall this volume forms a comprehensive and accessible survey of the field of agricultural economics and is recommended reading for anyone with an interest, either academic or professional, in this area. *Part of the renown Handbooks in Economics series *Contributors are leaders of their areas *International in scope and comprehensive in coverage

The Handbook of Postharvest Technology presents methods in the manufacture and supply of grains, fruits, vegetables, and spices. It details the physiology, structure, composition, and characteristics of grains and crops. The text covers postharvest technology through processing, handling, drying and milling to storage, packaging, and distribution. Additionally, it examines cooling and preservation techniques used to maintain the quality and the decrease spoilage and withering of agricultural products.