Production history or level of management is a good way to determine_______.

Production history or level of management is a significant indicator for yield goals because it provides valuable insights into past performance and the effectiveness of farming practices. By analyzing previous crop yields, a farmer can benchmark against historical data to set realistic and attainable yield goals for future seasons. This accumulated knowledge helps inform decisions about the inputs and management strategies required to achieve those goals, taking into account factors such as crop variety, soil conditions, and weather patterns.

The other options relate to essential aspects of crop management but do not directly correlate to the establishment of yield goals. For instance, soil nutrient levels can influence yield, but they do not determine yield goals directly. Similarly, while understanding water usage and pest control measures are vital components of overall crop management, they serve as tools to achieve the yield goals rather than determining what those goals should be. Therefore, focusing on production history allows for a more strategic and informed approach to setting yield goals.