Author: Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.

Alan Nafzger, Ph.D., is the esteemed Editor-in-Chief of FarmerCowboy.com and a renowned expert in agricultural policy. With a doctorate in political science and a lifelong dedication to farming, Alan brings a unique blend of academic expertise and practical farming experience to his role. His deep understanding of agricultural policy and its impact on farming communities has made him a trusted voice in the field. Alan’s career is marked by a commitment to advancing agricultural knowledge and practices. As a professor, he has educated and inspired countless students, sharing his extensive knowledge of agricultural policy and its implications. His insights are rooted in a lifetime of hands-on farming experience, providing a practical perspective that complements his academic credentials. At FarmerCowboy.com, Alan leads with a vision to provide reliable, insightful, and up-to-date information to the farming community. His editorial direction ensures that the content is not only informative but also relevant and beneficial to farmers and agricultural professionals. Alan’s leadership and expertise have solidified FarmerCowboy.com as a go-to resource for agricultural news and analysis. Alan Nafzger’s blend of academic rigor, practical farming experience, and a passion for agricultural policy make him an invaluable asset to the agricultural community. His contributions continue to shape the future of farming, ensuring that it remains sustainable and productive for generations to come.

Defoliation

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 31, 2011May 25, 20242

defoliation: The loss of leaves from a plant, especially as the result of using a herbicide or because of disease or other stress. Managing defoliation involves identifying the cause and taking corrective measures. Farmers should implement integrated pest management practices, use disease-resistant varieties, and ensure proper nutrition to reduce the risk of defoliation. Understanding the factors contributing to defoliation can help in developing effective prevention and control strategies.

Water Erosion

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 29, 2011May 24, 20240

The process by which soil is removed from the land surface by water movement, such as rainfall and runoff. Water erosion can reduce soil fertility and degrade land quality. For example, implementing erosion control practices to prevent water erosion and protect soil health in agricultural landscapes.

Food Product Virtual Training Programs

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 28, 2011May 24, 20240

The remote training initiatives that provide education and skill development for employees, including live webinars, recorded sessions, and interactive modules. For example, implementing food product virtual training programs to enhance employee skills and knowledge.

Cow Sale

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 27, 2011May 24, 20240

An event where cows are auctioned or sold for breeding, dairy, or meat production. Cow sales provide opportunities to acquire or sell livestock. For instance, selling surplus cows at a cow sale to manage herd size and productivity.

HDC

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 27, 2011May 25, 20242

HDC: Abbreviation for Horticultural Development Council. Engaging with HDC can provide farmers with valuable research and support for horticultural practices.

Rare Breeds Survival Trust

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 26, 2011May 25, 20242

Rare Breeds Survival Trust: A trust established in 1973 to foster interest in breeds which have historical importance and may prove useful in the future. The trust supports farmers in preserving rare breeds, ensuring their continued existence and potential future value.

Cattle Parturition

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 26, 2011May 24, 20240

The act of giving birth in cattle, also known as calving. Parturition involves several stages, including labor, delivery, and expulsion of the placenta. For example, managing parturition to ensure the safe delivery of the calf and the health of the cow.

Higher Level Stewardship

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 24, 2011May 25, 20242

Higher Level Stewardship: One of the categories under the Environmental Stewardship scheme, where farmers can apply for funding in return for implementing complex environmental management schemes on their land. Abbr HLS. Utilizing HLS can provide financial incentives for sustainable farming practices.

Branding

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 24, 2011May 25, 20241

branding: The process of marking livestock for identification. Branding helps farmers keep track of their animals and prevent theft.

Milking Equipment

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 24, 2011May 24, 20240

Tools and devices used in the milking process, including milking machines, teat disinfectants, and milk storage tanks. Proper maintenance of milking equipment is crucial for milk quality. For example, regularly cleaning and servicing milking equipment to ensure optimal performance and hygiene.

Faverolle

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 22, 2011May 25, 20240

Faverolle: A breed of poultry for table consumption. Raising Faverolle chickens provides farmers with high-quality meat and diverse poultry products.

Ovule

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 22, 2011May 25, 20242

ovule: An immature egg or an unfertilised seed. Managing ovules is crucial for optimizing breeding programs and reproductive efficiency in crops and livestock. Farmers can benefit from understanding reproductive biology and implementing best practices in breeding management to enhance productivity.

Air Pollution

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 21, 2011May 25, 20242

air pollution: The contamination of the air by substances such as gas or smoke. Also called atmospheric pollution. Understanding and managing air pollution is important for farmers to protect crop health and comply with environmental regulations.

Essence

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 20, 2011May 25, 20242

essence: A concentrated oil extracted from a plant, used in food, cosmetics, analgesics, and antiseptics. Vanilla essence. Understanding essence extraction helps farmers in value-added production and marketing.

Palatable

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 20, 2011May 25, 20242

palatable: Good to eat. Some types of grass are less palatable than others. Big bales preserve the grass in an almost cut state, which is very palatable. Palatable feed ensures livestock eat more and maintain better health, leading to higher production rates.

Dairy Farm Profitability

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 20, 2011May 24, 20240

The financial performance of a dairy farm, influenced by factors such as milk yield, production costs, and market prices. For example, implementing cost-saving measures to improve dairy farm profitability and ensure long-term sustainability.

Stud

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 20, 2011May 25, 20242

stud: same as stud farm; US a male horse kept for breeding; metal nail with a head projecting above the surface. Properly managing studs ensures healthy breeding programs and improves livestock genetics, supporting farm profitability.

Hosier System

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 20, 2011May 25, 20242

Hosier system: A system of dairy cattle management, where the milking of cows is done in the field using a milking pail. Implementing the Hosier system can improve milking efficiency and cow comfort.

Lignin

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 19, 2011May 25, 20242

Lignin: Lignin is the material in plant cell walls that makes plants woody and gives them rigidity and strength. Understanding lignin can help farmers manage plant growth and crop quality.

Zucchini

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 19, 2011May 25, 20240

zucchini: Zucchini is a term for courgettes, harvested at an immature stage. Farmers can grow zucchini to meet market demand for fresh, versatile vegetables.

Cambridge Roller

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 19, 2011May 25, 20240

Cambridge Roller: A heavy roller with a ribbed surface, consisting of a number of heavy iron wheels or rings, each with a ridge about 4 cm high. Using a Cambridge roller provides an excellent seedbed for grass and clover seeds, promoting healthy germination and growth.

Herb

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 19, 2011May 25, 20241

herb: A plant that is used to add flavor in cooking or has medicinal properties. Growing herbs can diversify farm products and provide additional income streams.

Intercropping

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 19, 2011May 25, 20242

intercropping: The growing of crops with different characteristics and requirements on the same area of land at the same time. Helps farmers optimize land use and manage crop diversity.

Ecotax

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 18, 2011May 25, 20242

ecotax: A tax that is used to encourage people to change from an activity that damages the environment or to encourage activities with beneficial environmental effects. Also called environmental tax. Ecotaxes can incentivize farmers to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

Patent Flour

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 18, 2011May 25, 20242

patent flour: A very fine good-quality wheat flour. Producing high-quality flour can meet market demands and improve profitability for grain farmers.

Cowherd

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 17, 2011May 24, 20240

A group of cows that are managed together for breeding and production purposes. The cowherd is the foundation of a cattle breeding program. For instance, a cowherd may consist of various breeds selected for specific traits.

Ley

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 16, 2011May 25, 20240

Ley: A ley is 1. a field in which crops are grown in rotation with periods when the field is sown with grass for pasture. Leys are an essential part of organic farming. 2. land which has been sown to grass for a time. Utilizing leys in crop rotation can improve soil health and fertility.

Twist

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 16, 2011May 25, 20242

twist: A disease of cereals and grasses which causes malformation of the leaves and stalks due to the growth of internal fungus. This may prevent the ear emerging from its sheath (Dilophospora alopecuri). Recognizing and managing twist can prevent crop losses and improve yield.

Swampy

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 15, 2011May 25, 20242

swampy: referring to land that is permanently wet. Properly managing swampy lands ensures biodiversity and ecological balance, supporting sustainable land use and agricultural productivity.

Field Drainage

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 15, 2011May 25, 20240

Field Drainage: Building drains in or under fields to remove surplus water. Proper field drainage prevents waterlogging, improves soil health, and enhances crop growth.

Water Mill

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 10, 2011May 25, 20241

water mill: A mill which is driven by the power of a stream of water which turns a large wheel. Utilizing water mills can provide sustainable energy and milling options for farms.

Drought Stress

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 10, 2011May 25, 20242

drought stress: A lack of growth caused by drought. Drought stress can reduce crop yields and affect plant health. Farmers can mitigate drought stress by using irrigation, mulching, and selecting drought-tolerant crop varieties.

Freehold

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 9, 2011May 25, 20242

Freehold: The absolute right to hold land or property for an unlimited time without paying rent. Properly managing freehold property supports long-term farm stability and investment.

Strike

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 8, 2011May 25, 20242

strike: the infestation of the flesh of sheep by the larvae of blowflies. It causes extreme irritation and death can occur in a short time. Managing strike ensures sheep health and productivity, preventing losses and supporting farm profitability.

Northern Dairy Shorthorn

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 7, 2011May 25, 20242

Northern Dairy Shorthorn: a dairy breed of cattle, which comes from the old Teeswater cattle, with perhaps a little Ayrshire blood. It is now established as a pure breed. The most popular color is light roan, but red, white, and mixtures of shades are found. The animals are thrifty, hardy, and suitable for harsh upland conditions. The Northern Dairy Shorthorn breed is valued for its adaptability, hardiness, and milk production in challenging environments. Farmers can benefit from raising this breed to produce high-quality milk and maintain resilient herds. Understanding the breed’s specific care and management needs helps optimize production and enhance farm profitability.

Cleg

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 5, 2011May 25, 20243

Cleg: Same as horsefly. Managing clegs involves using appropriate pest control measures to protect livestock and reduce irritation.

Headland

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 5, 2011May 25, 20240

headland: An uncultivated area of soil at the edge of a field, where a tractor turns when ploughing. Managing headlands effectively can improve field operations and reduce soil compaction.

Renewable Energy

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 4, 2011May 25, 20240

renewable energy: Energy from the Sun, wind, waves, tides, from geothermal deposits or from burning waste. Using renewable energy sources helps farmers reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower farm operating costs.

Ton

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 3, 2011May 25, 20241

ton: A unit of measurement of weight, equal to 1016kg. Also called long ton. US a unit of measurement of weight, equal to 907kg. Also called short ton. Understanding weight measurements is crucial for accurate product sales and logistics.

Commercial Market

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 2, 2011May 25, 20241

Commercial Market: Commercial market noun a market for cattle or sheep for meat rather than for breeding. Compare pedigree market. Understanding commercial markets helps farmers make informed decisions about livestock sales.

Dairy Bull

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 1, 2011May 24, 20242

A male dairy cattle used for breeding purposes to improve milk production traits in offspring. For example, selecting a dairy bull with high genetic merit for milk yield and health traits.

Wart Disease

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.November 29, 2011May 25, 20242

wart disease: A notifiable disease of potatoes, in which warts appear on the surface of the tubers, and develop into large eruptions which may become larger than the potatoes themselves. Managing wart disease can prevent crop losses and improve potato yields.

Clinical Mastitis

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.November 29, 2011May 24, 20240

A form of mastitis with visible symptoms such as swelling, redness, and abnormal milk. Clinical mastitis requires immediate treatment to prevent severe health issues and milk loss. For instance, treating clinical mastitis with antibiotics and supportive care.

Feeder Cattle

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.November 29, 2011May 24, 20240

Young cattle that are raised for meat production, typically sold to feedlots for finishing. Feeder cattle are evaluated based on weight, health, and growth potential. For instance, purchasing feeder cattle to raise them for market weight in a feedlot.

Yeast

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.November 28, 2011May 25, 20243

yeast: Yeast is a single-celled fungus used in fermentation. Farmers can use yeast in various processes, such as baking and brewing, adding value to agricultural products.

Chemical

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.November 28, 2011May 25, 20242

Chemical: A substance formed of chemical elements or produced by a chemical process. Proper use of chemicals in agriculture ensures crop protection and productivity while maintaining environmental safety.

Codling Moth

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.November 27, 2011May 25, 20242

Codling Moth: Codling moth noun a serious pest, the larvae of which burrow into apple fruit. Managing codling moths involves using integrated pest management strategies to protect apple crops.

Oligotrophic

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.November 26, 2011May 25, 20240

oligotrophic: Referring to water that contains few nutrients. Managing water quality is crucial for aquaculture and irrigation. Farmers can benefit from understanding oligotrophic conditions to optimize water use, enhance crop and fish health, and prevent nutrient deficiencies.

Tunnel Drying

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.November 24, 2011May 25, 20242

tunnel drying: A method of storage drying of hay, where the bales are stacked in the form of a tunnel over a central duct through which unheated air is blown. Utilizing tunnel drying can preserve hay quality and ensure effective drying.

Census

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.November 21, 2011May 25, 20240

Census: A survey of a specific population to assess numbers and other features. Conducting agricultural censuses helps farmers and policymakers understand trends and make informed decisions about resource allocation and management.