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.

Heat Treatment

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.January 18, 2011May 25, 20240

heat treatment: The use of high temperatures, typically 45°C, to disinfest storage areas or containers. Using heat treatment helps prevent pest infestations and maintain the quality of stored crops.

Cottage Piggery

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

Cottage Piggery: Cottage piggery noun a pig housing with low roofs and an open yard. Utilizing cottage piggeries provides proper housing and management for pigs.

Genome

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.January 13, 2011May 25, 20242

genome: The set of all the genes in an individual. The set of genes which are inherited from one parent. Knowledge of the genome helps in identifying and selecting desirable traits for breeding programs, improving crop and livestock quality.

Cow Beef

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.January 12, 2011May 25, 20241

Cow Beef: Cow beef noun beef from dairy cows no longer needed for milk production. Utilizing cow beef provides valuable meat resources.

Wet-Feeding

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.January 11, 2011May 25, 20242

wet-feeding: A method of feeding livestock such as pigs in which the animal has access to dry feedingstuffs and water at the same time. Using wet-feeding systems can improve feed efficiency and animal growth.

Rural Area

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

rural area: An area in the countryside where the main activities are farming or forestry and where relatively few people live. Managing rural areas supports sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods.

Steer

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

steer: a castrated male bovine over one year old. Also called bullock. Properly managing steers supports healthy growth and productivity in beef operations, enhancing farm profitability.

Groundwater

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

groundwater: Water that is stored beneath the Earth’s surface in soil or rock formations. Managing groundwater resources is important for sustainable agriculture and water supply.

Sedge

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

sedge: One of a number of grass or rushlike herbs of the family Cyperaceae, common in marshlands and poorly drained areas. They have minimal nutritional value. Farmers benefit from managing sedge to maintain soil health and prevent waterlogging.

Salsify

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.January 8, 2011May 25, 20241

salsify: A plant with a long white root which is used as a vegetable. Farmers benefit from growing salsify as a unique crop offering diversification and potential market niche.

Jojoba

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

jojoba: Jojoba – a perennial plant, grown in the USA, whose seeds yield an oil which is liquid wax. Helps farmers diversify crops and produce valuable oil.

Trondheim

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

Trondheim: Blacksided Trondheim. Understanding livestock breeds like Trondheim can support breeding programs and optimize animal performance.

Alkaloid

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.January 6, 2011May 25, 20242

alkaloid: One of many poisonous substances found in plants, which use them as a defense against herbivores. Many alkaloids such as atropine, morphine, or quinine are also useful as medicines. Farmers benefit from understanding alkaloids to manage plant health and potential toxicity.

Contact

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.January 4, 2011May 25, 20242

Contact: Contact noun a physical connection between two or more things, especially the fact of one touching the other Dont allow the part to come into contact with water. Managing contact involves preventing contamination and ensuring product quality.

Beetle

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.January 3, 2011May 25, 20242

beetle: An insect with hard wing covers. Some beetles are beneficial predators, while others are pests; farmers need to identify and manage both types effectively.

Case

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.January 3, 2011May 25, 20240

Case: An outer covering or a single occurrence of a disease. Properly managing cases of disease involves implementing biosecurity measures and providing appropriate veterinary care to protect livestock health.

Veterinary Care

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.January 2, 2011May 24, 20240

The medical treatment and preventive care provided to livestock by veterinarians. Veterinary care includes vaccinations, surgeries, and health monitoring. For example, working with a veterinarian to develop health protocols for cattle.

Excretion Rate

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.January 1, 2011May 25, 20242

excretion rate: The rate at which a substance such as nitrogen is excreted by an animal. Understanding excretion rates helps farmers manage livestock nutrition and waste.

Global Distillation

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 29, 2010May 25, 20242

global distillation: The movement of persistent organic pollutants from warm tropical and subtropical regions to cooler higher latitudes via evaporation and condensation. Understanding global distillation helps farmers recognize and mitigate the impact of pollutants on their crops and environment.

Clayey

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 28, 2010May 25, 20241

Clayey: Containing clay. Understanding soil composition helps farmers manage fertility and optimize crop production on clayey lands.

Master Of Foxhounds Association

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 28, 2010May 25, 20242

Master of Foxhounds Association: a group which provides information to foxhunters and hunt leaders. Abbr MFHA. Understanding the role of the Master of Foxhounds Association can help farmers engaged in foxhunting activities manage their operations more effectively.

Worms

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 27, 2010May 25, 20242

worms: Worms refer to parasitic worms infesting animals. Managing worm infestations is crucial for maintaining livestock health and ensuring high yields in dairy and meat production.

Veterinary Medicine

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 27, 2010May 24, 20240

The branch of medicine that focuses on the health and care of animals. Veterinary medicine includes diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases in livestock, pets, and wildlife. For example, providing veterinary care to dairy cows to ensure their health and productivity.

Louse Disease

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 25, 2010May 25, 20242

Louse Disease: Louse disease is an external parasitic disease of cattle. Severe infection leads to loss of condition, wasting, and anemia. Managing louse disease through proper treatment and prevention measures can protect cattle health and productivity.

Wireweed

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 24, 2010May 25, 20242

wireweed: Wireweed, or knotgrass, is a common weed affecting crops. Farmers need to manage wireweed to protect crop health and ensure optimal yields.

Cattle Ranch

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 24, 2010May 24, 20240

A large farm where cattle are raised for meat production. Cattle ranches typically involve extensive grazing land and herd management practices. For example, managing a cattle ranch with rotational grazing to optimize forage use and cattle health.

Variegation

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 24, 2010May 25, 20242

variegation: A phenomenon in some plants where two or more colors occur in patches on the leaves or flowers. Managing variegation can help maintain aesthetic and genetic diversity in crops.

SFA

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 23, 2010May 25, 20242

SFA: Small Farms Association. Farmers benefit from engaging with SFA for support and resources tailored to small-scale farming operations.

Heft

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 22, 2010May 25, 20242

heft: A group of mountain sheep which graze the same area in which they were born, although not kept in by fences. Managing hefted sheep helps maintain traditional grazing practices and supports sustainable land use.

Bilharziasis

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 20, 2010May 25, 20242

bilharziasis: Another term for schistosomiasis. Recognizing and managing bilharziasis helps protect livestock and farm workers from parasitic infections.

Descending Aorta

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 19, 2010May 25, 20242

descending aorta: The second section of the aorta as it turns downwards. Understanding animal anatomy, including the descending aorta, is important for livestock health and veterinary care. Farmers should work with veterinarians to monitor the health of their animals and address any cardiovascular issues promptly. Knowledge of animal anatomy can improve health management and disease prevention.

Yelt

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 19, 2010May 25, 20240

yelt: Yelt is a young female pig. Proper care and management of yelts are essential for farmers to ensure healthy development and future production.

Tox- / Toxi-

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 18, 2010May 25, 20242

tox- / toxi-: Prefix indicating poison. Understanding toxic substances and their effects is crucial for safe farm management and preventing contamination.

Genotype

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 18, 2010May 25, 20241

genotype: The genetic constitution of an organism. Phenotype. An individual organism. Understanding genotype helps farmers predict the traits of offspring and select the best individuals for breeding.

Skin

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 17, 2010May 25, 20240

skin: the outer layer on an animal, fruit, or vegetable. Proper management of skin health in livestock and produce helps farmers maintain quality and market value, reducing losses and enhancing profitability.

Nucleus

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 17, 2010May 25, 20242

nucleus: the central body in a cell, containing DNA and RNA, and controlling the function and characteristics of the cell. Understanding cell biology, including the role of the nucleus, helps farmers and researchers develop better breeding and crop improvement strategies. Knowledge of genetic principles and cellular functions can lead to advancements in plant and animal breeding, improving productivity, disease resistance, and overall farm performance. Farmers can benefit from adopting new technologies and practices based on cellular and genetic research to enhance their operations and sustainability.

Swing Plough

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 17, 2010May 25, 20241

swing plough: a plough used in upland areas which is designed to swing from one side to the other when the tractor changes direction at the end of a furrow. Using swing ploughs ensures efficient soil preparation and crop establishment, supporting productive agriculture.

Nominated Service

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 17, 2010May 25, 20242

nominated service: artificial insemination with semen from a named and tested male animal. Nominated services in artificial insemination provide farmers with access to high-quality, genetically superior male animals. This practice helps improve the genetic quality of livestock, enhancing traits such as productivity, disease resistance, and overall performance. Farmers can benefit from using nominated services to achieve specific breeding goals, increase herd or flock quality, and enhance farm profitability. Access to reliable genetic resources supports sustainable livestock production and long-term farm success.

Dairy Odor Control

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 17, 2010May 24, 20242

Methods and technologies used to reduce and manage odors from dairy farms and processing facilities. For example, implementing odor control measures to minimize the impact of dairy operations on surrounding communities.

Food Product Public Relations

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 16, 2010May 24, 20241

The management of communication and relationships with the public and media to promote a positive image and reputation for food products. For example, using food product public relations to generate positive media coverage and enhance brand credibility.

Dug

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 14, 2010May 25, 20242

dug: A teat or udder of an animal, especially of a cow. Ensuring the health and cleanliness of the udder is crucial for milk production and the prevention of mastitis.

Bough

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 13, 2010May 25, 20242

bough: A large branch of a tree. Managing tree boughs ensures healthy growth and prevents damage to farm infrastructure.

Tine

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 12, 2010May 25, 20242

tine: A pointed spike on a cultivator or harrow. Types of tine include rigid, spring-loaded, and spring. A sharp prong of a fork or rake. Proper use and maintenance of tines can enhance soil preparation and crop management.

Extraction Rate

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 11, 2010May 25, 20240

extraction rate: The percentage of flour produced as a result of milling grain. Understanding extraction rates helps farmers optimize processing and improve product quality.

Inorganic

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 11, 2010May 25, 20242

inorganic: Referring to a substance which does not come from an animal or a plant. Inorganic substances include acids, alkalis and metals. Helps farmers understand and use inorganic materials in agriculture.

Mushroom Spawn Production

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 10, 2010May 24, 20242

The methods used to produce mushroom spawn, including the cultivation of mycelium on grains or other substrates. For example, producing mushroom spawn to inoculate substrates and start new mushroom crops.

Plant Breeder

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 10, 2010May 25, 20242

plant breeder: A person who produces new forms of ornamental or crop plants. Helpful content: Plant breeders play a crucial role in agriculture by developing new plant varieties that are more resilient, productive, and suited to specific growing conditions. This innovation can help farmers improve crop performance and adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Cattle Grid

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 10, 2010May 25, 20240

Cattle Grid: A type of grill covering a hole in the road to prevent stock from crossing but allowing vehicles and humans to pass. Using cattle grids helps farmers manage livestock movement and protect pasturelands.

Silviculture

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.December 10, 2010May 25, 20242

silviculture: The cultivation of trees as part of forestry. Farmers benefit from engaging in silviculture for sustainable forestry and timber production.