April 25, 2025
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Novel Crop

novel crop: a non-traditional crop, e.g., miscanthus grown as an energy crop or evening primrose grown for supply to the pharmaceutical industry. Growing novel crops offers farmers opportunities to diversify their production and tap into emerging markets. By cultivating non-traditional crops, farmers can reduce dependency on conventional markets, explore new revenue streams, and enhance farm resilience. Understanding the specific requirements and market potential of novel crops helps farmers make informed decisions and optimize their farming operations.

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Overtopping

overtopping: Cutting too much off the top of a plant when preparing it, such as when preparing sugar beet. Avoiding overtopping is important for maintaining plant health and maximizing yields. Farmers can benefit from understanding proper pruning and harvesting techniques to optimize crop performance.

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Prairie

prairie: A large area of grass-covered plains in North America, mainly without trees. Helpful content: Prairies are important for extensive agriculture and grazing. Understanding prairie ecosystems helps farmers manage land sustainably, promoting soil health and biodiversity while supporting livestock production.

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Disease

disease: A condition caused by infection or by a defect of the body. Managing disease involves implementing proper biosecurity measures, vaccination, and regular health monitoring. Farmers should work with veterinarians to develop effective disease management plans and prevent outbreaks. Understanding the signs and symptoms of diseases will aid in early detection and treatment, ensuring the health and productivity of the herd.

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Water Act 1989

Water Act 1989: An Act of Parliament which made it an offence to cause a discharge of poisonous, noxious, or polluting matter or solid matter to any controlled water under the responsibility of the National Rivers Authority. Controls are also in force to ensure that silage, slurry, and fuel oil installations are of adequate standard. Complying with the Water Act can protect water quality and prevent pollution on the farm.

Milk Cooling

The process of rapidly cooling milk after milking to preserve its quality and prevent bacterial growth. Milk cooling is essential for maintaining milk safety and freshness. For instance, using bulk tanks with cooling systems to chill milk immediately after milking.

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Neck Rot

neck rot: a disease affecting bulb onions during storage. The onions become soft and begin to rot from the stem downwards. Managing neck rot is essential for maintaining the quality and marketability of stored onions. Farmers can benefit from implementing proper storage practices, such as controlling temperature and humidity, to prevent the onset of neck rot. Regular monitoring and the use of resistant varieties can also reduce losses. Effective management of neck rot ensures higher product quality, reduces waste, and improves profitability for onion producers.