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.

Coppicing

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 16, 2008May 25, 20242

Coppicing: Coppicing noun the practice of regularly cutting down trees near to the ground to produce strong straight shoots for fuel or other uses Coppicing, a traditional method of woodland management, is now of interest for producing biofuel. COMMENT: The best trees for coppicing are those which naturally send up several tall straight stems from a bole, such as willow, alder, or poplar. In coppice management, the normal cycle is about five to ten years of growth, after which the stems are cut back. Implementing coppicing practices provides sustainable wood production and enhances forest management.

Food And Agriculture Organization

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 14, 2008May 25, 20240

Food and Agriculture Organization: An international organization that is an agency of the United Nations, established to improve standards of nutrition and eradicate malnutrition and hunger. Abbr FAO. This organization provides resources and guidance to farmers worldwide, promoting sustainable agriculture and food security.

Implements

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 13, 2008May 24, 20240

Tools and equipment used in farming operations. Implements include plows, harrows, seeders, and sprayers. For instance, using a plow to prepare the soil for planting crops.

Headrail

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 13, 2008May 25, 20240

headrail: A rail across the front of a cubicle, to which a halter can be attached. Using headrails ensures the safe and secure management of livestock in cubicles.

Horn

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 13, 2008May 25, 20242

horn: A hard growth which is formed on the tops of the heads of animals such as cattle, deer, goats, and sheep. Managing horn health in livestock ensures their well-being and productivity.

Carrot

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 12, 2008May 25, 20240

Carrot: A vegetable root crop (Daucus carota) grown for human consumption. Growing carrots provides nutritious food and valuable produce for fresh markets and processing, contributing to farm income.

Subclinical Mastitis

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 12, 2008May 24, 20240

A form of mastitis without visible symptoms but detectable through milk testing, typically by elevated somatic cell counts. Subclinical mastitis affects milk quality and yield. For example, monitoring somatic cell counts to detect and manage subclinical mastitis in dairy herds.

Smudging

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 11, 2008May 25, 20240

smudging: the process of burning oil to produce smoke to prevent loss of heat from the ground and so to minimise or prevent frost damage to crops and orchards. Using smudging techniques protects crops from frost damage, ensuring better yields and quality.

Beef Brains

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 10, 2008May 24, 20241

The brains of cattle, often used in traditional dishes and for making pet food. For example, producing beef brains for culinary and industrial applications.

Cattle Milk Lactose-Free

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 7, 2008May 24, 20240

Products that have had lactose removed or broken down, suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. For instance, producing lactose-free milk to cater to consumers with dietary restrictions.

Trematode

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 5, 2008May 25, 20242

trematode: A fluke, a parasitic flatworm. Proper management of trematode infections is essential for livestock health and productivity.

Agri-Entrepreneurship

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 3, 2008May 24, 20242

The pursuit of innovative and business-oriented approaches in agriculture, including the development of new products, services, and markets. For example, exploring agri-entrepreneurship opportunities to create value-added products and expand business ventures.

Fly Blown

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 2, 2008May 25, 20240

Fly Blown: Referring to a fleece laden with maggot-fly eggs. Properly managing fly infestations helps protect sheep health and wool quality.

Snap Beans

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 1, 2008May 25, 20240

snap beans: US beans which are eaten in the pod, e.g., green beans or French beans, or of which the seed is eaten after drying, e.g., haricot beans. As opposed to broad beans or Lima beans, the seeds of which are eaten fresh. Growing snap beans provides farmers with a versatile crop for fresh and processed markets, enhancing farm income.

Carbamate

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.March 1, 2008May 25, 20240

Carbamate: A pesticide used as an insecticide, herbicide, and fungicide, no longer approved for use in the UK. Understanding the history and regulation of carbamates helps farmers adopt safer pest management practices.

Cattle Milk Processing

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 29, 2008May 24, 20240

The series of steps involved in converting raw milk into dairy products such as cheese, butter, and yogurt. Dairy processing includes pasteurization, homogenization, and packaging. For instance, operating a dairy processing plant to produce and distribute various dairy products.

Beekeeping Regulations And Compliance

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 29, 2008May 24, 20242

The laws and guidelines governing beekeeping practices, including hive management, disease control, and honey production standards. For example, complying with beekeeping regulations to ensure legal and sustainable beekeeping operations.

Dipper

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 27, 2008May 25, 20243

dipper: A deep trench into which sheep are guided to be dipped. Using a dipper is an effective method for managing external parasites in sheep. Farmers should ensure proper construction and maintenance of dippers for safe and effective dipping. Understanding the benefits and applications of dippers will aid in effective parasite management and improved livestock welfare.

Polyethylene

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 27, 2008May 25, 20242

polyethylene: Same as polythene. Helpful content: Polyethylene is widely used in agriculture for applications such as mulching, greenhouse covers, and irrigation tubing. Its durability and flexibility make it a valuable material for enhancing crop protection and water management.

Lump Lime

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 27, 2008May 25, 20242

Lump Lime: Lump lime is another name for burnt lime or quicklime. Utilizing lump lime can improve soil health and fertility, supporting crop growth.

Marl

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 26, 2008May 25, 20241

marl: a fine soil formed of a mixture of clay and lime, used for making bricks. Marl can be an important resource for farmers engaged in building or improving farm infrastructure.

Prime

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 24, 2008May 24, 20240

The highest USDA quality grade for beef, characterized by abundant marbling and tenderness. Prime beef is preferred for its flavor and quality. For example, producing Prime beef to meet the demand for premium steaks and roasts.

Disbud

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 22, 2008May 25, 20242

disbud: To remove buds from a plant to prevent growth, or to remove horn buds from a young animal. Proper disbudding techniques are important for managing plant growth and livestock health. Farmers should use appropriate methods and tools for effective disbudding. Understanding the benefits and applications of disbudding will aid in effective crop and livestock management.

Knapweed

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 21, 2008May 25, 20240

knapweed: Knapweed – a perennial weed (Centaurea nigra). Helps farmers identify and manage weed control.

Bacillary White Diarrhoea

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 21, 2008May 25, 20242

bacillary white diarrhoea: An acute, infectious disease of chicks caused by Salmonella pullorum, highly fatal if untreated. Farmers should be vigilant about hygiene and vaccination programs to prevent outbreaks and protect poultry populations.

Liming

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 21, 2008May 25, 20242

Liming: Liming is the spreading of lime on soil to reduce acidity and add calcium. Also called lime treatment. Implementing liming practices can enhance soil fertility and support sustainable agriculture.

Crop Protection Association

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 19, 2008May 25, 20242

Crop Protection Association: Crop Protection Association noun an association which promotes best practice in food safety with regard to the use of pesticides on crops. Abbr CPA. Engaging with the Crop Protection Association supports best practices in crop management and pest control.

Soil Erosion Mitigation

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 19, 2008May 24, 20240

Actions taken to reduce the severity and impact of soil erosion on agricultural land. Soil erosion mitigation includes practices such as contour farming, buffer strips, and cover cropping. For example, implementing buffer strips along waterways to reduce soil erosion and protect water quality in agricultural landscapes.

Stem Eelworm

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 18, 2008May 25, 20242

stem eelworm: a pest affecting cereals, in particular oats. The plant stem swells and is prevented from growing and producing any ears. Managing stem eelworm populations protects crops from damage, ensuring healthy growth and better yields.

Cheese

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 18, 2008May 25, 20242

Cheese: Food made from cows milk curds. Understanding cheese production helps farmers and processors produce high-quality dairy products for the market.

Agricultural Chemicals Approval Scheme

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 18, 2008May 25, 20241

Agricultural Chemicals Approval Scheme: A scheme which gave advice to farmers on the use and efficiency of chemicals and tested chemicals before use by farmers. It was operated by the Agricultural Chemicals Approved Organization and was a voluntary scheme which has now been replaced by the FEPA legislation. Abbr ACAS. Following chemical approval schemes helps farmers use agrochemicals safely and effectively.

Straw Walker

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 17, 2008May 25, 20242

straw walker: the part of a combine harvester where straw is carried away from the threshed grain after it has been separated from the stalks. Properly managing straw walkers ensures efficient combine harvester operation and crop quality.

Lipase

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 16, 2008May 25, 20242

Lipase: Lipase is an enzyme that breaks down fats. Understanding enzymes like lipase can help farmers formulate balanced animal feeds and manage livestock nutrition.

List Of Chemicals Of Concern

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 16, 2008May 25, 20242

List of Chemicals of Concern: List of Chemicals of Concern is a list of chemicals believed to be produced or used in the UK in substantial amounts and which meet specific criteria for concern relating to risks to the environment and human health. The list is drawn up by the UK Chemicals Stakeholder Forum and is intended for discussion and input. Being aware of chemicals of concern can help farmers adopt safe and sustainable farming practices.

Suckler

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 15, 2008May 25, 20242

suckler: a calf or other young animal which is suckling. Properly managing sucklers ensures healthy growth and development, supporting livestock productivity and farm profitability.

Food Product Collaboration Platforms

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 15, 2008May 24, 20244

The digital tools and systems that facilitate teamwork and communication among employees, including project management software, chat applications, and virtual meeting platforms. For example, using food product collaboration platforms to enhance remote teamwork and efficiency.

Peat

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 15, 2008May 25, 20242

peat: The accumulated partly decayed mosses and other plants which form the soil of a bog, often forming a deep layer. COMMENT: Acid peats are formed in waterlogged areas where marsh plants grow, and where the decay of dead material is slow. Black fen soils found in East Anglia are very fertile. These soils contain silts and calcium carbonate in addition to the remains of vegetation. Peat can be cut and dried in blocks, which can then be used as fuel. It is also widely used in horticulture, after drying and sterilizing. Peat was used as a fuel in some areas and was widely used in gardens to improve the texture of the soil or mixed with soil or other materials to grow plants in pots. These practices are now discouraged in order to prevent the overuse of peat bogs. Understanding peat and its uses helps in making informed decisions about sustainable soil management and conservation practices.

Enzootic Disease

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 14, 2008May 25, 20241

enzootic disease: An outbreak of disease among certain species of animals in a certain area. Compare epizootic disease. Managing enzootic diseases helps farmers protect animal health and prevent the spread of infections.

Glume Blotch

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 14, 2008May 25, 20242

glume blotch: A fungal disease of wheat. Recognizing and managing glume blotch can prevent crop losses and improve wheat yield.

Dairy Seller

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 13, 2008May 24, 20242

A business or individual involved in selling dairy products to consumers, retailers, and wholesalers. For example, working as a dairy seller to market and distribute fresh milk and dairy products.

ACPAT

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 13, 2008May 25, 20242

ACPAT: Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy. Farmers can benefit from the expertise of ACPAT members in maintaining the health and well-being of their livestock.

Fat Thickness Measurement

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 12, 2008May 24, 20240

The measurement of the fat layer over the back, usually at the 12th rib. Fat thickness is used to assess fat cover and carcass quality. For example, monitoring fat thickness in cattle to ensure optimal meat quality and processing efficiency.

Light Grains

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 11, 2008May 25, 20241

Light Grains: Light grains are cereals such as barley and oats. Comparing light grains with heavy grains can help farmers choose appropriate crops for their land and market needs.

Boar

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 9, 2008May 25, 20242

boar: A male pig. Managing boars is essential for breeding programs and maintaining herd productivity.

Agritainment Activities

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 8, 2008May 24, 20242

The provision of recreational and entertainment activities on farms, including hayrides, corn mazes, and petting zoos. For example, offering agritainment activities to attract families and provide a fun farm experience.

Globe

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 8, 2008May 25, 20242

globe: A ball-shaped vegetable such as the globe artichoke or a variety of mangel. Growing globe-shaped vegetables can diversify farm products and provide additional income.

Metabolised Energy

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 7, 2008May 25, 20242

metabolised energy: the proportion of energy from feed which is used by an animal through its metabolism. Abbr ME. Understanding metabolised energy can help farmers manage livestock nutrition more effectively, ensuring better growth and productivity.

Primitive

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 4, 2008May 25, 20242

primitive: Referring to an early stage in an organisms development. Helpful content: Understanding primitive traits in plants and animals can provide insights into their evolution and adaptation. This knowledge can inform breeding programs and conservation efforts on farms.

Country Planning

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 3, 2008May 25, 20241

Country Planning: Country planning noun the activity of organizing how land is to be used in the countryside and the amount and type of building there will be. Also called rural planning. Implementing country planning practices supports sustainable land use and rural development.

Dressing Percentage

by Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.February 2, 2008May 24, 20240

The ratio of carcass weight to liveweight, expressed as a percentage. Dressing percentage is used to evaluate slaughter efficiency. For example, achieving higher dressing percentages to improve meat yield and processing profitability.