Category: D

distemper: An infectious disease affecting dogs, cats, and some other animals, causing fever, respiratory, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Managing distemper 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 distemper will aid in early detection and treatment, ensuring the health and productivity of the herd.

Dutch harrow: An implement with a metal or wooden frame, with heavy tine bars almost at right angles to the direction of travel. The tines loosen the soil, and the heavy bars level the surface. Also called float. Dutch harrows are used in soil preparation to create a smooth seedbed for planting.

dew: Drops of condensed moisture left on surfaces overnight in cool places. Dew can provide a valuable source of moisture for plants in arid regions. Farmers should consider the role of dew in their irrigation management and monitor its impact on crop health. Understanding the benefits of dew can help optimize water use and improve plant growth.

dental: Referring to teeth. Dental health is important for livestock to ensure proper feeding and nutrition. Farmers should regularly inspect and care for the teeth of their animals to prevent dental issues and maintain overall health. Working with veterinarians to develop dental care routines can improve animal welfare and productivity.

diet formulation: The combining of different types of feedstuffs or nutrients to form a healthy and balanced diet for an animal. Probably the most likely area for reform was diet formulation, and with feed accounting for 70 percent of production costs, it was essential to examine management practices such as phase feeding to more precisely tailor feed inputs to requirements. [Farming News]. Proper diet formulation is crucial for optimizing the health and productivity of livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop balanced and cost-effective diets for their animals. Understanding the principles of diet formulation will aid in efficient feed management and improved farm profitability.

dew claw: A rudimentary fifth digit found on the heels of dogs, pigs, and cattle. Dew claws should be monitored for health issues such as injury or infection. Farmers should implement proper care and management practices to ensure the well-being of animals with dew claws. Understanding the anatomy and function of dew claws can aid in effective livestock management.

disking: A method of tillage using a circular agricultural implement called a disk to prepare the soil for planting. Disking can improve soil structure, control weeds, and incorporate organic matter. Farmers should use proper techniques and equipment for effective disking. Understanding the benefits and applications of disking will aid in effective soil management and crop establishment.

dehydrated milk: Milk which has been dried and reduced to a powder. Dehydrated milk is a valuable product for extending the shelf life of milk and reducing transportation costs. Farmers and processors should ensure proper drying techniques and packaging to maintain the quality of dehydrated milk. Understanding market opportunities for dehydrated milk can help optimize production and profitability.

document: To record information in written or electronic form. Proper documentation practices are important for maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with regulations. Farmers should implement effective documentation techniques to record farm activities, transactions, and data. Understanding the benefits of proper documentation will aid in effective farm management and decision-making.

desertify: To make land into a desert. It is predicted that half the country will be desertified by the end of the century. Preventing land from becoming desertified involves implementing sustainable land management practices and restoring degraded land. Farmers should adopt measures like reforestation, soil conservation, and water management to prevent and mitigate desertification. Understanding the causes and impacts of desertification will help develop effective strategies for land restoration and sustainable agriculture.

degradable: Referring to a substance which can be broken down into its separate elements. Biodegradable materials are important for sustainable farming practices. Farmers should use degradable products, such as biodegradable mulch and packaging, to reduce environmental impact. Understanding the properties and benefits of degradable materials can help farmers make environmentally conscious decisions in their operations.

dehydration: The process of removing water from something in order to preserve it. Proper dehydration techniques are important for preserving the quality and nutritional value of crops. Farmers should use appropriate equipment and methods to dehydrate products efficiently. Understanding the benefits and applications of dehydration can help farmers add value to their produce and reduce waste.

demonstration farm: A farm used as a means of spreading best practice to other farmers. Demonstration farms play a crucial role in agricultural education and technology transfer. Farmers should engage with demonstration farms to learn about new techniques, technologies, and practices. Participating in demonstration farm activities can improve knowledge and skills, leading to better farm management and increased productivity.

disinfecting: The process of removing harmful organisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi from a place or an object by cleaning it with a disinfectant. Proper disinfecting practices are essential for maintaining farm hygiene and preventing disease outbreaks. Farmers should use appropriate disinfectants and techniques for effective disinfecting. Understanding the benefits and applications of disinfecting will aid in maintaining a healthy and productive farm environment.

dentition: The arrangement of teeth in an animal’s mouth. An examination of an animal’s teeth may help in estimating its age. Understanding dentition is important for livestock management and health. Farmers should monitor the dental health of their animals and address any issues promptly. Proper dental care can improve feeding efficiency and overall well-being of livestock.

diphtheria: A serious infectious disease where a membrane forms in the throat passages of an animal, such as in calf diphtheria. Managing diphtheria 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 diphtheria will aid in early detection and treatment, ensuring the health and productivity of the herd.

DVM: Abbreviation for Divisional Veterinary Manager, a trained technician working for an Animal Health Divisional Office. DVMs play a crucial role in managing animal health and disease prevention on farms.

dusting: The act of using dry powdered fungicide or insecticide on crops. Proper application of dusting agents helps protect crops from pests and diseases while minimizing environmental impact.

disinfectant: A substance which removes harmful organisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi from a place or an object by cleaning it. Proper use of disinfectants is essential for maintaining farm hygiene and preventing disease outbreaks. Farmers should select the appropriate disinfectant for their needs and use it according to label instructions. Understanding the benefits and applications of disinfectants will aid in effective disease management and improved farm productivity.

deep-freezing: Long-term storage at temperatures below freezing point. (NOTE: Many crops such as peas and beans are grown specifically for commercial deep-freezing.) Deep-freezing is an effective method for preserving the quality and nutritional value of crops. Farmers should ensure proper harvesting, handling, and freezing techniques to maintain the integrity of deep-frozen produce. Understanding market demands for frozen products can also help farmers plan their production and marketing strategies.

droppings: Excreta from animals. The grass was covered with rabbit and sheep droppings. Animal droppings can be valuable as a natural fertilizer, adding nutrients to the soil and improving plant growth.

dominance hierarchy: The system of priority given to specific individuals in terms of access to food and reproductive mates. In many species, a male is at the top of the dominance hierarchy. Farmers can use this knowledge to manage animal behavior and social structures within herds or flocks.

Dorset wedge silage: A method of storing silage in wedge-shaped layers, usually covered with polythene sheeting. The first loads are tipped against the end wall and further loads are built up with a buckrake to form a wedge. This method helps preserve the nutritional quality of silage for livestock feeding.

dew pond: A small pond of rainwater which forms on high ground in chalky soil. COMMENT: Dew ponds are found in areas of chalk or limestone country. To make a dew pond, a hollow is scooped out and lined with clay. The pond is kept full by rainwater. Dew ponds can provide a valuable water source for livestock in arid regions. Farmers should maintain and manage dew ponds to ensure a reliable water supply. Understanding the construction and benefits of dew ponds can enhance water management strategies on the farm.

digestive juices: Juices in an animal’s digestive tract which convert food into a form that is absorbed into the body. Maintaining healthy digestive juices is important for the efficient absorption of nutrients in livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop diets that promote the production of healthy digestive juices. Implementing proper dietary practices will enhance the productivity and welfare of livestock.

Dexter: A rare breed of cattle, originating from the west of Ireland. The animals are small in size, colored black or red. Dexter cattle are valued for their hardiness and efficiency in converting forage into meat and milk. Farmers raising Dexter cattle should focus on proper grazing management, health monitoring, and breeding practices to maintain herd productivity. Marketing the unique characteristics of Dexter cattle can attract buyers and enhance farm profitability.

deadly nightshade: A poisonous plant (Atropa belladonna) sometimes eaten by animals. Farmers should be vigilant about the presence of deadly nightshade on their land to prevent livestock poisoning. Proper identification and removal of this plant are essential for maintaining animal health. Educating farm workers and implementing safety measures can reduce the risk of accidental ingestion.

dispersive soil: A type of soil in which the particles separate when the soil is wet, leading to erosion. Managing dispersive soils involves implementing proper soil conservation practices and erosion control measures. Farmers should use techniques like cover cropping, mulching, and proper irrigation management to reduce soil erosion. Understanding the characteristics of dispersive soils will aid in developing effective management strategies.

desiccate: To preserve food by removing moisture from it. To dry out. Desiccation is an effective method for preserving food and reducing waste. Farmers should ensure proper techniques and equipment for desiccating crops to maintain their quality and nutritional value. Understanding market demands for desiccated products can help farmers plan their production and marketing strategies.

dieldrin: An organochlorine insecticide which kills on contact. It is very persistent and can kill fish, birds, and small mammals when it enters the food chain. It is banned in the European Union. Farmers should avoid using banned substances like dieldrin to prevent environmental contamination and legal issues. Understanding alternative pest control methods will help manage pests effectively while complying with regulations and protecting the environment.

dock: A plant of the genus Rumex, which has edible leaves and is used in folk medicine. Managing dock plants involves implementing proper weed control practices. Farmers should use appropriate techniques and equipment to manage dock populations effectively. Understanding the benefits and challenges of dock plants will aid in effective weed management and crop production.

dry organic matter: Organic matter such as sewage sludge or manure that has been dried out and may be used as a fertilizer. Abbr DOM. Dry organic matter is a valuable resource for improving soil fertility and structure.

desertification: The process by which fertile land becomes desert as a result of various factors, including drought, deforestation, and inappropriate agriculture. Preventing desertification is crucial for maintaining productive farmland.

dietary reference values: The nutrients that are essential for health, published as a list by the UK government. Understanding dietary reference values is important for developing balanced and nutritious diets for livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to ensure that animal diets meet these reference values and promote optimal health. Implementing proper dietary practices will enhance the productivity and welfare of livestock.

dew claw: A rudimentary fifth digit found on the heels of dogs, pigs, and cattle. Dew claws should be monitored for health issues such as injury or infection. Farmers should implement proper care and management practices to ensure the well-being of animals with dew claws. Understanding the anatomy and function of dew claws can aid in effective livestock management.

deer: A ruminant animal, the males of which have distinctive antlers. COMMENT: There are three wild species in the UK: the fallow deer (Dama dama), the roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), and the red deer (Cervus elaphus), which is also raised commercially. Deer are hardy animals, and are well adapted to severe winters. They can suffer from tuberculosis, and the British government has introduced a compulsory slaughter scheme for animals suffering from the disease. According to the 2000 agricultural survey, the total number of farmed deer holdings in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland is 300, farming approximately 36,000 deer. They represent less than 0.6% of the farmed animals in the UK (excluding poultry). Farmers involved in deer farming should focus on proper health management, nutrition, and housing to ensure the productivity and welfare of their herds. Understanding the market for venison and other deer products can help farmers optimize their operations and profitability.

direct drilling: A form of minimal cultivation where the seed is sown directly into the field without previous cultivation. Several types of drill are used, with heavy discs for cutting narrow drills, or strong cultivator tines. Direct drilling can improve soil health, reduce erosion, and save time and labor. Farmers should select the appropriate type of drill for their needs and use it properly to achieve optimal crop establishment. Understanding the benefits and applications of direct drilling will aid in effective soil management and crop production.

Dorking: A breed of fowl, with dark and silver-grey plumage, or a silver-grey breed of bantam. Dorkings are valued for their meat and egg production. Proper care and management can maximize their productivity and health.

dibber: A hand tool for making holes in soil to plant small plants. Using a dibber can improve planting efficiency and accuracy. Farmers and gardeners should select the right type of dibber for their needs and use it properly to ensure successful planting. Understanding the benefits and applications of a dibber can aid in effective crop establishment and growth.

danthonia: A tufted pasture grass found in Australia and New Zealand. Danthonia is valued for its drought tolerance and suitability for grazing. Farmers can use danthonia in pasture management to improve forage availability, especially in arid regions. Rotational grazing and proper fertilization will help maintain healthy danthonia pastures, providing consistent feed for livestock.

dietary fibre: Same as roughage. COMMENT: Dietary fibre is found in cereals, nuts, fruit, and some green vegetables. It is believed to be necessary to help digestion and to avoid developing constipation, obesity, and appendicitis. Providing dietary fiber is important for maintaining the digestive health of livestock. Farmers should include adequate roughage in the diets of their animals to promote proper digestion and overall health. Understanding the sources and benefits of dietary fiber will aid in effective feed management.

deadnettle: Referring to red deadnettle. Red deadnettle can be a weed in gardens and fields. Farmers and gardeners should manage this plant through regular weeding and the use of herbicides. Understanding its growth patterns and implementing appropriate control methods will help maintain healthy crops and reduce competition for resources.

depression: An area of low atmospheric pressure. Also called low. Understanding weather patterns, including depressions, is important for managing farm activities. Farmers should monitor weather forecasts and plan operations accordingly to minimize the impact of adverse weather. Implementing weather-related risk management strategies can help protect crops and livestock from damage.

dried blood: An organic fertilizer with a nitrogen content of 10% – 13%. It is a soluble quick-acting fertilizer, used mainly by horticulturists. Dried blood helps improve soil fertility and supports healthy plant growth.

discontinue: To stop making or doing something. Discontinuing certain practices or products may be necessary for improving farm operations or complying with regulations. Farmers should stay informed about industry trends and regulatory changes to make informed decisions about discontinuation. Understanding the impacts of discontinuation will aid in developing effective management strategies.

dystocia: Difficulty in the process of giving birth. Managing dystocia requires timely veterinary intervention to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and offspring during birthing.

deadweight: The weight of a dressed carcass. Understanding deadweight is important for livestock farmers when selling animals for meat. Knowing the average deadweight of their livestock can help farmers negotiate better prices and manage their production more effectively. Regularly monitoring and recording carcass weights will provide valuable data for improving livestock management practices.

disbudding: The removal of the horn buds of young animals so that the horns will not grow. Disbudding is a common practice in livestock management to reduce injury risks. Farmers should use proper techniques and follow animal welfare guidelines for effective disbudding. Understanding the benefits and methods of disbudding can improve livestock management and enhance animal welfare.

dust: A fine powder made of particles, e.g., dry dirt or sand. Managing dust on farms involves controlling soil erosion and maintaining clean working environments to prevent respiratory issues and contamination.

drill coulter: A coulter that makes a furrow for sowing seed. Drill coulters are essential for precision planting, helping to create uniform seed rows and improve crop establishment.