Category: W

watershed: A natural dividing line between the sources of river systems, dividing one catchment area from another. Understanding watershed dynamics can improve water management and environmental protection on the farm.

wet mash: Mash feed mixed with water. Using wet mash can improve feed palatability and nutrient intake for livestock.

water management: The careful and appropriate use of water. Effective water management can improve farm productivity and sustainability.

woodlot: A woodlot is a small area of land planted with trees. Farmers can manage woodlots for timber production, firewood, and wildlife habitat, adding diversity to farm resources.

WWFWWF: The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) focuses on wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability. Farmers can collaborate with WWF to enhance biodiversity and adopt sustainable farming practices.

wild: Wild refers to animals or plants that are not domesticated or cultivated. Understanding wild species is important for farmers to manage their land effectively, preserving biodiversity and preventing potential damage from wild animals.

Welfare of Farmed Animals Regulations 2000: A piece of legislation which sets out guidelines for the humane treatment of animals on farms, including separate schedules on the treatment specific types of animals such as laying hens, cattle, or pigs. Complying with these regulations can improve animal welfare and farm practices.

Western: Same as Wiltshire horn. Raising traditional breeds like the Western sheep can provide high-quality meat and maintain genetic diversity.

water meadow: A grassy field near a river, which is often flooded. Utilizing water meadows can improve biodiversity and provide valuable grazing land.

wireworm: Wireworm is the larvae of the click beetle that feeds on plant roots. Controlling wireworms is crucial for farmers to prevent damage to crops and maintain soil health.

work: Work means to cultivate land. Efficient land cultivation practices help farmers prepare soil for planting and improve crop yields.

ware potatoes: Potatoes grown for human consumption, as opposed to those grown for seed. Growing ware potatoes can provide a steady income stream from the food market.

welfare legislation: A law or set of laws that makes it illegal to cause harm or distress to animals while caring for them. Complying with welfare legislation can ensure humane treatment of animals and improve farm practices.

wild chamomile: Wild chamomile, also known as mayweed, is a plant that can grow in fields. While it may not be directly useful for farmers, understanding its presence can help in managing crops and preventing unwanted spread.

web conveyor: A machine used to move material along a moving web; found on all types of harvesters and some processing machines. Using web conveyors can improve harvest efficiency and reduce labor costs.

wattle: Rods and twigs woven together to make a type of fence or a piece of fleshy skin hanging down below the throat of birds such as the turkey. Using wattle fencing can improve farm infrastructure and animal containment.

Welsh mountain: A hardy breed of sheep, well adapted to wet conditions. The animals are small with white faces and very fine fleece, and only the rams have horns. Raising Welsh mountain sheep can provide high-quality wool and meat, enhancing farm income.

water-soluble: Able to dissolve in water. Using water-soluble nutrients can improve plant health and growth, enhancing crop yields.

weathering: The alteration of the state of soil or rock through the action of natural agents such as rain, sun, frost, or wind or by artificially produced pollutants. Managing weathering can improve soil health and prevent erosion, supporting sustainable farming practices.

wintering grounds: Wintering grounds are areas where birds spend the winter. Farmers can manage these grounds to support local wildlife and maintain ecological balance.

wheatfeed: Same as wheat offals. Using wheatfeed as animal feed can provide a nutritious and cost-effective option for livestock.

woodfuel: Woodfuel is wood used as fuel. Farmers can use woodfuel for heating and cooking, reducing reliance on external energy sources and lowering operational costs.

whiteheads: Same as take-all. Managing take-all can prevent crop losses and improve yields.

wild white clover: Wild white clover is a variety of small-leaved clover that is drought-resistant and very productive. It is essential for long leys and improving soil fertility, benefiting farmers by enhancing pasture quality.

workability: Workability refers to the ability of soil to be cultivated. Farmers benefit from understanding soil workability to optimize tillage and planting operations.

World Food Programme: The World Food Programme provides international food aid. Farmers can engage with the program to support global food security initiatives and gain insights into sustainable agricultural practices.

wall barley grass: A weed (Hordeum murinum) found in grassland. Managing wall barley grass can prevent competition with crops and improve pasture quality.

weed: A plant that grows where it is not wanted, e.g. a poppy in a wheat field. Managing weeds effectively can improve crop yields and reduce competition for nutrients and water.

worm cast: A worm cast is waste soil expelled by earthworms. Farmers can use worm casts as natural fertilizer to improve soil structure and fertility.

wedge: Dorset wedge silage. Using wedge silage techniques can improve feed quality and storage efficiency, providing nutritious feed for livestock.

wild onion: Wild onion, also known as crow garlic, is a perennial weed affecting cereal crops. Farmers need to manage this weed to protect their crops, often through the use of specific herbicides.

winter greens: Winter greens are hardy varieties of Brassica grown for winter use. Farmers can benefit from growing winter greens to extend the harvest season and provide fresh produce during colder months.

Welsh mule: A cross between a Blue-faced Leicester and a ewe of one of the Welsh mountain breeds. Managing crossbreeds like the Welsh mule can improve livestock performance and productivity.

WASK: Abbreviation for Welfare of Animals (Slaughter or Killing) Regulations 1995. Complying with WASK regulations can ensure humane treatment of animals and improve farm standards.

wild boar: Wild boar is a species of feral pig that is commonly found in parts of Europe. While wild boars can cause damage to crops, they are also bred on farms for their high-value meat. Farmers can benefit from raising wild boars as a source of income.

White Wyandotte: A dual-purpose breed of poultry. Raising White Wyandottes can provide high-quality eggs and meat, enhancing farm profitability.

waste management: The process of handling waste materials to minimize environmental impact. Effective waste management practices improve farm sustainability and hygiene.

wilting: Wilting is the limpness in plant tissues caused by insufficient water. Managing soil moisture levels is crucial for farmers to prevent wilting and ensure robust crop growth.