October 8, 2024
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Norfolk Horn

Norfolk horn: a rare breed of sheep adapted to dry heathland. Black-faced and horned. The Norfolk Horn breed is valued for its hardiness and adaptability to challenging environments. Farmers can benefit from raising this rare breed to enhance genetic diversity, improve resilience to local conditions, and tap into niche markets for heritage breeds. Understanding the specific care and management needs of Norfolk Horn sheep supports successful breeding and production, contributing to sustainable livestock farming.

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Allele

allele: One of two or more alternative forms of a gene, situated in the same area (locus) on paired chromosomes and controlling the inheritance of the same characteristic. Understanding alleles helps farmers with breeding programs and genetic improvement of livestock and crops.

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Dunes

dunes: An area of sand blown by the wind into small hills and ridges, which may have plants growing on them. Managing dunes involves preventing soil erosion and promoting the growth of vegetation to stabilize the sand.

Soil Earthworms

Invertebrate animals that live in the soil and contribute to soil health by decomposing organic matter, aerating the soil, and enhancing nutrient cycling. Earthworms improve soil structure and fertility. For example, promoting earthworm activity through organic farming practices to support healthy soil ecosystems and crop growth.

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Rules Of Good Husbandry

Rules of Good Husbandry: An unwritten set of ‘rules’ which, if they are deemed to have been broken by a tenant, can give a landlord the excuse to evict him. Understanding and following the Rules of Good Husbandry ensures sustainable farming practices and positive landlord-tenant relationships.

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Nature Management

nature management: the activity of managing a natural environment to encourage plant and animal life. Also called habitat management. Effective nature management on farms involves creating and maintaining habitats that support biodiversity and ecosystem services. Farmers can benefit from implementing practices such as planting hedgerows, maintaining wetlands, and creating wildlife corridors. These actions can enhance pollination, natural pest control, and soil health, leading to increased agricultural productivity and sustainability. Engaging in nature management can also attract eco-tourism and educational opportunities, diversifying farm income.

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Plot

plot: A small area of cultivated land, which has been clearly defined. Helpful content: Managing small plots effectively can allow farmers to experiment with different crops and techniques. Small-scale farming on plots can be highly productive and sustainable, providing diverse produce for local markets.

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Colonise

Colonise: Colonise /k?l?naiz/, colonize verb (of plants and animals) to become established in a new ecosystem Derelict city sites rapidly become colonised by plants. Rats have colonised the sewers. Understanding colonization processes aids in ecosystem management and restoration.

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Organic Fertiliser

organic fertiliser: A fertiliser made from dead or decaying plant matter or animal wastes, such as leaf mould, farmyard manure, or bone meal. Organic fertilizers improve soil fertility and structure. Farmers can benefit from using organic fertilizers to enhance soil health, reduce input costs, and support sustainable farming practices.

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Quota

quota: A fixed amount of something which is allowed. A quota has been imposed on the fishing of herring. Quotas help manage resources sustainably by preventing overproduction or overfishing, thus protecting long-term agricultural and environmental health.

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Persistent

persistent: 1. Describing a plant that grows year after year 2. Describing a disease that remains in the body and is difficult to cure. Managing persistent plants and diseases is crucial for sustainable agriculture and maintaining crop and livestock health.

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Myriapod

myriapod: a member of the class Myriapoda, an arthropod with a segmented body, such as a millipede or centipede. Understanding the role and management of myriapods can help farmers protect their crops and ensure better productivity.

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Congenital Disorder

Congenital Disorder: Congenital disorder noun a disorder which is present at birth. COMMENT: An animal may be abnormal at birth because of a genetic defect, such as misshapen heads of calves; other congenital disorders such as swayback in lambs, may be caused by deficiencies in the mother (in the case of swayback, maternal copper deficiency). Managing congenital disorders involves providing proper nutrition and healthcare for pregnant animals.

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Contour Farming

Contour Farming: Contour farming noun a method of cultivating sloping land in which the land is ploughed along a terrace rather than down the slope, so reducing soil erosion COMMENT: In contour farming, the ridges of earth act as barriers to prevent soil being washed away and the furrows retain the rainwater. Implementing contour farming practices helps prevent soil erosion and promote sustainable land use.