April 2, 2025
F

Fir Cone

Fir Cone: A hard oval or round structure on a fir tree containing the seeds. The term is sometimes applied to the cones of other trees such as pines. Managing fir cones supports seed production and forest regeneration.

P

Ped

ped: An aggregate of soil particles. Understanding soil structure and the formation of peds helps in improving soil management and crop production.

S

Sustainable Agriculture

sustainable agriculture: environmentally friendly methods of farming that allow the production of crops or livestock without damage to the ecosystem. Adopting sustainable agriculture practices ensures long-term productivity and ecological balance, supporting farm profitability and environmental health.

Sprinkler Irrigation

A method of irrigation that uses sprinklers to distribute water evenly over a field. Sprinkler irrigation is efficient and can be used for a variety of crops. For example, using sprinkler irrigation to water a field of lettuce and ensure uniform moisture distribution.

K

Kale

kale: Kale – a type of brassica, sometimes used as a green vegetable for human consumption, but mainly grown as animal forage. Helps farmers provide nutritious forage for livestock.

R

RSPB

RSPB: Abbreviation for Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. The RSPB supports farmers by promoting sustainable land management practices that protect bird habitats.

E

ERDP

ERDP: Abbreviation for England Rural Development Programme. Participating in the ERDP helps farmers access funding and support for sustainable farming practices.

M

Merino

Merino: a breed of sheep which originated in North Africa and was then introduced into Spain. It is now bred in all parts of the world, especially in Australia, South Africa and New Zealand, for its dense soft fine fleece, with strong and curly fibers. Raising Merino sheep can provide farmers with high-quality wool, contributing to better income and marketability.

C

Crimp

Crimp: Crimp /kr?mp/ verb to condition fresh cut grass, by nipping the stems and releasing the sap. Utilizing crimping techniques enhances feed quality for livestock.

O

Organic Conversion

organic conversion: The process of converting from conventional agriculture to organic production. Organic conversion involves adopting practices that enhance soil health, biodiversity, and ecological balance. Farmers can benefit from financial support and technical guidance during organic conversion to achieve certification and improve marketability.

I

Intensive Livestock Production

intensive livestock production: A specialized system of livestock production where the livestock are housed indoors. This system can be started up at any time of the year. Disease hazards are those related to diet and permanent housing for the whole of the animal’s life. Helps farmers manage indoor livestock production.

T

Tir Cymen

Tir Cymen: An agri-environmental scheme for Wales, closed to new entrants since 1998. Understanding past and current agricultural schemes can provide insights into sustainable practices and funding opportunities.

F

Fertilisation

Fertilisation: The joining of an ovum and a sperm to form a zygote and start the development of an embryo. Understanding fertilization processes helps farmers optimize breeding programs and improve reproductive success.

R

Rouen

Rouen: A breed of table duck. The drake has a green head and neck, rich claret-colored breast, and grey-black body. The female is mostly brown. Raising Rouen ducks provides farmers with a reliable source of high-quality meat and eggs.

E

Ethical Trading

ethical trading: Business practices which are socially responsible and protect the environment and the rights of workers. Adopting ethical trading practices helps farmers promote sustainability and fair labor practices.

T

Teat Cup

teat cup: A tube forming part of a milking machine, which fits over the teat of the cow. Ensuring proper use and maintenance of teat cups can improve milking efficiency and cow comfort.

I

Imbalance

imbalance: 1. A situation where the balance between a set of things is unequal. Lack of vitamins A and E creates hormonal imbalances in farm animals. 2. A situation where one species is dominant. Helps farmers manage animal health and biodiversity.

V

VOC

VOC: Abbreviation for volatile organic compound. Managing VOC emissions can improve air quality and environmental sustainability on the farm.

S

Sprinkler

sprinkler: a hose which sends out a shower of drops. Using sprinklers ensures efficient water distribution, promoting healthy crop growth and sustainable water use.

S

Statutory Management Requirement

Statutory Management Requirement: a set of environmental and animal welfare requirements, which farmers must meet to receive a Single Farm Payment. Abbr SMR. Understanding Statutory Management Requirements ensures compliance with regulations and access to financial support, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Cattle Milk Marketing

The strategies and practices used to promote and sell milk and dairy products. Effective milk marketing helps reach consumers and increase sales. For instance, developing marketing campaigns to highlight the quality and benefits of locally produced milk.

D

Dietetic

dietetic: Referring to diet. Dietetic practices are essential for maintaining the health and productivity of livestock. Farmers should ensure that animals receive a balanced and nutritious diet, tailored to their specific needs. Working with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop proper dietetic plans will help optimize animal health and farm productivity.

O

Open Countryside

open countryside: An area of country without many trees or high mountains. Managing open countryside effectively can enhance biodiversity and agricultural productivity. Farmers can benefit from implementing conservation practices and sustainable land use strategies to improve the ecological value and productivity of open countryside.

S

Speedwell

speedwell: a widespread weed (Veronica persica) found in cereal crops and oilseed rape. Because it spreads rapidly it is a hazard in row crops. Managing speedwell ensures healthy crop growth and reduces competition for resources, leading to better yields.

T

Trim

trim: To cut off the end parts of something, e.g., the shoots from a bush or a hedge, usually to give the object a neater shape. Proper trimming practices can improve plant health and appearance, enhancing farm aesthetics and productivity.

L

Laxative

Laxative: A laxative is a substance that encourages movements of the bowel. Succulent food such as root crops have a laxative effect. Understanding the effects of different crops on livestock health can help farmers manage animal nutrition.

D

Divest

divest: To sell or dispose of assets or interests. Managing divestment involves making informed decisions about selling or disposing of farm assets. Farmers should consider market trends, financial goals, and operational needs when planning divestment. Understanding the benefits and impacts of divestment will aid in effective farm management and financial planning.

W

Withstand

withstand: Withstand means to resist or not be affected by something. Choosing crops and livestock that can withstand adverse conditions is essential for farmers to ensure farm productivity and sustainability.

O

Organic Farming Scheme

Organic Farming Scheme: A former support scheme which gave payments for organic farmers wanting to increase their production, now administered under the Organic Entry Level Stewardship scheme. Abbr OFS. The OFS supports farmers in transitioning to and maintaining organic farming practices by providing financial assistance. Participating in the OFS can help farmers adopt sustainable practices, improve soil health, and meet the growing market demand for organic products.

P

Pomology

pomology: The study of fruit cultivation. Helpful content: Knowledge of pomology helps farmers improve fruit production through better orchard management, pest control, and cultivar selection. This expertise can lead to higher yields, better fruit quality, and increased profitability.