March 9, 2025
M

Mineral

mineral: an inorganic solid substance with a characteristic chemical composition that occurs naturally. The names of many minerals end with the suffix -ite. The most important minerals required by the body are: calcium (found in cheese, milk and green vegetables) which helps the growth of bones and encourages blood clotting; iron (found in bread and liver) which helps produce red blood cells; phosphorus (found in bread and fish) which helps in the growth of bones and the metabolism of fats; and iodine (found in fish) which is essential to the functioning of the thyroid gland. Understanding the role of minerals in soil and livestock nutrition can help farmers prevent deficiencies and ensure better crop and animal health and productivity.

S

Subsoiler

subsoiler: a heavy cultivator consisting of a strong frame with long tines attached to it. It is used to break up compacted soil to allow free passage of air and water, a process called ‘subsoiling’. Using subsoilers ensures efficient soil aeration and structure, promoting healthy crop growth and better yields.

P

Plough Pan

plough pan: A hard layer in the soil caused by ploughing at the same depth every year. Helpful content: Recognizing and managing plough pans is important for maintaining soil health. Breaking up these compacted layers through deep tillage or no-till practices can improve water infiltration and root penetration, enhancing crop growth.

R

Right Of Access

right of access: The right of someone to be able to get to land by passing over someone else’s property; the right of the public to walk in areas of the countryside, providing they do not harm crops or farm animals. Understanding right of access helps farmers manage land use and protect crops and livestock.

P

Proventriculus

proventriculus: The gizzard of birds, or the thick-walled stomach of insects and crustaceans. Helpful content: Understanding the digestive anatomy of birds and insects helps optimize feeding strategies. Proper nutrition management can enhance digestion and nutrient absorption, supporting animal health and productivity.

S

Stock

stock: animals or plants that are derived from a common ancestor; a plant with roots onto which a piece of another plant, the scion, is grafted; a supply of something available for future use. Properly managing stock ensures healthy growth and productivity in livestock and crop operations, supporting farm profitability and sustainability.

A

Alpaca

alpaca: An animal which is similar to the llama. A native of the Andes, it is domesticated and reared for its very soft and elastic wool. Raising alpacas provides farmers with valuable fiber and diversification opportunities.

D

DCS

DCS: Abbreviation for Deer Commission for Scotland. Farmers involved in deer farming should be aware of the regulations and best practices promoted by the DCS. Following these guidelines will help ensure sustainable and ethical deer farming practices, contributing to the health and productivity of the herd.

S

Slash And Burn Agriculture

slash and burn agriculture: a form of agriculture in which forest is cut down and burnt to create open space for growing crops. Also called swidden farming. (NOTE: The space is abandoned after several crops have been grown and then more forest is cut down.) Understanding the environmental impact of slash and burn agriculture encourages farmers to adopt more sustainable practices, preserving forests and promoting long-term agricultural productivity.

D

Diterpenoid

diterpenoid: A type of compound derived from diterpenes, found in plants and fungi. Understanding diterpenoids is important for managing plant health and developing pest control strategies. Farmers should work with plant scientists to explore the benefits and applications of diterpenoids. Understanding the properties and functions of diterpenoids will aid in effective crop management and pest control.

C

Crushing Subsidy

Crushing Subsidy: Crushing subsidy noun payment made in the EU to oil producers to compensate for the difference between vegetable oil prices in the EU and those outside. Understanding crushing subsidies aids in managing agricultural markets and support policies.

S

Spray

spray: a mass of tiny drops of liquid; special liquid for spraying onto a plant to prevent insect infestation or disease; to send out a liquid in a mass of tiny drops; to send out a special liquid onto a plant to prevent insect infestation or disease. Using sprays effectively helps farmers manage pests and diseases, ensuring healthy crop growth and better yields.

P

PSE

PSE: Abbreviation for pale soft exudative muscle and porcine spongiform encephalopathy. Helpful content: Managing PSE conditions involves understanding their causes and implementing preventive measures. Farmers should ensure proper handling and nutrition to minimize stress and prevent these issues in livestock.

D

Dose

dose: The amount of medicine given to an animal to cure it of a disorder. Accurate dosing is critical in veterinary care to ensure the health and well-being of farm animals, preventing underdosing or overdosing, which can lead to ineffective treatment or harmful side effects.

T

Tetanus

tetanus: An infection caused by Clostridium tetani in the soil, which affects the spinal cord and causes spasms, occurring first in the jaw. Recognizing and preventing tetanus through vaccination and wound management is crucial for livestock health and farmer safety.

N

New Hampshire Red

New Hampshire Red: a breed of poultry with red plumage, lighter in weight than Rhode Island Red. New Hampshire Reds are mainly kept as layers, producing brownish-tinted eggs. New Hampshire Red chickens are valued for their egg-laying abilities and adaptability to various farming conditions. Farmers can benefit from raising this breed to diversify their poultry operations, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality eggs. Understanding the breed’s characteristics and management needs helps optimize production, improve animal welfare, and enhance farm profitability.

S

Sucrose

sucrose: a sugar that is abundant in many plants, which consists of one molecule of glucose joined to one of fructose. Understanding sucrose content in crops supports nutritional value and marketability, enhancing farm profitability.