Agricultural Terms and Helpful Expert Insight
Scottish Enterprise: The main economic development agency for Scotland, dealing with education, communications and the expansion of businesses. Abbr SE. Farmers benefit from engaging with Scottish Enterprise for support and resources to grow their agricultural businesses.
net value added: the annual value of goods sold and services paid for inside a country, less tax and Government subsidies, and also allowing for the depreciation of capital assets. Abbr NVA. Net value added is an important economic indicator for farmers, reflecting the true economic contribution of their farming operations. Understanding and optimizing net value added can help farmers make informed financial decisions, improve efficiency, and increase profitability. By focusing on value-added products and services, farmers can enhance their income streams and build a more resilient business.
The tools and resources that help employees manage stress and maintain mental health, including relaxation techniques, counseling services, and wellness programs. For example, providing food product stress management resources to support employee well-being and performance.
The practices and technologies used to reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency in dairy production and processing. For example, adopting energy-efficient equipment and renewable energy sources to improve dairy energy efficiency.
Veterinary Investigation Diagnosis Analysis: A method of data recording and retrieval for veterinary diagnostic laboratories. Using VIDA can improve disease tracking and management in livestock.
metaldehyde: a substance used in the form of pellets to kill slugs and snails, or in the form of small blocks to light fires. Understanding the application and effects of metaldehyde can help farmers manage pest infestations more effectively, ensuring better crop health and yields.
Crop Breeder: Crop breeder noun a person who specializes in developing new varieties of crops. Crop breeders depend on wild plants to develop new and stronger strains. Engaging with crop breeders supports agricultural innovation and crop improvement.
Laws and rules governing the production, processing, and sale of dairy products to ensure safety and quality. For example, complying with dairy regulations to operate a dairy farm and sell milk legally.
storage drying: a method of drying bales of hay by blowing air through them. (NOTE: There are several methods of storage drying. In a building with airtight sides, air is forced up through ventilation holes in the floor. In open barns, radial drying or a centre duct system is used.) Properly managing storage drying ensures high-quality fodder for livestock, supporting nutrition and farm productivity.
seminal propagation: The process of growing new plants from seed or from tubers such as potatoes. Farmers benefit from using seminal propagation for crop production and genetic diversity.
Corn Spurrey: Corn spurrey noun a common weed (Spergula arvensis) with matted growth which makes it difficult to eradicate in row crops. Managing corn spurrey involves using integrated weed management strategies.
triazine: One of a group of soil-acting herbicides, e.g., Atrazine and Simazine. Maize is tolerant to these substances. Triazines will no longer be approved for use in the UK after December 2007. Understanding herbicide regulations can help farmers choose safe and effective weed control methods.
alpine plants: Plants which grow on high mountains. Alpine vegetation grows above the treeline. Understanding alpine plants helps farmers manage biodiversity and grazing resources in high-altitude areas.
nitrogen cycle: the set of processes by which nitrogen is converted from a gas in the atmosphere to nitrogen-containing substances in soil and living organisms, then converted back to a gas. Nitrogen is absorbed into green plants in the form of nitrates, the plants are then eaten by animals, and the nitrates are returned to the ecosystem through animalsÂ’ excreta or when an animal or a plant dies. The nitrogen cycle is fundamental to maintaining soil fertility and supporting plant growth. Farmers can benefit from understanding and managing the nitrogen cycle on their farms. Practices like crop rotation, cover cropping, and the use of legumes can enhance nitrogen fixation and improve soil health. By optimizing the nitrogen cycle, farmers can reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers, lower input costs, and promote sustainable farming practices.
Forage Feeding: The practice of cutting herbage from a sward or foliage from other crops for feeding fresh to animals. Properly managing forage feeding ensures high-quality nutrition and livestock health.
oestrus: One of the periods of the oestrous cycle that occurs in mature female mammals that are not pregnant. In this period ovulation normally occurs and the female is ready to mate. Recognizing oestrus signs helps farmers time breeding for optimal success, improving reproductive efficiency and herd productivity.
The systems and applications that use edge computing to process data closer to the source, reducing latency and improving efficiency in food production and distribution. For example, implementing food product edge computing technologies to enhance real-time monitoring and decision-making.
extensification schemes: Pilot schemes for beef cattle and sheep which were begun in 1990 to offer compensation to farmers who reduced their beef output or the number of sheep by at least 20% and maintained this reduction over a 5-year period. The schemes were aimed at a less intensive use of land and reduction in the use of pesticides and fertilizers. Participating in extensification schemes helps farmers adopt sustainable practices and receive financial support.
salivation: The production of saliva. Farmers benefit from monitoring salivation to ensure livestock are healthy and well-nourished.
synthetise: to produce a substance by chemical synthesis. Understanding and using synthesis effectively supports efficient farm operations and productivity.
The prostate gland of cattle, often used for medicinal purposes. For example, producing beef prostate gland for pharmaceutical and health applications.
genetic engineering: Same as genetic modification. Abbr: GE. Genetic engineering allows for the development of crops with improved yields, resistance to pests, and better nutritional profiles, benefiting farmers by enhancing productivity and reducing losses.
pulling peas: Peas harvested by removing the pods when fresh and sold as young peas in pods. Helpful content: Harvesting pulling peas at the right time ensures maximum freshness and quality. Farmers can benefit from understanding market preferences and optimizing harvest techniques.
The practices and strategies used to care for and manage cattle, including feeding, health care, and breeding. Effective cattle management is essential for productivity and profitability. For example, implementing a comprehensive cattle management plan to ensure herd health and productivity.
Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society: A consultancy agency which promotes and advises on joint ventures between Scottish farmers. Abbr SAOS. Farmers benefit from engaging with SAOS for cooperative ventures and accessing agricultural advice and support.
digestible organic matter: An organic substance which can be processed to produce biogas, e.g., manure. Abbr DOM. Managing digestible organic matter is important for nutrient cycling and soil health. Farmers should implement composting and anaerobic digestion practices to process organic matter and produce valuable biogas and compost. Understanding the benefits and processes of digestible organic matter will aid in effective waste management and soil fertility improvement.
Practices and techniques used to manage and reduce water use in agriculture. Water conservation helps protect water resources and ensure sustainable agricultural production. For example, implementing drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting to conserve water and support crop growth.
Free-Range Eggs: Eggs from hens that are allowed to run about in the open and eat more natural food. Properly managing free-range hens ensures high-quality egg production and animal welfare.
defoliant: A type of herbicide which makes the leaves fall off plants. Defoliants can be used to manage weeds or prepare crops for harvest. Farmers should use defoliants carefully, following label instructions and safety guidelines. Understanding the impact of defoliants on crops and the environment will help in selecting the right product and application method. Monitoring weather conditions and timing applications can enhance the effectiveness of defoliants.
by