Pedology
pedology: The study of the soil. Understanding pedology helps in improving soil health and fertility, leading to better crop yields.
Agricultural Terms and Helpful Expert Insight
stillbirth: the birth of a dead animal or abortion at a late stage of pregnancy. Properly managing stillbirths ensures livestock health and productivity, supporting farm profitability.
diet formulation: The combining of different types of feedstuffs or nutrients to form a healthy and balanced diet for an animal. Probably the most likely area for reform was diet formulation, and with feed accounting for 70 percent of production costs, it was essential to examine management practices such as phase feeding to more precisely tailor feed inputs to requirements. [Farming News]. Proper diet formulation is crucial for optimizing the health and productivity of livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop balanced and cost-effective diets for their animals. Understanding the principles of diet formulation will aid in efficient feed management and improved farm profitability.
soil management: the study of soils physical properties and how to maintain a healthy and functional soil system. Proper soil management ensures long-term soil health and productivity, supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
risk: A combination of the likelihood of injury, damage, or loss being caused by a potentially dangerous substance, technology, or activity, or by a failure to do something, and the seriousness of the possible consequences; something that is regarded as likely to cause injury, damage, or loss. Understanding and managing risks helps farmers protect farm assets and ensure operational safety.
Crazy Chick Disease: Crazy chick disease noun a disease of chicks associated with a diet which is too rich in fats or deficiency of vitamin E. The symptoms include falling over and paralysis. Managing crazy chick disease involves providing proper nutrition and healthcare for poultry.
Products made from raw agricultural materials that have been processed or enhanced to increase their value, such as jams, cheeses, and canned goods. For example, producing value-added food products to diversify farm income and meet consumer demand.
The practice of managing land and water resources within a watershed to protect water quality and support sustainable agriculture. Watershed management includes erosion control, reforestation, and water conservation practices. For example, implementing watershed management practices to reduce sediment runoff and improve water quality in agricultural areas.
roller crusher: A machine used to condition freshly-cut grass. The swath of cut grass is picked up by the rolls and the stems are flattened as the grass is passed between them. Using roller crushers speeds up the drying process, improving forage quality.
The digital tools used to schedule and manage appointments, meetings, and events, including shared calendars, reminders, and synchronization features. For example, using food product online calendars to coordinate schedules and improve time management.
dew claw: A rudimentary fifth digit found on the heels of dogs, pigs, and cattle. Dew claws should be monitored for health issues such as injury or infection. Farmers should implement proper care and management practices to ensure the well-being of animals with dew claws. Understanding the anatomy and function of dew claws can aid in effective livestock management.
genetically modified: Referring to an organism that has received genetic material from another in a laboratory procedure, leading to a permanent change in one or more of its characteristics. Abbr: GM. Genetic modification can enhance crop yields, pest resistance, and nutritional value.
overfertilisation: The application of too much fertiliser to land. Excessive fertilisation can lead to nutrient runoff and environmental pollution. Farmers can benefit from precision fertilisation techniques to apply the right amount of nutrients based on soil and crop needs, ensuring efficient use and minimizing environmental impact.
turnip-rooted cabbage: Same as kohlrabi. Growing turnip-rooted cabbage can provide diverse and nutritious crops for livestock feed and human consumption.
miscanthus: a plant related to sugar cane that is grown for use as a fuel. Also called elephant grass. Growing miscanthus can provide farmers with a renewable energy source, contributing to environmental sustainability and economic stability.
The study and application of genetic principles to improve dairy cattle traits such as milk production, health, and longevity. For instance, using genomic selection to enhance dairy herd genetics and achieve better performance.
Fallow Cultivation: A type of cultivation where the period under crops is increased and the length of the fallow is reduced. This method helps maximize land use efficiency and productivity.
inbreeding depression: A reduction in variation and vigor arising in a population that is repeatedly inbred. Compare heterosis. Helps farmers recognize and avoid negative effects of inbreeding.
Let-Down: Let-down refers to the let-down of milk, the release of milk from the mammary gland. The hormone oxytoxin activates the release of milk. The let-down lasts between seven and ten minutes, when the extraction of milk from the udder is easiest. Understanding the let-down process helps dairy farmers optimize milking efficiency.
Countryside Management Scheme: Countryside Management Scheme noun in Northern Ireland, a system of payments designed to encourage landowners and farmers to adopt, or to continue with, environmentally sensitive farming practices. Engaging in the Countryside Management Scheme supports sustainable farming practices and environmental conservation.
National Nature Reserve: NNR is a nationally important example of a type of habitat, established as a reserve to protect the most important areas of wildlife habitat and geological formations. Abbr NNR. National Nature Reserves protect vital ecosystems and biodiversity, which can benefit farmers by supporting pollinators, natural pest control, and soil health. Farmers near NNRs can adopt conservation practices that complement the reserve’s goals, enhancing their land’s ecological value and sustainability. Collaborating with NNRs can also provide farmers with opportunities for eco-tourism and educational activities, diversifying their income streams.
haemoglobin: A red protein in red blood cells that combines reversibly with oxygen and transports it round the body. Abbr Hb. Monitoring haemoglobin levels in livestock can help farmers detect and treat health issues, ensuring animal welfare and productivity.
acidophilus milk: A cultured milk made from fresh milk which is allowed to go sour in a controlled way. One of the most popular types of acidophilus milk in Europe is yogurt. Farmers producing acidophilus milk products can diversify their offerings and meet consumer demand for probiotics.
green manure: Green manure is fast-growing vegetation such as mustard or rape that is ploughed into the soil to rot and act as manure. Using green manure improves soil fertility, supports sustainable farming, and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.
The information that must be included on food packaging, including ingredients, nutritional content, and allergen warnings. For example, meeting food labeling requirements to provide accurate information to consumers and comply with regulations.
Certified Stock: A stock of grain approved for delivery. Managing certified stock ensures high-quality grain production and compliance with market standards.
A business that sells dairy products directly to consumers, including grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and specialty shops. For example, operating a dairy retail store to offer fresh milk, cheese, and yogurt to local customers.
sterilised milk: milk prepared for human consumption by heating in sealed airtight containers to kill all bacteria. See Comment at milk. Properly managing milk sterilisation ensures product safety and quality, supporting consumer health and market value.
Food From Britain: A trade organization specializing in marketing British food abroad. Abbr FFB. This organization helps farmers expand their markets and increase sales.
disking: A method of tillage using a circular agricultural implement called a disk to prepare the soil for planting. Disking can improve soil structure, control weeds, and incorporate organic matter. Farmers should use proper techniques and equipment for effective disking. Understanding the benefits and applications of disking will aid in effective soil management and crop establishment.
edible snails: Snails reared for human consumption. Raising edible snails can provide farmers with an alternative income source and diversify agricultural production.
The water used in dairy production and processing that becomes contaminated with waste products. For example, managing dairy wastewater through treatment systems to reduce environmental impact and ensure regulatory compliance.
backcrossing: Breeding a hybrid offspring back to one of its parents to reinforce specific traits. This technique helps farmers improve desirable characteristics in livestock, such as disease resistance or meat quality.
The commitment to respecting and promoting human rights throughout the food production and distribution process, including labor rights, non-discrimination, and community impacts. For example, ensuring food product human rights protections to uphold ethical standards and enhance social responsibility.
Capsid Bug: A tiny insect that sucks the sap of plants. Managing capsid bugs involves using integrated pest management practices to protect crops and ensure healthy growth.