Herd
herd: A number of animals such as cattle kept together on a farm or looked after by a farmer. Properly managing a herd ensures the health and productivity of livestock.
Agricultural Terms and Helpful Expert Insight
pollution: The presence of unusually high concentrations of harmful substances or radioactivity in the environment, as a result of human activity or a natural process such as a volcanic eruption. Helpful content: Managing pollution on farms is crucial for protecting ecosystems and ensuring sustainable production. Farmers can implement practices like buffer strips, cover cropping, and proper waste management to reduce environmental impact.
hand feeding: Hand rearing, the process of bringing up orphaned animals by feeding them with a bottle. Hand feeding orphaned animals ensures their survival and can contribute to the genetic diversity and productivity of the herd or flock.
Large cuts of meat intended for slow cooking, often used in traditional meals. Roasts are known for their tenderness and flavor when cooked properly. For example, producing beef roasts for holiday dinners and special occasions.
The tools and systems used to create visual representations of data, including charts, graphs, and dashboards, to support analysis and decision-making. For example, using food product data visualization platforms to present insights and inform strategy.
The approaches used to promote and sell hive products, including honey, beeswax, propolis, and royal jelly. For example, developing hive products marketing and sales strategies to reach consumers and increase revenue.
The thyroid gland of cattle, often used for medicinal purposes. For example, producing beef thyroid for pharmaceutical and health applications.
The ability of certain plants to survive and reproduce despite the application of herbicides. Herbicide resistance can develop through repeated use of the same herbicide, leading to the need for alternative weed control methods. For instance, rotating herbicides and using integrated weed management practices to prevent resistance.
duty of care: A duty that every citizen and organization has not to act negligently, especially the system for the safe handling of waste, introduced by the UK Environmental Protection Act 1990. Farmers have a duty of care to manage waste responsibly and protect the environment.
A specialized area on a dairy farm where cows are brought for milking. Milking parlors are designed for efficient and hygienic milking. For instance, operating a milking parlor with modern equipment to ensure high milk quality and cow comfort.
white corpuscle: A blood cell which does not contain hemoglobin. Understanding livestock biology, including white corpuscles, can help in managing animal health effectively.
rural development: A program of activities undertaken to ensure that rural areas remain economically and socially sustainable. Promoting rural development supports agricultural growth and improves rural livelihoods.
perennial agriculture: A system of agriculture in regions where there is no winter and several crops can be grown on the same land each year. Using perennial agriculture systems improves land use efficiency and provides continuous crop production.
Veterinary Laboratories Agency: An executive agency of Defra which diagnoses, tracks, and researches disease in animals. The VLA’s work is crucial for managing animal health and preventing disease outbreaks.
genetic manipulation: Same as genetic modification. Genetic manipulation techniques enable the development of crops and livestock with enhanced characteristics, aiding farmers in achieving higher efficiency and sustainability.
vegetative: Referring to plants. Maintaining vegetative cover can enhance soil fertility and prevent erosion, supporting sustainable farming practices.
decumbent: Referring to plant stems which lie on the surface of the soil for part of their length, but turn upwards at the end. Decumbent plants can be useful in ground cover and erosion control. Farmers should consider incorporating decumbent plants into their cropping systems to protect soil, reduce weed pressure, and improve biodiversity. Proper management and selection of decumbent species can enhance their benefits in agricultural landscapes.
brackish water: Water that has more salinity than freshwater but less than seawater. Understanding water quality is important for managing irrigation and aquaculture systems effectively.
Calf Diphtheria: A disease affecting the mouth and throat of a calf. Preventing and treating calf diphtheria involves maintaining good hygiene and providing appropriate veterinary care to ensure the health of young livestock.
Curative Fungicide: Curative fungicide /kj??r?t?v f??g?sa?d/ noun a fungicide that is applied to plants once they have been infected with a fungus rather than as a preventative measure. Utilizing curative fungicides protects crops from fungal diseases.
spading machine: a machine which uses rotating digger blades to cultivate compacted topsoil and dig out pans created by other cultivators. Using spading machines improves soil aeration and structure, promoting healthy root growth and better crop yields.
nitrogen fixation: the process by which nitrogen in the air is converted by bacteria in some plant roots into nitrogen compounds. When the plants die, the nitrogen is released into the soil and acts as a fertilizer. Nitrogen fixation is a natural process that enriches soil with essential nitrogen, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Farmers can benefit from incorporating nitrogen-fixing plants like legumes into their crop rotations. This practice improves soil fertility, supports sustainable nutrient management, and enhances crop yields. Understanding nitrogen fixation helps farmers optimize crop planning and soil health management, contributing to long-term farm productivity.
Capillarity: Same as capillary action, the movement of a liquid upwards inside a narrow tube or through the soil. Understanding capillarity helps farmers manage soil moisture levels and optimize irrigation practices.
wholesale seed merchant: A wholesale seed merchant is a dealer who sells large quantities of seeds, often to retailers or large-scale farmers. Farmers benefit from buying seeds wholesale as it often reduces costs and ensures a consistent supply of seeds for planting.
A vehicle designed for transporting livestock, equipped with ventilation, ramps, and secure enclosures. Livestock trailers are essential for moving animals safely. For instance, using a livestock trailer to transport cattle to a feedlot or auction.
sustainable production processes: agricultural production methods which do not damage or deplete natural resources. Adopting sustainable production processes ensures long-term productivity and environmental health, supporting farm profitability.
die down: To stop growing before the winter and keep only the parts below ground until spring. Herbaceous plants die down in autumn. Managing plants that die down involves proper care and maintenance during their dormant period. Farmers and gardeners should ensure proper mulching, watering, and protection to support plant health and regrowth in spring. Understanding the growth patterns of herbaceous plants can aid in effective seasonal management.
A method of applying fertilizer alongside growing plants to provide additional nutrients during critical growth stages. Side-dress fertilization helps support healthy plant development and improve yields. For example, applying side-dress fertilizer to corn plants during the growing season to enhance nutrient uptake.
A USDA quality grade for beef, often from older animals with minimal marbling and tenderness. Utility beef is commonly used in processed products. For example, using Utility beef for ground beef and pet food.
The use of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and biogas, to power dairy operations. For example, installing solar panels on a dairy farm to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and improve sustainability.
Crucifer Crop: Crucifer crop noun crops such as broccoli, cabbage, turnips, and spinach belonging to the Cruciferaceae family. Cultivating crucifer crops provides nutritious vegetables for markets.
A sweet, cold beverage made from milk, ice cream, and flavorings. Milkshakes are popular treats in many cultures. For instance, offering chocolate milkshakes as a dessert option in a dairy farm’s café.