March 10, 2025
D

Ditching

ditching: The practice of digging or maintaining ditches for drainage or irrigation. Ditching is important for managing water flow and preventing soil erosion. Farmers should use proper techniques and equipment for effective ditching. Understanding the benefits and applications of ditching will aid in effective water management and crop production.

E

Extensification Schemes

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.

P

Pungent

pungent: With a sharp taste or smell, like, e.g., mustard. Helpful content: Understanding pungent crops and their market demand helps farmers target niche markets. Crops with strong flavors can be used in culinary applications, adding value to farm produce.

L

Legume

Legume: Legume is 1. a member of the plant family that produces seeds in pods, e.g., peas and beans. Family: Leguminosae. 2. a dry seed from a single carpel, which splits into two halves, e.g., a pea. There are many species of legume, including trees, and some are particularly valuable because they have root nodules that contain nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Such legumes have special value in maintaining soil fertility and are used in crop rotation. Peas, beans, clover, and vetch are all legumes. Utilizing legumes in crop rotation can enhance soil health and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.

E

Ergot

ergot: A fungus that grows on cereals, especially rye, producing a mycotoxin which causes hallucinations and sometimes death if eaten. Genus: Claviceps. Understanding ergot helps farmers manage crop health and prevent contamination.

P

Ploughland

ploughland: Arable or cultivated land. Helpful content: Effective management of ploughland involves crop rotation, soil conservation, and proper fertilization. These practices ensure long-term soil health and productivity, supporting sustainable agriculture.

M

Meat And Livestock Commission

Meat and Livestock Commission: an organisation which provides services to livestock breeders, including the evaluation of breeding stock potential and carcass grading and classification. The Commission also carries out various research projects. Its staff also provide services for abattoirs and livestock auction markets. The Commission promotes the sale of British meat. Abbr MLC. Understanding the role of the Meat and Livestock Commission can help farmers access valuable resources and support for improving their livestock production and marketability.

W

Welfare Code

welfare code: An official set of rules for making sure that animals are healthy and happy in a particular situation, e.g. in quarantine, or when being transported. Complying with welfare codes can improve animal health and farm standards.

N

National Assembly For Wales Agriculture And Rural Affairs Department

National Assembly for Wales Agriculture and Rural Affairs Department: NAWARAD is the department of the devolved Welsh Assembly government that deals with farming, the environment, animal welfare, and rural development in Wales. Farmers in Wales can benefit from the support and resources provided by NAWARAD, including grants, advisory services, and policy initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture. By engaging with this department, farmers can stay informed about regulatory changes, access financial assistance, and implement practices that enhance farm productivity and environmental stewardship.

D

Drover

drover: A person in charge of a flock or herd that is being moved from one place to another. Drovers play a crucial role in managing livestock movement, ensuring that animals are guided safely and efficiently.

Soil Respiration

The process by which soil organisms and plant roots consume oxygen and release carbon dioxide. Soil respiration is an indicator of soil biological activity and health. For example, measuring soil respiration to assess soil health and the effectiveness of organic farming practices in supporting soil biodiversity.

B

Biopiracy

biopiracy: The exploitation of biological materials by organizations without compensating the indigenous people or nations where the materials were discovered. Awareness of biopiracy helps farmers advocate for fair use and benefit-sharing of biological resources.

P

Planning Department

planning department: A section of a local authority that deals with requests for planning permission. Helpful content: The planning department is a valuable resource for farmers seeking to expand or modify their operations. Consulting with this department can provide guidance on obtaining necessary permits and ensure that projects comply with local regulations.

M

Midterm Review

Midterm Review: the review of the Common Agricultural Policy of the European Union carried out in 2003. Understanding the outcomes of the Midterm Review can help farmers adapt to policy changes and ensure better compliance and sustainability.

M

Mammal

mammal: an animal that gives birth to live young, secretes milk to feed them, keeps a constant body temperature and is covered with hair. Class: Mammalia. Understanding the characteristics of mammals can help farmers manage livestock more effectively, ensuring better health and productivity.

T

Tamworth

Tamworth: A breed of pig, red-gold in color, which makes the animal almost immune to sunburn. Tamworths are widely exported due to their ability to thrive in hot sunshine and rough conditions, making them a valuable breed for diverse climates.

E

Environmental Stewardship

Environmental Stewardship: A system under which farmers and land managers receive funding for implementing schemes to protect the environment, such as preventing soil erosion or protecting wildlife. Participating in Environmental Stewardship helps farmers receive funding for implementing environmentally friendly farming practices.

E

Ear Emergence

ear emergence: The main stage used in determining the heading date of a crop. In the case of a sward, this is the date at which 50% of the inflorescences have appeared. This information helps farmers manage crop growth stages and plan harvesting schedules.

R

Raspberry

raspberry: A cane (Rubus idaeus) which provides a most important soft fruit, sold fresh, sent for freezing, and also used for processing into jams. Growing raspberries can diversify farm income and meet consumer demand for fresh and processed berries.