Knife
knife: Knife – an attachment on the cutter bar of a mower or combine harvester. Helps farmers maintain and operate agricultural machinery.
Agricultural Terms and Helpful Expert Insight
Feedingstuff: Same as feedstuff. Providing high-quality feedingstuff ensures optimal nutrition and health for livestock.
The practices and techniques used to produce and preserve hay and silage for livestock feed, including cutting, drying, and ensiling. For example, implementing hay and silage making practices to ensure a reliable feed supply throughout the year.
The cultivation of crops used as feed for livestock, including grasses, legumes, and grains. For example, growing forage crops to provide high-quality feed for cattle and sheep.
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.
The network of processes involved in producing, processing, distributing, and consuming food. The food supply chain includes farmers, processors, distributors, and retailers. For example, the journey of a tomato from farm to table involves several steps and players in the food supply chain.
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.
Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC): A measure of the fertility of soil, describing its ability to hold and supply nutrients. Managing CEC involves using appropriate soil amendments to improve nutrient availability and enhance crop yields.
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.
A cut of beef obtained from the bottom sirloin, known for its rich flavor and tenderness when grilled. Tri-tip steak is popular in California barbecue. For example, producing tri-tip steaks for grilling and outdoor dining.
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.
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.
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.
seed ripeness: The stage at which the seed can be harvested successfully. Farmers benefit from understanding seed ripeness for timely and successful seed collection.
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.
pigworm pigworm pigworm: A parasite of pigs. Managing pigworm infestations ensures pig health and productivity.
bioreactor: A vessel in which biological reactions are carried out, especially for waste treatment or production of biological products. Utilizing bioreactors can enhance waste management and production efficiency on farms.
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.
pilot light pilot light pilot light: A small flame that ignites a larger flame, e.g., in a furnace. Ensuring proper maintenance of pilot lights improves farm equipment efficiency and safety.
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.
broomstick: A long stick traditionally used for sweeping. Using broomsticks for farm tasks supports cleanliness and organization.
Leaf Cutting: A leaf cutting is a piece of a leaf, root, or stem cut from a living plant and put in soil where it will sprout. Using leaf cuttings for propagation can help farmers multiply plants efficiently.
watery mouth: A disease affecting newborn lambs. Managing watery mouth can improve lamb health and survival rates, enhancing farm productivity.
soil improvement: the practice of making the soil more fertile by methods such as draining and manuring. Implementing soil improvement techniques enhances soil health and fertility, supporting productive agriculture.
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.
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.
rotary mower: A machine used for cutting grass and other upright crops. Rotary mowers have two or four rotors each with three or four swinging blades. Using rotary mowers supports efficient forage management and crop cutting.
A USDA quality grade for beef, characterized by moderate marbling and tenderness. Choice beef is widely available and popular in the market. For instance, producing Choice beef to supply grocery stores and restaurants with high-quality meat.
inflorescence: A flower or a group of flowers on a stem. Helps farmers understand plant reproduction and flowering.
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.
brussels sprouts: A vegetable in the cabbage family. Growing brussels sprouts provides nutritious food and valuable crops for fresh markets and processing.
The training programs that promote understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures and perspectives in the workplace, enhancing cultural competence and inclusion. For example, offering food product multicultural awareness training to foster a more inclusive and respectful work environment.
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.
enzootic pneumonia: A disease of pigs, previously thought to be caused by a virus. Symptoms include coughing and stunted growth. Abbr EP. Managing enzootic pneumonia is crucial for farmers to ensure the health and productivity of their pigs.