Hackney
hackney: A type of horse used both for riding and as a draught animal. Hackney horses can be versatile assets on farms, useful for both transportation and work purposes.
Agricultural Terms and Helpful Expert Insight
OFS: Organic Farming Scheme. The OFS supports farmers in transitioning to and maintaining organic farming practices by providing financial assistance. Participating in the OFS can help farmers adopt sustainable practices, improve soil health, and meet the growing market demand for organic products.
The practices and policies that ensure accessibility and support for employees with disabilities, including workplace modifications, assistive technology, and inclusive policies. For example, providing food product disability accommodations to promote inclusion and support diverse talent.
PMWS: A disease causing wasting, paleness, and diarrhea in pigs between 6 and 14 weeks old, often fatal. Full form post-weaning multisystemic wasting syndrome. Helpful content: Understanding PMWS and implementing biosecurity measures can help pig farmers prevent outbreaks and reduce losses. Early intervention and proper management are key to controlling this disease.
biological magnification: Another term for bioaccumulation. Managing biological magnification prevents harmful substances from entering the food chain.
non-selective herbicide: a chemical herbicide which kills all vegetation. Non-selective herbicides are useful for clearing land, controlling invasive species, and managing weeds in non-crop areas. Farmers can benefit from using non-selective herbicides for tasks like field preparation and maintenance of fence lines. Understanding the appropriate use and timing of these herbicides helps ensure effective vegetation control while minimizing unintended damage to crops. Integrating non-selective herbicides into a comprehensive weed management plan supports efficient and sustainable farming operations.
six-tooth sheep: a sheep between two and three years old. Managing sheep at different stages of growth, such as six-tooth sheep, helps farmers optimize breeding programs and improve flock health and productivity.
Cherry Plum: A cooking plum (Prunus cerasifera) that is small and usually bright red. Growing cherry plums provides a specialty crop for culinary use, enhancing farm product diversity and income.
Carcass Classification Scheme: A system for judging the thickness of flesh and fat cover on a carcass. Using carcass classification helps farmers and processors assess meat quality and market value.
bird droppings: Excrement from birds, often used as fertilizer. Using bird droppings can improve soil fertility and recycle nutrients on the farm.
Oxford Down: The largest of the down breeds of sheep, produced by crossing Southdown improved stock with the longwoolled Cotswold. It has a dark-brown face and legs and a conspicuous topknot. Oxford Down sheep are valued for their meat quality and hardiness. Farmers can benefit from raising Oxford Down sheep to produce high-quality lamb and improve farm resilience.
The techniques and practices used to operate and maintain greenhouse environments for optimal plant growth. For example, managing greenhouse conditions to control temperature, humidity, and light for successful crop production.
persistence: The ability of a plant to continue growing year after year. Selecting persistent plant varieties ensures long-term crop production and reduces the need for frequent replanting.
The technologies and applications that use AR to enhance the customer experience and provide interactive content in food production and distribution, including virtual try-ons and product visualizations. For example, using food product AR applications to engage customers and drive sales.
A cut of beef obtained from the rib section, known for its tenderness and flavor. Ribeye steaks are popular for grilling and high-end dining. For example, producing ribeye steaks for steakhouses and premium markets.
deep-freezing: Long-term storage at temperatures below freezing point. (NOTE: Many crops such as peas and beans are grown specifically for commercial deep-freezing.) Deep-freezing is an effective method for preserving the quality and nutritional value of crops. Farmers should ensure proper harvesting, handling, and freezing techniques to maintain the integrity of deep-frozen produce. Understanding market demands for frozen products can also help farmers plan their production and marketing strategies.
The initiatives and investments in renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and biogas, to power food production and distribution operations, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. For example, developing food product renewable energy programs to improve sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The process of preparing for the transfer of farm ownership and management to the next generation or new owners. For example, developing a farm succession plan to ensure a smooth transition and preserve the farm’s legacy.
NCDL: abbreviation for National Canine Defence League (now called Dogs Trust). Dogs Trust focuses on the welfare of dogs, including those on farms. Farmers can benefit from the organization’s expertise in dog training, behavior, and health care. Ensuring the well-being of farm dogs can improve their effectiveness in managing livestock and providing security. Collaboration with Dogs Trust can also help farmers address issues such as stray dog control and promote responsible dog ownership, contributing to a safer and more productive farming environment.
National Milk Records: NMR is a company that keeps central records for dairy farmers. Abbr NMR. National Milk Records provides dairy farmers with valuable data on milk production, quality, and herd health. By utilizing NMR’s services, farmers can track their dairy operations’ performance, identify areas for improvement, and make informed management decisions. Accurate milk records help optimize feeding strategies, breeding programs, and overall herd management, leading to increased milk yields, better milk quality, and higher farm income.
pastureland: Land covered with grass or other small plants, used by farmers as a feeding place for animals. Maintaining pastureland can enhance biodiversity and provide sustainable forage for livestock.
The practice of managing agricultural enterprises and operations, focusing on maximizing efficiency and profitability. This involves strategic planning, financial management, marketing, and supply chain management. For instance, managing a dairy farm’s finances and marketing its milk products is a part of agribusiness management.
Cabbage Root Fly: A fly whose larvae attack the roots of Brassica seedlings, causing the plants to turn bluish in color, wilt, and die. Managing cabbage root fly involves crop rotation, using protective nets, and applying organic insecticides to protect young plants.
organophosphorous insecticide: An organic compound containing phosphorus used as an insecticide. Organophosphorous insecticides are effective but highly toxic. Farmers can benefit from using integrated pest management practices to reduce reliance on organophosphates and minimize health and environmental risks.
The process of developing and implementing a strategic plan for agritourism operations, including goals, resources, and financial projections. For example, creating an agritourism business plan to guide decision-making and achieve long-term success.
Supplements added to animal feed to improve nutrition, health, and productivity. Feed additives include vitamins, minerals, and growth enhancers. For instance, adding probiotics to livestock feed to promote gut health and improve weight gain.
Foxtail Millet: The first cereal to be cultivated in China, used for silage, hay, brewing, and flour in many parts of the world, and in Britain it is used as birdseed. Properly managing foxtail millet production supports diverse crop options and agricultural productivity.
Compost Activator: Compost activator noun a chemical added to a compost heap to speed up the decomposition of decaying plant matter. Using compost activators enhances composting efficiency and nutrient cycling.
edge effect: An increase in growth and yield seen in crop plants growing at the edge of a plot or field. Understanding edge effects can help farmers optimize planting strategies for better yields.
The efforts to educate consumers about the nutritional benefits and healthy choices related to food products, including labeling, advertising, and community outreach. For example, launching food product nutrition education campaigns to promote informed and healthy eating habits.
dominance hierarchy: The system of priority given to specific individuals in terms of access to food and reproductive mates. In many species, a male is at the top of the dominance hierarchy. Farmers can use this knowledge to manage animal behavior and social structures within herds or flocks.
National Soil Resources Institute: NSRI is an association formed in 2001 which provides education and training in the fields of soil and land management practice. Abbr NSRI. The National Soil Resources Institute offers farmers access to research, education, and training on soil health and land management. By utilizing NSRI’s resources, farmers can adopt practices that improve soil fertility, structure, and water retention, leading to better crop yields and sustainable land use. Knowledge gained from NSRI can also help farmers reduce soil erosion, enhance nutrient management, and promote environmentally friendly farming methods.
Multilateral : multilateral involving more than two countries or groups. Understanding multilateral agreements can help farmers navigate international trade and market dynamics, ensuring better compliance and profitability.
The practices and strategies used to ensure the ongoing operation and resilience of food production and distribution businesses during and after disruptions. For example, implementing food product business continuity plans to safeguard against potential risks and ensure long-term success.