October 10, 2024
E

Enrichment

enrichment: The increase in nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon compounds or other nutrients in water, especially as a result of sewage flow or agricultural run-off, which encourages the growth of algae and other water plants. Understanding enrichment helps farmers manage nutrient runoff and protect water quality.

S

Soil Classification

soil classification: in soil surveys, the classification of soils into groups with broadly similar characteristics. COMMENT: Soils are classified according to the areas of the world in which they are found, according to the types of minerals they contain or according to the stage of development they have reached. All forms of soil classification are artificial, however, as soils vary in three dimensions and in time. Therefore, no clear boundaries exist between soil types. Understanding soil classification helps farmers manage land resources effectively, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

D

Double Digging

double digging: A cultivation technique where a spit is dug out, the soil placed on one side, and a second spit dug. This loosens the soil at a deeper level than normal digging. Double digging improves soil aeration and fertility, promoting healthier plant growth.

S

SMR

SMR: abbreviation Statutory Management Requirement. Understanding Statutory Management Requirements ensures farmers comply with regulations, protecting their eligibility for government payments and subsidies.

C

Contaminated Land

Contaminated Land: Contaminated land, contaminated site noun an area which has been polluted as a result of human activities such as industrial processes, presenting a hazard to human health, and which needs cleaning before it can be used for other purposes COMMENT: Contaminated land is a feature of most industrialized countries. Careless past management of waste, lack of pollution controls, and many leaks and spills have left a legacy of land contaminated by a wide variety of substances. In some cases, this presents unacceptable risks to human beings, ecosystems, water resources, or property and has to be dealt with by formal remedial measures. Managing contaminated land involves remediation and sustainable land use practices.

S

Sloe

sloe: the wild plum Prunus spinosa. Also called blackthorn. Cultivating sloe provides farmers with a resilient crop for hedgerows and wildlife habitats, supporting biodiversity and sustainable farming.

Drone Bee

A male bee whose primary role is to mate with the queen bee. Drone bees do not collect nectar or pollen and are typically present in the hive during the mating season. For example, a drone bee’s main function is to fertilize the queen bee to ensure the colony’s reproduction.

W

Wart

wart: A small often infectious growth, caused by a virus, that appears on the skin of an animal, or a similar growth on a plant. Managing warts can prevent health issues in livestock and improve productivity.

Soil Testing

The process of analyzing soil samples to determine their physical, chemical, and biological properties. Soil testing helps guide nutrient management, soil amendments, and other management practices. For example, conducting soil testing to assess nutrient levels and develop a fertilization plan for optimal crop growth.

M

Maine

Maine: Refers to Bleu du Maine and Maine-Anjou breeds. Understanding the characteristics of these breeds can help farmers make informed decisions about livestock management and breeding, ensuring better productivity and farm sustainability.

N

Non-Eu

non-EU: adjective not in the EU. Understanding the regulatory and market differences between EU and non-EU countries helps farmers navigate international trade and export opportunities. Farmers can benefit from staying informed about trade agreements, tariffs, and import/export requirements to access new markets and expand their business. Knowledge of non-EU trade dynamics supports strategic decision-making and enhances farm profitability by leveraging global market opportunities.

P

Porcine Reproductive Respiratory Syndrome

porcine reproductive respiratory syndrome: A viral disease of pigs which leads to fertility and breathing problems, as well as to high mortality rates in piglets. Abbr PRRS. Helpful content: Controlling PRRS involves implementing strict biosecurity measures and vaccination programs. Early detection and intervention can reduce the spread of the disease and improve herd productivity.

G

Gastroenteritis

gastroenteritis: An inflammation of the membrane lining the intestines and the stomach, caused by a viral infection and resulting in diarrhea and vomiting. Early detection and treatment of gastroenteritis can prevent severe dehydration and improve livestock health.

P

Pulsator

pulsator: The part of a milking machine which causes the suction action and release of the milk from the udder. Helpful content: Proper maintenance and calibration of pulsators ensure efficient milking and animal comfort. Farmers can enhance milk production and quality by optimizing milking equipment performance.

S

Swill

swill: waste food from kitchens, formerly used for pig feeding but banned after the foot-and-mouth outbreak of 2001. Understanding and adhering to regulations on swill use ensures livestock health and biosecurity, supporting farm productivity.

N

Norfolk Rotation

Norfolk rotation: a system for farming, using arable farming for fodder crops, and involving the temporary sowing of grass and clover. The Norfolk rotation system, introduced in the early 18th century, provided a well-balanced method for building up and maintaining soil fertility, controlling weeds and pests, and providing continuous employment and profitability. Farmers can benefit from adopting the principles of the Norfolk rotation to enhance soil health, reduce dependency on chemical inputs, and promote sustainable farming practices. Implementing crop rotation systems supports long-term productivity and environmental stewardship.

C

Concentrate

Concentrate: Concentrate noun 1. the strength of a solution, or the quantity of a substance in a specific volume 2. a strong solution which is to be diluted orange juice made from concentrate verb 1. to collect in a particular place rather than spread around Most of the mass of air is concentrated at the lowest levels of the atmosphere. 2. To reduce the volume of a solution and increase its strength by evaporation. Opposite dilute. concentrates concentrates plural noun animal feedingstuffs with a high nutrient relative to their bulk. Utilizing concentrates ensures high nutrient density in animal feed for optimal growth and productivity.

M

Milk Ripe Stage

milk ripe stage: a stage in the development of grain such as wheat where the seed has formed but is still soft and white and full of white sap. Also called milky stage. Understanding the milk ripe stage can help farmers manage grain production more effectively, ensuring better yields and quality.

G

Goat

goat: A goat is a small animal with horns, kept for its milk and meat. Goats are important for milk production in Europe, and their milk is used for making cheese. Goats also provide meat and are efficient browsers, making them valuable for land management and diverse agricultural production.