Month: June 2008

ESA: Abbreviation for Environmentally Sensitive Area. Understanding ESA helps farmers adopt practices that protect sensitive environments and receive funding for conservation efforts.

Cooperative: Cooperative noun a group of farmers who work together to sell their produce either for the wholesale market or in retail outlets such as farmers’ markets. Engaging in cooperatives supports collective marketing and enhances farm income.

physiological age: The stage of development of an animal or plant, as compared to its actual chronological age. Monitoring physiological age helps in making informed decisions about breeding, feeding, and management practices.

The approaches used to identify, assess, and mitigate risks in mushroom farming, including crop insurance, diversification, and hedging. For example, developing mushroom farm risk management strategies to protect farm income and reduce vulnerability to adverse events.

PVRO: Abbreviation for Plant Variety Rights Office. Helpful content: The Plant Variety Rights Office helps protect the intellectual property of plant breeders, encouraging innovation and the development of new plant varieties. Farmers benefit from access to improved seeds that enhance productivity and sustainability.

horticulture: The cultivation of flowers, fruit, and vegetables in gardens, nurseries, or glasshouses, as a science, occupation, or leisure activity. Practicing horticulture diversifies farm products and provides additional income streams.

A method of marking animals by injecting ink into the skin, usually inside the ear. Tattooing provides a permanent form of identification. For example, tattooing registration numbers on purebred livestock for breed certification and record-keeping.

The science of feeding animals to ensure their growth, health, and productivity. This involves formulating balanced diets that meet the nutritional needs of different species. For instance, creating a feed mix that provides all necessary nutrients for dairy cows.

digestive: Referring to digestion. Digestive health is crucial for maintaining the productivity and welfare of livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop diets that promote optimal digestive health. Implementing proper dietary practices and monitoring digestive health will enhance the well-being and performance of livestock.

durum: A type of wheat grown in southern Europe and the USA and used in making semolina for processing into pasta. Latin name: Triticum durum. Durum wheat is prized for its high protein content and strong gluten, essential for pasta production.