Month: March 2009

Closed Canopy: A canopy that has achieved complete cover or intercepts 95% of visible light. Understanding canopy structures helps farmers manage forest ecosystems and promote biodiversity.

A classification system used to evaluate the palatability of meat, based on factors such as marbling and maturity. Quality grades include Prime, Choice, and Select. For instance, producing beef that meets higher quality grades to achieve premium market prices.

Devon: A breed of fine-boned dual-purpose cattle. North and South Devons are dark red, and belong to a type of red cattle bred for centuries in England. They thrive on pasture which would not be sufficient for larger breeds, and provide both meat and milk. (NOTE: They are commonly known as Red Rubies.) Farmers raising Devon cattle should focus on proper grazing management, health monitoring, and breeding practices to maintain herd productivity. Marketing the unique characteristics of Devon cattle, such as their hardiness and dual-purpose nature, can attract buyers and enhance farm profitability.

Commodity Futures: Commodity futures plural noun trading in commodities for delivery at a later date. The produce will often not yet have been grown or harvested. Understanding commodity futures helps farmers hedge against price volatility and secure future revenues.

Flaxseed: Seed from the flax plant, crushed to produce linseed oil. Flaxseed is a valuable crop for its oil and nutritional benefits, providing farmers with a profitable and versatile product.

Carbonate: A compound formed from a base and carbonic acid. Using carbonates in agriculture helps improve soil pH and nutrient availability for optimal crop growth.

The carbon component of soil organic matter, which is important for soil fertility, structure, and carbon sequestration. Soil organic carbon helps improve soil health and mitigate climate change. For example, increasing soil organic carbon through conservation practices such as cover cropping, reduced tillage, and organic matter addition to support productive and resilient farming systems.

xeromorphic: Xeromorphic refers to plants adapted to prevent water loss. Farmers can cultivate xeromorphic plants in arid regions to optimize water usage and maintain crop yields.

ecoagriculture: The practice of productive agriculture using methods designed to maintain natural resources, biodiversity, and the landscape. Ecoagriculture benefits farmers by promoting sustainable practices that protect and enhance the environment.

WFA: Abbreviation for Whole Farm Approach. Implementing the Whole Farm Approach can streamline farm management and reduce administrative burdens.