Month: December 2011

Field Drainage: Building drains in or under fields to remove surplus water. Proper field drainage prevents waterlogging, improves soil health, and enhances crop growth.

water mill: A mill which is driven by the power of a stream of water which turns a large wheel. Utilizing water mills can provide sustainable energy and milling options for farms.

drought stress: A lack of growth caused by drought. Drought stress can reduce crop yields and affect plant health. Farmers can mitigate drought stress by using irrigation, mulching, and selecting drought-tolerant crop varieties.

Freehold: The absolute right to hold land or property for an unlimited time without paying rent. Properly managing freehold property supports long-term farm stability and investment.

strike: the infestation of the flesh of sheep by the larvae of blowflies. It causes extreme irritation and death can occur in a short time. Managing strike ensures sheep health and productivity, preventing losses and supporting farm profitability.

Northern Dairy Shorthorn: a dairy breed of cattle, which comes from the old Teeswater cattle, with perhaps a little Ayrshire blood. It is now established as a pure breed. The most popular color is light roan, but red, white, and mixtures of shades are found. The animals are thrifty, hardy, and suitable for harsh upland conditions. The Northern Dairy Shorthorn breed is valued for its adaptability, hardiness, and milk production in challenging environments. Farmers can benefit from raising this breed to produce high-quality milk and maintain resilient herds. Understanding the breed’s specific care and management needs helps optimize production and enhance farm profitability.

Cleg: Same as horsefly. Managing clegs involves using appropriate pest control measures to protect livestock and reduce irritation.

headland: An uncultivated area of soil at the edge of a field, where a tractor turns when ploughing. Managing headlands effectively can improve field operations and reduce soil compaction.

renewable energy: Energy from the Sun, wind, waves, tides, from geothermal deposits or from burning waste. Using renewable energy sources helps farmers reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower farm operating costs.

ton: A unit of measurement of weight, equal to 1016kg. Also called long ton. US a unit of measurement of weight, equal to 907kg. Also called short ton. Understanding weight measurements is crucial for accurate product sales and logistics.