Month: March 2012

Suffolk: a breed of sheep developed from crosses between the now extinct Norfolk Horn ewes and the Southdown ram. It is a large quick-growing animal with a close short fleece and a black face which has no wool on it. Suffolk crosses perform well under a broad range of farming systems, being equally effective for over-winter storing and for intensive early lamb production. Properly managing Suffolk sheep ensures healthy growth and productivity, supporting farm profitability and sustainability.

trotter: A foot of a pig or sheep. Utilizing trotters can provide value-added products and reduce waste in livestock processing.

The process of planning and allocating financial resources for farm operations. Farm budgeting helps farmers manage costs and plan for future expenses. For instance, creating a budget to estimate the costs of planting and harvesting crops for the coming season.

endocrine gland: A gland such as the pituitary gland which produces hormones introduced directly into the bloodstream. Understanding endocrine glands helps farmers manage livestock health and reproduction.

topsoil: The top layer of soil, often containing organic material, from which chemical substances are washed by water into the subsoil below. Maintaining healthy topsoil is crucial for crop growth and sustainable farm practices.

Trade Union Sustainable Development Advisory Committee: A forum for consultation on environmental issues between the Government and the main TUC-affiliated trade unions in the UK. Abbr TUSDAC. Engaging with such committees can provide farmers with support and resources for sustainable practices.

The methods and guidelines for sourcing food products and ingredients in a way that ensures ethical treatment of workers, environmental sustainability, and fair trade. For example, implementing food product ethical sourcing practices to support sustainable and responsible supply chains.

The practices and protocols used to remove unsafe or defective food products from the market, including communication and logistics. For example, establishing food product recall procedures to ensure swift and effective action in case of product safety issues.

strip: a long narrow piece, usually of the same width from end to end. Properly managing strips of land ensures efficient farming practices and healthy crop growth.

Cotton Gin: Cotton gin noun a machine which separates the seeds from the cotton fibres. Utilizing cotton gins enhances cotton processing efficiency and product quality.