Month: May 2012

degrade: To reduce the quality of something. For example, the land has been degraded through overgrazing. Ozone may worsen nutrient leaching by degrading the water-resistant coating on pine needles. To make a chemical compound decompose into its elements. Farmers should implement sustainable land management practices to prevent degradation. Reducing overgrazing, managing irrigation, and using cover crops can help maintain soil quality and productivity. Understanding the factors contributing to degradation will aid in developing effective conservation strategies.

Farmhand: A person who works on a farm. Farmhands are crucial for the daily operations and labor-intensive tasks on a farm.

Common Birds Census: Common Birds Census noun an ongoing survey of commonly occurring birds, run by the British Trust for Ornithology. Engaging with the Common Birds Census helps farmers monitor and protect avian biodiversity on their land.

eelworm: A minute worm-like animal (Nematode) which attacks a great variety of food crops. Stem eelworm. Managing eelworm infestations is crucial for protecting crop health and yield.

hybridisation: The production of hybrids. Practicing hybridisation improves crop and livestock performance and productivity.

hand pulling: The act of pulling weeds or plants out of the ground by hand. Hand pulling weeds helps maintain crop health and reduces the need for chemical herbicides, promoting sustainable farming practices.

The legal possession of land, including the rights to use and manage it. Land ownership provides security and long-term investment opportunities for farmers. For example, owning farmland allows a farmer to make improvements and plan for future generations.

trickle irrigation: Same as drip irrigation. Implementing trickle irrigation can conserve water and improve crop efficiency by delivering water directly to plant roots.

The planning and implementation of security controls and measures in the design of food production and distribution systems, ensuring protection against threats. For example, designing food product security architecture to enhance system security and prevent unauthorized access.

basidiomycotes: A large group of fungi, including mushrooms and toadstools. Farmers can cultivate basidiomycotes for food and medicinal purposes.