Month: September 2013

The quality of the air on and around dairy farms, affected by emissions and management practices. For example, monitoring and improving dairy air quality to ensure the health and well-being of livestock and workers.

Teschen disease: A virus disease of pigs caused by an enterovirus, causing fever, paralysis, and often death. It is a notifiable disease. Recognizing and managing Teschen disease is essential for maintaining herd health and preventing outbreaks.

inhibit: To prevent or limit the effect of something. Cloud cover inhibits cooling of the Earth’s surface at night. Helps farmers understand and manage environmental factors affecting agriculture.

The process of identifying female animals in estrus to optimize breeding timing. Heat detection methods include visual observation, electronic monitors, and hormone testing. For example, using heat detection aids to identify cows ready for insemination.

nature: 1. the characteristics that make someone or something what they are. 2. all living organisms and the environments in which they live. Living in harmony with nature means adopting practices that support ecological balance and sustainability. Farmers can benefit from understanding natural processes and working with them rather than against them. This can lead to healthier crops and livestock, reduced input costs, and a more resilient farming system. Embracing nature-based solutions can also enhance the farm’s environmental stewardship and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

The practices and strategies used to manage and reduce parasite infestations in livestock, including deworming and pasture management. For example, implementing parasite control measures to ensure healthy and productive animals.

Foldland: An area of land allotted to each manor for the purpose of grazing the manor’s sheep. Understanding historical land use practices supports the management of grazing systems.

Red: The English name for the Rouge de l’Ouest breed of sheep. This breed offers farmers a valuable source of high-quality meat and wool, contributing to farm income.

The fluid produced by the mammary glands of cows, used for consumption and dairy products. Milk is a significant source of nutrition. For example, milking cows daily to produce milk for processing into cheese and yogurt.

zygote: A zygote is a fertilized ovum, the first stage of an embryo. Understanding reproduction at the zygote stage helps farmers in breeding programs for livestock improvement.