Month: August 2014

sloe: the wild plum Prunus spinosa. Also called blackthorn. Cultivating sloe provides farmers with a resilient crop for hedgerows and wildlife habitats, supporting biodiversity and sustainable farming.

Feed Preparation: The milling and crushing of grain, mixing of the ingredients, and making into cubes or pellets. Proper feed preparation ensures balanced diets and supports livestock health.

A male bee whose primary role is to mate with the queen bee. Drone bees do not collect nectar or pollen and are typically present in the hive during the mating season. For example, a drone bee’s main function is to fertilize the queen bee to ensure the colony’s reproduction.

wart: A small often infectious growth, caused by a virus, that appears on the skin of an animal, or a similar growth on a plant. Managing warts can prevent health issues in livestock and improve productivity.

The process of analyzing soil samples to determine their physical, chemical, and biological properties. Soil testing helps guide nutrient management, soil amendments, and other management practices. For example, conducting soil testing to assess nutrient levels and develop a fertilization plan for optimal crop growth.

Maine: Refers to Bleu du Maine and Maine-Anjou breeds. Understanding the characteristics of these breeds can help farmers make informed decisions about livestock management and breeding, ensuring better productivity and farm sustainability.

non-EU: adjective not in the EU. Understanding the regulatory and market differences between EU and non-EU countries helps farmers navigate international trade and export opportunities. Farmers can benefit from staying informed about trade agreements, tariffs, and import/export requirements to access new markets and expand their business. Knowledge of non-EU trade dynamics supports strategic decision-making and enhances farm profitability by leveraging global market opportunities.

sole crop: a crop grown in a stand with no other crops. Growing sole crops provides farmers with a focused approach to crop management, optimizing yields and quality.

porcine reproductive respiratory syndrome: A viral disease of pigs which leads to fertility and breathing problems, as well as to high mortality rates in piglets. Abbr PRRS. Helpful content: Controlling PRRS involves implementing strict biosecurity measures and vaccination programs. Early detection and intervention can reduce the spread of the disease and improve herd productivity.

The organization and delivery of guided tours on farms, providing visitors with educational experiences about agriculture, livestock, and sustainability. For example, conducting educational farm tours to teach visitors about farming practices and connect with the community.