Month: November 2017

deer: A ruminant animal, the males of which have distinctive antlers. COMMENT: There are three wild species in the UK: the fallow deer (Dama dama), the roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), and the red deer (Cervus elaphus), which is also raised commercially. Deer are hardy animals, and are well adapted to severe winters. They can suffer from tuberculosis, and the British government has introduced a compulsory slaughter scheme for animals suffering from the disease. According to the 2000 agricultural survey, the total number of farmed deer holdings in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland is 300, farming approximately 36,000 deer. They represent less than 0.6% of the farmed animals in the UK (excluding poultry). Farmers involved in deer farming should focus on proper health management, nutrition, and housing to ensure the productivity and welfare of their herds. Understanding the market for venison and other deer products can help farmers optimize their operations and profitability.

vaccination: The action of vaccinating someone against a disease. Vaccination helps in building immunity in livestock, reducing the incidence of diseases and improving overall herd health.

Programs and initiatives aimed at educating consumers, farmers, and industry professionals about dairy production, nutrition, and sustainability. For example, offering dairy education workshops to teach best practices in dairy farming and milk processing.

Methods and practices used to manage and reduce parasite infestations in plants and animals. Parasite control includes chemical treatments, biological control, and preventive measures. For example, using deworming medications to control internal parasites in livestock.

Caterpillar Tractor: A tractor with a revolving set of linked metal plates on either side instead of wheels. Using caterpillar tractors helps farmers manage field operations on difficult terrain, improving efficiency and productivity.

shigella: A bacillus which causes dysentery. Farmers benefit from preventing shigella infections to protect livestock health and prevent economic losses.

Milk Development Council: a body which collects levies on milk and distributes the money to research and development projects. Abbr MDC. Understanding the role of the Milk Development Council can help farmers access resources and support for improving milk production and quality.

direct drilling: A form of minimal cultivation where the seed is sown directly into the field without previous cultivation. Several types of drill are used, with heavy discs for cutting narrow drills, or strong cultivator tines. Direct drilling can improve soil health, reduce erosion, and save time and labor. Farmers should select the appropriate type of drill for their needs and use it properly to achieve optimal crop establishment. Understanding the benefits and applications of direct drilling will aid in effective soil management and crop production.

store: a supply of something kept for future use; store cattle, stores, store lambs, cattle, or lambs bred or bought for fattening. The animals are usually reared on one farm and then sold on to dealers or other farmers. Properly managing stores ensures efficient livestock growth and productivity, supporting farm profitability.

new blood: genetic variation brought into a breed by, e.g., introducing a new male to a flock or herd. Introducing new blood into livestock breeding programs helps maintain genetic diversity, improve herd or flock health, and enhance productivity. Farmers can benefit from strategic breeding practices that incorporate new genetic material, reducing the risk of inbreeding and its associated health issues. This approach leads to stronger, more resilient livestock populations, better adaptation to environmental conditions, and higher overall farm profitability.