Month: March 2018

calving: The process of giving birth to a calf. Understanding and managing calving is crucial for maintaining herd health and productivity.

biological association: A group of organisms living together in a stable community. Understanding biological associations helps farmers manage biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Lazy-Bed: A lazy-bed is a small arable plot used for growing potatoes, cereals, and other crops, found in the West Highlands of Scotland. If the soil is thin, seed potatoes are placed on the surface of the soil and covered with turf. Utilizing lazy-bed farming can optimize crop growth in challenging soil conditions.

Chemical Element: A substance such as iron, calcium, or oxygen, existing independently and not formed from a combination of other substances. Understanding chemical elements aids in managing soil fertility and livestock nutrition for optimal farm productivity.

Flat Deck Piggery: A piggery used for rearing weaned piglets from between two and eight weeks of age, featuring a mesh floor, self-feed hoppers, and controlled heating and ventilation. Properly managing a flat deck piggery ensures the health and growth of piglets.

stance: feed stance. Proper management of feeding stances ensures livestock receive adequate nutrition, supporting health and productivity.

Covered Smut: Covered smut noun a fungal disease (Ustilago hordei) affecting oats and barley. Managing covered smut involves using integrated disease management strategies to protect crops.

The vas deferens of cattle, often used for medicinal purposes. For example, producing beef vas deferens for pharmaceutical and health applications.

genetic improvement: The improvement of an animal or plant by breeding. Genetic improvement programs help in developing breeds with desirable traits such as disease resistance and higher productivity, benefiting farmers by improving livestock and crop performance.

Foul of the Foot: A disease of cattle caused by damage to the cleft of the hoof and invasion by a germ (Fusiformis necrophorus). Managing foul of the foot through proper practices ensures cattle health and productivity.