Month: February 2022

heritage breed: A traditional livestock breed that has been bred for specific traits over many generations. Preserving heritage breeds helps maintain genetic diversity and cultural heritage in agriculture.

nettle: a plant, especially one of the genus Urtica, which possesses stinging hairs. Nettle, despite being a nuisance weed, has potential benefits for farmers. It can be used as a nutritious feed for livestock, a source of natural fibers, and a habitat for beneficial insects. Farmers can benefit from managing nettle growth to harness its positive attributes while minimizing its impact on crops. Understanding the ecological role of nettles can help integrate them into a sustainable farming system, promoting biodiversity and resource efficiency.

breakfast: A meal eaten in the morning. Providing balanced breakfasts for farm workers supports their health and productivity.

weevil: A kind of beetle which feeds on grain, nuts, fruit, and leaves. The larvae of grain beetles feed on the stored grain where they also pupate. Managing weevil infestations can prevent crop losses and protect stored produce.

plowing: The act of turning over the upper layer of soil to prepare it for planting. Plowing helps control weeds and incorporate organic matter into the soil.

redwater: A parasitic disease of cattle transmitted by the common tick. The affected animal becomes very dull, feverish, salivates freely, and often staggers and falls. The acute form of the disease is often fatal. Managing redwater is crucial for maintaining cattle health and farm productivity.

AEB: Association for the Protection of Rural Scotland. Abbr APRS. Farmers in Scotland can benefit from APRS resources and advocacy for rural and environmental protection.

photochemical: Referring to a chemical reaction that occurs in the presence of light. Understanding photochemical reactions helps in optimizing agricultural practices like photosynthesis management.

Agricultural Land Tribunal: A court established in 1947 to hear appeals against decisions affecting owners or tenants of agricultural land. Farmers can appeal to the Agricultural Land Tribunal to resolve disputes and protect their rights.

Less Favoured Areas Support Scheme: Less Favoured Areas Support Scheme is a former government scheme providing financial support to ensure that farming continued in mountainous or hilly areas. Accessing support schemes can help farmers maintain agricultural activities in less favourable areas.