Month: May 2022

sheep: A ruminant of the genus Ovis, family Bovidae. It is one of many domesticated varieties, farmed for their wool, meat and milk. Most sheep in the UK are kept for meat, and milk production is relatively unimportant. Wool is an important byproduct of sheep farming in the UK, but is the main product of sheep in some other countries, such as Australia. In 2005 the total sheep population of the UK was approximately 40 million, accounting for 30% of all sheep in the EU member states. Sheep are kept under a wide range of environmental and management conditions, from coastal lowland areas such as Romney Marsh to the upland areas of Wales, Scotland and the North of England. Lambs from the upland areas are moved to lowland farms for fattening. In the UK, a great many breeds of sheep have survived and there are some 50 recognised breeds as well as a variety of local types and many crossbreds. More recently, the introduction of continental breeds has increased the variety. A broad classification into three main categories may be made: the long-woolled breeds which include the Romney, Lincoln and Leicester; the short-woolled breeds including the Southdown, Dorset Down and Suffolk, and the mountain, moorland and hill breeds which include the Cheviot, Radnor, Scottish Blackface, Swaledale and Welsh Mountain. Farmers benefit from raising sheep for their versatile products, including meat, wool, and milk, and their adaptability to various environmental conditions.

Practices used to prevent soil erosion and manage sediment runoff from agricultural fields. Sediment control helps protect water quality and maintain soil health. For example, installing sediment control barriers to reduce soil erosion during heavy rainfall and prevent sediment from entering waterways.

summer: the season following spring and before autumn, when the weather is warmest, the sun is highest in the sky, and most plants flower and set seed. Properly managing summer crops ensures healthy growth and optimal yields, supporting farm productivity.

short ton: US same as ton. Farmers benefit from understanding and using standardized measurements like short tons for consistent and accurate trade and storage.

Products made from livestock that have been processed or enhanced to increase their value, such as cheese, sausage, and wool. For example, producing value-added products from livestock to diversify income and meet consumer demand.

rack: A frame of wooden or metal bars which holds fodder, and from which animals can eat. Helps farmers efficiently feed livestock, reducing waste and ensuring animals have constant access to food.

endemic: 1. Referring to an organism that exists or originated from a specific area. The isolation of the islands has led to the evolution of endemic forms. 2. Referring to a disease that occurs within a specific area. This disease is endemic to Mediterranean countries. Understanding endemic species and diseases helps farmers manage biodiversity and animal health.

A comprehensive assessment of a male animal’s reproductive capabilities. BSE includes physical examination, semen analysis, and libido evaluation. For instance, conducting BSE on bulls before the breeding season ensures they are capable of siring healthy offspring.

The overall condition of soil, including its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Soil quality is essential for sustainable agricultural production and environmental health. For example, improving soil quality through conservation practices such as cover cropping, reduced tillage, and organic matter addition to support productive and resilient farming systems.