Author: April Kingsman

Freehold Property: Property held in freehold. Properly managing freehold property supports long-term farm stability and investment.

stock bull: a bull kept for breeding purposes in a pedigree herd. Properly managing stock bulls ensures healthy breeding programs and improves livestock genetics, supporting farm profitability.

The overall value of a carcass based on its quality, yield, and marketability. Carcass merit is important for livestock production and profitability. For example, evaluating carcass merit to select animals with high market value.

marking: the practice of putting a mark on an animal to identify who it belongs to, e.g. a brand on the skin. Effective marking can help farmers manage their livestock more efficiently, ensuring better record-keeping and traceability.

The process of extracting milk from dairy cows, typically done twice a day using milking machines. Milking is essential for dairy operations. For example, using automated milking systems to improve efficiency and milk hygiene.

Free-Range Eggs: Eggs from hens that are allowed to run about in the open and eat more natural food. Properly managing free-range hens ensures high-quality egg production and animal welfare.

A breed of dairy cattle known for its versatility in milk and meat production. Milking Shorthorn cows are valued for their dual-purpose capabilities. For example, raising Milking Shorthorn cows for their balanced milk yield and meat quality.

ulcer: An open sore in the skin or mucous membrane, which is inflamed and difficult to heal. Early detection and treatment of ulcers in livestock can prevent more serious health issues and improve animal welfare, maintaining the overall health and productivity of the herd.

Cappie: A disease of sheep associated with thinning of the skull bones. Managing sheep health involves monitoring for signs of cappie and providing appropriate veterinary care to affected animals.

hundredweight: A measure of weight of dry goods such as grain. Abbreviated after numbers to cwt: 5cwt. The British hundredweight is equivalent to 50.8kg, and the US hundredweight is equivalent to 45.4kg. Understanding hundredweight measurements helps farmers manage crop yields and storage.