Author: April Kingsman

spade: a common garden tool, with a wide square blade at the end of a strong handle. it is used for making holes or digging by hand. Using spades for manual tasks supports efficient soil management and crop planting, promoting healthy growth.

herdsperson: A farm worker who looks after a herd of livestock. Herdspersons play a crucial role in daily livestock management and welfare.

toxoplasmosis: An infectious disease affecting ewes, which causes pregnant animals to abort. Proper management of toxoplasmosis can prevent reproductive losses and improve flock health.

genetic resources: The genes found in plants and animals that have value to humans. Modern plant varieties have been developed from genetic resources from South America. Preserving genetic resources ensures a diverse gene pool for future breeding and adaptation to changing conditions.

dither: The practice of mixing up seeds before planting. Dithering can improve seed distribution and germination rates. Farmers should use appropriate techniques and equipment for effective dithering. Understanding the benefits and applications of dithering will aid in effective crop establishment and growth.

pastern: The thin part of a horse’s leg, between the fetlock and the hoof. Proper care of the pastern can prevent lameness and improve horse performance.

soil compaction: the process in which soil is pressed down, e.g., by heavy loads, and becomes very firm with little space between its particles. ‘The healthy world market price for soybeans has led to the development of continuous production of this crop and consequently some problems have developed, particularly soil compaction, weed species development, and reduction of soil fertility.’ [Arable Farming] Preventing soil compaction ensures proper root growth and water infiltration, supporting healthy crop growth and sustainable agriculture.

branding iron: A tool used to apply a brand to livestock. Using branding irons ensures clear and permanent identification marks on animals.

Coir: Coir /k?i?/ noun a rough fibre from the outer husk of coconuts. Using coir as a soil amendment improves soil structure and water retention.

NSRI: abbreviation for National Soil Resources Institute. The National Soil Resources Institute offers farmers access to research, education, and training on soil health and land management. By utilizing NSRI’s resources, farmers can adopt practices that improve soil fertility, structure, and water retention, leading to better crop yields and sustainable land use. Knowledge gained from NSRI can also help farmers reduce soil erosion, enhance nutrient management, and promote environmentally friendly farming methods.