Author: April Kingsman

nitrogen: a chemical element that is the main component of air and an essential part of protein. It is essential to biological life. Nitrogen is taken into the body by digesting protein-rich foods. Excess nitrogen is excreted in urine. When the intake of nitrogen and the excretion rate are equal, the body is in nitrogen balance or protein balance. Nitrogen is supplied to the soil by fertilizers, organic matter, nodule bacteria on legumes, and by nitrogen-fixing microorganisms in the soil. Proper nitrogen management is critical for optimizing crop growth and productivity. Farmers can benefit from understanding nitrogen’s role in plant nutrition and adopting practices that ensure efficient nitrogen use. This includes regular soil testing, using nitrogen-efficient crop varieties, and applying fertilizers at the right time and rate. Effective nitrogen management improves crop yields, reduces environmental impact, and enhances farm profitability.

batch drying: A process for drying bales of hay in batches. Efficient batch drying techniques ensure high-quality forage for livestock feed.

Loose Smut: Loose smut is a fungus (Ustilago nuda) affecting wheat and barley. Masses of black spores collect on the diseased heads; the spores are dispersed in the wind, and only a bare stalk is left. Managing loose smut through disease prevention and control measures can protect wheat and barley crops and improve yields.

agricultural waste: Waste matter produced on a farm, e.g., plastic containers for pesticides. Managing agricultural waste is important for farmers to reduce environmental impact and comply with regulations.

heterosis: An increase in size or rate of growth, fertility or resistance to disease found in offspring of a cross between organisms with different genotypes. Also called hybrid vigour. Using heterosis in breeding programs can improve livestock and crop performance.

Fodder Radish: A type of brassica grown primarily for use as a green fodder crop. Growing fodder radish provides nutritious feed for livestock and supports soil health.

pollinator: 1. An organism which helps pollinate a plant, e.g., a bee or bird. 2. A plant from which pollen is transferred by bees to pollinate another plant, especially a fruit tree that is not self-fertile. Helpful content: Promoting pollinator health and habitat is crucial for sustainable agriculture. Farmers can enhance crop yields by supporting pollinator populations through habitat conservation and integrated pest management.

The management of breeding and reproductive cycles in dairy cattle to optimize milk production and herd genetics. For example, using artificial insemination to improve genetic traits and reproductive efficiency in dairy herds.

The principles and practices used to design and build ponds for aquaculture, ensuring optimal conditions for fish growth and health. For example, constructing well-designed aquaculture ponds to support sustainable fish production.

A professional responsible for ensuring compliance with regulations and standards in dairy production and processing facilities. For example, conducting inspections to verify that dairy farms and plants meet health and safety requirements.