Author: April Kingsman

Farrowing Rails: Rails that prevent the sow from overlying the piglets. Using farrowing rails helps reduce piglet mortality.

semi-digger: A type of mouldboard on a plough. Farmers benefit from using semi-digger mouldboards for efficient and precise ploughing.

binomial classification: The scientific system of naming organisms devised by Linnaeus. Understanding binomial classification helps farmers accurately identify and manage crops and livestock.

staggers: a condition of animals in which they stagger about, as in looping-ill and swayback disease. Grass staggers in cattle is caused by hypomagnesaemia. Managing staggers ensures livestock health and productivity, supporting farm profitability.

ADRA: Animal Diseases Research Association. The research provided by ADRA helps farmers understand and manage animal diseases effectively.

Fraxinus: The Latin name for the ash tree. Growing Fraxinus trees supports timber production and biodiversity in agroforestry systems.

Flocculation: The grouping of small particles of soil together to form larger ones. Flocculation is very important in making clay soils easy to work. Proper soil management practices encourage flocculation and improve soil structure.

A system used by the United States Department of Agriculture to classify the quality and yield of meat. USDA grades include Prime, Choice, and Select. For instance, aiming for higher USDA grades to increase meat marketability and profitability.

FEP: Abbreviation for Farm Environment Plan. This plan helps farmers manage their land sustainably and protect environmental resources.

kemp: Kemp – a very coarse fibre in fleece, covered with a thick sheath and shed each year. Helps farmers understand wool quality.