Author: April Kingsman

down-calver: A cow or heifer about to calve. Managing down-calvers involves ensuring they have a safe and comfortable environment for giving birth and monitoring their health closely.

RTV: Abbreviation for rough terrain vehicle. Using rough terrain vehicles supports efficient farm operations in challenging environments.

parent plant: A plant from which others are produced. Selecting high-quality parent plants ensures better yields and crop quality.

day-nettle: Same as common hemp nettle. Common hemp nettle can be a weed in crops and pastures. Farmers should monitor for its presence and use appropriate weed control methods to prevent it from spreading. Integrated pest management and herbicide use can help manage common hemp nettle, protecting crop health and yields.

stocking density: the number of animals kept on a specific area of land. (NOTE: Animal welfare codes lay down rules for the maximum stocking density allowed to ensure that the health and welfare of the animals or birds is good.) Properly managing stocking density ensures livestock health and welfare, supporting productivity and ethical farming practices.

retting: A process used in the preparation of flax, where flax is soaked in water and allowed to rot, so freeing the fibers from the plant stems. Utilizing retting helps farmers produce high-quality flax fibers for textile production.

rotary parlour: The most expensive and complex of the four milking systems, where the cows stand on a rotating platform with the milker in the middle. The operator may work on the inner or outer side of the circle. Using rotary parlours enhances milking efficiency and reduces labor costs.

stand: a group of plants or trees growing together; a stand of conifers. Properly managing stands of trees or plants supports healthy growth and sustainable forestry or crop production.

A breed of beef cattle developed in the United States, known for its hardiness and fertility. Beefmaster cattle are used for meat production and crossbreeding. For example, raising Beefmaster cattle for their efficiency and adaptability to various environments.

A type of fish commonly farmed for its edible flesh. Trout farming involves raising fish in controlled environments such as ponds or tanks. For instance, operating a trout farm to produce fish for the seafood market and meet consumer demand.