Author: April Kingsman

reseed: To reestablish a ley by sowing seed again. Reseeding improves pasture quality and productivity, supporting sustainable livestock grazing.

productive soil: Soil which is very fertile and produces large crops. Helpful content: Maintaining productive soil involves proper fertilization, crop rotation, and organic matter addition. Healthy soil supports robust plant growth and high yields, contributing to overall farm success.

value added: The difference between the cost of the materials purchased to produce a product and the final selling price of the finished product. In agriculture, value-added activities like butchering or milling can increase profitability for farmers.

synthetised protein: a protein manufactured from synthetic materials. Understanding and using synthetised proteins effectively supports livestock nutrition and health, enhancing farm productivity.

pepper and salt: Same as shepherd’s purse. Knowing alternative names for plants aids in effective weed identification and management.

Cross-Compliance: Cross-compliance noun the setting of environmental conditions that must be met when developing agricultural support policies, especially in the European Union. Also called environmental conditionality. ‘While there is some evidence to suggest that farmers in Nitrate Vulnerable Zones are taking greater account of the value of manures it is becoming increasingly apparent that cross-compliance, and therefore the Single Payment Scheme, also requires farmers to make allowances for the nutrients in any organic matter applied.’ [Farmers Guardian]. Engaging in cross-compliance practices supports sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.

BFREPA: Abbreviation for British Free Range Egg Producers Association. Membership in BFREPA supports free-range egg producers with industry news and resources.

Canopy: A layer of branches and leaves of trees that shade the ground underneath. Managing forest canopies supports biodiversity and protects soil from erosion, benefiting overall farm ecosystem health.

Footpath: A route along which people walk on foot but along which vehicles are not permitted. Managing footpaths supports farm accessibility and safety.

mower: a machine which cuts grass or cereal crops, or cuts them and drops them onto the ground. Proper use and maintenance of mowers can help farmers manage crop and pasture health more effectively, ensuring better productivity and sustainability.