Author: April Kingsman

wool ball: A wool ball is a mass of wool found in the stomachs of lambs. Farmers need to monitor and manage wool balls to prevent digestive issues and ensure the health of their lambs.

earmarking: The process of identifying an animal by attaching a tag to its ear. Earmarking helps farmers keep track of livestock health, breeding, and management efficiently.

primary productivity: The amount of organic matter produced in a specific area over a specific period, e.g., the yield of a crop during a growing season. Helpful content: Measuring primary productivity helps farmers evaluate crop performance and make informed management decisions. Improving primary productivity through soil health, water management, and crop selection can enhance farm profitability.

Countryside Council for Wales: Countryside Council for Wales noun a statutory advisory body of the UK government responsible for sustaining natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor leisure opportunities in Wales and its coastal areas. Abbr CCW. Engaging with the Countryside Council for Wales supports rural conservation and sustainable land use practices.

Cider: A fermented drink made from apple juice. Producing cider provides a value-added product for farms, enhancing product diversity and income.

boysenberry: A large, dark berry that is a cross between a raspberry, blackberry, and loganberry. Growing boysenberries provides unique fruit for fresh markets and processing.

pile crop pile crop pile crop: A crop that is grown in a pile, e.g., potatoes. Managing pile crops efficiently improves yields and meets market demands.

noose: a loop in a rope, with a loose knot which allows it to tighten, e.g., in a halter or a lasso. Using nooses and other restraining tools safely is essential for managing livestock and ensuring animal welfare. Farmers can benefit from understanding the proper techniques for using nooses to handle and secure animals without causing harm. Effective use of restraining tools supports safe and humane livestock management, reduces stress and injury, and enhances overall farm productivity and animal welfare.

Chickpea: A legume crop grown for its large round pale-yellow seeds, important in India and Pakistan as a source of protein. Growing chickpeas provides valuable protein-rich food for local and global markets, enhancing farm productivity.

A specific type of tagging where identification tags are placed on the ear of an animal. Ear tagging is commonly used in cattle, sheep, and goats. For example, applying ear tags to newborn calves to track their growth and health records.