Author: April Kingsman

microbial: referring to microbes. Understanding the role of microbes can help farmers manage soil and livestock health more effectively, ensuring better productivity and sustainability.

pimento pimento pimento: A type of sweet pepper. Growing and processing pimentos provides valuable spice and vegetable crops that meet market demand.

topknot: A tuft of hair on the top of an animal’s head, found in certain breeds of cattle and sheep. Managing breeds with specific features like topknots can support breeding programs and improve animal identification.

spreader: a device used for spreading, e.g., one for spreading granules of fertiliser evenly over a lawn; an agent added to an insect spray in order to make sure that the foliage is covered uniformly. Using spreaders ensures efficient application of agricultural inputs, promoting healthy crop growth and better yields.

Strategies and practices to reduce the risk of mastitis in dairy cows, including hygiene, milking procedures, and nutrition. For example, using pre- and post-milking teat disinfectants to prevent mastitis infections.

oilseed rape: A plant of the cabbage family with bright yellow flowers, grown to provide an edible oil and animal feed from the processed seeds. Oilseed rape is a versatile crop that can improve farm income and soil health. Farmers can benefit from rotating oilseed rape with other crops to enhance yields and reduce pest pressures.

kibbled: Kibbled – coarsely ground, as in kibbled maize. Helps farmers process feed for livestock.

geld: To castrate an animal, especially a horse. Castrating livestock can manage breeding and behavior, improving farm safety and productivity.

Rural Inspectorate Wales: The organization that is responsible for administering CAP schemes in Wales. Abbreviation: RIW. The RIW supports farmers by ensuring compliance with agricultural regulations and promoting best practices.

gang: A group of workers working together, e.g., a gang of sheep shearers. Effective management of work gangs can increase efficiency and productivity during peak labor times.