Author: April Kingsman

blister beetle: A beetle that produces a blistering agent called cantharidin. Controlling blister beetles protects livestock from poisoning and preserves crop health.

Agricultural Holdings Act 1984: An Act of Parliament which gives protection to tenants in questions of the fixing of rent and security of tenure. It makes provision for tenancies for a lifetime and for short-term lettings. Understanding this act helps farmers and landowners navigate tenancy agreements and rights.

magnesium: a light, silvery-white metallic element that burns with a brilliant white flame. The addition of magnesium to soil may prevent deficiency diseases in crops or in livestock, such as interveinal yellowing of leaves in potatoes and sugar beet, and hypomagnesaemia or ‘grass staggers’ in grazing animals. Ensuring adequate magnesium in soil and livestock diets is crucial for healthy crop and livestock growth, leading to better yields and farm sustainability.

voluntary restraint agreement: An agreement by which farmers agree not to spray in windy conditions. Such agreements are not legally binding. Abiding by voluntary restraint agreements can improve environmental protection and community relations.

Commercial: Commercial adjective 1. referring to business 2. produced to be sold for profit. Focusing on commercial agriculture enhances farm profitability and market reach.

Chloro-: Prefix referring to chlorine or green. Understanding chemical prefixes helps farmers manage inputs and processes for optimal farm operations.

bridle: A harness for a horse’s head, used for control and direction. Ensuring proper fit and use of bridles enhances horse welfare and performance.

The evaluation of livestock based on specific traits such as growth rate, feed efficiency, and milk production. Performance testing helps identify superior animals for breeding. For example, conducting performance tests to select high-performing bulls for artificial insemination.

shank: The lower part of a horse’s leg between the knee and the foot. Farmers benefit from understanding shank anatomy for effective horse management and care.

enrich: 1. To make something richer or stronger, e.g., soil can be enriched by adding humus. 2. To improve the nutritional quality of food. Enrich with vitamins. 3. To improve the living conditions of farm animals, e.g., by providing them with larger living areas. Enrichment practices help farmers enhance soil health, food quality, and animal welfare.