Author: April Kingsman

blade: The leaf of a grass plant. Monitoring blade health helps farmers maintain pasture quality and optimize grazing practices.

straw burning: a cheap method of disposal of straw, which helps to control diseases. Properly managing straw burning ensures effective disease control while adhering to environmental regulations, supporting sustainable farming practices.

Plantations of apple trees cultivated for commercial fruit production. Managing an apple orchard involves tasks such as pruning, pest control, and harvesting. For example, an apple orchard might produce different varieties of apples for fresh consumption and cider production.

hurdle: A portable rectangular wooden frame used for temporary fencing for sheep. Using hurdles supports effective livestock management and flexible grazing practices.

rain gun: A spraying device used for applying irrigation water, which it shoots out in a powerful jet. Rain guns help farmers efficiently irrigate large fields, ensuring crops receive adequate water.

The approaches used to manage and reduce weed populations in agriculture, including mechanical, chemical, and cultural methods. For example, developing weed control strategies to minimize competition and improve crop productivity.

The increase in an animal’s weight over time, influenced by genetics, nutrition, and management. Weight gain is a key factor in livestock production. For example, maximizing weight gain in feedlot cattle to improve profitability.

Food Safety Act 1990: Legislation setting hygiene standards for food producers and suppliers. This act helps ensure food safety and quality, benefiting farmers and consumers.

ESA: Abbreviation for Environmentally Sensitive Area. Understanding ESA helps farmers adopt practices that protect sensitive environments and receive funding for conservation efforts.

yard and parlour: Yard and parlour is a system of housing dairy cattle in yards and milking them in a parlour. This system improves milking efficiency and animal welfare, benefiting dairy farmers.