Category: A

aerial: Referring to something which exists in the air. Understanding aerial aspects of farming, such as aerial spraying, helps farmers manage pests and diseases more effectively.

ADS: Agriculture Development Scheme. This scheme supports farmers in improving their agricultural practices and productivity.

Animal Health Officer: An employee of an Animal Health Divisional Office, with veterinary training. Abbr AHO. Farmers benefit from the expertise of Animal Health Officers to maintain livestock health and comply with animal welfare standards.

agroforestry: The growing of farm crops and trees together as a farming unit. Agroforestry practices benefit farmers by improving soil health, diversifying income streams, and enhancing biodiversity.

Advisory Committee on Releases to the Environment: An independent advisory committee giving statutory advice to UK government ministers on the risks to human health and the environment from the release and marketing of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Abbr ACRE. Understanding ACRE guidelines helps farmers make informed decisions about GMOs.

ACAF: Advisory Committee on Animal Feedingstuffs. This committee’s guidelines help farmers ensure the safety and quality of animal feeds, promoting healthy livestock.

agro-: Prefix referring to agriculture or to the cultivation or management of land. Farmers use agro- as a prefix in various agricultural terms to describe practices and technologies related to farming.

Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service: Formerly, a service of the federal Department of Agriculture which operated the department’s various schemes throughout the USA. It was incorporated into the Farm Service Agency in 1993. Abbr ASCS. Farmers benefit from stabilization and conservation programs to manage resources and improve sustainability.

allergen: A substance which produces a hypersensitive reaction in someone. Allergens are usually proteins, and include foods, the hair of animals, and pollen from flowers, as well as dust. Managing allergens is important for farmers to ensure the safety and health of farm workers and consumers.

anabolism: The process of building up complex chemical substances on the basis of simpler ones. Understanding anabolism helps farmers optimize livestock nutrition and growth.