Category: A

ammonia treatment: A method of treating straw, using ammonia to make it more palatable and nutritious. Implementing ammonia treatment helps farmers improve livestock feed quality.

Andalusian: A dark red breed of cattle, used both as draught animals and for beef. A laying breed of chicken with blue feathers. Understanding the characteristics of Andalusian cattle and chickens helps farmers manage livestock and poultry production.

ACR: Automatic cluster removal. Using ACR systems can improve milking efficiency and udder health in dairy operations.

alp: A high mountain pasture, above the treeline. Managing high mountain pastures helps farmers optimize grazing resources for livestock.

activator: A substance which activates a process, such as a compost activator. Using activators helps farmers accelerate composting and improve soil health.

alkaloid: One of many poisonous substances found in plants, which use them as a defense against herbivores. Many alkaloids such as atropine, morphine, or quinine are also useful as medicines. Farmers benefit from understanding alkaloids to manage plant health and potential toxicity.

analyst: A person who examines samples of substances to find out what they are made of. A person who carries out a study of a problem. A health and safety analyst. Farmers benefit from analysts’ expertise to improve their practices and productivity.

abstract: To remove water from a river so that it can be used by industry, farmers or gardeners. Abstraction is important for farmers to ensure they have a reliable water supply for irrigation and livestock.

Agriculture, Environment and Biotechnology Commission: The UK government advisory body on biotechnology issues affecting agriculture and the environment. Farmers benefit from the guidance of this commission to adopt sustainable and innovative practices.

algaecide: Same as algicide. Using algaecides helps farmers manage algae growth in water sources and prevent harm to crops and livestock.