Category: D

deciduous: Referring to trees that shed all their leaves in one season. Beech, oak, and other deciduous trees. Deciduous trees can be beneficial in agroforestry systems, providing seasonal shade and organic matter. Farmers can integrate deciduous trees into their land management plans to improve biodiversity, soil health, and microclimate regulation. Understanding the growth patterns and benefits of deciduous trees can help optimize their use in farming systems.

dunes: An area of sand blown by the wind into small hills and ridges, which may have plants growing on them. Managing dunes involves preventing soil erosion and promoting the growth of vegetation to stabilize the sand.

Dutch elm disease: A fungal disease that kills elm trees, caused by Ceratocystis ulmi and spread by a bark beetle. Managing Dutch elm disease involves monitoring tree health, removing infected trees, and preventing the spread of the bark beetle.

dry pluck: The process of removing the feathers when the bird is dry, so avoiding harming the skin. Dry plucking is a method used in poultry processing to ensure the quality of the meat.

diversity: The variety of different species, genetic variation, or ecological complexity in an area. Promoting diversity is important for maintaining ecosystem health and resilience. Farmers should implement practices like crop rotation, intercropping, and habitat conservation to enhance diversity. Understanding the benefits of diversity will aid in sustainable land management and farm productivity.

dairy: Relating to the production and processing of milk and milk products. Effective dairy farming practices ensure high-quality milk production and animal welfare.

Danish red: A dual-purpose breed of cattle, originating in Jutland, Denmark. Danish Red cattle are valued for their milk and meat production. Farmers interested in dual-purpose breeds can benefit from the hardiness and productivity of Danish Red cattle. Proper feeding, regular health check-ups, and good breeding practices will ensure high yields and profitability.

degressivity: A proposed reduction in the amount of subsidies paid under the CAP. This proposal was rejected as a method of keeping the CAP budget under control. Understanding subsidy policies and their impacts on farm income is important for financial planning. Farmers should stay informed about changes in subsidy programs and explore alternative income sources to ensure economic stability. Adapting to policy changes and diversifying farm activities can mitigate the effects of reduced subsidies.

Dorset Down: A medium-sized down breed of sheep with a brown face and wool growing over the forehead. It provides a good-quality fine stringy fleece. Dorset Downs are valued for their meat and wool production, requiring proper care and management to ensure their health and productivity.

down: The small soft feathers of a young bird or soft feathers below the outer feathers in some adult birds. Down is highly valued for its insulating properties and is used in clothing and bedding products.