Category: D

drought stress: A lack of growth caused by drought. Drought stress can reduce crop yields and affect plant health. Farmers can mitigate drought stress by using irrigation, mulching, and selecting drought-tolerant crop varieties.

dump box: A large hopper on wheels with a floor conveyor that receives silage from trailers and from which the crop is discharged into the silo. Dump boxes help streamline the process of storing silage, ensuring it is efficiently collected and stored.

depress: To make a price lower. Overproduction of some items in the EU may depress the price level in the open market. Farmers should monitor market trends and manage production to avoid overproduction and price depression. Diversifying income sources and exploring value-added products can help stabilize farm income. Understanding market dynamics will aid in making informed production and marketing decisions.

doa: Abbreviation for dead on arrival. Managing the health and welfare of livestock during transportation involves implementing proper handling, monitoring, and care practices. Farmers should work with veterinarians and transportation experts to ensure that animals arrive in good health. Understanding the factors contributing to DOA will aid in developing effective management strategies and improving animal welfare.

dapple: Rounded patches of color, especially on a horse. Dappled horses are often sought after for their unique appearance. Farmers and breeders can market dappled horses to enthusiasts and buyers looking for aesthetically pleasing animals. Proper grooming and care will enhance the appearance of dappled horses, increasing their market value.

dairy cows: Cows and heifers kept for milk production and for rearing calves to replace older cows in a dairy herd. Effective management of dairy cows involves balanced nutrition, regular health check-ups, and proper milking practices. Implementing these practices can lead to higher milk yields, better cow health, and increased profitability. Farmers should also focus on genetic selection to breed cows that are more efficient milk producers.

D value: Abbreviation for digestibility value, the amount of digestible organic matter in the dry matter of plants. Understanding D value helps farmers evaluate the nutritional quality of animal feed and make informed decisions about feeding practices.

deflocculation: A state in which clay particles repel each other instead of sticking together. Deflocculation may occur when clays are worked in a wet condition or if the soil becomes saline. Managing soil structure and salinity is crucial for preventing deflocculation. Farmers should implement practices like gypsum application, proper irrigation management, and organic matter addition to maintain soil structure and fertility. Understanding soil properties can help farmers choose appropriate management strategies.

disinfestation: The process of removing harmful organisms such as insects or rodents from a place or an object. Proper disinfestation practices are essential for maintaining farm hygiene and preventing pest outbreaks. Farmers should use appropriate methods and techniques for effective disinfestation. Understanding the benefits and applications of disinfestation will aid in maintaining a healthy and productive farm environment.

duck: A bird reared for both egg and meat production. The male is a ‘drake’. Ducks are versatile poultry that can be raised for various purposes, including egg production, meat, and pest control.