Category: F

Family: A group of genera with some characteristics in common. Understanding plant and animal families helps farmers with breeding, cultivation, and pest management.

Flying Flock: A flock of sheep imported onto a farm for a time, normally for less than a year, and then sold. Managing flying flocks supports flexible farming operations and market responsiveness.

Fluorosis: A condition caused by excessive fluoride in drinking water or food, causing discoloration of the teeth and affecting milk yields of cattle. Monitoring and managing fluoride levels help prevent fluorosis and maintain livestock health.

Fowl: A bird, especially a hen, raised on a farm for food. Properly managing fowl ensures high-quality meat and egg production.

Fork: A common hand implement for turning over soil and lifting out weeds. Properly using forks supports efficient soil management and weed control.

Food and Veterinary Office: A committee working for the European Commission advising on policy in the food safety and quality, veterinary, and plant health sectors. Abbr FVO. This office provides valuable guidance to farmers on best practices for food safety and animal health.

Farm Service Agency: A government agency providing information and support for farmers in the United States, part of the USDA. Abbr FSA. This agency offers resources and programs to help farmers improve their operations and manage risks.

Flex-Fuel: Referring to a vehicle designed to run on petrol, an alcohol-based fuel such as ethanol, or any combination of the two. Using flex-fuel vehicles supports sustainable energy use and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.

Flora: The wild plants that grow naturally in a specific area. Compare fauna. Protecting flora supports biodiversity and ecological balance on farms.

Fish: A cold-blooded vertebrate that lives in water. Some species are eaten for food. Fish are high in protein, phosphorus, iodine, and vitamins A and D. White fish have very little oil. Aquaculture and fish farming provide farmers with valuable protein sources and diversify farm income.