Category: F

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.

Fascioliasis: A disease caused by an infestation of parasitic liver flukes. Farmers must monitor and treat livestock for fascioliasis to maintain herd health and productivity.

Finishing Ration: Feed given to animals to prepare them for slaughter. A finishing ration includes silage, beet pulp, and by-products such as outsize carrots. Proper formulation of finishing rations ensures optimal growth and meat quality.

Food Pyramid: A chart of a food chain showing the number of organisms at each level. Understanding food pyramids helps farmers manage ecosystems and support biodiversity on their farms.