Category: R

rear: To look after young animals until they are old enough to look after themselves. Proper rearing practices ensure the health and productivity of livestock.

rural development agency: An official body set up to develop policies and oversee rural development. Rural development agencies support farmers by providing resources and implementing development projects.

rendzina: Soil developed on chalk and limestone rocks characterized by its shallowness and lack of true subsoil. Managing rendzina soil helps farmers optimize crop production on challenging soil types.

rack: A frame of wooden or metal bars which holds fodder, and from which animals can eat. Helps farmers efficiently feed livestock, reducing waste and ensuring animals have constant access to food.

renewable resource: A natural resource that replaces itself unless overused, e.g. animal or plant life, fresh water, or wind energy. Managing renewable resources sustainably ensures long-term farm productivity and environmental health.

ring rot: A disease affecting potatoes. Managing ring rot helps farmers protect potato crops and ensure high-quality yields.

redwater: A parasitic disease of cattle transmitted by the common tick. The affected animal becomes very dull, feverish, salivates freely, and often staggers and falls. The acute form of the disease is often fatal. Managing redwater is crucial for maintaining cattle health and farm productivity.

rural environment: The countryside. Protecting the rural environment supports sustainable agriculture and enhances biodiversity.

Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restrictions of Chemicals: A proposed review of the EU’s chemicals policy, in which comprehensive health and safety research will be carried out for all substances. Abbreviation: REACH. REACH regulations ensure safe use of chemicals in agriculture, protecting farmworkers, consumers, and the environment.

Rhode Island Red: A heavy breed of fowl, with red feathers on the body, and black tail and wing feathers. It produces large brown eggs. Raising Rhode Island Reds provides farmers with a reliable source of high-quality eggs and meat.