rural development policy: A set of aims and guidelines issued by an authority, used when planning rural development. Understanding rural development policy helps farmers engage with development initiatives and access support.
Rare Breeds Survival Trust: A trust established in 1973 to foster interest in breeds which have historical importance and may prove useful in the future. The trust supports farmers in preserving rare breeds, ensuring their continued existence and potential future value.
renewable energy: Energy from the Sun, wind, waves, tides, from geothermal deposits or from burning waste. Using renewable energy sources helps farmers reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower farm operating costs.
reclaim: To make land usable for agricultural or commercial purposes, usually marshy land, a waste site, land which has previously been built on, or land which has never been cultivated. Land reclamation expands arable land and increases farming potential.
runner: A long shoot that grows sideways from a plant such as a strawberry, ending in a tuft of leaves which will take root. Managing runners supports successful plant propagation and crop establishment.
reproductive: Referring to the production of offspring. Understanding reproductive processes helps farmers optimize breeding programs and improve livestock production.
root: A part of a plant which is usually under the ground and absorbs water and nutrients from the surrounding soil; (of a plant) to produce roots. Understanding root systems helps farmers manage soil health and optimize crop production.
rotavirus: A wheel-shaped RNA virus that causes diarrhea in piglets, calves, and foals. Managing rotavirus is crucial for maintaining livestock health and productivity.
RTV: Abbreviation for rough terrain vehicle. Using rough terrain vehicles supports efficient farm operations in challenging environments.
retting: A process used in the preparation of flax, where flax is soaked in water and allowed to rot, so freeing the fibers from the plant stems. Utilizing retting helps farmers produce high-quality flax fibers for textile production.