dairy products: Foods prepared from milk, e.g., butter, cream, cheese, or yoghurt. Diversifying into dairy product production can add value to milk and increase farm income. Understanding the processing techniques and market demands for products like cheese, butter, and yoghurt can help farmers tap into niche markets and improve profitability. Farmers should also consider quality control and branding to differentiate their products in the market.
denudation: The process of making land or rock bare by cutting down trees or by erosion. Managing denudation involves implementing soil conservation practices and reforestation. Farmers should adopt measures like cover cropping, terracing, and contour plowing to reduce soil erosion and maintain land productivity. Understanding the causes and impacts of denudation can help develop effective land management strategies.
water balance: A state in which the water lost in an area by evaporation or by runoff is replaced by water received in the form of rain, or a state in which the water lost by the body in urine and perspiration or by other physiological processes is balanced by water absorbed from food and drink. Maintaining water balance is crucial for sustainable farming and crop health.
FER: Abbreviation for Farm Environment Record. Keeping an environment record helps farmers monitor and improve their environmental practices.
The programs and activities undertaken by food production and distribution businesses to contribute positively to society, including community engagement, ethical sourcing, and labor practices. For example, developing food product social responsibility initiatives to support local communities and promote fair labor practices.
dehusk: To remove the husk from seeds such as corn. Proper dehusking techniques are important for processing seeds and improving their quality. Farmers should use appropriate equipment and methods to dehusk seeds efficiently. Understanding market demands and processing requirements will help farmers optimize their operations and enhance the value of their products.
prick ears: Ears of an animal which stand up straight. Compare lop ears. Helpful content: Recognizing breed characteristics, such as prick ears, helps farmers select and manage livestock according to their specific needs and purposes. Breed-specific traits can influence animal behavior, health, and productivity.
A measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions in soil, which affects nutrient availability and plant growth. Soil acidity is expressed as pH, with lower values indicating more acidic conditions. For example, testing soil pH and applying lime to raise pH levels and improve soil conditions for crop growth.
haricot bean: The dry ripe seed of the French bean. Growing haricot beans can provide a nutritious and marketable crop for farmers, contributing to dietary diversity and income.
introduction: The process of bringing something into being or using something new. The introduction of a new rapid testing method. Helps farmers understand and implement new agricultural innovations.