maintenance ration: the quantity of food needed to keep a farm animal healthy but not productive. Knowing the maintenance ration for livestock helps farmers manage feed costs and ensure animal health, leading to better resource allocation and farm efficiency.
azotobacter: A genus of bacteria that fix nitrogen in the soil. These bacteria enhance soil fertility, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and benefiting crop production.
ammonia: A gas with an unpleasant smell that is easily soluble in water. Formula: NH3. Ammonia is released into the atmosphere from animal dung. It has the effect of neutralizing acid rain, but in combination with sulfur dioxide it forms ammonium sulfate which damages the green leaves of plants. Managing ammonia emissions is important for farmers to protect crop health and comply with environmental regulations.
Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: A UK charity that runs centers to take care of animals in distress and lobbies the government on animal welfare legislation. Abbreviation: RSPCA. The RSPCA supports farmers by promoting animal welfare and ensuring compliance with animal protection laws.
OELS: Organic Entry Level Stewardship. The OELS offers financial incentives for farmers to implement environmental management practices on their land. Participating in OELS can help farmers adopt sustainable practices, enhance biodiversity, and improve soil and water quality, while also receiving financial support.
Leather: Leather is the skin of an animal, tanned and prepared for use. Utilizing leather from livestock can add value to animal products and diversify farm income.
The hard, keratinized structure on the feet of cattle, essential for mobility and overall health. Proper hoof care prevents lameness and related issues. For example, regular hoof trimming to maintain cattle hoof health and prevent lameness.
The overall well-being of dairy cows, encompassing nutrition, disease prevention, and management practices. Dairy cow health is crucial for productivity and milk quality. For example, implementing comprehensive health programs to ensure the well-being of the herd.
sex organs: Organs which are associated with reproduction and sexual intercourse. Farmers benefit from understanding sex organs for effective breeding and livestock management.
tick pyaemia: A disease affecting young lambs resulting in limb joint and internal abscesses. Proper management and treatment of tick pyaemia can improve lamb survival rates and overall flock health.