South and Central American Farms
Alan Nafzger, Ph.D. The process by which soil particles bind together to form aggregates. Soil aggregation improves soil structure and enhances water and nutrient availability. For example, promoting soil aggregation through conservation tillage and cover cropping to support healthy soil ecosystems.
Central Scotland Forest Trust (CSFT): An alliance aiming to create larger woodland areas across Central Scotland. Collaborating with CSFT supports sustainable forestry practices and promotes biodiversity on farms.
The methods used to purify and process beeswax for various applications, including candles, cosmetics, and food wraps. For example, producing beeswax for use in natural products and artisanal crafts.
discontiguous: Referring to an area of land which is not joined together. Managing discontiguous land involves implementing proper land use planning and management practices. Farmers should consider the unique challenges and opportunities of discontiguous land and develop strategies to optimize its use. Understanding the factors contributing to discontiguity will aid in effective land management and farm productivity.
The process of capturing and storing carbon in the soil to mitigate climate change and improve soil health. Soil carbon sequestration involves practices that increase organic matter and enhance soil structure. For example, using cover crops and reduced tillage to sequester carbon in the soil and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
infectious: Referring to a disease that is caused by microorganisms and can be transmitted to other individuals by direct means. This strain of flu is highly infectious. Compare contagious. Helps farmers understand and prevent the spread of diseases.
The educational programs and courses that can be completed remotely, providing flexible learning options for employees in the food production and distribution process. For example, enrolling in food product distance education opportunities to gain new skills and advance careers.
sawfly: A family of insects, the larvae or caterpillars of which cause serious damage to fruit and crops. Farmers benefit from controlling sawfly to prevent crop damage and yield loss.
trichlorophenoxyacetic acid: A herbicide which forms dioxin as a byproduct during the manufacturing process and is effective against woody shrubs. This herbicide is no longer approved for use in the UK. Understanding herbicide safety and regulations can protect farm workers and the environment.
deadnettle: Referring to red deadnettle. Red deadnettle can be a weed in gardens and fields. Farmers and gardeners should manage this plant through regular weeding and the use of herbicides. Understanding its growth patterns and implementing appropriate control methods will help maintain healthy crops and reduce competition for resources.
juice: Juice – 1. Liquid inside a fruit or vegetable. 2. Liquid inside cooked meat. Helps farmers understand the uses and extraction of natural juices.
The use of robots and automated systems to perform tasks in farming operations. Robotics in agriculture can improve efficiency, reduce labor costs, and enhance precision. For example, using robotic harvesters to pick fruits and vegetables with minimal damage and labor.
gr: Grain. Knowing grain types and their uses helps farmers produce crops that meet market demands and optimize storage and processing methods.
Lignify: To lignify means to become hard and woody. Plants are less digestible as they become lignified. Managing lignification in forage crops can improve livestock nutrition and digestibility.
Lactate: To lactate means to produce milk as food for young. Understanding lactation is essential for managing dairy herds effectively, ensuring optimal milk production and the health of both mother and offspring.
keiserite: Keiserite – magnesium sulphate powder, used as a fertilizer where magnesium deficiency is evident, especially in light sandy soil. Helps farmers correct soil nutrient deficiencies.
dewatering: The extraction of water from a crop by pressing, reducing the cost of artificial drying. Dewatering can be an efficient method for reducing moisture content in crops and preparing them for storage or processing. Farmers should use appropriate equipment and techniques to dewater crops effectively. Understanding the benefits and applications of dewatering can help improve post-harvest handling and reduce costs.
DOM: An abbreviation that can refer to digestible organic matter or dry organic matter. Understanding these terms is crucial for farmers managing soil health and composting processes, ensuring that organic matter is effectively used to improve soil fertility.
green tea: Green tea is tea where the leaves are heated to prevent fermentation. Cultivating green tea provides a high-value crop, meeting consumer demand for healthy beverages and enhancing farm profitability.
non-centrifugal sugar: a dark semi-solid sugar made by boiling the juices obtained from crushed sugar cane. India is the principal producer. Non-centrifugal sugar, also known as panela or jaggery, offers farmers an alternative value-added product. By producing non-centrifugal sugar, farmers can diversify their income streams, tap into niche markets, and add value to their sugar cane crops. Understanding the production process and market demand for non-centrifugal sugar can help farmers capitalize on this opportunity, enhancing farm profitability and sustainability.
The efforts and initiatives to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within food production and distribution businesses, including workforce representation, inclusive policies, and cultural competence. For example, implementing food product diversity and inclusion programs to create a more equitable and inclusive workplace.