Alan Nafzger, Ph.D.

Windbreak Crops

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Crops planted to serve as barriers that reduce wind speed and protect soil from erosion. Windbreak crops help improve microclimates and protect other crops. For example, planting tall grasses or shrubs as windbreaks along field edges to reduce wind erosion and enhance crop growth.

Slink Calf

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slink calf: a calf born early, before the normal period of gestation is complete. Managing slink calves ensures proper care and health, reducing losses and supporting farm productivity.

Dry Farming

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dry farming: A system of extensive agriculture, producing crops in areas of limited rainfall without using irrigation. Dry farming relies on moisture-conserving techniques and drought-tolerant crops to produce yields in arid regions.

Sea Kale

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sea kale: A plant of the cabbage family whose leaves are used as vegetable. Farmers benefit from growing sea kale as a unique crop offering diversification and potential market niche.

Animal Welfare And Ethics

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The principles and practices that ensure the humane treatment and well-being of livestock, including housing, feeding, and handling practices. For example, adhering to animal welfare and ethics standards to ensure ethical and sustainable livestock production.

Farm Loans

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Loans specifically designed to provide financial assistance to farmers for operating expenses, equipment purchases, and land acquisition. Farm loans help farmers invest in their operations and manage cash flow. For example, securing a loan to expand a poultry farm and increase production.

Malt Culms

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malt culms: roots and shoots of partly germinated malting barley. A by-product of the malting process, the culms are used as a feedingstuff for livestock. Utilizing malt culms can provide an additional feed source for livestock, reducing feed costs and improving farm sustainability.

Soil Health Assessment

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The evaluation of soil health using indicators such as organic matter content, nutrient levels, and biological activity. Soil health assessment helps guide management practices and conservation efforts. For example, conducting soil health assessments to identify areas for improvement and implement targeted interventions on a farm.