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Dutch barn: A type of farmyard building used for storage of hay, loose or baled, corn crops, and agricultural implements. The older types of Dutch barn were built of iron with no enclosing side walls. Modern designs incorporate precast concrete, asbestos-cement sheeting with curved roofs. The sides may be partly or completely covered. Dutch barns provide essential storage for farm products and equipment, protecting them from the elements.

desalination: The removal of salt from a substance such as sea water or soil. Proper desalination techniques are essential for improving water and soil quality in saline environments. Farmers should implement desalination methods to enhance the productivity of saline soils and water sources. Understanding the processes and applications of desalination can aid in managing saline conditions and optimizing agricultural production.

Dalesbred: A local sheep of the Swaledale type. It has a white spot on either side of a black face, with a grey muzzle, and provides a long coarse fleece. Farmers raising Dalesbred sheep should focus on wool quality and animal health. Regular shearing, parasite control, and balanced nutrition are key to maintaining the productivity and profitability of the flock. The unique fleece of Dalesbred sheep can also be marketed to niche wool buyers for premium prices.

doctor: A person who has a degree in medicine and practices as a physician. Understanding the role of doctors is important for managing human health and well-being. Farmers should work with medical professionals to ensure the health and safety of farm workers. Understanding the importance of healthcare and medical support will aid in promoting a healthy and productive farm environment.

doctor: A person who has a degree in medicine and practices as a physician. Understanding the role of doctors is important for managing human health and well-being. Farmers should work with medical professionals to ensure the health and safety of farm workers. Understanding the importance of healthcare and medical support will aid in promoting a healthy and productive farm environment.

Durham: A breed of dairy shorthorn cattle developed in the Tees valley of County Durham. Durham cattle are valued for their milk production and adaptability to different farming conditions.

deforest: To cut down forest trees from an area for commercial purposes or to make arable land. Deforestation has significant environmental impacts, including loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, and climate change. Farmers should adopt sustainable land management practices, such as agroforestry, reforestation, and conservation tillage, to mitigate the effects of deforestation. Promoting sustainable farming practices can enhance long-term productivity and environmental health.

denitrification: The releasing of nitrogen from nitrates in the soil by the action of bacteria. Managing denitrification is important for maintaining soil fertility and preventing nitrogen loss. Farmers should implement practices like cover cropping, proper fertilization, and soil management to reduce denitrification. Understanding the processes and factors influencing denitrification can help optimize nitrogen use efficiency and improve crop productivity.

double flower: A flower with two series of petals as opposed to a single flower. Double flowers are often more visually appealing and can enhance the aesthetic value of gardens and landscapes.

disposition: The natural behavior or temperament of an animal. Understanding the disposition of livestock is important for effective handling and management. Farmers should consider the temperament of their animals when developing handling and care practices. Understanding the factors influencing disposition will aid in improving animal welfare and farm productivity.