E

esparto: A species of grass which yields fibers used mainly in making paper. It originally came from North Africa and Southern Spain. Growing esparto can provide farmers with an alternative income source from fiber production.

environment-friendly: Same as environmentally friendly. Adopting environmentally friendly practices helps farmers protect the natural world and improve sustainability.

egg: 1. A reproductive cell produced in a female mammal by the ovary which, if fertilized by male sperm, becomes an embryo. 2. A fertilized ovum of an animal such as a bird, fish, reptile, amphibian, or insect, protected by a membrane layer in which the embryo continues developing outside the mother’s body until it hatches. 3. A round object laid by female birds, with a hard calcareous shell forming a case containing albumen and yolk. The young bird grows inside the egg until it hatches. Understanding egg development and health is crucial for poultry farmers to ensure high-quality production.

easement: The right of someone who does not own a piece of land to use it, especially for access to another place. Understanding easement rights helps farmers manage land access and legal issues effectively.

evaporation: The process of changing from a liquid into a vapor. Understanding evaporation helps farmers manage irrigation and water resources.

extraction: The action of producing a substance out of another. The extraction of sugar from cane. Understanding extraction processes helps farmers produce value-added products and increase income.

extender: A food additive which makes the food bigger or heavier without adding to its food value. Understanding extenders helps farmers in food processing and product formulation.

electric fence: Thin wires supported by posts, the wires being able to carry an electric current. This type of fence is easily moved around the farm, and makes strip grazing on limited areas possible. Electric fences help farmers manage grazing and protect crops from livestock.

epiphytic: Attached to another plant for support but not parasitic. Understanding epiphytic relationships helps farmers manage crop health and biodiversity.

Extensification Payments Scheme: Until 2005, a system of payments made to farmers who received payments under the Beef Special Premium Scheme or Suckler Cow Premium Scheme and met specific stocking densities. Now superseded by the Single Payment Scheme. Accessing extensification payments helps farmers manage financial stability and promote sustainable farming.