R

retting: A process used in the preparation of flax, where flax is soaked in water and allowed to rot, so freeing the fibers from the plant stems. Utilizing retting helps farmers produce high-quality flax fibers for textile production.

rotary parlour: The most expensive and complex of the four milking systems, where the cows stand on a rotating platform with the milker in the middle. The operator may work on the inner or outer side of the circle. Using rotary parlours enhances milking efficiency and reduces labor costs.

rumen: The first stomach of ruminating animals such as cows, sheep, or goats, all of which have four stomachs. It is used for storage of food after it has been partly digested and before it passes to the second stomach. Understanding rumen function helps farmers optimize livestock diets and improve productivity.

RIW: Abbreviation for Rural Inspectorate Wales. RIW supports farmers by ensuring compliance with agricultural regulations and promoting best practices in farming.

rapeseed: The seed of the rape plant. Rapeseed is processed into oil and meal, offering farmers a profitable crop option with multiple market applications.

Rural Enterprise Scheme: A system of government support for the adaptation and development of the rural economy, community, heritage, and environment. It is part of the England Rural Development Programme. The Rural Enterprise Scheme provides farmers with opportunities for diversification and economic growth.

redlegs: A common weed (Polygonum persicaria) which affects spring crops and causes problems when harvesting. Also called redshanks. Managing redlegs is essential for protecting crop yields and ensuring efficient harvests.

rumen liquor: A concentrated liquid found in the rumen of an animal, used to test the digestibility of feed or the nutrient balance of an animal’s diet. Using rumen liquor analysis helps farmers optimize livestock nutrition and feed efficiency.

response: The beneficial reaction of a growing crop to the application of fertilizer. Monitoring crop response helps farmers optimize fertilizer use and improve yields.

rural area: An area in the countryside where the main activities are farming or forestry and where relatively few people live. Managing rural areas supports sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods.