S

spruce-larch adelgid: a relative of the aphid, which may cause serious damage on spruce grown for Christmas trees (Adelges viridis). Managing spruce-larch adelgid populations ensures healthy growth and quality of spruce trees, supporting market value and productivity.

sustainable energy: energy produced from renewable resources that does not deplete natural resources. Adopting sustainable energy practices ensures responsible resource use and supports farm sustainability.

stocking rate: a measure of the carrying capacity of an area in terms of the number of livestock in it at a given time, e.g., the number of animals per hectare. Properly managing stocking rates ensures sustainable grazing and livestock productivity, supporting farm profitability.

shredder: A machine for shredding waste vegetable matter before composting. Farmers benefit from using shredders for efficient composting and soil improvement.

sex-linked: Referring to a genetically inherited characteristic that appears in only one sex. Farmers benefit from understanding sex-linked traits for managing genetic traits in breeding programs.

seed ripeness: The stage at which the seed can be harvested successfully. Farmers benefit from understanding seed ripeness for timely and successful seed collection.

soil improvement: the practice of making the soil more fertile by methods such as draining and manuring. Implementing soil improvement techniques enhances soil health and fertility, supporting productive agriculture.

side rake: A machine which picks up two swaths and combines them into one before baling. Farmers benefit from using side rakes for efficient hay and forage management.

sheep run: An extensive area used for sheep grazing, especially in New Zealand and Australia. Farmers benefit from managing sheep runs for efficient and sustainable grazing practices.

scurs: Small horns that are not part of the animal’s skull but are attached to the skin. Farmers benefit from understanding scurs for livestock health and breeding management.