Agriculture and farming Books

Book SynopsisThe first edition of The Small-Scale Poultry Flock helped thousands of small-scale farmers and smallholders adopt a practical model for working with chickens and other domestic fowl based on natural systems. In this expanded and thoroughly revised edition, readers will find plenty of all-new material. Author Harvey Ussery introduces readers to his new favorite breed of chicken, Icelandics; describes how he manages his breeding flock using a clan mating system; presents detailed information on the use of trapnests and record-keeping spreadsheets for evaluating breeding hen performance; and provides step-by-step instructions for construction of an ingeniously designed mobile poultry shelter. Readers will also find fully updated information and tips on all aspects of flock management, including: growing (and sourcing) feed on a small scale cultivating earthworms and grubs as high-protein poultry feed brooding (and breeding) at home implementing manure management using electric net fencing for ranging flocks using poultry as insect and weed managers in the garden and orchard enlisting your chickens as garden tillers and compost-makers protecting the flock from predators keeping the flock healthy working with mother hens In The Small-Scale Poultry Flock, Revised Edition Ussery presents a sustainable and ecologically friendly model that can be adapted to a variety of scales. His advice and examples throughout the book will prove invaluable for beginner farmers, growers looking to incorporate poultry into their programme and experienced farmers looking to create a truly sustainable system.Trade Review“Ussery provides an encyclopedia of chicken and other fowl care, encompassing everything from anatomy and species selection to feeding, breeding, and selling in the local market. . . . Altogether, there’s no better introductory reference on the joy of home-raising chickens.” —Booklist“Written by a self-described ‘old hick with chickenshit on his boots,’ The Small-Scale Poultry Flock is a welcoming and decisive guide to the poultry-keeping experience. Harvey Ussery’s natural approach is that of a partnership with his flock, in what he terms ‘an integrated food independence enterprise.’ The author shares straightforward, encouraging information written from the viewpoint of someone who desires to share the knowledge that has come out of three decades of hard-won experience. Anyone considering a natural approach to producing eggs and meat will cherish this must-have reference, enjoyable to sit down and read cover-to-cover, but also perfect for answers on the go.” —Foreword Review“As usual, Harvey never ceases to amaze with his in-depth knowledge of poultry keeping. I love that, as knowledgeable as he is, he still constantly searches for new ‘tweaks’ to improve his farm efforts and the quality of life for his birds. He writes from that direct experience and it certainly shows in this wonderful go-to book for any aspiring poultry keeper. So many people claim to be chicken husbandry experts, but Harvey, he’s the real deal.” —Jeannette Beranger, senior program manager, The Livestock Conservancy“Harvey Ussery has spent a lifetime developing and showcasing a truly viable poultry model that is ultimately carbon-sequestering, hygienic, neighbor-friendly, and food-secure. . . . This book is about a call to heritage, to the wisest of wise traditions in food security and relationships. Harvey brings the latest tools and practices within the grasp of any aspiring flockster. It is this functional spirit that makes this book a classic in the small-scale poultry rearing genre.” —Joel Salatin, Polyface, Inc.“Amid the new and urgent focus on holistic, inputs-free food production married to ecologically robust land management, this expanded edition of Harvey Ussery’s classic guide to all things chicken should have a place on every small farm or homestead bookshelf. Dedicated to the conviction that what is best for the animal and the land will always be best for the farmer, Ussery points the novice ‘flockster’ toward best practice, while he inspires the long-time poultry keeper with a deeper commitment to ecological cooperation.” —Shawn and Beth Dougherty, authors of The Independent Farmstead“Here’s the ultimate book for those who want to know everything there is to know about raising poultry. And every detail is backed up by the author’s own (often entertaining) experiences. I could not find—in this encyclopedic array of chicken knowhow—one detail that I could quibble with.” —Gene Logsdon, author of Letter to a Young Farmer and Holy Shit“The Small-Scale Poultry Flock is the perfect book for all chicken keepers, from the folks just starting out to the most experienced. It covers everything from the history of the species and coop designs to feeding, breeding, keeping predators at bay, processing meat, and much more. Harvey’s writing style is easy going and feels like an old friend giving you sound advice. This is a comprehensive resource to keep on your bookshelf for many years to come.” —Jessi Bloom, author of Free-Range Chicken Gardens; coauthor of Practical Permaculture“It is refreshing and inspiring to read a book on chickens that has original content and creative techniques. This can only come from personal insights and hands-on experience. Harvey Ussery eloquently describes how to keep and employ a family flock of chickens. “Chickens have migrated with humans for over 3,000 years all over the planet. It’s time to bring them back home. Let them work in our communities and production gardens where they can feed not only themselves and humans, but also the soul and soil of Nature, enabling an abundant ecology. Food security with a consistent supply chain can be as close as your own backyard. Just read and use the practices described in The Small-Scale Poultry Flock. You will not be disappointed. High fives to Harvey!” —Pat Foreman, author of City Chicks; founder, The Gossamer Foundation“This book is packed with practical advice on raising poultry by someone who has not only done it all but has learned from his broad experience and knows how to communicate that wisdom clearly and in a lively, readable style. Harvey Ussery has written one of the most comprehensive guides out there, but what places it above the rest of the crowd is that he shows you how to work with nature rather than against it in ways that will minimize work while ensuring the health and happiness of the flock. Whether you're a beginner or an old-time poultry farmer, you shouldn’t go any further without this excellent manual.” —Toby Hemenway, author of Gaia’s Garden and The Permaculture City“The Small-Scale Poultry Flock is about establishing a free-range poultry flock fully integrated into a healthy homestead ecosystem. Based upon the author’s decades of hands-on experience with many breeds and species, it covers all the basics about raising poultry, and fills some important gaps not usually covered well enough elsewhere, including chicken behavior, poultry breeding, raising chicks with broody hens, managing free-ranging, dealing with predators, using electric net fencing, feeding poultry with home-grown feeds, and integrating the poultry with soil mineral balance, gardens, lawns and pastures, orchards, worm bins, and soldier fly (larvae) production. If you want to raise chickens and can afford just one book, I recommend this one.” —Carol Deppe, author of The Resilient Gardener“Ussery’s outstanding book is certain to withstand the test of time both for its encyclopedic and practical information, and for its acknowledgment that the future of our culture and our food security is in the hands of the small farmer and backyard producer. If you are starting out with your first flock, this is your book. And when you’ve been keeping poultry for 30+ years, this will still be your best book.” —Shannon Hayes, author of The Grassfed Gourmet Cookbook and Radical Homemakers“Anyone interested in practical, experienced, insightful information about how to select, breed, care for, manage, feed, protect, process, eat or market small-scale poultry flocks for their own eating pleasure or selling to others—and have FUN—should read this book.” —Frederick Kirschenmann, distinguished fellow, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture; author of Cultivating an Ecological Conscience“There is a revolution going on, and it is the popular return of keeping poultry to provide food for our home tables. Ussery’s The Small-Scale Poultry Flock helps lead the way by integrating the small flock with its natural environment, the homestead, or small farm. Nowhere else will you find such valuable information on putting poultry to work in the garden, producing much of their feed, and producing healthful food for ourselves.” —Don Schrider, author of the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy’s Chicken Assessment for Improving Productivity and Storey’s Guide to Raising Turkeys "The Small-Scale Poultry Flock is an indispensable guide for homesteaders or market growers interested in doing it right. . . .[And] the revised edition packs in even more information than the original.” —Hobby Farms

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsIntroduction 1 About This Book 1 Conventions Used in This Book 2 What You’re Not to Read 2 Foolish Assumptions 3 How This Book Is Organized 3 Part 1: All Cooped Up 4 Part 2: Constructing a Coop 4 Part 3: Checking Out Coop Plans 4 Part 4: The Part of Tens 4 Icons Used in This Book 5 Beyond the Book 5 Where to Go from Here 5 Part 1: All Cooped Up 7 Chapter 1: Flocking to Your Own Chicken Coop 9 Understanding the Basics of Housing 9 Looking at the Gear You’ll Need 10 Choosing Coop Materials 11 Getting Up to Speed on Carpentry 12 Constructing a Coop: The Nuts and Bolts 13 Readying the site 14 Framing 14 Putting up walls, a roof, and more 15 Adding special touches 15 Building a run 16 Hooking up electricity 16 Checking Out a Few Coop Designs 16 Chapter 2: Beginning with Housing Basics 19 Providing Basic Benefits with Your Coop 20 Analyzing the Anatomy of a Coop 21 Making Your Coop Convenient for You 23 Selecting Your Coop’s Location and Size 23 Before you begin: Considering zoning and covenant concerns 24 Looking at proximity to houses 24 Utilizing utilities 25 Digging into drainage issues 27 Understanding that yes, size matters 27 Choosing a Coop to Fit Your Needs (and Skills) 28 A-frames and hoops 29 Chicken tractors 30 All-in-one coops 31 Walk-in coops 31 Chapter 3: Gathering Your Gear 35 Putting Safety First with Essential Equipment 36 Digging Up Dirt on Garden Tools 37 Measuring and Marking Lumber for Your Coop 37 Measuring up tape measures 38 Making your mark 38 Sizing Up Saws and Supports 39 Putting In Posts 42 Digging postholes 42 Setting the posts 43 Mixing and pouring concrete 44 Framing Your Coop 45 Honing in on hammers 45 Nailing it with a nail gun 46 Pressing a screw gun into service 47 Leveling and Squaring As You Build 48 Just level with me 48 It’s hip to be square 48 Working with Wire 49 Cutting wire 49 Fastening wire 50 Checking Out Other Miscellaneous Tools 50 Chapter 4: Deciding on Materials 53 Before You Shop: Considering Recycled Materials 53 Lumbering Through Boards for Your Build 54 Sizing boards 54 Figuring out what type of board to buy 55 Knowing what to look for in a board 56 Shopping for Sheet Goods 57 Sizing sheet goods 58 Checking out plywood and OSB 58 Steering clear of certain sheet goods 59 Getting Attached to Fasteners 60 Notes about nails 60 Stuff about screws 63 Figuring Out Flooring 67 Wondering About Walls 68 Getting to the Root of Roofing 68 Researching Your Run 70 Finding your fencing 70 Picking your posts 72 Adding It Up: Estimating the Amount of Materials You Need 73 Chapter 5: Building Your Carpentry Skills 75 Measuring and Marking Materials 76 Reading the tale of your tape 76 “V” marks the spot, and “X” marks the trash 76 Chalk it up 77 Cutting Wood Safely 78 Selecting saw blades 78 Cutting board lumber 79 Cutting sheet goods 84 Assembling Materials 85 Nailing it down 85 Screwing it in place 86 Joining Pieces at Tricky Angles 88 Toe-nailing 88 Pocket hole joinery 89 Plates 90 Using Levels and Squares 91 Carpenter’s level 91 Specialty levels 92 Speed squares 93 Part 2: Constructing A Coop 95 Chapter 6: Preparing the Site 97 First Things First: Clearing the Site 98 Checking the Level of the Ground 98 Installing Posts in the Ground 99 Digging holes for footings 99 Bracing your posts 102 Mixing and pouring concrete 103 Securing Posts Aboveground 105 Mounting posts on top of concrete footings 105 Using concrete pier blocks 106 Topping Your Posts 107 Chapter 7: Laying the Lumber: Framing 101 109 Building a Subfloor 110 Framing the joists 110 Installing the decking 113 Framing the Walls 114 Laying out studs 115 Assembling wall panels on the ground 116 Framing Doors and Windows 118 The extra parts needed to frame doors and windows 118 Walking through extra framing steps 118 Raising the Wall 120 Fastening Walls Together 122 Framing the Roof 123 Getting the pitch perfect 123 Analyzing a roof’s anatomy 124 Building a roof frame 125 Cutting and attaching rafters 126 Chapter 8: Adding Walls, Doors, Windows, and a Roof 129 Putting Up Walls 130 Fastening plywood in place 130 Cutting out openings 132 Working with other materials 133 Building a Basic Shed Door 136 Making Your Own Window 139 Topping Off Your Coop with a Roof 140 Hanging out your shingles 140 Conquering corrugated panels 145 Venting Your Coop 146 Chapter 9: Building Creature Comforts 149 Finalizing Your Flooring 149 Coming Home to (a) Roost 150 Location, location, location 150 Roost requirements: Making your roost out of different materials 152 Securing and supporting your roost 153 Feathering a Nest Box 154 Designing nest boxes 154 Building nest boxes 156 Other options: Buying or repurposing nest boxes 157 Ramping Up 157 Chapter 10: Assembling a Run 161 Framing a Simple Run 162 Working with Wire Mesh 164 Sizing up, measuring, and cutting the wire 164 Fastening the wire to your posts 165 Adding even more wire 167 Chapter 11: Plugged In: Basic Electricity for Your Coop 169 Calling a Pro to Run a Line to Your Coop 170 Buzzing About Outlets versus Switches 171 Receptacles (also known as outlets) 171 Switches 173 Letting There Be Light 173 Deciding whether to include artificial light in your coop 173 Properly placing the right amount of lighting in your coop 174 Choosing fixtures 174 Warming Up to Heaters 176 Falling for Fans 177 Part 3: Checking Out Coop Plans 179 Chapter 12: The Minimal Coop 181 Vital Stats 182 Materials List 182 Cut List 183 Shelter floor 183 Front wall 184 Back wall 184 Right and left walls 185 Roof framing 186 Nest boxes 186 Assembling the Coop 187 Chapter 13: The Alpine A-Frame 191 Vital Stats 192 Materials List 192 Cut List 193 Shelter floor 193 Gable 1 (nest box side) 194 Gable 2 (run side, interior) 195 Gable 2 (run side, exterior) with run door 196 Roof panel 1 (fixed side) 197 Roof panel 2 (hinged door) 198 Nest boxes 198 Roost 199 Run panel 1 200 Run panel 2 with door 201 Run gable 202 Assembling the Coop 202 Chapter 14: The Urban Tractor 205 Vital Stats 206 Materials List 206 Cut List 207 Tractor base and shelter floor 207 Left wall 208 Right wall 209 Front wall 210 Rear wall and chicken door 210 Run posts and framing 211 Cap plate and roof rafters 212 Roof, fascia, and gables 212 Access door 213 Nest boxes 214 Run door and chicken ramp 215 Assembling the Coop 216 Chapter 15: The All-in-One 221 Vital Stats 222 Materials List 222 Cut List 223 Skids and floor skirting 224 Shelter floor 224 Right wall framing 225 Front wall framing 226 Left wall framing 226 Back wall framing 227 Exterior wall sheathing 228 Run framing 229 Roof framing and rafters 229 Roof, gables, and fascia 230 Shelter access door and slam strips 231 Chicken door, slam strips, and ramp 232 Nest boxes and roost bar 232 Nest box door and slam strips 233 Front wall trim 234 Back wall trim 234 Right wall trim 235 Left wall trim 236 Run access door 236 Assembling the Coop 237 Chapter 16: The Walk-In 243 Vital Stats 244 Materials List 244 Cut List 245 Skids and floor 245 Front wall framing 246 Back wall framing 247 Right wall framing 247 Left wall framing 248 Front wall sheathing and trim 249 Back wall sheathing 249 Right and left wall sheathing and trim 250 Roof rafters 250 Gable ends and soffits 251 Roof, gable overhangs, and fascia 251 Access door 252 Chicken door 253 Nest box door 253 Nest boxes 254 Roost 255 Assembling the Coop 255 Part 4: The Part of Tens 261 Chapter 17: Ten or So Things Novice Coop-Builders Would Have Done Differently 263 Make the Coop Bigger 264 Make the Coop Taller 264 Consider the Location More Carefully 265 Don’t Cheap Out on Materials 265 Use Screws Rather than Nails 266 Elevate the Coop Off the Ground 266 Make the Doors Wider 266 Consider How to Clean the Coop 267 Make the Nest Box Easily Accessible 267 Paint the Coop Before Assembly 268 Reinforce the Run Underground 268 Chapter 18: Ten or So Cool Ideas to Trick Out Your Coop 269 Electricity 270 Solar Power 270 Running Water 270 Storage Space 271 A Quarantine Area 271 An Automatic Feeder and Waterer 272 A Removable Droppings Pan 273 Wheels 273 A Retractable Roof 273 “Air-Lock” Doors 274 Automatic Door Closers 274 A Wireless Weather Station 274 Index 277

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsPreface xxi Acknowledgments xxiii Industry highlights boxes xxv Industry highlights boxes: Authors xxvii Section 1 Overview and historical perspectives 1 1 Introduction 3 2 History of plant breeding 23 Section 2 Population and quantitative genetic principles 35 3 Introduction to concepts of population genetics 37 4 Introduction to quantitative genetics 49 Section 3 Reproductive systems 73 5 Introduction to reproduction 75 6 Hybridization 99 7 Clonal propagation and in vitro culture 121 Section 4 Germplasm for breeding 147 8 Variation: types, origin, and scale 149 9 Plant domestication 161 10 Plant genetic resources 175 Section 5 Breeding objectives 209 11 Yield and morphological traits 211 12 Quality traits 231 13 Environmental stress factors and plant breeding 245 14 Breeding for resistance to diseases and insect pests 253 15 Breeding for resistance to abiotic stresses 273 Section 6 Selection methods 295 16 Breeding self-pollinated species 297 17 Breeding cross-pollinated species 329 18 Breeding hybrid cultivars 345 19 Breeding clonally propagated species 359 Section 7 Technologies for linking genes to traits 375 20 Molecular markers 377 21 Mapping of genes 395 22 DNA sequencing and OMICs technologies 409 Section 8 Applications of genetic markers in breeding 437 23 Marker-assisted selection 439 24 Genomic selection and genome-wide association studies 451 Section 9 Mutations and ploidy in plant breeding 465 25 Mutagenesis in plant breeding 467 26 Ploidy in plant breeding 481 Section 10 Genetic molecular modifications in plant breeding 509 27 Breeding genetically modified crops 511 28 Genome editing and other modification technologies 521 29 Paradigm shifts in plant breeding and other non-GM technologies 531 Section 11 Computer-aided applications in plant breeding 543 30 Bioinformatics, big data analytics, and computer simulations in plant breeding 545 Section 12 Variety release process in plant breeding 577 31 Performance evaluation for crop cultivar release 579 32 Seed certification and commercial seed release 597 33 Regulatory and Legal Issues 615 Section 13 Societal issues in plant breeding 633 34 Value-driven concepts and social concerns 635 35 International plant breeding efforts 647 Section 14 Breeding selected crops 667 36 Breeding wheat 669 37 Breeding corn 679 38 Breeding rice 695 39 Breeding sorghum 707 40 Breeding soybean 719 41 Breeding peanut 729 42 Breeding potato 737 43 Breeding cotton 747 44 Breeding tomato 757 Supplementary 1: Plant cellular organization and genetic structure: an overview 767 Supplementary 2: Common statistical methods in plant breeding 781 Glossary of terms 803 Index 807

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Book SynopsisSmall is beautiful, and these 15 real farm plans show that small-scale farmers can have big-time success. Compact Farms is an illustrated guide for anyone dreaming of starting, expanding, or perfecting a profitable farming enterprise on five acres or less. The farm plans explain how to harness an area’s water supply, orientation, and geography in order to maximize efficiency and productivity while minimizing effort. Profiles of well-known farmers such as Eliot Coleman and Jean-Martin Fortier show that farming on a small scale in any region, in both urban and rural settings, can provide enough income to turn the endeavor from hobby to career. These real-life plans and down-and-dirty advice will equip you with everything you need to actually realize your farm dreams.

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Book SynopsisThe world population is expected to increase exponentially within the next decade, which means that the food demand will increase and so will waste production. The increasing demand for food as well as changes in consumption habits have led to the greater availability and variety of food with a longer shelf life. However, there is a need for effective food waste management and food preservation as wasted food leads to overutilization of water and fossil fuels and increasing greenhouse gas emissions from the degradation of food.The Research Anthology on Food Waste Reduction and Alternative Diets for Food and Nutrition Security explores methods for reducing waste and cutting food loss in order to help the environment and support local communities as well as solve issues including that of land space. It also provides vital research on the development of plant-based foods, meat-alternative diets, and nutritional outcomes. Highlighting a range of topics such as agricultural production, food supply chains, and sustainable diets, this publication is an ideal reference source for policymakers, sustainable developers, politicians, ecologists, environmentalists, corporate executives, farmers, and academicians seeking current research on food and nutrition security.

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Book SynopsisWell-known shearing commentator Evans discusses his farming life, from a tough post-war childhood with no mother, tractor or car, to days on shearing gangs and in hedge-laying competitions, to his own sheep farming, commentating and his impact on policy through work with the National Farmers Union.

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Book SynopsisThis is a cook book to celebrate British farming in all its hardship and glory. For many families, working the land and raising livestock is a true labour of love, and what they produce is the backbone of the country's food and drink. The dishes in this book make the most of local and seasonal ingredients, creating delicious meals, puddings and bakes that anyone can cook up at home. Alongside that, members of these farming families have told the stories of their livelihoods: from losing sheep in snowstorms to stoking enthusiasm in the next generation, their honesty and passion is an inspiration and an education. Recipes include Blackbrook Beef Bolognese from a traditional lowland farm in Leicestershire, Reestit Mutton Soup by two sisters who run their family farm on Shetland and Pheasant and Asparagus Crumble by game farmers in Cambridgeshire, as well as Kentish Lavender Shortbread from Castle Farm and a cocktail featuring fresh edible flowers from Greens of Devon. As the landscape of British farming changes, we need to support high-quality food production and understand how farmers can work in harmony with nature to make our eating habits more sustainable. Whether you're country born and bred or have never donned a pair of wellies, discover the food and stories in this book to help to put British farming back on the map and at the centre of your table.

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Book SynopsisA must-have for gardeners, cooks, cottagers, and anyone who enjoys the bright flavours of summer.Trade Review".150 recipes for old favourites and new taste treats." Linda Turk, The Chronicle".contains lots of fun facts and delicious ideas." Calgary Herald".an encouraging book.should promote the cultivation and consumption of this admirable plant." Barbara Robertson, CBRA"I received a delightful little cookbook with all kinds of recipes using rhubarb.... I have tried some of the 150 recipes in this book. Besides cobbler and crisp recipes, there are soups, beverages, cakes, muffins, breads, jams, sauces, condiments, salads and main dishes." Alma Copeland, The Western ProducerDear Sir: I just purchased your Rhubarb cookbook and even though I don't need another cookbook I just had to buy this one as it brought back so many memories of my childhood in Scotland. Our late mother made so many different things with it as we grew it in the garden: rhubarb jam, rhubarb and ginger jam, stewed rhubarb as a spring tonic, stewed rhubarb for breakfast on your Cornflakes. It was interesting to read through the book to see a lot of new recipes that I will be trying in the near future. I have been baking for almost 53 years and I still enjoy finding new books to read and new recipes to try. Rhubarb Rules. Yours Sincerely, Alex McCrindle"Rhubarb fans will find Rhubarb More Than Just Pies by Sandi Vitt et al with an introduction by Lois hole is one of the most useful books around. This definitive guide was published by the University of Alberta Press. This contains easy to make recipes for every sort of dish from sauces and condiments to jams, soups, drinks, breads, and of course, desserts. The ingredients are given in metric as well as the usual cups, spoons, etc. In addition, this contains everything you would ever want to know about rhubarb, such as its culinary history. This title features all the in depth details on growing and caring for rhubarb in the garden, including the different varieties." Connie Krochmal, Bella Online, March 25, 2006"I had no idea what the possibilities were for rhubarb, before reading this book. With a HUGE rhubarb plant in my garden, I worked hard, every year, to make crisps, jams and pies from the fruit. And, always, there were the bags of rhubarb that ended up in the freezer, because time (and imagination) eventually ran out. Now, I see that there are endless possibilities for this fruit--and there are great veggie recipes included, as well." Kieran Leblanc, Book Publishers Association of Alberta"[Sandi Vitt and Michael Hickman] filled the 144-page book with rhubarb facts and history and many, many recipes including soups, drinks, desserts...and even main courses, condiments and jams. There are 36 recipes for pies, tortes and tarts alone. For the most part, the recipes are simple. A few are complex, involved and lengthy. Overall, there's something for everyone. Rhubarb is native to China and the Himalayas and as a result, it grows well in the Rockies and throughout Canada.... For those battling high cholesterol, rhubarb is your plant. The stalks are 74 per cent dietary fiber (66 per cent insoluble and six per cent soluble), which the book says reduces cholesterol and modulates body sugar absorption." Rob Alexander, Rocky Mountain Outlook, November 12, 2009"Rhubarb: More Than Just Pies deserves steady, ongoing recognition as remaining one of the few books on rhubarb on the market! Nearly 150 recipes feature rhubarb in breads and muffins to main courses - and of course, pies - and is packed with a range of ideas for cooking with rhubarb, from jams to desserts. Highly recommended!" California Bookwatch, May 2011"Rhubarb: More Than Just Pies" packs in recipes for rhubarb-over a hundred of them-that include everything from the usual desserts and breads to more unusual beverages and main courses. Rhubarb gardening and culinary facts blend with these dishes to provide cooks a wider range of uses and folklore than the traditional rhubarb cookbook offers." California BookwatchTable of ContentsThe Asbestos Strike; The New Betrayal of the Intellectuals; Etienne Parent: A Liberal Thinker One Century Before Pierre Elliott Trudeau; The Just Society: Individual Rights and Collective Rights; Conclusion.

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Book SynopsisRudolf Steiner, the often undervalued, multifaceted genius of modern times, contributed much to the regeneration of culture. In addition to his philosophical teachings, he provided ideas for the development of many practical activities including education--both general and special--agriculture, medicine, economics, architecture, science, religion, and the arts. Today there are thousands of schools, clinics, farms, and many other organizations based on his ideas. Steiner's original contribution to human knowledge was based on his ability to conduct spiritual research, the investigation of metaphysical dimensions of existence. With his scientific and philosophical training, he brought a new systematic discipline to the field, allowing for conscious methods and comprehensive results. A natural seer from childhood, he cultivated his spiritual vision to a high degree, enabling him to speak with authority on previously veiled mysteries of life. Topics include: the evolving human being; cosmos as the source of life; plants and the living earth; farms and the realms of nature; bringing the chemical elements to life; soil and the world of spirit; supporting and regulating life processes; spirits of the elements; nutrition and vitality; responsibility for the future.

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Book SynopsisBest practices for the eight most profitable crops: tomatoes, eggplant, cucumbers, peppers, leafy greens, lettuce, herbs, and microgreens "Mefferd’s book fills a gaping void in the literature for market growers. I highly recommend it to anyone growing in greenhouses, or who aspires to."— Ben Hartman, author of The Lean Farm Whether growing in a heated greenhouse or unheated hoophouse, this book offers a decision-making framework for how to best manage crops Today only a few dozen large-scale producers dominate the greenhouse produce market. Why? Because they know and employ best practices for the most profitable crops. The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower’s Handbook levels the playing field by revealing these practices so that all growers—large and small—can maximize the potential of their protected growing space. Whether growing in a heated greenhouse or unheated hoophouse, this book offers a decision-making framework for how to best manage crops that goes beyond a list of simple do’s and don’ts. Author Andrew Mefferd spent years consulting for growers using protected agriculture in a wide variety of climates, soils, and conditions. The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower’s Handbook brings his experience and expertise to bear in an in-depth guide that will help readers make their investment in greenhouse space worthwhile. Every year, more growers are turning to protected culture to deal with unpredictable weather and to meet out-of-season demand for local food, but many end up spinning their wheels, wasting time and money on unprofitable crops grown in ways that don’t make the most of their precious greenhouse space. In The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower’s Handbook comprehensive chapters include: Protected Growing Structures and their features Heating, Cooling, Lighting, and Irrigation Plant Basics Propagation, Pruning, and Trellising Grafting And Much More! Mefferd’s book is full of techniques and strategies that can help farms stay profitable, satisfy customers, and become an integral part of re-localizing our food system. From seed to sale, The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower’s Handbook is the indispensable resource for protected growing. Trade Review“This comprehensive book is a must-have for organic greenhouse and hoophouse producers, whether experienced or just getting started. Andrew Mefferd’s years as both a grower and a writer shine through. He clearly explains the basics of structures and environmental management, while also covering the nuances of grafting and ‘steering’ plants to be most productive. Growers will be pleased with the attention devoted to the best practices they’ll need to succeed with eight different crops.”--Vern Grubinger, vegetable and berry specialist, University of Vermont Extension“The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower’s Handbook answers the questions that both new and established farmers are asking, including which staple crops will sustain a farm’s operation and how to best maximize yield. As protected agriculture continues to grow in popularity and necessity, Andrew’s book will help farmers at every level achieve higher profits as they use this reference to guide them through the seasons under film. A must-have for any grower."--Nick Burton, owner, Victory Gardens, Paris, Texas; founder, State of the Soil“From small hobby farmers to advanced greenhouse growers, I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t benefit from reading The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower’s Handbook. Andrew does an exemplary job of highlighting basic principles of plant growth and microclimate modification to help producers design their own management systems and diagnose problems in the greenhouse or hoophouse.”--Cary Rivard, extension specialist, Kansas State University“When we started our wholesale greenhouse back in 1974, the best references were the equipment catalogs, and we pored over them each night. Now Andrew Mefferd has created the most complete greenhouse grower’s manual in the world. It contains the full spectrum of proper greenhouse growing for organic vegetable production and all its factors and, importantly, is detailed from a foundation of experience. This book is a fact-filled treasure, accessible for all. Thank you for debriefing, Andrew. You are a hero of horticulture!”--Alice Doyle, cofounder, Log House Plants“Finally! A book that makes the specialized and highly refined techniques of the big European and North American hothouse growers accessible to farmers, market gardeners, and growers at all scales, with clear explanations of the practices and why they work. It took me twenty years to figure out half of this on my own; I’m glad I don’t have to wait another twenty to figure out the rest.”--Josh Volk, author of Compact Farms; consultant, Slow Hand Farm“Hats off to Andrew Mefferd and his comprehensive guide to growing in a protected environment! While covering all the basics, this book takes growers to the next level, with in-depth discussions on the physical environment, plant biology, and their intriguing relationship. Once hard-to-find info on topics such as plant steering and grafting is presented thoroughly and clearly. Importantly, the last chapters cover the practical ins and outs of growing eight of the most significant crops for protected culture. Every grower will learn lots from this book; I sure did.”--Richard Wiswall, author of The Organic Farmer’s Business Handbook“Andrew Mefferd’s book fills a gaping void in the literature for market growers. I highly recommend it to anyone growing in greenhouses, or who aspires to. With experience few others have, Mefferd explains growing techniques used in advanced greenhouses, and then shows how smaller-scale growers might put them to use. I kept a pencil by my side and plan to use lots of ideas on our own farm.”--Ben Hartman, author of The Lean Farm“This is an important book that will give growers the tools and resources to increase production and profits in protected culture environments. In one book, Andrew has packaged the detailed technical growing information that took us years and thousands of dollars to acquire for our farm. This book will be one I refer to and recommend often.”--Michael Kilpatrick, farmer; cofounder, In the Field Consultants“The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower’s Handbook is a must-read for beginners as well as a valuable, up-to-date resource for experienced growers. Mefferd has written a comprehensive overview of the elements of growing crops under cover. So much of the food available now is from greenhouse production, and most from faraway lands. This book will help you be the one growing crops for your local market.”--Eric Sideman, PhD, crop specialist, Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association“Although greenhouse and high-tunnel food production is a well-established industry, small and beginning growers have never had easy access to information about how the professionals do it. Andrew Mefferd has bridged that gap with this important new book. He makes technical information accessible in a lively and lucid style. Everyone who owns or plans to buy a greenhouse or hoophouse should read this book.”--Lynn Byczynski, author of Market Farming Success and The Flower Farmer; founder, Growing for Market“With this book, Andrew Mefferd, a firm supporter of the local food movement, offers a knowledgeable contribution to help growers (especially in cold climates) develop skills to deal with challenges and reap the benefits of protected cropping. This is not a generalist hoophouse book but a menu where growers can select specialized professional practices to suit their situation, whether growing microgreens; grafting, pruning, and trellising vine crops; or ‘crop steering’ to select for leaf growth or fruit development.”--Pam Dawling, author of Sustainable Market Farming; contributing editor, Growing for Market “The production of organic vegetables using protected culture to modify the natural environment and optimize plant growth is one of the most highly productive systems for organic vegetables. This handbook provides a broad spectrum of knowledge on growing structures and climate control as well as propagation, pruning, trellising, crop steering for maximum production, and grafting plants for natural disease control. For aspiring market gardeners, young and old, The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower’s Handbook is a must-read!”--Dr. Merle H. Jensen, professor, Controlled Environment Agriculture Center, The University of Arizona“Finally, a seasoned greenhouse grower has taken the time to share professional greenhouse techniques with the small-scale farming community. Such valuable work was a long time in the coming! Whether you’re currently growing in a greenhouse or hoophouse or planning to do so (and you should!), this book will teach you the best practices. It concisely and methodologically demystifies the all-encompassing skill set that you need to become successful at growing lucrative crops in protected space. Andrew Mefferd knows his stuff, and his book is absolute gold. Can’t recommend it enough.”--Jean-Martin Fortier, author of The Market Gardener

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Book Synopsis* A major new edition of this highly successful, authoritative, superbly illustrated text * Distinguished, internationally renowned Editors * Completely revised with over half of the chapters having a major rewrite * Includes two new chapters on signal transduction and responses to pathogens .Trade Review“Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Plants, 2nd edi­tion is a beast, but it’s a user-friendly one that should be wel­comed into one’s life to provide much-appreciated com­pan­ion­ship to fur­ther one’s plant bio­logy studies.” (AoB Blog, 1 November 2015) Table of ContentsThe Editors xi List of Contributors xii Preface xv About the Companion Website xvi COMPARTMENTS 1 Membrane Structure and Membranous Organelles 2 Introduction 2 1.1 Common properties and inheritance of cell membranes 2 1.2 The fluid-mosaic membrane model 4 1.3 Plasma membrane 10 1.4 Endoplasmic reticulum 13 1.5 Golgi apparatus 18 1.6 Exocytosis and endocytosis 23 1.7 Vacuoles 27 1.8 The nucleus 28 1.9 Peroxisomes 31 1.10 Plastids 32 1.11 Mitochondria 39 Summary 44 2 The Cell Wall 45 Introduction 45 2.1 Sugars are building blocks of the cell wall 45 2.2 Macromolecules of the cell wall 51 2.3 Cell wall architecture 73 2.4 Cell wall biosynthesis and assembly 80 2.5 Growth and cell walls 90 2.6 Cell differentiation 99 2.7 Cell walls as sources of food, feed, fiber, and fuel, and their genetic improvement 108 Summary 110 3 Membrane Transport 111 Introduction 111 3.1 Overview of plant membrane transport systems 111 3.2 Pumps 120 3.3 Ion channels 128 3.4 Cotransporters 142 3.5 Water transport through aquaporins 146 Summary 148 4 Protein Sorting and Vesicle Traffic 151 Introduction 151 4.1 The cellular machinery of protein sorting 151 4.2 Targeting proteins to the plastids 153 4.3 Targeting proteins to mitochondria 157 4.4 Targeting proteins to peroxisomes 159 4.5 Transport in and out of the nucleus 160 4.6 ER is the secretory pathway port of entry and a protein nursery 161 4.7 Protein traffic and sorting in the secretory pathway: the ER 175 4.8 Protein traffic and sorting in the secretory pathway: the Golgi apparatus and beyond 182 4.9 Endocytosis and endosomal compartments 188 Summary 189 5 The Cytoskeleton 191 Introduction 191 5.1 Introduction to the cytoskeleton 191 5.2 Actin and tubulin gene families 194 5.3 Characteristics of actin filaments and microtubules 196 5.4 Cytoskeletal accessory proteins 202 5.5 Observing the cytoskeleton: Statics and dynamics 207 5.6 Role of actin filaments in directed intracellular movement 210 5.7 Cortical microtubules and expansion 216 5.8 The cytoskeleton and signal transduction 219 5.9 Mitosis and cytokinesis 222 Summary 238 CELL REPRODUCTION 6 Nucleic Acids 240 Introduction 240 6.1 Composition of nucleic acids and synthesis of nucleotides 240 6.2 Replication of nuclear DNA 245 6.3 DNA repair 250 6.4 DNA recombination 255 6.5 Organellar DNA 260 6.6 DNA transcription 268 6.7 Characteristics and functions of RNA 270 6.8 RNA processing 278 Summary 288 7 Amino Acids 289 Introduction 289 7.1 Amino acid biosynthesis in plants: research and prospects 289 7.2 Assimilation of inorganic nitrogen into N-transport amino acids 292 7.3 Aromatic amino acids 302 7.4 Aspartate-derived amino acids 318 7.5 Branched-chain amino acids 326 7.6 Glutamate-derived amino acids 330 7.7 Histidine 333 Summary 336 8 Lipids 336 Introduction 337 8.1 Structure and function of lipids 337 8.2 Fatty acid biosynthesis 344 8.3 Acetyl-CoA carboxylase 348 8.4 Fatty acid synthase 350 8.5 Desaturation and elongation of C16 and C18 fatty acids 352 8.6 Synthesis of unusual fatty acids 360 8.7 Synthesis of membrane lipids 365 8.8 Function of membrane lipids 373 8.9 Synthesis and function of extracellular lipids 382 8.10 Synthesis and catabolism of storage lipids 389 8.11 Genetic engineering of lipids 395 Summary 400 9 Genome Structure and Organization 401 Introduction 401 9.1 Genome structure: a 21st]century perspective 401 9.2 Genome organization 404 9.3 Transposable elements 416 9.4 Gene expression 422 9.5 Chromatin and the epigenetic regulation of gene expression 430 Summary 436 10 Protein Synthesis, Folding, and Degradation 438 Introduction 438 10.1 Organellar compartmentalization of protein synthesis 438 10.2 From RNA to protein 439 10.3 Mechanisms of plant viral translation 447 10.4 Protein synthesis in plastids 450 10.5 Post-translational modification of proteins 457 10.6 Protein degradation 463 Summary 475 11 Cell Division 476 Introduction 476 11.1 Animal and plant cell cycles 476 11.2 Historical perspective on cell cycle research 477 11.3 Mechanisms of cell cycle control 482 11.4 The cell cycle in action 488 11.5 Cell cycle control during development 497 Summary 506 ENERGY FLOW 12 Photosynthesis 508 Introduction 508 12.1 Overview of photosynthesis 508 12.2 Light absorption and energy conversion 511 12.3 Photosystem structure and function 519 12.4 Electron transport pathways in chloroplast membranes 529 12.5 ATP synthesis in chloroplasts 537 12.6 Organization and regulation of photosynthetic complexes 540 12.7 Carbon reactions: the Calvin-Benson cycle 542 12.8 Rubisco 548 12.9 Regulation of the Calvin-Benson cycle by light 551 12.10 Variations in mechanisms of CO 2 fixation 557 Summary 565 13 Carbohydrate Metabolism 567 Introduction 567 13.1 The concept of metabolite pools 570 13.2 The hexose phosphate pool: a major crossroads in plant metabolism 571 13.3 Sucrose biosynthesis 573 13.4 Sucrose metabolism 577 13.5 Starch biosynthesis 580 13.6 Partitioning of photoassimilates between sucrose and starch 587 13.7 Starch degradation 593 13.8 The pentose phosphate/triose phosphate pool 597 13.9 Energy and reducing power for biosynthesis 601 13.10 Sugar-regulated gene expression 606 Summary 608 14 Respiration and Photorespiration 610 Introduction 610 14.1 Overview of respiration 610 14.2 Citric acid cycle 613 14.3 Plant mitochondrial electron transport 620 14.4 Plant mitochondrial ATP synthesis 632 14.5 Regulation of the citric acid cycle and the cytochrome pathway 634 14.6 Integration of the cytochrome pathway and nonphosphorylating pathways 635 14.7 Interactions between mitochondria and other cellular compartments 639 14.8 Biochemical basis of photorespiration 646 14.9 The photorespiratory pathway 648 14.10 Role of photorespiration in plants 652 Summary 655 METABOLIC AND DEVELOPMENTAL INTEGRATION 15 Long]Distance Transport 658 Introduction 658 15.1 Selection pressures and long-distance transport systems 658 15.2 Cell biology of transport modules 664 15.3 Short-distance transport events between xylem and nonvascular cells 668 15.4 Short-]distance transport events between phloem and nonvascular cells 673 15.5 Whole-plant organization of xylem transport 691 15.6 Whole-plant organization of phloem transport 696 15.7 Communication and regulation controlling phloem transport events 705 Summary 710 16 Nitrogen and Sulfur 711 Introduction 711 16.1 Overview of nitrogen in the biosphere and in plants 711 16.2 Overview of biological nitrogen fixation 715 16.3 Enzymology of nitrogen fixation 715 16.4 Symbiotic nitrogen fixation 718 16.5 Ammonia uptake and transport 735 16.6 Nitrate uptake and transport 735 16.7 Nitrate reduction 739 16.8 Nitrite reduction 744 16.9 Nitrate signaling 745 16.10 Interaction between nitrate assimilation and carbon metabolism 745 16.11 Overview of sulfur in the biosphere and plants 746 16.12 Sulfur chemistry and function 747 16.13 Sulfate uptake and transport 750 16.14 The reductive sulfate assimilation pathway 752 16.15 Cysteine synthesis 755 16.16 Synthesis and function of glutathione and its derivatives 758 16.17 Sulfated compounds 763 16.18 Regulation of sulfate assimilation and interaction with nitrogen and carbon metabolism 764 Summary 767 17 Biosynthesis of Hormones 769 Introduction 769 17.1 Gibberellins 769 17.2 Abscisic acid 777 17.3 Cytokinins 785 17.4 Auxins 795 17.5 Ethylene 806 17.6 Brassinosteroids 810 17.7 Polyamines 818 17.8 Jasmonic acid 821 17.9 Salicylic acid 826 17.10 Strigolactones 830 Summary 833 18 Signal Transduction 834 Introduction 834 18.1 Characteristics of signal perception, transduction, and integration in plants 834 18.2 Overview of signal perception at the plasma membrane 838 18.3 Intracellular signal transduction, amplification, and integration via second messengers and MAPK cascades 843 18.4 Ethylene signal transduction 847 18.5 Cytokinin signal transduction 850 18.6 Integration of auxin signaling and transport 852 18.7 Signal transduction from phytochromes 857 18.8 Gibberellin signal transduction and its integration with phytochrome signaling during seedling development 861 18.9 Integration of light, ABA, and CO2 signals in the regulation of stomatal aperture 866 18.10 Prospects 870 Summary 870 19 Molecular Regulation of Reproductive Development 872 Introduction 872 19.1 The transition from vegetative to reproductive development 872 19.2 The molecular basis of flower development 881 19.3 The formation of male gametes 889 19.4 The formation of female gametes 897 19.5 Pollination and fertilization 902 19.6 The molecular basis of self]incompatibility 908 19.7 Seed development 913 Summary 923 20 Senescence and Cell Death 925 Introduction 925 20.1 Types of cell death 925 20.2 PCD during seed development and germination 930 20.3 Cell death during the development of secretory bodies, defensive structures and organ shapes 932 20.4 PCD during reproductive development 937 20.5 Senescence and PCD in the terminal development of leaves and other lateral organs 940 20.6 Pigment metabolism in senescence 948 20.7 Macromolecule breakdown and salvage of nutrients in senescence 951 20.8 Energy and oxidative metabolism during senescence 957 20.9 Environmental influences on senescence and cell death I: Abiotic interactions 961 20.10 Environmental influences on senescence and cell death II: PCD responses to pathogen attack 964 20.11 Plant hormones in senescence and defense-related PCD 974 Summary 982 PLANT ENVIRONMENT AND AGRICULTURE 21 Responses to Plant Pathogens 984 Introduction 984 21.1 Pathogens, pests, and disease 984 21.2 An overview of immunity and defense 985 21.3 How pathogens and pests cause disease 989 21.4 Preformed defenses 1009 21.5 Induced defense 1012 21.6 Effector-triggered immunity, a second level of induced defense 1022 21.7 Other sources of genetic variation for resistance 1032 21.8 Local and systemic defense signaling 1033 21.9 Plant gene silencing confers virus resistance, tolerance, and attenuation 1042 21.10 Control of plant pathogens by genetic engineering 1044 Summary 1050 22 Responses to Abiotic Stress 1051 Introduction 1051 22.1 Plant responses to abiotic stress 1051 22.2 Physiological and cellular responses to water deficit 1054 22.3 Gene expression and signal transduction in response to dehydration 1061 22.4 Freezing and chilling stress 1068 22.5 Flooding and oxygen deficit 1076 22.6 Oxidative stress 1085 22.7 Heat stress 1094 22.8 Crosstalk in stress responses 1097 Summary 1099 23 Mineral Nutrient Acquisition, Transport, and Utilization 1101 Introduction 1101 23.1 Overview of essential mineral elements 1102 23.2 Mechanisms and regulation of plant K+ transport 1103 23.3 Phosphorus nutrition and transport 1113 23.4 The molecular physiology of micronutrient acquisition 1118 23.5 Plant responses to mineral toxicity 1127 Summary 1131 24 Natural Products 1132 Introduction 1132 24.1 Terpenoids 1133 24.2 Biosynthesis of the basic five-carbon unit 1135 24.3 Repetitive additions of C5 units 1138 24.4 Formation of parent carbon skeletons 1141 24.5 Modification of terpenoid skeletons 1143 24.6 Metabolic engineering of terpenoid production 1145 24.7 Cyanogenic glycosides 1146 24.8 Cyanogenic glycoside biosynthesis 1152 24.9 Functions of cyanogenic glycosides 1157 24.10 Glucosinolates 1158 24.11 Alkaloids 1159 24.12 Alkaloid biosynthesis 1164 24.13 Biotechnological application of alkaloid biosynthesis research 1171 24.14 Phenolic compounds 1178 24.15 Phenolic biosynthesis 1185 24.16 The phenylpropanoid-acetate pathway 1188 24.17 The phenylpropanoid pathway 1195 24.18 Universal features of phenolic biosynthesis 1202 24.19 Evolution of secondary pathways 1205 Summary 1206 Further reading 1207 Index 1222

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Book SynopsisThere are persistently high rates of fatal incidents and work-related ill health in the agricultural industry. This guidance is designed to help everyone working in the industry achieve good standards of health and safety and reduce injuries and ill health by identifying causes, eliminating hazards and controlling risks. This updated edition is for employers, employees and the self-employed. It covers the management of health and safety, as well as outlining the specific risks of agricultural and horticultural work, giving easy-to-follow, practical advice to keep you safe and healthy at work.

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Book SynopsisCharismatic David Kennard lives a life most people can only dream about. Farming on a spectacularly beautiful part of the Devon coast he has an almost telepathic bond with nature and with his working sheepdogs. His is a life filled with daily challenges, from the battles with wild Atlantic weather to the dramas of clifftop rescue, but it is also a life full of the richness of rebirth, and the Herriotesque delight in a way of life that has remained almost untouched by the modern world.Part diary, part homage to the countryside and the canine family that is so much a part of his life, David Kennard''s extraordinary book is designed to touch the hearts and minds of city and country dwellers alike.Trade ReviewThis is a fine portrait of his life in all its brutal beauty * Daily Mail *

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Book SynopsisFirst published in 1990, The Economics of Salmon Aquaculture was the first book to systematically analyse the salmon aquaculture industry, from both a market and production perspective. Since publication of the first edition of this book, the salmon aquaculture industry has grown at a phenomenal rate, with salmon now being consumed in more than 100 countries worldwide. This second edition of a very popular and successful book brings the reader right up to date with all the major current issues pertaining to salmon aquaculture. Commencing with an overview of the production process in aquaculture, the following chapters provide in-depth coverage of the sources of the world's supply of salmon, the growth in productivity, technological changes, environmental issues, markets, market structure and competitiveness, lessons that can be learnt from the culture of other species, optimal harvesting techniques, production planning, and investment in salmon farms. Written by FrankTrade Review"Nonetheless, the book could be useful as supplementary reading for senior undergraduate- and M.Sc.-level students taking economics and business management electives as part of a degree program in aquaculture or fisheries science. The book should also be of interest to aquaculture consultants and researchers in search of a compact overview of the position of farmed Atlantic salmon in the international seafood market." (Aquacult International, 7 June 2011) Table of ContentsPreface ix 1 Introduction 1 2 The Production Process in Aquaculture 7 2.1 Salmon production 9 2.1.1 Biological system 9 2.1.2 The grow-out phase 12 2.1.3 The physical system 15 Bibliography 16 3 The Supply of Salmon 17 3.1 Farmed salmon production 17 3.1.1 Norway 18 3.1.2 Chile 23 3.1.3 United Kingdom 26 3.1.4 Canada 29 3.1.5 Other farmed salmon producers 30 3.2 Wild salmon production 31 3.3 Regulation of salmon aquaculture 34 3.3.1 Norway 34 3.3.2 Scotland 36 3.3.3 Chile 38 3.4 The growth of large multinational companies 39 Bibliography 41 4 Productivity Growth and Technological Change 43 4.1 Declining costs 43 4.2 Scale 45 4.3 Structure of production costs 48 4.4 Smolt production 51 4.5 Improved feed quality 52 4.6 Diseases and increased survival rates 53 4.7 Breeding 55 4.8 Cycles in profitability 56 4.9 Catching up: regional differences 58 4.10 Productivity development in Norway relative to other producers 59 4.11 Cost reductions in the supply chain 62 Bibliography 63 5 Environmental Issues 65 5.1 The fish meal trap 65 5.1.1 Fisheries management 66 5.1.2 The markets for oil meals 69 5.1.3 Concluding remarks on the fish meal trap 72 5.2 Local issues 73 5.2.1 Organic waste 74 5.2.2 Antibiotics and chemicals 76 5.2.3 Salmon escapees and sea lice 78 5.2.4 Concluding remarks 80 Bibliography 80 6 Markets for Salmon 83 6.1 The European Union markets 84 6.1.1 France 85 6.1.2 Germany 88 6.1.3 United Kingdom 89 6.1.4 Spain 90 6.1.5 Italy 91 6.1.6 Denmark 92 6.1.7 Poland 93 6.2 The Japanese salmon market 94 6.2.1 Japanese salmon supply 97 6.2.2 Outlook for the Japanese salmon market 99 6.3 The United States salmon market 100 6.3.1 US seafood consumption 100 6.3.2 Imported fresh and frozen salmon 103 6.3.3 Market trends 105 6.4 The Russian market 105 6.5 Price development 107 6.5.1 Real versus nominal price 108 6.5.2 Exchange rates 109 6.5.3 Prices in different markets 110 6.5.4 Prices in different weight classes and for different product forms 113 Bibliography 116 7 Competitiveness and Market Structure 119 7.1 What is a market? 119 7.1.1 Market size 121 7.1.2 Market power 122 7.2 The salmon market 123 7.2.1 Pacific salmon 124 7.2.2 The early development of the Atlantic salmon market 125 7.2.3 Early development of the farmed Pacific salmon and salmon trout market 126 7.2.4 Fresh versus frozen 126 7.2.5 Declining prices, new sales outlets and product forms 127 7.2.6 Salmon and supermarket chains: a marriage made in heaven 129 7.3 The size of the market 131 7.4 Salmon marketing 133 7.4.1 Health benefits, food scares and environmental concerns 134 7.5 Trade restrictions 136 7.5.1 Trade restrictions in the salmon market 139 Appendix: a market model 142 Testing for market interactions 147 Bibliography 148 8 Lessons for Other Farmed Species 151 8.1 Other farmed species 151 8.1.1 Shrimp 151 8.1.2 Sea bass and sea bream 153 8.1.3 Turbot 156 8.1.4 Tilapia 157 8.1.5 Other species 160 8.2 Lessons from other farmed species 160 Bibliography 162 9 Optimal Harvesting of Farmed Fish 163 9.1 A biological model 164 9.2 Bioeconomic analysis 165 9.2.1 Zero costs 166 9.2.2 Harvesting costs 168 9.2.3 Feed costs 168 9.3 The rotation problem 169 Appendix: optimal harvesting of farmed fish 171 A biological model 171 Bioeconomic analysis 172 Harvesting costs 175 Feed costs 177 Feed and harvesting costs 179 The rotation problem 179 Optimal harvesting: examples 182 Bibliography 184 10 Production Planning in a Salmon Farm 187 10.1 Cash flow analysis 188 10.2 Smolt release and biomass growth 190 10.3 Sales revenue 193 10.4 Feeding costs 195 10.5 Net present value 197 10.6 Selective harvesting 199 11 Investment in a Salmon Farm 201 11.1 A production plan 201 11.2 A liquidity budget 205 11.3 Cost of production 209 11.4 Investing in a new aquaculture company 211 11.5 Licence value 215 11.6 Buying a fish farming company 217 References 221 Index 231

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Book SynopsisInstructs the beginning farmer in evaluating and preserving the soil, acquiring and maintaining machinery, and raising a successful crop through sound farming practices.

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Book SynopsisAs an applied science, enology is a collection of knowledge from the fundamental sciences including chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, bioengineering, psychophysics, cognitive psychology, etc., and nourished by empirical observations. The approach used in the Handbook of Enology is thus the same. It aims to provide practitioners, winemakers, technicians and enology students with foundational knowledge and the most recent research results. This knowledge can be used to contribute to a better definition of the quality of grapes and wine, a greater understanding of chemical and microbiological parameters, with the aim of ensuring satisfactory fermentations and predicting the evolution of wines, an7thd better mastery of wine stabilization processes. As a result, the purpose of this publication is to guide readers in their thought processes with a view to preserving and optimizing the identity and taste of wine and its aging potential. This third English edition of TTable of ContentsForeword xi Preface to the Second Edition xiii Preface to the First Edition xv Remarks Concerning the Expression of Certain Parameters of Must and Wine Composition xix Part I Microbiology of Wine 1 1 Yeasts 3 1.1. Introduction 3 1.2 . The Cell Wall 5 1.3 . The Plasma Membrane 9 1.4 . The Cytoplasm and Its Organelles 15 1.5 . The Nucleus 18 1.6 . Reproduction and the Yeast Biological Cycle 19 1.7 . The Killer Phenomenon 23 1.8 . Classifi cation of Yeast Species 27 1.9 . Identifi cation of Wine Yeast Strains 49 1.10. Ecology of Grape and Wine Yeasts 57 References 67 2 Yeast Metabolism 73 2.1 . Introduction 73 2.2 . Sugar Degradation Pathways 74 2.3 . Regulation of Sugar-Utilizing Metabolic Pathways 82 2.4 . Metabolism of Nitrogen Compounds 93 References 101 3 Conditions of Yeast Development 103 3.1. Introduction 103 3.2. Monitoring and Controlling Fermentations 104 3.3. Yeast Growth Cycle and Fermentation Kinetics 108 3.4. Nutrition Requirements 110 3.5. Fermentation Activators 115 3.6. Inhibition of Fermentation 122 3.7. Physicochemical Factors Affecting Yeast Growth and Fermentation Kinetics 126 3.8. Stuck Fermentations 135 References 142 4 Lactic Acid Bacteria 145 4.1. The Different Components of the Bacteria Cell 145 4.2. Taxonomy of Lactic Acid Bacteria 154 4.3. Identification of Lactic Acid Bacteria 156 4.4. The Oenococcus oeni Species 170 References 171 5 Metabolism of Lactic Acid Bacteria 175 5.1. Generalities: A Review 175 5.2. Metabolism of Sugars: Lactic Acid Fermentation 177 5.3. Metabolism of the Principal Organic Acids of Wine 182 5.4. Other Transformations Likely to Occur in Winemaking 189 5.5. Effect of the Metabolism of Lactic Acid Bacteria on Wine Composition and Quality 195 References 197 6 Lactic Acid Bacteria Development in Wine 201 6.1. Lactic Acid Bacteria Nutrition in Wine 201 6.2. Physicochemical Factors of Bacterial Growth 204 6.3. Evolution of Lactic Acid Bacteria Microflora: Influence on Wine Composition 210 6.4. Microbial Interactions During Winemaking 218 6.5. The Importance of Bacteriophages 224 References 226 7 Acetic Acid Bacteria 229 7.1. Principal Characteristics and Cytology 229 7.2. Classification and Identification 230 7.3. Principal Physiological Characteristics 232 7.4. Metabolism of Acetic Acid Bacteria 233 7.5. Acetic Acid Bacteria Development in Grape Musts 237 7.6. Evolution of Acetic Acid Bacteria During Winemaking and Wine Aging and the Impact on Wine Quality 238 References 240 8 The Use of Sulfur Dioxide in Must and Wine Treatment 243 8.1. Introduction 243 8.2. Physiological Effects 246 8.3. Chemistry of Sulfur Dioxide 248 8.4. Molecules Binding Sulfur Dioxide 252 8.5. Practical Consequences: The State of Sulfur Dioxide in Wines 261 8.6. Antimicrobial Properties of Sulfur Dioxide 262 8.7. The Role of Sulfur Dioxide in Winemaking 265 8.8. The Use of Sulfur Dioxide in the Winery 270 References 277 9 Products and Methods Complementing the Effect of Sulfur Dioxide 279 9.1. Introduction 279 9.2. Sorbic Acid 280 9.3. Octanoic and Decanoic Acids (Saturated Short-Chain Fatty Acids) 283 9.4. Dimethyl Dicarbonate (DMDC) 285 9.5. Lysozyme 286 9.6. Destruction of Yeasts by Heat (Pasteurization) 289 9.7. Ascorbic Acid 293 9.8. The Use of Inert Gases 297 References 301 Part II Vinification 303 Reflections on Global Taste and Typicity of Wines 305 10 The Grape and Its Maturation 309 10.1. Introduction 309 10.2. Description and Composition of the Mature Grape 310 10.3. Changes in the Grape During Maturation 322 10.4. Definition of Ripeness—Concept of Vintage 343 10.5. Impact of Various Other Factors on Maturation and Grape Composition at Ripeness 366 10.6. Botrytis cinerea 375 References 391 11 Harvest and Pre-fermentation Treatments 399 11.1. Introduction 399 11.2. Improving Grape Quality by Overripening 400 11.3. Harvest Date and Operations 401 11.4. Acidity Adjustments of the Harvested Grapes 408 11.5. Increasing Sugar Concentrations 412 11.6. Enzymatic Transformations of the Grape After Harvest 418 11.7. Use of Commercial Enzymes in Winemaking 427 References 429 12 Red Winemaking 431 12.1. Generalities 431 12.2. Mechanical Processing of the Harvested Grapes 433 12.3. Tank Filling 440 12.4. Controlling Alcoholic Fermentation 446 12.5. Maceration 452 12.6. Draining Off the Skins and Pressing 469 12.7. Malolactic Fermentation 480 12.8. Automated Red Winemaking Methods 494 12.9. Carbonic Maceration 499 References 511 13 White Winemaking 513 13.1. Distinctive Characteristics of White Winemaking 513 13.2. White Grape Quality and Picking Criteria 517 13.3. Juice Extraction 526 13.4. Protecting Juice from Oxidation 538 13.5. Clarification 543 13.6. Juice Treatments and the Advisability of Bentonite Treatments 552 13.7. Fermentation Operations 552 13.8. Making Dry White Wines in Barrels 557 13.9. Controlling Reduction Off-Aromas During White Wine Aging 564 References 568 14 Other Winemaking Methods 571 14.1. Rosé Wines 571 14.2. Botrytized Sweet Wines (Sauternes and Tokaji) 577 14.3. Champagne and Sparkling Wines 588 14.4. Fortified Wines 602 14.5. Flor Wines 608 References 612 Index 615

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Book SynopsisForest Ecology Forest Ecology An Evidence-Based Approach Forest ecology is the science that deals with everything in forests, including plants and animals (and their interactions), the features of the environment that affect plants and animals, and the interactions of humans and forests. All of these components of forests interact across scales of space and time. Some interactions are constrained, deterministic, and predictable; but most are indeterminant, contingent, and only broadly predictable. Forest Ecology: An Evidence-Based Approach examines the features common to all forests, and those unique cases that illustrate the importance of site-specific factors in determining the structure, function, and future of a forest. The author emphasizes the role of evidence in forest ecology, because appealing, simple stories often lead to misunderstandings about how forests work. A reliance on evidence is central to distinguishing between appealing stories and stories that actually fit real forests. The evidence-based approach emphasizes the importance of real-world, observable science in forests. Classical approaches to ecology in the twentieth century often over-emphasized appealing concepts that were not sufficiently based on real forests. The vast amount of information now available on forests allows a more complete coverage of forest ecology that relies on a strong, empirical foundation. Forest Ecology: An Evidence-Based Approach is the ideal companion text for the teaching of upper-level undergraduate and graduate courses in forest ecology.Table of ContentsDedication Acknowledgements Preface Chapter 1: The nature of forest Chapter 2: Forest environments Chapter 3: Evolution and adaptation in forests Chapter 4: Physiology and life history of trees Chapter 5: Ecology of wildlife in forests Chapter 6: Forest soils, nutrient cycling, and hydrology Chapter 7: Ecology of growth of trees and forests Chapter 8: Forests across space Chapter 9: Forests through time Chapter 10: Events in forests: winds, insects and diseases Chapter 11: Events in forests: fire Chapter 12: Events in forests: management Chapter 13: Conservation, sustainability and restoration of forests Chapter 14: Forests of the future References Index

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Book Synopsis''An evocative portrait of a forgotten period of Britain''s farming history... is an ode both to the soil, and those who have worked it alongside her'' Daily TelegraphJoan Bomford wanted to be a farmer so much she always wore a tie like her dad. She ran away from school whenever she could to help him. As an 8 year-old she was the first person in the family to drive a tractor. No job was ever too tough for her. Now aged 83, she''s still as active, still driving tractors, still feeding the farm''s beef cattle and horses, and still giving riding lessons.This is her account of a lifelong love-affair with the land and the people who work on it. With the warmth and wit of a born story teller, she tells us what it''s been like to live through an era of enormous change, her love of animals kindled by her father''s shire horses who did all the heavy work until machinery took over. Up With The Lark is not only the portrait of a forgotten era, but also the sTrade ReviewAn evocative portrait of a forgotten period of Britain's farming history... is an ode both to the soil, and those who have worked it alongside her. * Daily Telegraph *Remarkable story in this warm and witty account of a life in farming. * WALK magazine *Up with the Lark recalls her small but remarkable place in the history of an ever-changing industry. * Radio Times *

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Book SynopsisPost-Soviet Latvia and post-apartheid South Africa are far apart geographically and yet have endured a similar history of colonial and authoritarian rule before transitioning to democracy at the end of the 20th century. This book examines these two nations in an unusual comparative study of post-authoritarian efforts to decolonize production and trade. The book combines an analysis of political economy and ecocultural heritage to unpack alternative trade formations. It also connects world systems thinking with Indigenous knowledge to articulate a decolonial theory of development and change over the longue durée. Conclusions and insights drawn are timely and important for a planet confronted by crises such as authoritarianism, laissez-faire capitalism, climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic.Trade Review“This book advocates development in a disarming way by postulating a theory that enables economic and social growth in a context of environmental harmony and cultural integrity.” George K. Danns, University of North Georgia“[This innovative book provides] a rich and broad-ranging comparative analysis of the histories and indigenous worldviews shaping engagements in alternative food networks in distant yet connected places. [Jennifer] Keahey’s unique and incisive vision sheds light on the challenges of decolonizing development and inspiring possibilities for emboldening more ‘egalitarian ecocultures’. Laura T. Raynolds, Colorado State UniversityTable of Contents1. Transformative Societies 2. A Comparative History of Latvia and South Africa 3. Indigenous Baltic Knowledge: Daina Philosophy 4. Indigenous African Knowledge: Ubuntu Philosophy 5. Organic Farming and Slow Food in Post-Soviet Latvia 6. Fair Trade and Rooibos Terroir in Post-Apartheid South Africa 7. Decolonizing Development

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Book SynopsisGain a deeper understanding of your canine friends through these in-depth breed profiles that showcase how working dogs think. From familiar breeds like the Border Collie, Corgi, and Dachshund to the lesser-known Akbash, Puli, and Hovawart, Janet Vorwald Dohner describes 93 breeds of livestock guardian dogs, herding dogs, terriers, and traditional multipurpose farm dogs, highlighting the tasks each dog is best suited for and describing its physical characteristics and temperament. She also offers an accessible history of how humans bred dogs to become our partners in work and beyond, providing a thorough introduction to these highly intelligent, independent, and energetic breeds.

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Book SynopsisThis handsome box set provides hours of enlightening entertainment for those curious about farm life, the natural world, and food. Best-selling author and illustrator Julia Rothman presents Farm Anatomy, Nature Anatomy, and Food Anatomy in a specially designed slipcase with 10 framable prints. Rothman’s popular line drawings offer a whimsical and educational guide to life on a farm, nature’s hidden wonders, and delectable tidbits from kitchens and pantries around the globe.

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Book SynopsisStorey’s Guide to Raising Sheep is the best-selling, most trusted reference for farmers and backyard homesteaders with any size flock. The fifth edition is now updated with full-color illustrations and photographs throughout, including a gallery of the best breed choices for both meat and fiber. With their small size and gentle dispositions, sheep are one of the easier livestock species to raise and offer varied marketing opportunities, including meat, wool, and milk. Detailed instructions and graphics lead readers through every essential procedure, including shearing, building a lambing shed, breeding and lambing, butchering, and marketing.

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Book SynopsisFarming is a business, as well as a way of life. Whole Farm Management is a comprehensive guide developed by the Small Farms Program at Oregon State University to help aspiring and beginner farmers make smart business decisions to ensure lasting success. In clear, accessible language, this book covers every essential step, from developing a strategic plan to acquiring equipment, establishing infrastructure, finding markets, budgeting, managing day-to-day operations, and selecting a business structure for long-term viability. The emphasis throughout is on using sustainable agricultural systems and managing the whole farm, whether raising grass-based livestock, perennial food crops, or annual crops such as flowers. Case studies of successful farms, along with guidance and solutions to common problems from long-time farmers, round out this essential handbook.

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Book SynopsisA James Beard award winner exposes the Big Food system, highlights the women on the ground fighting back, and asks a simple, but evergreen question–how should we eat…When the Covid-19 pandemic ripped through global food supply chains, it threatened the livelihoods of farmers, created shortages in supermarkets, and revealed a startling truth to consumers: the food system is broken, and large corporations did the breaking. An idea began to take hold–what if we could return to a time when our needs were met by the farmers in our own communities, rather than a commodity, Big Food system that favors profit above all else?With in-depth, on the ground reporting, Nancy Matsumoto introduces readers to the women changemakers who are building out local and regional supply chains to combat the destructive effects of Big Food: from the founder of a women-led rice cooperative who is fighting Black land loss, to the Indigenous women who own and operate the first kelp hatchery on the American east coast, and more. Reaping What She Sows offers a blueprint for what eating enjoyably, sustainably, and ethically looks like today. Essential for those who are concerned about climate change, their own health, and the lack of choice and transparency in the global food supply chain.

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Book SynopsisRisk and uncertainty are inescapable factors in agriculture which require careful management. Farmers face production risks from the weather, crop and livestock performance, and pests and diseases, as well as institutional, personal and business risks. This revised third edition of the popular textbook includes updated chapters on theory and methods and contains a new chapter discussing the state-contingent approach to the analysis of production and the use of copulas to better model stochastic dependency. Aiming to introduce agricultural decision making, probability and risk preference, this book is an indispensable guide for students and researchers of agriculture and agribusiness management.Table of Contents1: Introduction to Risk in Agriculture 2: Decision Analysis: Outline and Basic Assumptions 3: Probabilities for Decision Analysis 4: More about Probabilities for Decision Analysis 5: Attitudes to Risky Consequences 6: Integrating Beliefs and Preferences for Decision Analysis 7: Decision Analysis with Preferences Unknown 8: The State-contingent Approach to Decision Analysis 9: Risk and Mathematical Programming Models 10: Decision Analysis with Multiple Objectives 11: Risky Decision Making and Time 12: Strategies Decision Makers Can Use to Manage Risk 13: Risk Considerations in Agricultural Policy Making

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Book SynopsisFarming is a complex job with many unique challenges, but can also be a rich and rewarding career that is full of opportunities. Following the author's Farm Business Management series, this new textbook takes the core principles and techniques and distils them into an accessible student resource. This book: covers the most important aspects of farm management, such as observation, decision making, budgeting, risk assessment and record keeping; is organized into easy-to-navigate sections such as the farmer's environment, financials, key skills and farm systems; and includes student-focused pedagogy throughout, comprising learning objectives, focus study exercises and review questions. Written by an expert with decades of teaching and research experience around the world, this book also incorporates two brand new chapters on farm accounting and computer systems and software. Providing a hands-on learning experience for students of agriculture, it will continue to be a much-used resource throughout their farming career. This book is enhanced with supplementary resources.Table of ContentsPart 1: The Farmer’s Environment 1: Introduction 2: A Synopsis of Production Economics 3: The Environment Farmers Operate Under Part 2: Financials: Budgeting, Risk and Investment 4: Budgeting Theory: The Core Systems of Farm Systems Analysis 5: Budgeting Practicalities: Costing out the Proposals 6: Introduction to Managing Risk and Uncertainty 7: Investment Analysis: Recognising Input Output Timing 8: Farm Finances, Financial Accounts and Records in General Part 3: The Farmer’s Skills 9: Skills Required 10: Observation Skills 11: Anticipation and Looking Ahead Skills 12: Understanding the Human Factor 13: Decision and Management Processes and their Improvement Part 4: Farm Systems 14: Improving Systems using Survey Data 15: Introducing Further Methods of Farm Systems Analysis 16: Farm Computing and Software Part 5: More on the Human Factor 17: The Last Word: Objectives and the Family

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Book SynopsisTraffication develops a bold new idea: that the trillions of miles of driving we do each year are just as destructive to our natural environment as any of the better known threats, such as habitat loss or intensive farming. The problem is not simply one of roadkill; the impacts of roads are far more pervasive, and they impact our wildlife in many subtle and unpredictable ways. Using the latest research, the book reveals how road traffic shatters essential biological processes, affecting how animals communicate, move around, feed, reproduce and die. Most importantly, it shows that the influence of traffic extends well beyond the verge, and that a busy road can strip the wildlife from our countryside for miles around. In the UK, almost nowhere is exempt from this environmental toll. Yet the final message here is one of hope: by identifying the car as a major cause of the catastrophic loss of wildlife, the solutions to our biodiversity crisis suddenly become much clearer. The first step to solving any problem is to recognise that it exists in the first place. But with road traffic, we are not even at that crucial initial stage in our recovery. Quite simply, Traffication does for road traffic what Silent Spring did for agrochemicals: awakening us from our collective road-blindness and opening up a whole new chapter in conservation. This urgent book is an essential contribution to the debate on how we restore the health of our countryside – and of our own minds and bodies. Trade ReviewThis is a very good book... perhaps THE book of the year. -- Mark Avery, author and environmental campaigner...a fascinating and enlightening book. To call it "revelatory" would be an understatement. -- Chris and Melissa Bruntlett, authors of Curbing Traffic...fascinating, eye-opening and easy-to-read -- Rebecca Armstrong, BirdwatchThis book is remarkable for several reasons, not least the fact that its author has gathered almost everything published in peer-reviewed journals about the devastating consequences of roads and cars for the natural world. He has then synthesised this vast body of data while deploying the most lucid prose and balanced, non-polemical tone about his subject. -- Mark Cocker, BirdLifeAn important book. -- Richard Smith, British Medical JournalTraffication should be required reading for any education, training or course for students and transport professionals including engineers, traffic planners, town planners, urban designers, politicians and all those undertaking courses with the word “transport” in the title. -- John Whitelegg * Journal of World Transport Policy & Practice *A moving read. -- John Miles * Birdwatching.co.uk *Table of ContentsPreface: Mirror, Signal, Manoeuvre A note on units, definitions and data sources Acknowledgements 1 The King of the Road 2 Traffication 3 ‘An Inconspicuous Splotch of Red’ 4 Living with Roadkill 5 Traffic Islands and Invasion Highways 6 Thunder Road 7 Emission Creep 8 In the Zone 9 The Sixth Horseman 10 Winners and Losers 11 Five Reasons for Hope 12 The Road to De-Traffication Notes List of scientific names References Index

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Book Synopsis'Funny, insightful and hugely informative ... a charming book' DAILY MAIL'Tremendous ... We all need to take stock, and this is the ideal starting point. I learnt a lot from this book and laughed a lot too.' ROSAMUND YOUNG, author of The Secret Life of CowsSince highland cattle ransacked his grandmother's vegetable patch when he was six, Roger Morgan-Grenville has been fascinated by cows.So at the age of 61, with no farming experience, he signed on as a part- time labourer on a beef cattle farm to tell their side of the story. The result is this lyrical and evocative book.For 10,000 years, cow and human lives have been intertwined. Cattle have existed alongside us, fed and shod us, quenched our thirst, and provided a thousand other tiny services, and yet most of us know little about them. We are also blissfully unaware of the de-natured lives we often ask them to lead.Part history, part adventure and part unsentimental manifesto for how we should treat cows in the 21st century, Taking Stock asks us to think carefully about what we eat, and to let nature back into food production.Trade ReviewFunny, insightful and hugely informative ... a charming book * Daily Mail *Tremendous ... We all need to take stock, and this is the ideal starting point. I learnt a lot from this book and laughed a lot too. * Rosamund Young, author of The Secret Life of Cows *Stylishly locates the importance of the cow in absolutely everything from finance ... to future food. [A] first-prize rosette for this paean to the wonderful cow, Man's other best friend. * John Lewis-Stempel, Country Life *A lyrical and evocative book * Daily Express *No cow could ever hope for a better appreciation of its truly unique worth. * Betty Fussell, author of Raising Steaks: The Life and Times of American Beef *An epic story told with warmth, wit and humanity. Will make us feel differently about these long-suffering animals. * Graham Harvey, author of Grass-Fed Nation *While this book focuses on UK farming, there is plenty of information that can be appreciated regarding the cow, no matter where one is from. * Booklist *

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Book SynopsisThere is nothing quite like the relationship between a farmer and his dog.‘For me, the bond I have with Peg, my border collie sheepdog is priceless. I know how very lucky I, and thousands of other shepherds and farmers, are to have these extraordinarily bright, enthusiastic dogs at our side.’In A Farmer and His Dog, Adam Henson explores the unique relationship between a farmer and his most loyal friend. Sheepdogs come in a variety of shapes and sizes from border collies to Australian kelpies (rumoured to be a distant relative of the dingo). Not only are they essential to the running of a farm, but they are also fiercely intelligent and exceptionally devoted companions, having evolved over millennia to make the make the work of a shepherd possible.But it is not just the farmer working the land who benefits from the extraordinary relationship between man and dog. Beginning by introducing us to the dogs who have been faithful companions to the Henson family over the years, Adam goes on to explore the impact made by the UK’s hardest working breeds. From traditional herding dogs and gundogs – such as the Labrador’s he grew up with and the Hungarian wire-haired Vizslas like Boo and Olive who live with him now – to the assistance dogs, sniffer dogs and even search and rescue dogs, whose stories have reinforced Adam’s belief that we humans owe an enormous debt to our wet-nosed, four-legged friends.

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Book SynopsisThe underlying economic factors that affect primary production are frequently studied and written about - soil quality, animal health, climate, machinery - but this is the first book to explore the role of the decision psychology of the manager running the farm business, the person responsible for staff, strategic and operational decisions and the success or failure of financial and other objective outcomes. This second edition addresses fundamental questions such as the process of decision making, personal skills, and methods to improve managerial ability. It is an essential reference for farm managers and students in farm economics and management. Key Features: This is the first farm business management book published worldwide focused on human factors and decision making in primary production The second edition introduces two new chapters covering the key decision method, intuition and its enhancement, and the importance of human characteristics in a range of decision topics and areasTable of Contents1: Introduction 2: What Defines Management Ability? 3: The Origins of Managerial Ability 4: Decision Processes and Goals 5: Skills Required 6: Biases and Stress 7: Intuition 8: The Influence of Farmers’ Personal Characteristics on a Range of Issues in Management 9: More on Objectives: Family Influences, Origins and Modification 10: Methods of Improving Managerial Ability

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Book SynopsisThis book addresses topics related to the impact of invasive species including biosecurity, demographics, species diversity and food security. It is meant for researchers, upper-level students, and policy makers and provides a factual basis for the underlying science and a discussion of that information with respect to current and future impacts and possible solutions. This book explores the nexus of climate change and biological invasions, resulting impacts (biological and economic) and assesses ways to reduce vulnerability and increase the resiliency and sustainability of managed and unmanaged ecosystems. The book has three parts, focusing on: (1) the dimensions of the problem; background and science; (2) case studies; (3) Management: detection, prevention, control and adaptation. This revised edition examines a wide range of topics and region, the underlying science, examples (case studies) from around the world, and ways and means to recognize, manage and control the consequences. It includes new cases and new threats; for example, a chapter summarizing case studies regarding climate change and invasive species that are also disease carriers (e.g. ticks and Lyme disease).- Covers a wide range of topics and areas- Examines the synergy between invasive species and climate change- Explains options to control and mitigate effectsThis book is of interest to academics, researchers and students studying climate change and invasive species. Those interested in the environment and ecology, land managers, policy makers, agronomists, federal and state departments of natural resources, climate change activists, public health professionals.

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Book SynopsisLand of Milk and Honey is the long-awaited sequel to Red Rag to a Bull. Author Jamie Blackett finds himself in danger of losing the family estate as his beef business encounters difficulties and the spectre of Brexit bears down on the farming community. Meanwhile he feels under threat from extreme environmentalists attacking the very concept of livestock farming and by resurgent Scottish nationalism threatening the break-up of the United Kingdom. The book is the honest and forthright account of how he copes with the crisis by following the example of New Zealand farmers in similar circumstances and successfully embracing the new creed of regenerative agriculture and switching the farm into pasture-based dairying. Through Jamie’s struggles the reader comes to understand the crossroads facing the British countryside as it attempts to adapt to free trade after eighty years of agricultural subsidies. We are also guided through the complexities and contradictions in the quest to reach Net Zero carbon and reverse biodiversity loss as he explores the current craze for re-wilding the land and puts some of its ideas into practice for the benefit of wildlife on the estate. Along the way Jamie becomes an outspoken newspaper columnist and establishes an unlikely political alliance with the maverick socialist George Galloway in an attempt to break the stalemate in Scottish politics and defeat Nicola Sturgeon’s SNP in the Holyrood election. The book contains humour, vivid passages of nature writing and numerous polemical digressions on a wide range of countryside issues.Trade Review‘Jamie Blackett crucially and eloquently stands up for real farming, real conservation and the real countryside, managing to be both lyrical and fearless at the same time.’ -- Kate Green, Country Life'a fascinating read for those interested in the countryside and the country...Well worth buying''Blackett’s engaging style and lightness of touch belie the complexity of the issues with which he must contend, and make this a compelling read.''Land of Milk and Honey is a book with great variety and change of pace. the description of rural life, its seasonal rhythms, the grandeur of nature and all its creatures are a joy to read.''another highly readable and thought provoking work from Jamie Blackett.''superbly acerbic'The author writes with admirable candour and detachment about his battle to save his farm in the face of adverse balance-sheets. As well as being an eloquent manifesto for saving the countryside from the unhappy fate that has overtaken large parts of urban Britain, this is a stirring evocation of rural life.

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Book SynopsisFood is our most intimate and vital commodity, yet too many of us have lost touch with the reality of where it comes from and how it is produced. Farm to Fork: The Challenge of Sustainable Farming in 21st Century Britain attempts to address this knowledge gap by taking the reader on a seasonal tour of a British lowland family farm to explain the realities of modern agricultural life. Drawing on a lifetime of experience, the author illustrates how our food is produced and why our farmed landscape looks the way it does. Along the way, he addresses issues around the environment, climate change, trade and why Britain’s exit from the European Union is such a significant moment for UK food production. Agriculture is the core of a £122bn food and farming sector, and Farm to Fork demonstrates the pride, hard work and heart which goes into every mouthful of Great British produce.Trade Review'This book offers a compelling insight into the challenges and rewards of farming. A must-read for any agriculture student, it will also appeal to those with an interest in their food, as well as the farmers who produce it.'For now, the battle to defend farming against cavalier politicians, unscrupulous capitalists and ignorant environmentalists continues to be waged in the media by its champions, notably NFU president Minette Batters, who has written the foreword. Mr Stanley has made a heartfelt contribution to that fight.'A wonderfully-detailed and candid account of the life of a British farmer. Farm to Fork offers something for everyone, no matter their background.''The book gives an insight into the hundreds of decisions affecting what ends up on our plate, how farming life has changed, and how it might look in years to come.''It is, at its core, a love letter from one farmer, to an entire industry.''Author Joe Stanley writes with pride and knowledge, and his book is a great read.' -- NFU Countryside Magazine, September 2023'Joe Stanley’s Farm to Fork is a straightforward and enlightening journey through Britain’s farming year.' -- Keeping the Balance, Winter 2023

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Book SynopsisPalladius wrote in the 5th century AD. His is the latest of Roman agricultural texts and perhaps for that reason was the treatise most widely distributed in the medieval world, being translated into Italian, Catalan and Middle English, among other languages. Later, Palladius fell into neglect as the Renaissance preferred more classical authors (Cato, Varro, Columella.

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Book SynopsisOver 1000 people a year in the UK report seeing 'big cats', possibly pumas or panthers. Have these animals escaped from zoos? Are they the descendants of pets released into wild? Or is there another solution to the mystery? In this extraordinary book, big cat tracker Merrily Harpur interviews farmers, gamekeepers, ornithologists, policemen and even parents who have seen curious cats on the school run. In the process she discovers our mystery felines may have been with us for longer than we imagine, and draws some startling conclusions from what is now the commonest encounter with the unknown in Britain.

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Book SynopsisSheep Keeping is a comprehensive handbook, providing veterinary relevant information to the sheep smallholder. As a sheep keeper have you ever wanted to go into more depth with your vet and gain expert advice that will keep your flock healthy and happy? This guide provides a depth of veterinary information to complement local veterinary consultations. Advice is offered on everyday issues such as feeding and nutrition, housing, organ systems and their function, disease, treatments and sheep behaviour. The authors guide the reader through different sheep keeping systems, organ biology, correct diet and nutrition, lambing time and the many problems that can occur at this time of year. The book is filled with helpful photographs and diagrams to help identify and describe diseases, what to look for in terms of abnormal behaviour and signs of disease. The chapter on routine husbandry procedures helps inform the reader how to prevent diseases through good practice. Sheep Keeping is a practical guide to common problems seen in small sheep flocks, suitable for experienced smallholder sheep farmers, but also relevant to new and prospective ones.

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