R

ration: An amount of food given to an animal or person. Proper rationing ensures that livestock receive balanced nutrition, promoting growth, health, and productivity.

reap: To cut a grain crop. Efficient reaping methods are essential for timely harvests and maximizing grain yields.

rectified concentrated grape must: A form of grape sugar produced by distillation from surplus wine, used to add to new wine during chaptalisation. Utilizing surplus grapes in this way provides farmers with an additional revenue stream and improves wine quality.

reversible plough: A plough with left- and right-handed mouldboards, which make it possible to plough up and down the same furrow. Using reversible ploughs improves soil management and reduces erosion.

reclamation: The act of reclaiming land. Land reclamation projects can significantly increase the available agricultural land, supporting greater farm productivity.

river: A large flow of water, running from a natural source in mountains or hills down to the sea. Managing river resources supports farm irrigation and water supply needs.

ripen: To become ready for eating, or to make something, especially a fruit, ready for eating. Managing ripening processes helps farmers deliver fresh, high-quality produce to market.

repot: To take a plant out of its pot and plant it in another, changing or adding to the soil at the same time. Repotting helps farmers manage plant health and growth in nursery operations.

Rural Inspectorate Wales: The organization that is responsible for administering CAP schemes in Wales. Abbreviation: RIW. The RIW supports farmers by ensuring compliance with agricultural regulations and promoting best practices.

reservoir: An artificial or natural area of water, used for storing water for domestic or industrial use. Managing reservoirs ensures a reliable water supply for farm irrigation and other agricultural needs.

reference price: The minimum price at which certain fruit and vegetables can be imported into the EU. Understanding reference prices helps farmers stay competitive in the market and ensure fair pricing for their produce.

rubber: A material which can be stretched and compressed, and is made from a thick white fluid (latex) from a tropical tree; the rubber tree, a tropical tree grown for its latex. In commercial practice, trees are grafted onto suitable rootstock. Understanding rubber production supports diversified farm income and sustainable forestry practices.

regenerate: To grow again, or grow something again. Regeneration of crops and natural vegetation supports sustainable farming practices and ecosystem health.

ratoon: The second and later crops taken from the regrowth of a crop after it has been harvested once. Ratoon cropping can increase farm productivity and reduce planting costs by utilizing existing plant root systems.

rough terrain vehicle: A vehicle specially designed to travel over difficult ground. Abbreviation: RTV. Using rough terrain vehicles supports efficient farm operations in challenging environments.

Roman: A breed of white goose, now quite rare. Raising Roman geese helps farmers preserve rare breeds and diversify farm produce.

roost: A place where birds rest at night; to sleep on a perch at night. Providing safe roosting places ensures poultry health and productivity.

reproductive organs: Parts of the bodies of animals which are involved in the conception and development of a fetus. Knowledge of reproductive organs helps farmers manage breeding and improve livestock health.

rolled grain: Grain which has been through a roller mill before it is fed to livestock. Rolled grain, usually barley, is more easily digested. Using rolled grain improves livestock nutrition and feed efficiency.

rearer: A person who rears livestock. Skilled rearers are crucial for maintaining healthy and productive animal populations on farms.

range: A large area of grass-covered farmland used for raising cattle or sheep; open space, particularly for poultry. Free-range farming practices can enhance animal welfare and produce higher-quality meat and eggs.