Harvesting is the process of collecting mature crops from the fields where they have been grown. It marks the end of the growing season and involves the harvesting of fruits, vegetables, grains and other products. Its importance in agriculture and farming is multifaceted and decisive.

First of all, it is vital for farmers' income. The sale of harvested crops is a primary source of income and ensures a steady supply of agricultural products on markets, influencing prices and food availability.

For the livestock sector, properly timed harvests allow for better storage and preservation, ensuring the availability of animal feed throughout the year, which in turn ensures the quality of the milk produced. At the same time, harvesting at the right time ensures maximum nutritional value and quality of the crops.

Environmentally, efficient harvesting practices can lead to better management of agricultural resources, including soil health and water use. Sustainable harvesting methods minimise the environmental footprint of agriculture by reducing waste and promoting environmentally friendly practices.

In summary, harvesting is a key phase in the agricultural cycle with significant economic, nutritional and environmental impacts. For the Dairy and Cheese industry, it is important to understand that a good end product comes from a good raw material: milk. And good raw material is directly linked to the good nutrition of the animals that produce it - this also makes Harvesting an important factor in the Cheese and Dairy cycle.

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