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native breeds: plural noun breeds which have been developed in a country, and not brought in from other countries. Native breeds are often well-adapted to local conditions, including climate and available feed resources. Farmers can benefit from raising native breeds as they typically exhibit greater resistance to local diseases, require fewer inputs, and can thrive on locally available feed. This can lead to reduced veterinary costs, improved animal welfare, and sustainable livestock production. Additionally, marketing products from native breeds can attract consumers interested in supporting heritage and local agriculture.

nylon: a synthetic material made from polymers, used in ropes, strings, etc. Nylon is a durable and versatile material used in various agricultural applications, including fencing, netting, and equipment components. Farmers can benefit from using nylon products for their strength, weather resistance, and longevity. Understanding the properties and appropriate uses of nylon supports effective farm management and maintenance. Utilizing high-quality materials like nylon enhances farm efficiency, reduces maintenance costs, and ensures reliable performance in agricultural operations.

neutralise: neutralise, verb to make an acid neutral. Acid in drainage water can be neutralized by limestone. To make a bacterial toxin harmless by combining it with the correct amount of antitoxin. To counteract the effect of something. Neutralizing harmful substances in soil, water, or livestock environments is essential for maintaining farm productivity and safety. Farmers can benefit from understanding neutralization processes and using appropriate materials to mitigate the impact of acids, toxins, and other harmful agents. Effective neutralization practices ensure healthier crops, livestock, and overall farm sustainability.

nitrogen-free extract: used in the chemical analysis of animal feeding stuffs, the nitrogen-free extract consists mainly of soluble carbohydrates (sugars) and starch. Abbr NFE. Understanding the nitrogen-free extract content of animal feed helps farmers formulate balanced diets for their livestock. By analyzing feed components, farmers can ensure their animals receive the necessary nutrients for optimal growth, health, and productivity. Proper feed formulation supports efficient livestock production, improves feed conversion rates, and enhances overall farm profitability.

natural selection: the process of evolutionary change, by which offspring of organisms with certain characteristics are more able to survive and reproduce than offspring of other organisms, thus gradually changing the composition of a population. Understanding natural selection can help farmers with livestock breeding programs. By selecting animals with desirable traits such as disease resistance, productivity, and adaptability, farmers can improve herd or flock performance over time. This knowledge supports the development of robust livestock populations that are better suited to local conditions and market demands.

noose: a loop in a rope, with a loose knot which allows it to tighten, e.g., in a halter or a lasso. Using nooses and other restraining tools safely is essential for managing livestock and ensuring animal welfare. Farmers can benefit from understanding the proper techniques for using nooses to handle and secure animals without causing harm. Effective use of restraining tools supports safe and humane livestock management, reduces stress and injury, and enhances overall farm productivity and animal welfare.

nut: 1. a hard indehiscent fruit with one seed. 2. any hard edible seed contained in a fibrous or woody shell, e.g., groundnuts. 3. a small cube of compressed meal, a convenient form of animal feed. Nuts are valuable crops that provide essential nutrients and can be used for various food and feed products. Farmers can benefit from growing nut crops to diversify their production, enhance income stability, and tap into high-value markets. Understanding the specific requirements for nut cultivation, including soil management, irrigation, and pest control, helps optimize production and profitability. Additionally, producing and using nut-based animal feed supports efficient livestock nutrition and resource use.

nitrifier: a microorganism that is involved in the process of nitrification. Nitrifiers play a crucial role in converting nitrogen into forms that plants can absorb. Farmers can benefit from practices that support healthy soil microbial communities, such as maintaining soil organic matter, proper irrigation, and avoiding excessive use of agrochemicals. Promoting the activity of nitrifiers ensures efficient nitrogen cycling, improves soil fertility, and enhances crop growth and productivity.

natural vegetation: the range of plant communities that exist in the natural environment without being planted or managed by people. Preserving natural vegetation on farms can enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and provide habitat for beneficial organisms. Farmers can benefit from integrating natural vegetation into their farming systems, promoting ecological balance and reducing the need for synthetic inputs. This approach supports sustainable land management, improves resilience to environmental stressors, and enhances the overall productivity of the farm.

nitrate-sensitive area: a region of the country where nitrate pollution is likely and where the use of nitrate fertilizers is strictly controlled. Abbr NSA, NVZ. Managing nitrate use in nitrate-sensitive areas is crucial for protecting water quality and preventing pollution. Farmers can benefit from adhering to regulations and adopting best practices for nitrogen management, such as using precision farming techniques, cover crops, and buffer zones. Compliance with guidelines helps maintain soil fertility, protect water resources, and promote sustainable farming practices.

non-flammable: adjective referring to a material that is difficult to set on fire. Using non-flammable materials in farm structures and equipment enhances safety and reduces the risk of fire-related incidents. Farmers can benefit from selecting non-flammable building materials, machinery components, and protective gear to safeguard their property and livestock. Implementing fire prevention measures and using non-flammable materials contribute to a safer working environment and protect farm investments.

nomad: an animal that moves from place to place without having a fixed range. Compare migrant. Understanding the behavior of nomadic animals, such as livestock, helps farmers manage grazing patterns and prevent overgrazing. Farmers can benefit from rotational grazing systems that mimic nomadic movements, promoting pasture health and sustainability. This approach ensures adequate forage availability, reduces soil erosion, and improves livestock nutrition and productivity. Implementing managed grazing practices supports sustainable land use and enhances overall farm efficiency.

nest: 1. a construction built by birds and some fish for their eggs. 2. a construction made by some social insects such as ants and bees for the colony to live in. verb to build a nest. Encouraging the presence of beneficial birds and insects on farms by providing nesting sites can enhance pest control and pollination. Farmers can benefit from supporting these natural allies, reducing the need for chemical inputs and promoting ecological balance. Creating habitats for nesting also contributes to biodiversity and environmental health, supporting sustainable farming practices.

nectarine: a smooth-skinned variety of peach (Prunus persica nectarina). Nectarines are a valuable fruit crop that can diversify farm income and appeal to consumers seeking fresh, high-quality produce. Farmers can benefit from cultivating nectarines by selecting suitable varieties, optimizing orchard management practices, and implementing effective pest and disease control measures. High-quality nectarines can attract premium prices in the market, enhancing farm profitability. Additionally, nectarines can be processed into value-added products like jams and preserves, further increasing their economic potential.

natural: adjective referring to nature, or produced by nature not by humans. Natural materials and methods often align with sustainable farming practices, promoting environmental health and resource conservation. Farmers can benefit from using natural fertilizers, pest control methods, and materials, reducing reliance on synthetic inputs and minimizing environmental impact. This approach can improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, and attract consumers who prioritize sustainably produced goods, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and profitable farming operation.

NFU: abbreviation for National Farmers’ Union. The National Farmers’ Union advocates for farmers’ rights and interests, providing a unified voice in policy discussions and negotiations. Membership in the NFU offers farmers access to valuable resources, including legal advice, market information, and training programs. By participating in the NFU, farmers can influence agricultural policies, stay informed about industry trends, and benefit from collective bargaining power, ultimately strengthening their farm businesses.

nutrient film technique: a system for growing crops in a plastic channel through which a thin film of water containing nutrients flows. Abbr NFT. The nutrient film technique (NFT) is a hydroponic growing system that delivers nutrients directly to plant roots through a continuous flow of nutrient-rich water. Farmers can benefit from using NFT to grow crops in controlled environments, reducing the need for soil and improving resource efficiency. This technique allows for precise control of nutrient delivery, leading to faster growth rates, higher yields, and improved crop quality. Implementing NFT systems supports sustainable and innovative farming practices.

North Ronaldsay: a rare breed of small sheep, which varies in color from white through grey, brown, and black, and also combinations of these colors. The tail is short, and most of the animals have horns. The North Ronaldsay breed is adapted to harsh coastal environments, making it resilient and low-maintenance. Farmers can benefit from raising this rare breed to enhance genetic diversity, support conservation efforts, and tap into niche markets for heritage wool and meat. Understanding the specific care requirements of North Ronaldsay sheep supports successful breeding and production, contributing to sustainable livestock farming.

Normandy: a breed of cattle from north-west France that have a white coat with red-brown patches. The animals are reared for meat and for milk, from which Camembert cheese is made. The Normandy breed is valued for its dual-purpose capabilities, providing both high-quality milk and meat. Farmers can benefit from raising Normandy cattle to diversify their livestock operations and produce premium products like Camembert cheese. Understanding the breed’s characteristics and management needs helps optimize production, improve animal welfare, and enhance farm profitability.

nitrification inhibitor: a chemical product used to slow down the release of nitrate in organic manure. Nitrification inhibitors help reduce nitrogen losses from leaching and volatilization, improving nitrogen use efficiency in crops. Farmers can benefit from using nitrification inhibitors to enhance fertilizer performance, reduce environmental pollution, and increase crop productivity. Understanding the appropriate use of these products supports sustainable nitrogen management and better farm profitability.

non-centrifugal sugar: a dark semi-solid sugar made by boiling the juices obtained from crushed sugar cane. India is the principal producer. Non-centrifugal sugar, also known as panela or jaggery, offers farmers an alternative value-added product. By producing non-centrifugal sugar, farmers can diversify their income streams, tap into niche markets, and add value to their sugar cane crops. Understanding the production process and market demand for non-centrifugal sugar can help farmers capitalize on this opportunity, enhancing farm profitability and sustainability.