N

NCDL: abbreviation for National Canine Defence League (now called Dogs Trust). Dogs Trust focuses on the welfare of dogs, including those on farms. Farmers can benefit from the organization’s expertise in dog training, behavior, and health care. Ensuring the well-being of farm dogs can improve their effectiveness in managing livestock and providing security. Collaboration with Dogs Trust can also help farmers address issues such as stray dog control and promote responsible dog ownership, contributing to a safer and more productive farming environment.

National Milk Records: NMR is a company that keeps central records for dairy farmers. Abbr NMR. National Milk Records provides dairy farmers with valuable data on milk production, quality, and herd health. By utilizing NMR’s services, farmers can track their dairy operations’ performance, identify areas for improvement, and make informed management decisions. Accurate milk records help optimize feeding strategies, breeding programs, and overall herd management, leading to increased milk yields, better milk quality, and higher farm income.

National Soil Resources Institute: NSRI is an association formed in 2001 which provides education and training in the fields of soil and land management practice. Abbr NSRI. The National Soil Resources Institute offers farmers access to research, education, and training on soil health and land management. By utilizing NSRI’s resources, farmers can adopt practices that improve soil fertility, structure, and water retention, leading to better crop yields and sustainable land use. Knowledge gained from NSRI can also help farmers reduce soil erosion, enhance nutrient management, and promote environmentally friendly farming methods.

natural habitat: the usual surroundings in which an organism lives in the wild. Also called natural environment. Maintaining natural habitats within and around farms supports biodiversity, which can enhance ecosystem services critical for agriculture, such as pollination and pest control. Farmers can benefit from preserving natural habitats by promoting a balanced ecosystem that supports healthy crop growth and reduces the need for chemical inputs. This approach can lead to more sustainable farming practices, improved crop yields, and a healthier environment.

National Animal Welfare Trust: NAWT is a rescue center with branches across the UK, providing short-term care and rehabilitation for unwanted and abused animals. Farmers can collaborate with NAWT to ensure the welfare of farm animals and promote humane treatment practices. By adhering to high animal welfare standards, farmers can enhance the health and productivity of their livestock, improve product quality, and build a positive reputation among consumers. Partnering with organizations like NAWT can also provide farmers with access to resources and support for animal care and management.

North Devon: Devon. The North Devon breed of cattle, also known as Devon, is prized for its high-quality meat and adaptability to various farming conditions. Farmers can benefit from raising North Devon cattle to produce premium beef and improve farm resilience. Understanding the breed’s characteristics and management practices supports successful breeding, efficient feed utilization, and enhanced farm profitability. By promoting the North Devon breed, farmers can tap into niche markets and attract consumers seeking heritage and high-quality meat products.

NERC: abbreviation for Natural Environment Research Council. The Natural Environment Research Council provides farmers with access to cutting-edge research and training in environmental science and sustainable agriculture. By leveraging NERC’s resources, farmers can adopt innovative practices that improve resource use efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance farm productivity. Staying informed about the latest scientific advancements helps farmers address climate change challenges, protect natural resources, and maintain a competitive edge in the agricultural sector.

new blood: genetic variation brought into a breed by, e.g., introducing a new male to a flock or herd. Introducing new blood into livestock breeding programs helps maintain genetic diversity, improve herd or flock health, and enhance productivity. Farmers can benefit from strategic breeding practices that incorporate new genetic material, reducing the risk of inbreeding and its associated health issues. This approach leads to stronger, more resilient livestock populations, better adaptation to environmental conditions, and higher overall farm profitability.

no-till farming: A farming practice where crops are grown without disturbing the soil through tillage. No-till farming helps prevent soil erosion and improve soil health.

naturalise: naturalise, verb to introduce a species into an area where it has not lived or grown before so that it becomes established as part of the ecosystem. Naturalizing beneficial plant species can help improve soil health, support pollinators, and enhance biodiversity on farms. Farmers can benefit from introducing cover crops, forage plants, and other species that contribute to sustainable land management. This practice can lead to improved soil structure, reduced erosion, and increased resilience to environmental stressors, promoting long-term agricultural productivity.