N

notifiable disease: a serious infectious disease of plants, animals, or people that has to be officially reported so that steps can be taken to stop it from spreading. Managing and preventing notifiable diseases is crucial for protecting farm productivity and public health. Farmers can benefit from understanding the regulations and protocols for reporting notifiable diseases, ensuring prompt action to contain outbreaks. Implementing biosecurity measures, regular monitoring, and vaccination programs helps reduce the risk of disease transmission and minimize economic losses. Effective disease management supports farm resilience and sustainability.

national list: a list of agricultural crop varieties tested by the NIAB and available for sale. Under EU regulations, all seeds sold to farmers or horticulturists must be tested and certified. The national list ensures that farmers have access to high-quality, certified seeds that meet stringent standards for performance and safety. By choosing seeds from the national list, farmers can reduce the risk of crop failures, enhance yields, and improve the overall quality of their produce. This reliable seed source supports sustainable agricultural practices and boosts farm profitability.

Newcastle disease: an acute febrile contagious disease of fowls. Affected birds suffer loss of appetite, diarrhea, and respiratory problems, and mortality rates are high. It is a notifiable disease. Managing and preventing Newcastle disease is crucial for maintaining poultry health and productivity. Farmers can benefit from implementing biosecurity measures, regular vaccination programs, and proper hygiene practices to reduce the risk of outbreaks. Early detection and rapid response to Newcastle disease can minimize economic losses, ensure healthy flocks, and protect farm profitability.

Non-Fossil Fuel Obligation: a British government policy to promote the use of energy from renewable sources, such as solar or wind power. Abbr NFFO. The Non-Fossil Fuel Obligation supports farmers in adopting renewable energy solutions, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and enhancing environmental sustainability. Farmers can benefit from government incentives and subsidies to install solar panels, wind turbines, or other renewable energy systems on their farms. Utilizing renewable energy sources can lower energy costs, reduce carbon footprints, and create additional revenue streams, contributing to farm resilience and profitability.

no-till agriculture: a system of cultivation in which mechanical disturbance of the soil by plowing is kept to a minimum to reduce soil erosion. Also called non-till. No-till agriculture involves minimal soil disturbance, promoting soil health and reducing erosion. Farmers can benefit from adopting no-till practices to enhance soil structure, improve water retention, and reduce labor and fuel costs. No-till farming supports sustainable land management, increases resilience to climate change, and can lead to higher crop yields over time. Understanding and implementing no-till techniques can enhance farm sustainability and productivity.

non-persistent pesticide: a pesticide which does not remain toxic for long, and so does not enter the food chain. Non-persistent pesticides offer farmers a tool for effective pest control with reduced environmental impact. By using these pesticides, farmers can manage pests while minimizing the risk of residues in food and harm to non-target organisms. Understanding the proper application and timing of non-persistent pesticides ensures their effectiveness and safety. This approach supports integrated pest management, promoting sustainable and responsible farming practices.

nitrogen: a chemical element that is the main component of air and an essential part of protein. It is essential to biological life. Nitrogen is taken into the body by digesting protein-rich foods. Excess nitrogen is excreted in urine. When the intake of nitrogen and the excretion rate are equal, the body is in nitrogen balance or protein balance. Nitrogen is supplied to the soil by fertilizers, organic matter, nodule bacteria on legumes, and by nitrogen-fixing microorganisms in the soil. Proper nitrogen management is critical for optimizing crop growth and productivity. Farmers can benefit from understanding nitrogen’s role in plant nutrition and adopting practices that ensure efficient nitrogen use. This includes regular soil testing, using nitrogen-efficient crop varieties, and applying fertilizers at the right time and rate. Effective nitrogen management improves crop yields, reduces environmental impact, and enhances farm profitability.

National Office of Animal Health: NOAH is an organization that represents the British animal medicines industry. Abbr NOAH. The National Office of Animal Health provides farmers with information on veterinary medicines and best practices for animal health management. By staying informed through NOAH, farmers can ensure their livestock receive effective treatments, prevent disease outbreaks, and maintain high animal welfare standards. Access to reliable veterinary products and guidance helps improve livestock productivity, health, and farm profitability.

nanny goat: a female goat. Nanny goats are essential in goat farming for milk production and breeding purposes. They provide a reliable source of dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, which can be sold directly or processed into value-added products. Effective management of nanny goats, including proper nutrition, healthcare, and breeding practices, can enhance milk yield and quality. This contributes to increased farm income and sustainability. Additionally, goats are excellent foragers and can help manage vegetation and improve soil health through their grazing habits.

nightshade: a plant of the family Solanaceae which, if eaten by stock, are likely to cause sickness or death. Managing nightshade and other toxic plants is crucial for protecting livestock health. Farmers can benefit from regular monitoring and removal of nightshade from pastures and feed sources. Educating farm workers about the identification and risks of toxic plants ensures prompt action and reduces the risk of poisoning. Effective management practices lead to healthier livestock and safer farming environments.