RIRDC Completed Projects in 2000-2001 & Research in Progress as at June 2001

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4.2 RESILIENT AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS COMPLETED PROJECTS

Sustainable production systems development
 

PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION
ANU-30A	Soil aggregation, infiltration, fauna and phosphorous in sustainable cropping systems	Mr David Dumaresq	02 6125 0349	Australian National University
CSE-82A	Biological control of blue heliotrope	Dr David Briese	02 6246 4045	CSIRO Entomology
SAR-16A	Studies on Integrated Wastewater treatment and aquaculture production	Dr Martin Kumar	08 8200 2400	SA Research and Development Institute
UA-48A	Biological Control of Serrated Tussock and Chilean Needle grass	Dr David Briese	02 6246 4045	CSIRO Entomology / CRC for Weed Management
UJC-4A	Soil ameliorants from rock quarry by-products: Developing new products for improved plant growth in highly leached tropical soils and testing their efficacy in the laboratory and the field	A/Prof Ross Coventry	07 4781 5745	James Cook University
USA-10A	A cost effective spillway design / review procedure for South eastern Australian farm dams	A/Prof Jennifer McKay	08 8302 0887	University of South Australia
WS990-23	Sponsorship 8th International Symposium on Nitrogen Fixation with non-legumes	Mr Ivan Kennedy	02 9351 3546	University of Sydney

New and Emerging agri-industry systems
 

PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION
CSE-80A	Strategic R&D in waste management and bioremediation: Pyrethroid Bioremediation	Dr John Oakeshott	02 6246 4157	CSIRO Entomology
MFR-2A	Australian Integrated Agri-Aquaculture Systems Resource Handbook	Mr Geoff Gooley	03 5774 2208	Marine and Freshwater Resources Institute
WHP-4A	Preparation of a scoping paper on the potential for Australian Agriculture to produce new pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and industrial	Mr David Michael	02 9369 2735	Wondu Holdings

Impediments/Risks
 

PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION
CST-4A	Impact of climate change on important plant diseases in Australia	Dr Sukumar Charkraborty	07 3365 2711	CSIRO Plant Industry
DAQ-223A	Further development and application of Australian Rainman to improve management of climate variability	Dr Jeff Clewett	07 4688 1244	Department of Primary Industries, Qld
NFF-1A	Workshop to improve the operation of the Exceptional Circumstances (EC) program	Ms Wendy Craik	02 6273 3855	National Farmer's Federation

New technology systems - management
 

PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION
HAS-7A	Review of the farm and resource management issues relating to genetically modified plants	Hassall & Associates Pty Ltd	02 92 415655	Hassall & Associates Pty Ltd

Sustainable production systems development


Project Title:	Soil aggregation, infiltration, fauna and phosphorous in sustainable cropping systems
RIRDC Project No.:	ANU-30A
Researcher:	David Dumaresq and Richard Greene
Organisation:	Geography and Human Ecology, Faculty of Science ANU ACT 0200
Phone:	02 6125 0349
Fax:	02 6125 3770
Email:	David.dumaresq@anu.edu.au richard.greene@anu.edu.au
Objectives	To ensure that broadacre agricultural systems are sustainable for the next century by investigating alternative primary production systems including organic farming; and developing indicators of the effects of these systems on a range of soil physical, chemical and biological properties.
Background	A number of strategies have been recently developed in the search for more sustainable agricultural practices to relieve the combined pressure of environmental and economic degradation on farming enterprises. The development of conservation tillage systems and alternative farming practices such as organic farming are ways to overcome these pressures. It has been suggested that such alternative systems as organic farming offer strategies for reducing some of the adverse environmental impacts of conventional agriculture and may also be superior in terms of soil quality and sustainability than conventional agricultural systems. However, the productivity and economic viability of these organic systems has also been questioned.
Research	The study compares a range of measurements taken in first year wheat crops following pasture in the organic cropping system with equivalent or similar crops from the conventional system. Field measurements and soil plant samples were taken over two years across seven different wheat crops on the two farms; four on the organic farm and three on the conventional farm.  The crops sampled were the routine commercial crops grown by the two farmers using their respective organic and conventional methods. The crops sampled were those grown as the result of the farmers’ commercial decision. Subsequently a range of combinations of slightly different cropping systems were sampled as the farmers "fine tuned" their systems in response to changing markets, seasonal conditions and costs.  Soil and plant measurements taken were: i) soil chemical analyses (N, P, CEC, pH, cations); ii) soil organic carbon;  iii) aggregate stability, iv) steady state infiltration; v) % root length infected by VAM; vi) soil invertebrate populations; vii) crop root length; viii) bulk density and total soil porosity; ix) crop and weed biomass. Farm and paddock histories were established and agronomic data collected from the farmers, including yield, input costs, and farm management details.
Outcomes	The organic cropping system produced better economic returns (48%) than its conventional counterpart through lower input costs and higher commodity prices. The system also enhanced broader environmental sustainability through its reduced dependency on agricultural chemicals, in particular herbicides and N and P fertilisers. At the farm level, soil structural properties were maintained at, or improve don (5-10%), levels of their conventional neighbour. The organic system enhanced soil organic carbon levels and biological activity
Implications	This project shows that cropping systems such as organic farming can provide a commercially viable alternative to mainstream approaches to sustainability. Organic cropping was show to be better both economically and environmentally.
Publications	Dumaresq, D C and Greene, R S B 1998 Soil Physics, Fungi, and Phosphorus: Measuring Sustainability in the Australian Wheat Belt, in Farina, A et al (eds.) INTECOL Proceedings of the VII International Congress of Ecology, 19-25 July, 1998, (Abstract), Florence, Italy


 

Project Title:	Biological Control of Blue Heliotrope
RIRDC Project No.:	CSE-82A
Start Date:	1/7/1998
Finish Date:	30/6/2001
Researcher:	Dr David Briese
Organisation:	CSIRO Entomology GPO Box 1700 CANBERRA ACT 2601
Phone:	(02) 6246 4045
Fax:	(02) 6246 4000
Email:	david.briese@ento.csiro.au
Objectives	identify potential candidates for the biological control of blue heliotrope in its native range in South America, conduct studies of their host-range, biology and impact on the plant in order to prioritise agents for introduction into Australia, introduce into quarantine in Australia and determine the safety for release of the prioritised biological control agent, and, if deemed safe, obtain approval for release of the agent into the field.
Background	Blue heliotrope, Heliotropium amplexicaule Vahl, is a perennial, spreading broad-leaf weed of temperate South American origin. It was introduced into Australia in the late 19th century as a garden ornamental and now occurs in four states. In northern NSW South Wales and southern Queensland it has undergone rapid recent spread in both cultivated pastures. It is considered a serious weed in these areas because it competes with desirable summer pasture species and is toxic to stock. Herbicides have had limited success in reducing its impact and have not stopped its spread.
Research	A research base was set up in Argentina, and an entomologist contracted for the project. Three surveys conducted throughout the range of blue heliotrope in Argentina identified four insect species and one pathogen as having potential for biological control. An open-field host-specificity trial was carried out to make a preliminary assessment of the host-range of the four insect species. Field experiments were set up to study the biology and impact of the leaf-beetle and root-feeding flea-beetle. The leaf-beetle was selected for introduction into Australia, and was tested in quarantine to determine whether it posed a risk to non-target plant species. Australian plant biosecurity authorities approved its release in July 2001 and the first release is planned for October 2001.
Outcomes	The final outcome of this project will be the field release of the first agent, a leaf-beetle, for biological control of blue heliotrope in Australia. The project enabled the development of a biocontrol strategy, which suggests that control would be more effective if additional agents, such as a root-feeding insect or pathogen, could complement the actions of the leaf-beetle. Such agents have been identified in the current project, but further work is needed to determine if they are safe for release.
Implications	Successful biological control would lead to a significant reduction in the economic and environmental impact of this toxic noxious weed through environmentally-benign and self-sustaining means. It would also provide an additional tool for the integrated management of the weed. However, to fully realise the potential for biological control, further work is needed to complete the complementary guild of agents, ensure their redistribution and monitor their impact in the field.
Publications	Briese D.T., McLaren D.A., Pettit W., Zapater M., Anderson F., Delhey R. & Distel, R. (2000) New biological control projects against weeds of South American origin in Australia: Blue heliotrope and serrated tussock. Proc. X Symp. Biol. Contr. Weeds, Spencer, N.R. (ed.), July 1999, Bozeman, Montana, Montana State Uni., pp 215-223.


 

Project Title:	Studies on Integrated Wastewater Treatment and Aquaculture production
RIRDC Project No.:	SAR-16A
Researcher:	Martin S Kumar, Michael Sierp and Steven Clarke
Organisation:	Aquatic Sciences Centre South Australian Research and Development, PO Box 120, Henley Beach, SA 5022 3176.
Phone:	08 82002400
Fax:	08 82002481
Email:	kumar.martin@saugov.sa.gov.au
Objectives	To design and develop an integrated farming system for fish, livestock and agricultural production to encourage the uptake of the system developed for application in real farm situation. The aim of the program was collect baseline information for the design and develop an integrated aquaculture production system using piggery effluent to apply in real farm situation.
Background	The intensive farming, particularly animal husbandry poses the problem of disposal of organic waste, which is a current environmental concern. This project deals with the disposal of piggery effluent, which is one of the important primary industries in Australia. Australia is now rapidly approaching a period of increasing governmental regulation on out puts of piggery systems. An example of this is the introduction of load-based licensing in NSW. In South Australia, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has introduced guidelines for the controlled disposal of animal waste from milking sheds with the specific objective of protecting surface and groundwater quality.
Research	The research is focussed on: understanding the nutrient quality and composition in the pig effluent; determining the suitable nutrient concentration (dilution factor) for optimum biological treatment; evaluating zooplankton influence on nutrient removal; assessing the fish species tolerance to nutrient; and identifying appropriate animal and plant species combination for integrated wastewater treatment and aquaculture.
Outcomes	The optimum total nitrogen level to produce maximum algal biomass is about 100mg/l. However, the nutrient depletion rate was higher in higher concentrations. A retention time of 8 days in summer and 14 days in the winter will reduce 70-85% of the ammonia and about 50-60% of the soluble phosphorous content from the digested wastewater. However, by diluting the wastewater during the winter season the retention time in the algal pond could be reduced. The results indicate that properly digested wastewater appears to be safe from pathogens such as coliform. Both Silver Perch and Rainbowfish can be cultured in wastewater. However, it was found that Rainbowfish is relatively more tolerant to high nutrient levels. The duckweed and mussels along with fish could be used as an important plant and animal candidate species for nutrient removal purpose. The duckweed was found highly efficient in removing ammonia from the wastewater.
Implications	This project provides the baseline information to establish commercial biosystem which can serve as a model for pig and other intensive industries in South Australian temperate climatic condition . The South Australian model could be disseminated as appropriate to Australian farmers through training, networks, publications and the demonstration to encourage industry uptake.
Publications	Kumar.M. 2000 (Ed) Proceedings of the National Workshop on Wastewater Treatment and Integrated Aquaculture. 2000. SARDI Aquatic Sciences , 17-19th September 1999. ISBN 073085253 9.


 
 

Project Title	Biological Control of Serrated Tussock and Chilean Needle Grass
RIRDC Project No.:	UA-48A
Start Date:	1/11/98
Finish Date:	30/10/00
Researcher:	Dr David Briese
Organisation:	CRC for Weed Management CSIRO Entomology GPO Box 1700 CANBERRA ACT 2601
Phone:	(02) 6246 4045
Objectives	To identify and develop one or more candidate pathogen biological control agents to the stage where they can be introduced into quarantine in Australia by:  1) surveying the native range of N. trichotoma and N. neesiana for pathogens with biological control potential,  2) investigating the specificity of selected pathogens against key Australian native and agricultural grasses,  3) studying the population dynamics of selected field populations of N. trichotoma infected with the short-listed pathogens to determine their impact and epidemiology, and  4) developing culture methods for these pathogens in the laboratory and studying their biology and life-cycle.
Background	Serrated tussock and Chilean needle grass are two related species of South American grass that are highly invasive in south-eastern Australia. Serrated tussock is estimated to cost the grazing industry more than $50 million per year while Chilean needle grass has been described as being potentially the most destructive environmental weed of native grasslands in south-eastern Australia. Conventional control techniques have not stopped the spread of these two grasses, and it is clear that other control options are needed to contain them. Moreover, recent concerns raised over contamination of livestock produce by residual chemicals in the soil, emphasise the need for non-polluting methods of weed control. Biological control would provide such an option and enhance Australia’s reputation for exporting clean livestock produce. RIRDC is a contributor to a multi agency program
Research	A research base was established in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, and a locally-engaged plant pathologist was recruited to work with the Australian plant ecologist based there. Three major surveys were conducted throughout the range of the target weeds in Argentina and pathogens collected from these were identified. Two rust fungi that attacked the leaves, a smut infecting inflorescences and a basidiomycete attacking the tussock base were identified as having potential for biological control. The rusts and smut were prioritised for further research and laboratory studies undertaken to determine their life cycle. Preliminary studies suggest that the fungi have narrow host ranges. Field study plots were also set up at two sites to study the impact and epidemiology of the pathogens in the field. These studies are ongoing.
Outcomes	This project has identified four fungal pathogens in South America with potential to biologically control serrated tussock and Chilean needle grass. Culture methods have been developed for three of these fungi and their life-cycles are being determined. Studies to determine field impact of the pathogens and to test the safety of key Australian grass species have commenced.
Implications	Continuation of this work should lead to the eventual introduction of these fungi into quarantine in Australia and eventual release as control agents.
Publications	Briese D.T., McLaren D.A., Pettit W., Zapater M., Anderson F., Delhey R. & Distel, R. (2000) New biological control projects against weeds of South American origin in Australia: Blue heliotrope and serrated tussock. Proc. X Symp. Biol. Contr. Weeds, Spencer, N.R. & Nowierski, R. (eds), 5-9 July 1999, Bozeman, Montana.


 
 

Project Title:	Soil ameliorants from rock quarry by-products: Developing new products for improved plant growth in highly leached tropical soils and testing their efficacy in the laboratory and the field
RIRDC Project No:	UJC-4A
Researcher:	A/Prof Ross Coventry
Organisation:	School of Tropical Biology, James Cook University P.O., QLD 4811
Phone:	(07) 4781 5745
Fax:	(07) 4725 1570
Email:	Ross.Coventry@jcu.edu.au
Objectives	To determine the nature and properties of Minplus™, a finely crushed volcanic rock dust produced from quarry wastes, and its capacity to supply nutrients to plants; To identify the nature and possible duration of chemical changes induced by Minplus™ applications to a range of highly weathered, acidic soils; To evaluate growth responses of a variety of plants to applications of Minplus™ and other soil conditioners (lime, cement) in specific soils.
Background	In Australia, land managers have traditionally attempted to optimise crop yields from highly weathered soils of the humid tropics by using fertilisers and farm practices developed in the temperate zone. Alternative methods of soil conditioning using relatively fresh, rock-forming minerals may be more suitable for tropical soils. Although early studies on highly weathered soils in Mauritius, Brazil, Hawaii, and Florida have demonstrated remarkable plant growth responses to applications of ground rock dusts, few previous studies have been made in Australia, and none in the tropics.
Research	Research demonstrated the extent to which Minplus™ applications can modify key properties of 7 important agricultural soils of the Tully-Innisfail area, north Queensland, formed on granite, basalt, metamorphic rocks, basaltic alluvium, granitic alluvium, and a sandy beach ridge. A large field trial has been established on one of the soils at Innisfail.
Outcomes	Investigations have shown Minplus™ has the capacity to rejuvenate the mineral and chemical properties of soils; enhance the ability of soils to retain nutrient cations and to supply them to growing plants It also reduces soil acidity similarly to the action of lime, although sustained against soil leaching in high rainfall terrains over longer time intervals; neutralises soil acidity without the liberation of greenhouse gases (unlike lime, which releases 400 kg of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere for every tonne of lime applied to the soil). It reduces the phosphorus fixation capacity of the soil, so that phosphates added in fertilisers are made more readily available to the growing plants; provides silicon to the soil, which is thought to improve plant vigour and quality; enhances plant growth in difficult, highly weathered soils whose properties inhibit crop production.
Implications	Use of Minplus™ as a soil conditioner is expected to deliver improved plant growth in acidic, highly weathered soils of low fertility – especially those of the humid tropics. Other benefit should be reduced fertiliser use in iron-rich soils that have strong phosphate-fixing properties; new farming strategies to ensure more sustainable uses of soil resources and fertilisers; import replacement from diminished use of high-cost, imported fertilisers; reduced environmental hazards from decreased use of agricultural lime, and decreased transport of nutrients from farmlands into riparian and marine environments.
Publications	Research paper: Gillman, GP, Burkett, DC, and Coventry, RJ (2001). Application of basalt dust to highly weathered soils. Australian Journal of Soil Research. 39 (in press). Oral presentations at 3 international conferences: International Symposium on Environmental Chemistry (2000), Cape Town, South Africa; Environmental Geochemistry of Soils (2000), Bloomington, Indiana, USA; 4th International Conference on Environmental Chemistry and Geochemistry in the Tropics (GEOTROP 2001), Townsville, Queensland. 11 unpublished theses and dissertations: prepared by research students of the School of Tropical Biology, James Cook University, Townsville.


 
 

Project Title	A cost effective spillway design/review procedure for Southeastern Australian farm dams
RIRDC Project No.:	USA-10A
Researcher:	A/Prof Jennifer McKay and Dr John Pisaniello
Organisation:	University of South Australia Water Policy and Law Group School of International Business GPO Box 2471 ADELAIDE SA 5001
Phone:	(08) 8302 0887 or (08) 8302 0031
Fax:	(08) 8302 0512
Email:	Jennifer.McKay@unisa.edu.au or John.Pisaniello@unisa.edu.au
Internet:	www.business.unisa.edu.au/waterpolicylaw
Objectives	To encourage private dam owners in South eastern Australia to review and upgrade their spillways to meet current acceptable standards so as to protect lives, public and private infrastructure and the environment  To develop a cost-effective flood capability design/review procedure which is in line with ANCOLD guidelines and current best practice, thereby promoting consistency and uniform standards.
Background	The research looks to help private dam owners meet their common law obligation to review and upgrade their dams as a result of recent updates to meteorological information and engineering design standards.
Research	The project has been a pilot study involving two main components: (1) works in NSW to at least get a set of design/review curves off the ground and (2) works in VIC to help expand the already developed curves. The research has collected and collated modern small catchment flood data and used it in the model and development processes to help develop current best-practice flood capability prediction relationships for farm dams throughout NSW and Victoria. The regionalised process aims to represent the hydraulic response of any size of reservoir and spillway relative to the hydrological flood response of the selected catchment type.
Outcomes	The pilot design/review relationships developed in both NSW and VIC have demonstrated remarkable accuracies. Hence, whilst at this stage the curves are not final due to the absence of calibrated catchment data and lack of catchment spread, they demonstrate worthiness of further works to increase substance and confidence (in the relationships applying to the whole of the SEAust region) and genuine potential to provide a beneficial design/review tool to farm dam owners. Given this, RIRDC has agreed to continue funding this project into a next stage. The World Bank has also recently initiated a similar project for developing nations.
Implications	Definition of the procedure will provide cost savings to private owners in reviewing their dams and in meeting their legal duty as occupiers to manage appropriately potential peril from their land. It will also provide a level of safety assurance to downstream communities as well as economic and environmental losses. The final product also has commercial potential given the thousands of existing farm dams in SE Australia requiring review and the many more which are continually being built every year requiring adequate design.
Publications	Pisaniello, J.D., McKay, J.M. and Perera, S. (2000), 'Cost-effective Spillway Design/Review for Small Dams in Victoria: Avoiding Dam Failure Emergencies', TheAust. Journal of Emergency Management, EMA, Vol 15, No 4, pp. 2-9. This paper leads into and well describes what the RIRDC funded research is aiming to achieve.
Project Title:	Sponsorship 8th International Symposium on Nitrogen Fixation with Non-Legumes
RIRDC Project No.:	WS990-23
Researcher:	Dr Ivan R Kennedy
Organisation:	Department of Agricultural Chemistry & Soil Science AO3 Building Ross Street  University of Sydney NSW 2006
Phone:	(02) 9351 3546
Fax:	(02) 9351 5108
Email:	i.kennedy@acss.usyd.edu.au
Objectives	To conduct a workshop in the symposium aimed at promoting the application of inoculant fertilisers to Australian rice production, based on recent successes in Vietnam.  To promote attendance at the workshop by farmer participants in the Australian rice industry and producers of organic produce Provide a number of scholarships to allow selected post graduate students to attend the symposium, thus promoting the area To subsidise the production of an Executive Summary and Action Plan from the Symposium.
Background	This event is held in different countries at about 4-year intervals. Previous symposia have been held in Pakistan, Egypt and Italy and the next will be in Belgium.
Research	The 8th International Symposium on Nitrogen Fixation with Non-Legumes was held as scheduled December 3-7, 2000, at the University of Sydney, using the theme Biofertilisers in Action. The symposium involved an international meeting of about 150 scientists seeking ways to reduce the need for chemical fertilisers, such as ammonia and urea, for crops as well as plant-growth promoting rhizosphere (PGPR) effects caused by microbes based on phytohormonal effects and the mobilisation of nutrients such as phosphorus, nitrogen and other elements. An emphasis was placed on interaction with the farming community at the symposium and a group of about 15 farmers or farming industry representatives also attended the symposium, particularly on day 1, which had a stronger emphasis on farm-related issues. It was obvious from the papers and discussion at the symposium that this area of agricultural science is coming of age and that there is now sufficient data available to begin defining the scientific principles that will be involved in the successful application of this new technology on farms.  On subsequent days, the symposium heard ‘success stories’ described for microbial biofertilisers. One example was for the sugar industry in Brazil and Cuba, and a proposal to attempt to transfer this system to Mauritius; this system is based on the colonisation of the roots and stems of sugar plants with nitrogen-fixing organisms such as Herbaspirillum seropedicae and Acetobacter diazotrophicus. It is of interest that Mauritius is the country from which all the current cultivars of commercial sugar production were derived over the past 300 years, since sugar was established as a crop there by the Portuguese. Brazil grows its sugar crop using about half the nitrogen fertiliser application rate per unit of product as other countries such as Australia and Mauritius. The successful application of microbial inoculants was also described under farming conditions for the growth of rice in Vietnam, Pakistan and Bangladesh at the symposium. These inoculant biofertilisers involve the application of mixed cultures of microorganisms which have been selected for their demonstrated capacity to stimulate the vegetative and grain yield of rice. Research data was also given for successful trials involving the application of inoculants to maize in the United States and Mexico. Other papers at the symposium, such as one given by the director of CIMMYT, dealt with more general conditions required for the successful growth of crops in developing countries where there are currently social and political problems as well as scientific obstacles to growing sufficient cereals for local needs, such as African countries. A media consultant was engaged for the symposium and as a result, considerable media exposure was generated involving interviews with about 10% of the participants in the symposium. This involved mainly rural programs on ABC radio but also several stories in national and local newspapers. A significant degree of feed-back was generated as a result of the publicity and several farmers have offered to the symposium organiser to assist with field trials in future.
Outcomes	Strong appreciation is expressed to RIRDC for the funding supplied for this symposium. The organisers and participants consider that the event has been a great success. We also take the view that this will be considered a landmark conference, enabling the establishment of new agricultural technology with strong economic and environmental advantages.  Considerable difficulty was initially experienced in obtaining sufficient funds to conduct the symposium, particularly when expected funding from IRRI and FAO was not forthcoming. In past symposia, these organisations have provided sufficient funding to cover costs for many of the invited speakers. Consequently, the RIRDC funding provided an essential boost enabling the symposium to go ahead at a critical stage. In addition, it is anticipated that Biofertilisers in Action will be a landmark publication, providing a manual helping to establish a new biotechnology suitable for a sustainable agriculture and global ecosystem.
Publications	Apart from media publicity during the symposium, its output has been recorded in the  i) Abstracts of the 8th International Symposium on Nitrogen Fixation with Non-Legumes (copy forwarded to RIRDC) ii) About 15 papers have been accepted for publication later in 2001 in a special issue of the Australian Journal of Plant Physiology iii) Biofertilisers in Action (RIRDC publication). This document is currently in preparation and most of the material needed is currently being re-organised for production in the book. Some input is still being requested from participants in the symposium but it is anticipated that the camera-ready copy can be prepared by the end of July, 2001.


 
 

New and emerging agri-industry systems


Project Title:	Strategic R&D in Waste Management and Bioremediation: Pyrethroid Bioremediation and Specialist Biochemist Support for the Bioremediation project
RIRDC Project No.:	CSE-80A
Researcher:	John Oakeshott and Robyn Russell
Organisation:	CSIRO Entomology PO Box 1700 CANBERRA ACT 2601
Phone:	02 6246 4157 / 4160
Fax:	02 6246 4173
Email:	Johno@ento.csiro.au and robynr@ento.csiro.au
Objectives	To isolate, characterise and transfer to a commercial partner one or more gene / enzyme systems that can detoxify pyrethroid insecticides. This will be one of a set of enzyme-based pesticide bioremediation capabilities under development at CSIRO. The set will also include enzymes for detoxifying organophosphate, carbamate and endosulfan insecticides and thiocarbamate herbicides. Some of the other enzymes have already been developed to the point of laboratory scale proof-of-concept.
Background	Pesticide residues threaten both the production systems and the marketing of many of Australia's agricultural commodities, including grain, wool, meat, fruit and vegetables, nursery plants and cut flowers. The problems will worsen because there is mounting pressure for reducing residue levels from environmental and public health groups here and overseas. CSIRO and its licencee, Orica Australia Ltd, are developing an enzymatic bioremediation technology for major pesticides used in Australian and overseas agriculture. Major applications would include the decontamination of waste waters from irrigation operations and the clean up of surface contaminate fruit and vegetables.
Research	Pyrethroid detoxification has been historically difficult to study because of the isomeric diversity within each pyrethroid and the extremely low water solubility of all isomers. We have developed a panel of assays that allows us to assess isomer specific pyrethroid hydrolysis and applied these assays to 14 esterase enzymes. Eight of the enzymes have significant activity against some of the pyrethroid isomers tested and there is variation between enzymes in their isomer specificity. Two of the enzymes between them show good detoxification capability against a wide range of commercially relevant synthetic pyrethroid structures, the outstanding exception being for deltamethrin.
Outcomes	Enzymes capable of detoxifying a majority of isomers of the major pyrethroids used in Australian agriculture have been obtained and can now be integrated the commercial evaluation and development program at Orica, while CSIRO continues to search for enzymes active against the remaining problematic isomers.
Implications	Development of an adequate remediation technology for pyrethroids will await the finding of enzymes that detoxify the remaining problematic isomers. However, the great variation in isomer specificities among the enzymes evaluated to date give cause for confidence that these outstanding activities can also be obtained.


 
 

Project Title:	Australian Integrated Agri-Aquaculture Systems Resource Handbook
RIRDC Project No.:	MFR-2A
Researcher:	Geoff Gooley
Organisation:	Marine and Freshwater Resources Institute Private Bag 20 ALEXANDRA VIC 3714
Phone:	(03) 5774 2208
Fax:	(03) 5774 2659
Email:	geoff.gooley@nre.gov.au
Objectives	To facilitate Integrated Agri-Aquaculture Systems development in Australia by undertaking a desk-top study to review and collate relevant information on opportunities and constraints as an extension resource for new investors. To prepare an IAAS Resource handbook which will effectively disseminate key information, as outlined above, to relevant Australian industry and Government stakeholders.
Background	This project is part of the implementation of the RIRDC Integrated Agri-aquaculture (IAAS) Research and Development Strategy. The strategy is a 5 year plan which was developed at the RIRDC sponsored National Workshop on Farmer-Operated Integrated Aquaculture. Previous IAAS research funded by RIRDC includes Project No. DCM-1A the Multiple Use of Farm Water to Produce Fish.
Research	The project was largely undertaken as a desk-top study which collated information on the following topics relevant to IAAS development in Australia: 1. Literature review and establishment of R&D register.  2. Case studies were documented from Queensland, NSW, Victoria, Western Australia and South Australia. 3. Review legislation and policy. A review of State Government legislation and policy review  4. Review of marketing and economic cost-benefit of IAAS.
Outcomes	The project has collated information on IAAS development in Australia in the form of an investor handbook. Overview chapters have been written by International experts to set the scene for Australian IAAS. Subsequent chapters deal with:  Resource requirements, production systems and species options for IAAS in Australia.  Case studies showing the practical application of IAAS.  Market analysis. Economic viability. Legislative and policy framework. Investment risk analysis and business planning.
Implications	The Resource Handbook produced by this project will be a tool for farmers and potential investors in IAAS to gauge the applicability of the concept to the resources available to them.
Publications	Gooley, G. J. and Gavine, F. M. 2000. Integrated Agri-Aquaculture Systems in Australia: Virtual Industry or Commercial Reality? Paper presented at INFORM 2000 Workshop, 9-11 November 2000. University of Queensland.


 
 

Project Title:	Preparation of a Scoping Paper on the Potential for Australian Agriculture to Produce New Pharmaceutical, Nutraceutical and Industrial Products in the Period 2000-2010
RIRDC Project No.:	WHP-4A
Researcher:	Mr David Michael
Organization:	Wondu Holdings PO Box 1217 BONDI JUNCTION NSW 1355
Phone:	(02) 9369 2735
Fax:	(02) 9369 2735
Email:	dmichael@wondu.com
Objectives	This project produced a scoping paper, with a global and national focus, on the potential over the next decade for Australian agriculture to produce new pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and industrial products.
Background	New industrial processes, together with plant breeding processes, including genetic engineering, are opening up new opportunities for agriculture in satisfying a growing demand for nutritionally enhanced food materials and natural based medicinal products, as well as new industrial products. Multi-national biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, R&D Centres and Universities are investing heavily in this area. Some of these investors are among the largest companies in the world, including Pfizer, Bayer, Merk & Company, Glaxo-Welcome, Schering Plough and Rhone Poulenc Rorer. Others are entrepreneurial start up companies, a number of which are listed on the NASDAQ market in the US.  The final demand for these new products is being driven by fundamental shifts in demand for improved health and quality of life and renewed concern about the long-term availability of petroleum-based products that replaced bio-materials in the last century. The study found quality control and product safety and product efficacy are taking on added importance for businesses intending to supply finished, intermediate and raw materials for the industry. For Australia the capacity to supply these emerging market opportunities is complicated by a supply chain that features large and influential pharmaceutical companies, exacting material specifications and significant rewards for being quick to respond to market opportunities and the closely specified requirements of large multi-national corporations. Supply chain alliances of some form are likely to feature in the efficient solutions.
Research	The study examined markets and research and development activity in Western Europe, North America and Australia. An extensive literature search was undertaken of these regions. A detailed screening of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products made from natural materials was undertaken. The study team itself comprised people with internationally recognized experience in phytochemistry, pharmacology and nutraceuticals as well as supply chain economics and research policy development. A number of meetings were convened with commercial and non-commercial stakeholders. The report contains: Brief review of current pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and industrial products available from agriculture Review of the literature concerned with new products, a review of private and public research nationally and globally on development of new products and report on planned R&D of private and public organizations. Documentation of the results of preliminary production and marketing of new products including management issues, current and projected profitability etc. An examination of the implications of the review and documentation for the opportunities in Australia, including consideration of comparative advantage, suitability of natural resources (including low rainfall regions and associated trees), environmental impacts, suitability of infrastructure, institutional arrangements, public perceptions, appropriate business structures, availability of markets and required managerial capabilities. Recommendation for further investigation of Australia's potential to produce new pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and industrial products
Outcomes	The study identified 10 key positive attributes for further development of these products: a.) 25% of the active components of prescribed pharmaceuticals have their origin in flowering plants and this is expected to increase to 30% over the next decade. This is a $US30 billion global market, growing at 6%/year. b.) Herbal supplements, minerals and vitamins, already a global market of are expected to continue to experience growth of 10% or more in many segments. To this market add cosmeceuticals, growing at 8%/yr.  c.) The functional food market could grow to account for 50% of food retail turnover in developed economies (p2). d.) Scientific and market research suggests that biotech-based products can challenge the dominance of oil in the polymer and chemical markets.  e.) Australia has capacity and is internationally competitive in growing most animals and crops that have the primary content sought by functional food markets f.) Medicinal and industrial products from perennial plants have potential to improve cash flow and generate external benefits from tree plantings in areas where rising water tables and salinity is a problem (p89-102).  g.) Regulatory policies have potential to increase the use of renewable resources (e.g. the greenhouse gas abatement program) and biodegradable products made from natural materials (p97). h.) Upward volatility in the price of oil, which increases the viability of bio-based fuels such as ethanol and other energy products, made from natural materials (p98). i.) Corporate strategies of some large chemical and pharmaceutical companies to expand significantly their use of renewable energies and natural materials.  j.) Capital markets are starting to find favour with companies that have firm policies and strategies on environmental management and use of renewable resources. The study also identifies 10 major constraints in Australia to exploitation of these opportunities: 1. High risk and uncertain planning environment. 2. A regulatory environment that can add to costs of development and commercialisation. 3. Land, water and climatic environment. 4. Lack of domestic processing capacity in chemicals and vitamins  5. Economies of scale in processing, leading to market concentration and adverse pricing behaviour, making it challenging to capture high returns at the farm gate. 6. Lack of development capital 7. Low labour productivity in some enterprises. 8. Negotiating skills in a framework featuring more partnerships, joint ventures, strategic alliances and vertically integrated firms. 9. Information for consumers to make more effective decisions about product quality and content and impact. 10. Leadership to advance Australia’s position in these products.
Implications	The study identifies 17 areas for further research and development, which would be aimed at overcoming or at least reducing the constraints identified above.
Publications	New Pharmaceutical, Nutraceutical & Industrial Products, Wondu Holdings, 2000 RIRDC Publication R00/173


 

Impediments/ Risks


Project Title		Impact of climate change on important plant diseases in Australia
RIRDC Project No.:	CST-4A
Researcher:	Dr Sukumar Chakraborty
Organisation:	CSIRO Plant Industry
Phone:	07 3365 2711
Fax:	07 3365 8590
Email:	Sukumar.Chakraborty@pi.csiro.au
Objectives	To identify opportunities to reduce crop loss by quantifying impacts of climate change on plant diseases of economic significance to Australia.
Background	Plant diseases cause significant loss to Australia’s agricultural, horticultural and pastoral industries. The economic impact of disease results from losses in productivity, the cost of disease management and the economic penalty as a result of growing less profitable alternative crops. Climate change can potentially change physiology, morphology and the geographical distribution of crop and pasture species. How quickly a pathogen migrates to follow host plants will depend on a number of factors including its mechanisms of dispersal and its ability to survive on sources other than its primary host. Many plant pathogens with short generation times, high reproductive rates and effective dispersal are likely to respond rapidly to climate change.
Research	The influence of elevated CO2 on pathogen life-stages and the development of climate driven process-based models were used to assess the impact of climate change for two systems, stripe rust of wheat and anthracnose of Stylosanthes. Diseased and healthy plants exposed to ambient (350ppm) and twice-ambient CO2 concentrations will be used to determine impacts on the latent period, infection efficiency and fecundity of the pathogen. Pathogen evolution under elevated CO2 was studied using sequential generations of the pathogen by artificially generating a series of monocyclic epidemics in the CEF.
Outcomes	The work demonstrates that the effect of elevated CO2 on hosts and pathogens under climate change cannot be considered in isolation as there are significant interactions occurring between cultivar, disease status and pathogen aggressiveness. The long-term effects on the genotype of the pathogen must also be taken into account when making predictions about the likely impacts of climate change. The GIS approach used on the stylo system was by far the quickest and simplest to implement and was suitable for interpretations at a regional or larger level. The extra detail incorporated in the process-based model has the advantage of being able to consider finer resolutions, but as a much greater overhead in terms of development time and data sets.
Implications	Predicting the impacts of climate change on disease systems is complicated by the interactions between, not only the pathogen and the host, but also the changing response of the pathogen.
Publications	Chakraborty, S., Pangga, I. B. Lupton, J., Hart, L., Room, P. M. and Yates, D. 1998. Production and dispersal of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides spores on Stylosanthes scabra under elevated co2 Environmental Pollution 108: 381-387. Coakley, S., Scherm, H. and Chakraborty, S. 1999. Climate Change and Disease Management Annual Review of Phytopathology 29: 399-426.


 

Project Title:	Further Development and Application of Australian Rainman to Improve Management of Climate Variability
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-223A: RAINMAN 3
Researcher:	Dr J.F. Clewett
Organisation:	Queensland Department of Primary Industries
Phone:	07 4988 1244
Fax:	07 4688 1477
E-mail:	clewetj@dpi.qld.com.au
Objectives	To enhance management of climate variability throughout Australia by further developing and applying the Australian Rainman climate analysis package to build knowledge and skills in rural communities regards climate information, climatic risks and opportunities, seasonal forecasts, and ways to improve management decisions.
Background	The project built upon previous work in developing and applying version 2 of Australian Rainman, and was done in collaboration with Land and Water Australia, the Bureau of Meteorology, Queensland Dept Natural Resources and Mines, NSW Agriculture, and Agriculture Western Australia.
Research	The content and scientific analyses in Rainman version 3 were mainly developed by DPI with a commercial software firm (Ice Media) contracted to develop the user interface. A communications strategy was established to develop distribution and gain impacts.
Outcomes	Version 3 of Australian Rainman was released in July 1999 and is now used throughout Australia by farmers, educators, business people and consultants, extension officers and researchers. More than 2000 packages have been distributed with many packages going to groups of people. The CD package (for WindowsÔ 95, 98 and NT) is sold in standard ($104.50), educational ($104.50) and professional ($440) editions and includes: · a large data set of both monthly and daily historical rainfall data for more than 3700 locations, and facilities to import/export data and to update data via the Internet · a comprehensive suite of analyses including droughts/floods and seasonal forecasts of the amount and timing of rainfall using climate indicators such as the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) with results shown as tables, graphs and maps. · a rich suite of reference information including an electronic version of Will It Rain? with animations of key diagrams such as the Walker circulation that are so essential to understanding seasonal forecast issues, a CD version of The Long Paddock web site, a suite of tutorials on use of climatic information/seasonal forecasts in agriculture, a graphics library of diagrams, and several scientific papers. A supplementary CD for analysis of streamflow/runoff data from throughout Australia has been developed in collaboration with the LWRRDC funded Rainman Streamflow project (QPI39) and is scheduled for release in November 2001. Development of Rainman version 4 with new forecast tools and international rainfall data (12000 sites) is being done with the ACIAR funded climate project (LWR 2/96/215) for release in 2002.
Implications	RAINMAN has provided a high-quality and easily accessible suite of information about climatic variability, El Niño, La Nina, the SOI and the application of seasonal forecasts. This enables people in rural and regional Australia to build their knowledge and skills to make better decisions. Examples include: improved choice of crops and fertiliser use; matching stocking rates to expected feed supplies; more efficient use of irrigation water; and smarter financial decisions.
Publications	Clewett, J.F., Smith, P.G., Partridge, I.J., George, D.A. and Peacock, A. (1999). AUSTRALIAN RAINMAN Version 3: An integrated software package of Rainfall Information for Better Management. QI98071, Department of Primary Industries Queensland (PC software on CD). Partridge, I.J. (Ed.) (2001). Will It Rain? Effects of the Southern Oscillation and El Niño on Australia. Third Edition, Department of Primary Industries Queensland, Brisbane, Information Series QI94015, 64 pp.


 

Project Title:	Sponsorship of Workshop to improve the operation of the Exceptional Circumstances (EC) program
RIRDC Project No.:	NFF-1A
Researcher:	Ms Wendy Craik
Organisation:	National Farmers' Federation PO Box E10 KINGSTON ACT 2604
Phone:	02 6273 3855
Fax:	02 6273 2331
Email:	Nff@nff.org.au
Objectives	Travel for member organisation representatives and rural adjustment 'experts' to a workshop in late July 2000 to examine options for the provision of assistance under EC within a broader rural adjustment framework.
Background	On 26 April 2000, Minister Truss wrote to NFF seeking the Federation's views on possible reform to Exceptional Circumstances (EC) policy. In response to this request, NFF, with the support of RIRDC, convened a workshop involving NFF's member organisations. The purpose of the workshop was to provide clear recommendations to Federal and State Governments on how the farming sector believes EC assistance could become more effective.
	Exeptional Circumstances (EC) assitance is the Federal Government's main vehicle for providing support directly to farmers in a region or industry that is experiencing an adverse 'rare and severe; event; between 1992 and 1999 the Commonwealth provided approximately $1700 million in the form of EC assistance. Given the series of adverse events experienced by many farmers, an exceptional event can be devastating. A clear and well targeted EC policy is therefore essentyial as the farm sector moves into a period of re-investment and productivity growth.
Outcomes	NFF concerns in regard to EC assistance: It is widely acknowledged that there are problems in regard to the provision of EC. Several of these include Prolonged time lags in considering applications Non-adaptability of guidelines to certain regions / industries Excessive reliance on quantification and objective measurement Problems in regard to the understanding of guidelines Politicisation of the application process Ambiguous relationship with Natural disaster Relief Arrangements Issues in relation to the forms of assistance provided.  NFF recommendations: Reform of EC policy NFF believes that the following reforms would greatly improve the effectiveness of the program. 1. Greater 'co-responsibility' between Commonwealth and State / Territory Governments - NFF advocates an equal funding contribution form the Commonwealth and State / Territory Governments in relation to the business support component of EC.  2. Initial assessment of an application should involve the National Rural Advisory Council (NRAC) 3. The composition of NRAC should include a representative from the relevant State government and the local community in question 4. Greater flexibility required in regard to the definition of EC criteria 5. Greater flexibility required in relation to geographical boundaries set for EC assistance 6. A modification of personal and business support under EC assistance is required, this would include The total cash position of the enterprise should be considered, so that prudent management is not disadvantaged in regard to off farm income, in regard to personal support under EC assistance Interest Rate Subsidies should be raised to 100 per cent Allowances for superannuation and / or education purposes are required in relation to eligibility criteria.  7. Advice and capacity building components must be examined; for example an education program is required to better inform rural Australia of EC guidelines.


 

New technology systems - management


Project Title:	Review of the Farm and Resource Management Issues Relating to Genetically Modified Plants
RIRDC Project No.:	HAS-7A
Researcher:	Hassall & Associates Pty Ltd
Organisation:	Hassall & Associates Pty Ltd
Phone:	02 92 415655
Fax:	02 9241 5684
Email:	Hassyd@ozemail.com.au
Objectives	To produce a scoping paper which can underpin studies in the sector undertaken by RIRDC and other investors. .
Background	Plant genetic engineering has the potential to have a huge impact on agriculture in the next several decades. Over the last 12 to 24 months, the question of Genetically Modified (GM) plant introductions to Australian agriculture has become a major question involving producers, processors, seed companies and consumers. The review document is one which can be useful to farm advisers and policy makers in industry and government, in order to understand the farm and resource management issues associated with growing genetically modified plants and marketing the products which arise from them
Research	The study focused firstly on technical and background papers followed by a Reference group workshop in March 2000. A literature review provides a useful background to the study as well as highlighting issues which have become important in North America and Europe, including the United Kingdom. These issues are based on the much more significant GM crop experience of the regions – the rapid adoption of GM crops by American farmers and the much more cautious approach to GM crops and products by European Community members. Case studies were completed in the USA and Australia as a basis for developing a comprehensive set of issues. In addition, research and development and commercialisation organisations, agricultural advisers and supply chain groups including receivers, transporters, processors and marketers, were surveyed to gain their insights into existing and likely issues with the advent of GM plant production.
Outcomes	The issues and concerns uncovered during the study were simplified into four sets of conclusions, strategies and associated recommendations. They are : Farm and Production; Supply Chain Management; Regulation, Planning and Monitoring; and Risk.
Implications	The identified issues and strategies provides a framework for RIRDC and other investors to address the farm and resource management issues associated with growing GM plants.