RIRDC Completed Projects in 2001-2002 & Research in Progress as at June 2002

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3.6 Fodder Crops - completed projects
PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION

Plant Disease, Weed, Pest and Micro-organism Management

UQ-82A

Field testing microbial inoculants for hay preservation

Dr. Peter Dart

(07) 3365 2867

The University of Queensland

3.6 Fodder Crops - completed projects prior to 2001-2002
PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION

New Markets and Products

PTP-14A

Australian Fodder Industry production atlas

Mr Arthur Stubbs

(03) 9844 1135

Primary Tasks Pty Ltd

Plant Breeding and Germplasm Evaluation

SAR-8A

Development of disease resistant, high yielding oat cultivars with enhanced quality for hay production

Dr Pamela Zwer

(08) 8303 9485

South Australian Research and Development Institute

Plant Disease, Weed, Pest and Micro-organism Management

UWA-30A	Sulla and other forage species for southern Australia	Dr Mike Ewing	(08) 9380 1876	University of Western Australia
CSA-3A	Development of a quantitative ELISA for screening fodder for corynetoxins	Dr Khin A Than	(03) 5227 5731	CSIRO Animal Health
UQ-25A	Microbial inoculants for hay	Peter Dart	(07) 365 2867	University of Queensland

Quality Standards

CSJ-1A	Objective specification of the quality of hays & fodder	S Baker, R Dynes, B Purser & D Henry	(08) 9333 6000	CSIRO Animal Production
DAV-104A	Uniform objective system for quality description of Australian fodder products	Peter Flinn	(03) 5573 0900	Agriculture Victoria
DAW-28A	Development of exports of oaten hay to Japan - alternative shipping methods	CPF De Lima & R Nussey	(09) 368 3494	Department of Agriculture
SAR-2A	Establishment of annual ryegrass toxicity (ARGT) testing services and protocols for the Australian export hay industry	Alan McKay	(08) 8303 9375	South Australian Research & Development Institute

Industry Communication and Information Flows

KDI-6A	A publication on fodder systems for Australian farming	M. Evans	(08) 9478 3343	Kondinin Group
DAN-88A	Haymaker – extension technology for lucerne management	Ian Collett	(02) 6763 1100	NSW Agriculture

R&D Management Monitoring and Review

KAK-2A

Assessment of the extent, nature and source of support for a R&D levy for the Australian fodder industry

Mr Colin Simpson

(02) 6920 8216

Kakadu Pastoral Company P/L

Other Related Projects

UQ-23A

An evaluation of the fodder potential of tree legume species

R.C. Gutteridge

(07) 3365 2062

Department of Agriculture

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Plant Disease, Weed, Pest and Micro-organism Management

Project Title:	Field testing microbial inoculants for hay preservation
RIRDC Project No:	UQ-82A
Researcher:	Dr. Peter Dart
Organisation:	The University of Queensland School of Land and Food Systems ST. LUCIA QLD 4072
Phone:	(07) 3365 2867
Fax:	(07) 3365 1188
Email:	p.dart@mailbox.uq.edu.au
Objectives	Stage 1: · To develop a commercial microbial inoculum for the preservation of hay and hay pellets that inhibits growth of spoilage fungi and thereby results in a superior product with a higher value in the market place. The inoculum will be available at a cost effective price and easy to use with little expenditure on application equipment. The product will potentially be available for export. Stage 2: · Final testing of a microbial inoculant, HayRite (TM), that preserves hay against fungus attack, before it is commercialised by the project collaborators, RIRDC, UQ and BioCare. The trials are essential for quality control of the product and will test different application regimes at several locations. The project will test the effect of the inoculated hay fed to animals on feed intake, weight gain and rumen function and assay the levels (if any) of residual antibiotics in the milk, blood and rumen fluid.
Background	Losses of quality on baling of hay can be considerable if hay is preserved too dry because this will induce leaf shatter particularly for lucerne and clover hays. Bailing hay too moist, largely because of variable weather, can lead to spoilage through overheating and fungal contamination and rotting of the hay. Field trials with a microbial inoculant HayRiteTM have shown that it can improve hay quality when hay is baled at elevated moisture levels. The inoculant bacteria produces an antifungal antibiotic. The project has assessed the presence of any antibiotic residues on the hay that, when fed to animals, may result in a change in food intake, metabolism or can subsequently be detected in milk. The method of producing the inoculant for commercial use has been developed and is prepared as a powder. This product has been assessed for field use and has been tested for its efficacy on a range of crops in different locations and seasons. Animal feeding trials for residues in milk were conducted in collaboration with a dairy farmer and the Cobram milk factory that used the lab based Delvotest SP procedure. Other animal trials involving beef cattle and sheep have been conducted at UQ. There was no difference between treated and untreated hay without mould in feed intake, changes in the weight gain, and in the case of sheep, microbial protein production and antifungal antibiotic presence in rumen fluid and blood.
Research	Extensive farm field trails have shown that HayRiteTM is effective in halting moulding in a range of hays that are baled at high atmospheric moisture levels and in wheat baled at high sap moisture. The treatment of hay with HayRiteTM fed to animals had no detectable effects on their health or intake. In the case of sheep, the treatment of hay with HayRiteTM at either baling or sprayed onto hay just before feeding had no deleterious effects on the health of either the ewes treated or their lambs born 3-6 weeks after feeding. There were some small beneficial effects of these HayRite on nutritive value and live-weight gains of ewes given HayRiteTM The substantial beneficial effects of treating hay with HayRiteTM during drying may be further enhanced by minor improvements in hay quality and animal performance fed these diets.
Outcomes	This project is in the final stages of developing a commercial inoculant to be known as HayRiteTM. The product preserves moist hay against fungal attack to give a superior quality fodder with a higher value in the market place. Field trials in SE Qld, NSW and in Victoria have shown that the inoculum is effective in preserving lucerne, sorghum, wheat and rye grass/clover hay. The inoculum can be stored under refrigeration for at least a year, it is not corrosive and application is simple using existing farm spraying equipment. The inoculum is most effective when applied at mowing. Animal intake is not affected by the inoculum. Farmer co-operators will test the inoculum again in the 2002 season before its commercial release in 2002/03.
Implications	HayRite is a new product for hay preservation with advantages in the field and will be in cost over its competitors on the market in Australia and the rest of the world. Its use gives farmers a flexibility in operation that they desire to overcome the vagaries of the weather. It can be applied using readily available equipment that most farmers will already have. Use of HayRite may also improve hay quality even if weather damage is not an issue, and treated hay should command a price premium. The product will potentially be available for export.

Completed Projects - prior to 2001-2002

New Markets and Products

Project Title:	Australian Fodder Industry Production Atlas
RIRDC Project No:	PTP-14A
Researcher:	Arthur Stubbs
Organisation:	Primary Tasks Pty Ltd Unit 58/2, 247-255 Drummond Street CARLTON VIC 3053
Phone:	03 9844 1135
Fax:	03 9844 4554
Email:	akstubbs@compuserve.com
Objectives	· To map Australian fodder production patterns by defining volumes, location, nature, timing and quality of fodder produced, potentially for trade, and identifying major operators and organisations involved in production, trade and servicing.
Background	Australian Bureau of Statistics data are currently the prime source of information on the fodder industry in Australia, however, except for export data, they are historical records, provide very limited categorisation and are focussed on total production. There is a general awareness of the major operators and organisations involved in fodder production, trade and servicing, and issues such as quality and prices, but this is usually very localised and has not been collectively documented. Fodder industry meetings since 1994 have agreed that measuring and mapping the industry was an important requirement.
Research	Desk research was undertaken to gather current data on fodder production statistics and logistics from national and State rural surveys and statistical databases, followed by communication and interview with key people and organisations involved in the fodder industry. Emphasis was placed on the current major trade supply channels to define the major market areas for immediate application, but also provide information on potential fodder products and areas.
Outcomes	An Australian Fodder Production Atlas was prepared giving the latest available information on fodder production by type, quantity, seasonal availability and general quality. The atlas makes reference to the recent background of commercial fodder production in Australia, from the commencement of the export hay trade, to give a historical perspective. In addition, information is provided on the main trade channels, significant operators in the domestic and export markets, fodder markets and prices. A survey procedure is also defined, based on key correspondents and operations, to enable updating of the atlas from time to time, as required. This is based on the AFIA playing a key role in future collection and communication of this information to the industry.
Implications	This atlas of fodder production, by type, quantity and quality, will complement recent fodder industry achievements in testing and description standards, and lead to better informed prediction and sourcing of hay supplies for the various domestic and export markets.
Publications	Stubbs A.K, Atlas of the Australian Fodder Industry, RIRDC Publication No:00/122


Plant Breeding and Germplasm Evaluation

Project Title:	Development of Disease Resistant, High Yielding Oat Cultivars with Enhanced Quality for Hay Production
RIRDC Project No:	SAR-8A
Researcher:	Pamela Zwer
Organisation:	South Australian Research & Development Institute GPO Box 397 ADELAIDE SA 5001
Phone:	(08) 8303 9485
Fax:	(08) 8303 9378
Email:	zwer.pamela@saugov.sa.gov.au
Objectives	· Generate new oat populations and identify selections with improved hay end-use characters based on breeding priorities identified by farmers and hay processors. Promote F5 and F6 oat lines currently in the program to advanced trials and make a decision about cultivar release by 2000.
Background	Oaten hay exports to Japan have increased from about 170,000 tonnes in 1997 to almost 400,000 tonnes in 1999. The industry was worth about $110 million in 1999 (delivered to Japan) and with the expansion of the market to 500,000 tonnes would be worth about $183 million for Australia. The continued growth of this industry is dependent on meeting specifications of more discriminating export and domestic markets. Oat varieties with improved characters for fodder performance, are needed by both growers and hay processors. This research program was designed to specifically improve oat varieties for hay end-use.
Research	Parental material were evaluated for increased dry matter yield, improved early vigour to compete with weeds, thin to medium stem diameter, plant colour, and a wider range of plant maturites. Disease resistance and forage quality, were also important characters for selection of parental material. Crosses were made with introduced germplasm possessing desirable traits and adapted oat lines developed in the SARDI breeding program. Advanced breeding lines were evaluated in hay trials across South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia. Disease resistance, agronomic characters, hay yield potential, and forage quality were assessed. Data were summarised and used to identify improved oat varieties for hay end-use.
Outcomes	Approximately 60 germplasm introductions were sourced from oat breeding programs and collections worldwide and used to produce 160 single crosses. Early generation material derived from the crosses are in the F2 , F3 , and F4 generations. About 900 F4 plots were sown from lines derived from 1997 single crosses. Stage 4 hay trials consisting of 32 entries were sown at three to four locations in 1998, 1999, and 2000. Stage 5 hay trials, consisting of 12 entries, a subset of the stage 4 trial entries, were sown at 11 sites in 1998, eight sites in 1999, and seven sites in 2000. Agronomic data, disease reactions, and quality evaluations were used to promote the most promising lines to the next year. Two advanced breeding lines, SV88083-4 and SV87103-109, were selected as new variety releases. Commercialisation of SV88083-4 is proceeding. SV93072-43 is being considered for variety release.
Implications	New oat variety releases for hay production will be available to growers beginning in 2003. Benefits from the release of improved hay varieties will influence growers, processors, and the customer. The availability of first grade hay with consistent palatability will provide a reliable supply of a quality product for processors to market domestically and overseas. Customers will benefit with a superior performing fodder.
Publications	Zwer, P and Hoppo, S Oaten Hay Variety Development, RIRDC Publication No: Forthcoming


Plant Disease, Weed, Pest and Micro-organism Management

Project Title	Sulla and other forage species for Southern Australia
RIRDC Project No:	UWA 30A
Researcher:	Dr Mike Ewing
Organisation:	Centre for Legumes in Mediterranean Agriculture
Phone:	(08) 9380 1876
Fax:	(08) 93801140
Email	mewing@cyllene.uwa.edu.au
Objectives	· Identify new legumes species and cultivars suited for use in a range of existing and innovative fodder production systems. · Work with the fodder industry to develop and demonstrate the productivity and quality potential and benefits of new fodder legumes and to identify constraints to their adoption.
Background	Changes in farmer systems and new technology in the form of new legume cultivars has stimulated interest in their potential in fodder production and also the further development of new legumes legume species and cultivars with potential for use in such systems .
Research	The project involved a program of activities linking evaluation of plant and rhizobial genetic resources, evaluation of promising legume species and cultivars in field experiments and demonstrating legume productivity in a range of fodder production systems. The field evaluation and demonstrations were conducted on the farms of fodder producers and covered a wide range of soils and management systems .
Outcomes	Key outcomes included: · Demonstration that new available legume species and cultivars were highly productive in fodder systems (eg. Cadiz French serradella). · The release of Caprera crimson clover and Cefalu arrowleaf clover for use as dual-purpose grazing/fodder plants on well drained soils. · Identification of elite accessions of a group of legumes (and their root nodule bacteria) that, with further testing, and will add to available fodder legume options (eg. sulla Hedysarum coronarium; purple clover).
Implications	The project has identified legumes that combine high productivity in fodder production systems, with adaptation to soil and climatic condition prevailing in high rainfall regions where fodder production is concentrated. Producers now have a greatly expanded array of legume options to include in their systems to cover the wide range of environmental conditions which they face and managerial systems that they impose.
Publications	Ewing, M, Poole, C, Skinner, P and Bennett, A, Sulla and Other Forage Species for Southern Australia, RIRDC Publication No:01/41 Ewing, M. A. (1999). New pasture species. Proc. of the 11th Australian Plant Breeding Conference, eds P. Langridge, A. Barr, G. Auricht, G. Collins, A. Grainger, D. Handford and J. Paull. Vol. 1, pp 86-90, CRC for Molecular Plant Breeding, University of Adelaide Ewing M.A. (1999) Sulla and other forage species for southern Australia., AFISC Conference, August 1999, Adelaide SA

Project Title	Development of a quantitative ELISA for screening fodder for corynetoxins
RIRDC Project No:	CSA-3A
Researcher:	Dr Khin A Than
Organisation:	CSIRO Animal Health Private Bag 24 (5 Portarlington Road) Geelong Vic 3220
Phone:	(03) 5227 5731
Fax:	(03) 5227 5555
Email	khin.than@dah.csiro.au
Objectives	· To demonstrate an enzyme-linked-immuno-sorbent-assay (ELISA) for screening fodder for corynetoxins that will be useful in quality assurance of fodder and help to ensure that corynetoxin contaminated fodder does not cause annual ryegrass toxicity (ARGT) in sensitive markets such as Japan.
Background	Hay contaminated with corynetoxins causes ARGT in livestock, a problem found only in Australia. Oaten hay from Australia was responsible for several incidents of ARGT in Japan that led to export restrictions. Current QA of hay uses an ELISA for the bacterial source of the corynetoxins rather than the toxins themselves. While this has so far been successfully in preventing further incidents of poisoning it is an indirect way of ensuring that fodder is safe. Some hay that shows a strong response when assessed by the bacterial assay may be safe for stock. It was therefore considered desirable to establish a method for detecting and measuring the corynetoxins to allow better management of the problem. CSIRO had patented technology that was considered to be suitable for the purpose but this needed to be adapted for specific application to fodder.
Research	Antisera against the corynetoxins can be induced in sheep when they are injected with a modified form of the corynetoxins conjugated to a protein. Existing supplies of anti-corynetoxin antisera and newly generated sera where assessed for their suitability for use in a corynetoxin ELISA for application to fodder samples. The conditions for conducting the ELISA where optimised. This involved research into coating microtitre plates with toxin conjugates, selection of assay buffers and assay conditions. The potential for extractives from the fodder to interfere with the assay was also assessed. The solvent for extracting trace levels of toxin present was also selected bearing in mind cost, safety and efficiency. The ELISA was then validated against a confirmatory HPLC assay before it was applied to 110 fodder samples.
Outcomes	The assay was shown to be effective for application to fodder samples. It was found to be capable of measuring corynetoxin down to 40 parts per billion. It offers a means of determining the safety of fodder for stock. The corynetoxin ELISA will now need to undergo testing in several laboratories to ensure its usefulness to the fodder industry. An officer from Agriculture WA has been trained in its use. Similar training will be offered to SARDI. Inter-laboratory testing will be conducted by CSIRO to ensure that the ELISA meets acceptable standards for QA of fodder.
Implications	Following a period in which to prove its robustness and suitability for routine application to fodder samples, during which some fine tuning is anticipated, it will be available to the fodder Industry for use in assuring the safety of fodder with the potential to cause ARGT. It is expected to enable the fodder industry to better manage the problem of ARGT and to protect the industry from future trade disruptions. The reagents and standards needed for the assay are specialised products and their future availability needs to be established if the assay proves to be important for the fodder industry.
Publications	Than KA, Cao Y, Michalewicz A, Cockrum PA, Olsen V and Edgar JA (1999). Novel quantitative ELISA for corynetoxins. AFA’99: Society for Food and Agricultural Immunology’s 5th International Conference: Agri-Food Antibodies ’99; 1999 Sep 14-1999 Sep 17: Norwich, U.K. 1999 [Abstr.]

Project Title	Microbial inoculants for hay
RIRDC Project No:	UQ-25A
Researcher:	Peter Dart
Organisation:	Department of Agriculture University of Queensland ST LUCIA QLD 4072
Phone:	(07) 365 2867
Fax:	(07) 365 2965
Objectives	· To develop commercial microbial inoculants for use in hay making and hay pelleting. · To develop suitable inoculant carrier and delivery systems for field use.
Background	Spoilable and mycotoxin producing fungi can develop on lucerne plant material during hay making if the water content exceeds 30%. Drying protects plant material from fungal attack but also increases leaf loss from shatter during movement of the material in hay making and baling. Microbial inoculants may prevent growth and development of spoilage fungi, and thus enable baling at higher water content. This would help reduce leaf loss and moulding, the major cause of loss of quality of hay.
Research & Outcomes	Extensive collections of both leaf surface bacteria and spoilage fungi were isolated from fresh and dried lucerne. Bacterial strains, which affected the growth of spoilage fungi were selected. Rifampicin resistant mutants of promising bacterial strains were selected to enable monitoring inoculant populations under field conditions. Inoculant survival on lucerne was studied before cutting, during drying, after cutting and after baling. Preliminary field trials were conducted to test the effects of bacterial strains on the spoilage of baled lucerne and promising results were obtained. Media and fermentation technology are being developed for the production of suitable commercial inoculants. The aim is to achieve high populations in liquid culture. Bio-Care is conducting collaborative trials on inoculant production in their commercial fermentors.
Implications	The conserved fodder industry in Australia is valued at about $600 million. It is estimated that 50% of the feeding quality can be lost during hay making. These inoculants would be an Australian development with potential to achieve a world-wide market.


Quality Standards

Project Title	Objective specification of the quality of hays & fodder
RIRDC Project No:	CSJ-1A
Researcher:	Sue Baker, Robyn Dynes, Barrie Purser and David Henry
Organisation:	CSIRO Animal Production Private Mail Bag 5 PO Wembley WA 6913
Phone:	(08) 9333 6000
Fax:	(08) 9387 8991
Email	s.baker@ccmar.csiro,au; r.dynes@ccmar.csiro.au; purser@ccmar.csiro.au; d.henry@ccmar.csiro.au
Objectives	· To provide the Australian hay industry (domestic and export) with simple and uniform quality standards based upon objective specification, and · To validate predictions against measured animal performance and to compare methods developed in this project with existing methods on the basis of cost, speed and accuracy.
Background	The value of hays traded in Australia is about $600M, and of this hay exported mostly to Japan, Korea and Taiwan makes up about 11% of hay traded. Livestock producers understand that differences in hay and fodder quality should be reflected in animal performance. Despite this, prices paid for hays do not reflect likely performance of animals consuming them. The United States has been active in developing and putting in place quality standards for hays, and prices are based upon objectively measured hay quality. Objective, performance-based quality standards that are accepted by the industry will provide a sound basis upon which price differentials can be determined. Objective, performance-based quality standards will also enhance the ability of exporters of hay to capture and retain markets in the face of increasing competition from other exporting countries, particularly the United States. The livestock industries will benefit by an assurance that performance will be related to price paid for hay or fodder.
Research	Hay and fodder nutritive value is sometimes confused with hay and fodder quality (also known as feeding value). Nutritive value is determined by digestibility and efficiency of utilisation of nutrients, whereas feeding value is determined by nutritive value and voluntary feed intake. Thus hays and fodders of similar nutritive value can differ substantially in feeding value (quality). Biomechanical characters of hays reflect how difficult the hay is for the animal to chew, and are important in constraining voluntary feed intake by ruminants. Hay quality characters, including biomechanical characters, were evaluated to determine which of them best described the quality of the hays in terms of their feeding value, by feeding 35 cereal hays from 3 growing seasons to sheep.
Outcomes	Characters of hay that can be measured in laboratory analyses can be used as predictors of animal performance. The characters that best predict constraint to voluntary feed intake of cereal hays were shear energy (a biomechanical character), neutral-detergent fibre (NDF), and crude protein content. From a prediction of constraint to intake, voluntary feed intake can be predicted with acceptable reliability. It was confirmed that biomechanical characters can be predicted using near infra-red reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) (patents pending).
Implications	Adoption by the Australian hay and fodder industry of quality standards that reflect likely animal performance is important for the competitive of the industry and for customer confidence. Using this approach Australia is gaining an increasing market share it its export markets.

Project Title	A uniform objective system for quality description of Australian fodder products
RIRDC Project No:	DAV-104A
Researcher:	Peter Flinn
Organisation:	Agriculture Victoria, Pastoral and Veterinary Institute Private Bag 105,  HAMILTON, VICTORIA 3300
Phone:	(03) 5573 0900
Fax:	(03) 5571 1523
Email:	Peter.Flinn@nre.vic.gov.au
Objectives	· To develop and implement a national uniform objective system for quality description of Australian fodder products, based on the needs and specifications of end-users, in order to facilitate effective marketing.
Background	The fodder industry is worth approximately $700 million per year to Australia, but the industry is fragmented and has been operating without adequate quality standards. There is an increasing awareness of the need to trade hay and other fodders on the basis of their feeding value, ie. in terms of animal performance, rather than on subjective criteria such as colour and aroma. Objective measurements of fodder quality are being increasingly used, but not all testing laboratories measure the same feed constituents or use the same testing procedures, which can cause confusion within the industry. Agreement is needed throughout the industry on the most important quality measurements, and uniform analytical procedures are required between laboratories for these measurements.
Research	A national meeting, with delegates representing all sectors of the fodder industry from producers through to end-users, was convened to seek agreement on the criteria needed for a uniform system of objective quality description. Two subsequent meetings were held between representatives of Australia’s major fodder testing laboratories to decide on detailed procedures for the agreed standard laboratory tests, and to arrange an ongoing quality assurance program. Sixteen different hays were selected and fed to sheep in order to measure in vivo digestibility and ad libitum intake. Quantities of these hays were set aside as "standards", to be used as reference material for calibration of laboratory techniques to estimate digestibility (and hence metabolisable energy).
Outcomes	The national forum resulted in agreement that the major quality criteria of fodder should be moisture, crude protein and metabolisable energy. The forum also led directly to the formation of the Australian Fodder Industry Association (AFIA), which is now recognised as the peak body for the industry and is in its fourth year of operation. Agreement has been obtained between the major fodder testing laboratories on uniform analytical procedures to measure moisture, crude protein and metabolisable energy, and a set of recommended methods will now be distributed and implemented. The sixteen hays fed to sheep covered a wide range of species and quality, with measured in vivo digestibility ranging from 49.7% to 68.7%. A financially viable mechanism has been recommended for the supply and distribution of these hay "standards" to approved laboratories. A new grading system for hay quality, based on metabolisable energy and protein content, has also been produced and was adopted by AFIA at its Annual Conference in 1998. It has also been accepted by the National Agricultural Commodities Marketing Association (NACMA) as a trading standard.
Implications	The hay "standards" produced will form the basis of a nationally uniform system for laboratory estimation of fodder quality. The agreement obtained among laboratories will result in an effective system of quality description, easily recognised and understood by the industry, and will lead to improved marketing of fodder products, both in Australia and on export markets. Buyers would get better value for money, and sellers would receive bonus payments for a higher quality product.
Publications	Flinn, P et al, A Uniform Objective System for Quality Description of Australian Fodder Products, RIRDC Publication No:00/134

Project Title	Development of exports of oaten hay to Japan - alternative shipping methods
RIRDC Project No:	DAW-28A
Researcher:	Dr CPF De Lima & Mr R Nussey
Organisation:	Department of Agriculture 3 Baron-Hay Court SOUTH PERTH WA 6151
Phone:	(08) 9368 3494
Fax:	(08) 9368 1204
Objectives	· to investigate the technology of alternative packing and shipping methods for the export of oaten hay and cereal straw; · to investigate the fumigation requirements arising from these alternatives; · to investigate the economics of all stages in the marketing chain from farm gate to Japan; · to assess the market acceptance of the product in Japan.
Background	From 1990 to 1993 Western Australia exported, per year, about 40,000 tonnes of fodder valued at approximately $10 million —around half of the total exported by Australia. It is conservatively estimated that this amount could be increased more than five times through improved packing and shipping. Alternative methods to be studied are: higher density compression and use of 20' (TEU) containers; and break bulk packing of fodder in units for shipping on conventional cargo vessels.  Before new packing technologies can be introduced, the economics of all stages of the marketing chain from farm gate to Japan, and acceptance of the changes by the Japanese market, need to be assessed. Also insect fumigation requirements arising from changes in packing and shipping will need to be investigated.
Research	Trials of high-density compression of hay were carried out using facilities of Independent Wool Dumpers Pty Ltd at Fremantle capable of a maximum compression force of 250 tonnes. It was shown that 21.6 tonnes of fodder could be packed into a TEU container. There was some concern that moisture would be released from hay but after 30 days in plastic there was no evidence of condensation or mould formation. Moisture condensation was measured and instruments for analysing it surveyed. Feeding trials demonstrated suitability of the compressed fodder as cattle food. In a trial shipment of 13 tonnes to Japan there were no quarantine problems.  Data on insect species infesting oaten hay were gathered. Enough species were found to justify fumigant concentrations used. Gas concentrations and gas-tightness were also measured. An economic analysis of on-farm prices, before-processing costs, after-processing costs, export prices and margins was made.
Outcomes	Analysis confirms that shipping costs pose a serious threat to the viability of WA's export-hay industry. While the study shows that it is possible to obtain high densities of fodder in 20' containers, changing to the smaller containers may only result in a minor export increase because the Japanese market appears to prefer 40 ' (FEU) containers.
Implications	This study has indicated that a significant increase in exports of WA oaten hay would come only from developing break bulk shipping, but it is noted that support for this has, so far, been extremely disappointing.
Publications	De Lima, C.P.F., Emery, R.N. and Jackson, P. 1994. 'Improved procedures for fumigation of oaten hay in shipping containers', Proc. of the 6th International Working Conference on Stored-Product Protection, Vol 1, 7177. CAB International Wallingford UK..

Project Title	Project Title Establishment of annual ryegrass toxicity (ARGT) testing services and protocols for the Australian export hay industry
RIRDC Project No:	SAR-2A
Researcher:	Alan McKay
Organisation:	South Australian Research & Development Institute GPO Box 397 Adelaide SA 5001
Phone:	(08) 8303 937
Fax:	(08) 8303 9393
Objectives	· To develop recommendations on sampling protocols for the export oat hay industry to minimise the risk of annual ryegrass infected with the bacterium Clavibacter toxicus contaminating hay and causing the poisoning of livestock known as ARGT.
Background	Oat hay is an important export commodity. In 1996/97 about 225,000 tonnes worth $74 million was exported to dairies in Japan. Demand for Australian oat hay is increasing at about 10% pa. Most export hay is produced in South Australia and Western Australia.  Three separate incidents of cattle deaths in Japan attributed to annual ryegrass toxicity (ARGT) associated with Australian hay, jeopardised the export market in early 1996. An interim protocol developed by a consultative group lead by Department of Primary Industries and Energy (DPIE) to test the remaining stored hay from the 1995 crop. This restored confidence in Australian hay, but the hay industry was warned trade would be suspended if more toxic hay was exported to Japan. To protect industry from the consequences of further outbreaks of ARGT in Japan, a collaborative project funded by RIRDC was established to develop sampling protocols to reject contaminated hay.
Research	There were two major components to the project. The first was to establish testing services in South Australia and Western Australia to enable hay samples to be tested for the bacterium. Research was then undertaken to assess different sampling strategies for stored and processed hay. Sampling strategies for hay crops and bales in the paddock were evaluated. These studies were conducted in collaboration with export hay processors and utilised a large proportion of the export hay crops.
Outcomes	Testing services were established in South Australia and Western Australia to process hay samples. Between June 1996 and June 1998, the services processed 24,192 hay and 4,879 paddock samples. Recommendations for sampling protocols were developed for consideration by the export oat hay industry, and areas where further research would be beneficial were identified.
Implications	The future of the export oat hay industry is vulnerable unless it adopts an effective sampling protocol to manage the risk of ARGT. This will require a strong commitment by all participants, backed up by an effective quality control system.


Industry Communication and Information Flows

Project Title	A publication on fodder systems for Australian farming
RIRDC Project No:	KDI-6A
Researcher:	Mr M. Evans
Organisation:	Kondinin Group 177 Great Eastern Highway Belmont WA 6104
Phone:	(08) 9478 3343
Fax:	(08) 9478 8853
Objectives	To collect and disseminate information to Australian farmers to assist with fodder exports by: · conducting a reliability and performance survey of fodder handling equipment currently in use; and · collating information on innovative methods of handling fodder and presenting case studies of the most efficient methods and systems in Australia.
Background	There are currently 46,000 properties producing fodder in Australia. The export fodder industry is centred around Western and South Australia and has a huge growth potential for markets in the Asian and Pacific area. Machinery problems are known to be costly in time and to cause a decline in nutritional value of conserved fodder.
Research	Methodology consisted of: · developing and distributing a questionnaire; · analysing data and writing reports; · making field visits and collating farm information including machinery modifications, equipment servicing and case studies of innovative fodder producers; and · publishing a manual. More than 450 fodder producers were contacted for information for the manual and considerable information obtained from machinery manufacturers.
Outcomes	A comprehensive manual based on the information gained from the research has been published. The manual titled Cut and Dried: the Complete Guide to Hay & Silage Management provides information on the total fodder production system for farmers across Australia with emphasis on "who is doing what and how they are achieving it".
Implications	Many farmers should significantly improve the quality of hay bound for export by taking advantage of equipment modifications and advice contained in Cut and Dried.
Publications	Kondinin Group. 1994. Cut and Dried: the Complete Guide to Hay and Silage Management. Kondinin Group, WA. 424 pp.

Project Title	Haymaker – extension technology for lucerne management
RIRDC Project No:	DAN-88A
Researcher:	Mr Ian Collett
Organisation:	NSW Agriculture, The Tamworth Centre for Crop Improvement RMB 944 Calala Lane TAMWORTH NSW 2340
Phone:	(02) 6763 1100
Fax:	(02) 6763 1222
Objectives	To raise the returns of irrigated lucerne hay production through: · A 30% increase in yield per unit area over three years by optimising water use and improved nutrition · A reduction in production costs per tonne as a result of improved efficiencies in energy use · An increase in the proportion of prime quality hay produced due to better pest control and improved haymaking techniques
Background	This project was a continuation of the existing 1989 Peel and Upper Namoi Valley Irrigation Project based at Tamworth and Manilla, NSW. Field trials indicated that current irrigated lucerne hay production in the areas of the Peel, Upper Namoi and Hunter Valleys in NSW, and the Dawson-Callide, North Burnett and South Burnet districts in Queensland could be increased from 7.1 t/ha/year to 21 t/ha/year.
Research	The project used a multi-disciplinary format, relying on farmers’ irrigation and production records and computer analysis to evaluate and compare lucerne hay productivity. On-farm engineering and agronomic inspections by irrigation specialists and agronomists and the comparative analysis assisted growers to pin point deficiencies in their management and suggested the most appropriate improvements.
Outcomes	The HAYMAKER PROJECT has enabled initial evaluation of sub-surface drip irrigation technology for lucerne production. As a result there have been significant installations of this technology in lucerne production districts of Central Queensland and Northern NSW.  Large improvements in water use efficiency and profitability have been achieved by many of the 54 cooperators at Tamworth/Manilla and 15 cooperators at Biloela in Central Queensland. The average gross margin of cooperators increased by almost $1200/ha over a four year period ending 1994/95. Note that drought and drastic water shortage severely curtailed the project in 1994-96. Results immediately prior to this period however, indicate a cost benefit ratio estimated at around 15:1 for the $64,000 RIRDC funding.
Implications	The project has been of significant value to Lucerne growers in the target areas and produced valuable slipover effects in other Lucerne hay producing localities of NSW, Victoria, South Australian and Queensland. An unexpected by very pleasing outcome of the project is its recognition by the Murray Darling Basin Management Commission who have contract staff to adapt HAYMAKER to other irrigated crops as Best Management Practice.


R&D Management Monitoring and Review
 

Project Title	Assessment of the extent, nature and source of support for a R&D levy for the Australian fodder industry
RIRDC Project No:	KAK-2A
Researcher:	Mr Colin Simpson
Organisation:	Kakadu Pastoral Company P/L "Kakadu" OAKLANDS NSW 2646
Phone:	(02) 6920 8216
Fax:	(02) 6920 8277
Objectives	· Provide an assessment of the extent, the nature and sources of support for the proposed R&D levy for the fodder industry and provide an analysis of the basis for this support and any reasons for opposition. · Develop and implement a strategy for informing as wide a group of potential levy payers of the details of the scheme and provide them with an opportunity to comment on the scheme. · Ensure that the industry organisations and other participants in the industry agree to the coverage and details of the supporting evidence
Background	The National Fodder Forum conducted in Melbourne in late 1995 highlighted, amongst other things, the need for R&D funding for the fodder industry. Following the formation of the Australian Fodder Industry Association (AFIA) in 1996 a strategic plan was developed involving consultation with a broad cross section of fodder industry players. Again this process demonstrated the need for fodder industry R&D. The AFIA committee subsequently developed a proposal to fund a R&D program with a levy on fodder production. It was intended that the collection mechanism be a 3% levy on the wholesale sales of baling twine and net wrap. This proposal was circulated in June 1996 to State based farmer representative bodies and the National Farmers’ Federation. This project is the culmination of the extensive consultation phase that followed.
Research	Consultations were scheduled with all of the state based farmer representative groups, and other industry organisations. Where possible grower meetings were arranged and informative discussions held. The rural media (both print and electronic) was used extensively in the promotion of the proposal in each state.
Outcomes	Such was the level of support for the proposal, a submission to the Federal Government in support of the levy was prepared and presented to Senator Troeth in July 1998. The submission was prepared in accordance with the Government’s 12 principles for new or varied levies and met all the requirements of those principles.
Implications	This project has identified significant support for the proposed compulsory levy on fodder production to fund fodder industry R&D. The benefits of agricultural R&D over the years has been well documented, and given the very low level of fodder industry R&D in the past, the potential returns to the industry are very large. These benefits will flow to all industries that rely on fodder as part of their production process thus multiplying the benefits to the nation considerably.


Other Related Projects

Project Title	An evaluation of the fodder potential of tree legume species
RIRDC Project No:	UQ-23A
Researcher:	Dr R.C. Gutteridge
Organisation:	Department of Agriculture University of Queensland QLD 4072
Phone:	(07) 3365 2062
Fax:	(07) 3365 1188
Objectives	· To assess the nutritive value of the tree species in controlled pen feeding studies. · To undertake grazing studies to determine the liveweight gain potential of the three species for cattle. · To determine appropriate management strategies for the most efficient use of the species.
Background	Over the past ten years increasing interest has been shown in the use of tree and shrub species as fodder. Some species offer advantages over herbaceous species in terms of superior persistence, higher yields, better liveweight potential, ease of management and ability to produce high quality fodder in periods of stress. Albizia chinensis and Tipuana tipu are tree legumes which have shown agronomic promise in initial screening trials. They are reported to grow over a wide range of climatic and edaphic conditions. While they have not been widely recognised in Australia, the Queensland Department of Primary Industries have recognised their potential and included them in a regional program of browse species evaluation. They have been shown to be palatable but quantitative assessment of their nutritive value has not been carried out nor have they been evaluated under grazing.
Research	There were three major components to the evaluation of these species. The first was a study of their productivity and reaction to grazing in situ, the second was an assessment of their nutritive value in pen feeding studies. A third component was a study of the reaction of Tipuana tipu to a regular defoliation.
Outcomes	The tree legume species when fed in conjunction with signal grass (Bracharia Decumbens) are capable of producing moderate liveweight gains over extended periods. Average daily gains of up to 0.60 kg/head/day were achieved over a 6 month period which included the cool dry season from May to November. After 10 months grazing the trees did not show any obvious signs of permanent damage due to browsing by the cattle. Plant mortality in the 6 months after transplanting was relatively high for Tipuana but this may have been due to poor adaptation to the rather than a negative affect of grazing. Pen feeding studies demonstrated that goats readily consumed the dried leaf of both Tipuana and Albizia.
Implications	These trials have indicated that the three species are useful as fodder resources for ruminant livestock in a sub tropical environment and that further evaluation is warranted to help define their full potential.