| Project
Title: |
Determine
international standards for disease testing of lucerne seed |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
SAR-25A |
| Researcher: |
Dr.
Kathy Ophel Keller |
| Organisation: |
South
Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI)
Field Crops Pathology Unit,
Waite Campus
GPO Box 397
URRBRAE SA 5001 |
| Phone: |
(08)
8303 9368 |
| Fax: |
(08)
8303 9393 |
| Objectives |
· Development of
accredited protocols for bacterial wilt pathogen of lucerne seed.
|
| Background |
The
export trade in lucerne seed is worth $12 million pa in Australia. All
importing countries require declarations of freedom from bacterial wilt.
All importing countries use tests of varying standards to accept or reject
shipments. The lack of international standards for bacterial wilt (Clavibacter
michiganensis subsp. insidiosus) or Verticillium wilt of lucerne
exposes seed companies to potentially large losses if a shipment is rejected.
The International Seed Health
Initiative (ISHI) was formed by the Seed Trade Federation (FIS) to standardise
disease testing and remove restrictions based on non-acceptance of disease
test standards between countries. An ISHI Technical Committee was formed
in 1998 to standardise testing for herbage and grass seeds. Lucerne is
the first seed crop to be evaluated. There are two objectives for lucerne:
To establish standards for Bacterial Wilt and Verticillium Wilt, and to
select the test most suitable for routine use by testing laboratories. |
| Research |
In
1999/2000 the Technical Committee evaluated three selective media for bacterial
wilt and the ELISA test developed by SARDI (SAR10A). The group also examined
variation between Cmi strains internationally and commenced a comparison
of methods for Verticillium wilt testing. SARDI participated in evaluation
of all protocols and coordinated the evaluation of the ELISA test. |
| Outcomes |
The
SARDI ELISA test worked well in 3 out of 5 laboratories. It was evident
from the ELISA and media kit ring testing that stability of reagents and
cultures shipped overseas is an issue. There will be continuing work to
stabilise reagents to finalise adoption of the ELISA test for bacterial
wilt. |
| Implications |
Acceptance
of the test by the International Seed Testing Association will facilitate
lucerne seed export. |
| Publications |
Method
validation by ringtesting to establish international standards for seed
testing: a case study. J Gooden, DA Samac, D Caffier, K Ophel Keller and
J. Sheppard. Poster presentation. International Conference on Plant Pathogenic
Bacteria (PPB2000). |
| Project
Title |
Development
of a bacterial wilt test to facilitate the export of lucerne seed |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
SAR-10A |
| Researcher: |
Dr.
Kathy Ophel Keller |
| Organisation: |
Field
Crops Pathology Unit, South Australian Research and Development Institute
(SARDI) |
| Phone: |
(08)
8303 9368 |
| Fax: |
(08)
8303 9393 |
| Objectives |
· A specific and
rapid detection assay for bacterial wilt of lucerne will be developed.
|
| Background |
The
lucerne seed industry has a total value of $8 to $10 million pa. All countries
importing lucerne seed require declarations of freedom from bacterial wilt.
Bacterial wilt of lucerne is caused by Clavibacter michiganense subsp.
insidiosus (Cmi). Existing methods of detecting the pathogen are unreliable
because they are based on plating of bacteria and subsequent visual examination
of bacterial colonies. The bacterium is very difficult to isolate on growth
media. A test was required which would be more sensitive and reliable and
did not require plating. |
| Research |
The
research project has developed an ELISA-based detection for Clavibacter
michiganense subsp. insidiosus, (Cmi), the causal agent
of Bacterial Wilt in lucerne, in seed. |
| Outcomes |
The
availability of a test for bacterial wilt will facilitate export of lucerne
seed. The test developed in this project will be tested against other methods
of bacterial wilt detection as part of an International Seed Health Initiative
aimed at standardisation of seed testing internationally. |
| Implications |
Availability
of the test and acceptance of the test by the International Seed Testing
Association will facilitate lucerne seed export. |
| Publications |
International
Seed Testing Association/ International Seed Health Initiative Comparative
Test Plan: Bacterial Wilt of Lucerne. Published on ISTA Web Site. |
| Project
Title |
Seed
production of creeping vigna |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
SBS-1A |
| Researcher: |
Dr
Donald S. Loch |
| Organisation: |
Queensland
Department of Primary Industries
Redlands Research Station
PO Box 327
CLEVELAND Q 4163 |
| Phone: |
(07)
3286 1488 |
| Fax: |
(07)
3286 3094 |
| Email |
lochd@dpi.qld.gov.au |
| Objectives |
In
relation to Vigna parkeri,
· to document development
and seed production of seed crops;
· to determine environmental
factors controlling flowering, and to explore possible manipulation of
flowering in seed crops;
· to develop appropriate
commercial seed production strategies and methods, including defoliation
and irrigation practices and herbicide use;
· to enhance field
establishment by developing effective methods for reducing hardseededness;
and
· to evaluate seed
production characteristics of Vigna germplasm approaching release.
|
| Background |
Vigna
parkeri (creeping vigna), a cool-growing highland tropical legume from
East Africa, is well adapted to the humid Australian subtropics (>1100
mm rainfall annually). Its growth habit - combining a stoloniferous mat
with twining lateral ‘vines’ - ensures that it is very persistent under
heavy grazing, and allows it to form stable and productive mixed pastures
with a range of grasses including strongly competitive species such as
kikuyu, setaria and signal grass. The cv. Shaw (released in 1984) is recognised
as the premier summer legume for dairy pastures in coastal southern Queensland
and northern NSW, but its widespread commercial use is constrained by seed
availability. |
| Research |
The
pattern of vegetative and reproductive development, and the progressive
production and loss of seed in a commercial crop of cv. Shaw were recorded.
The effects of day-length and moisture stress on flowering were investigated
in controlled environment experiments. Pre- and post-emergence herbicides
(for selective control of broadleaf and grass weeds) were screened in glasshouse
and field experiments. The effectiveness and reliability of different methods
of reducing hard seed levels were assessed. Seed production characteristics
of promising new Vigna accessions were assessed under nursery conditions |
| Outcomes |
‘Shaw’
did not respond to short-day conditions under controlled environment conditions,
and both high temperatures and moisture stress were detrimental to plant
growth. The safest herbicides for post-emergence control of broadleaf weeds
are the imidizolinones (imazethapyr, imazaquin), bentazone, acifluorfen
and flumetsulam, but there is the risk of some stunting of V. parkeri
seedlings. The strategic use of selective grass herbicides at sub-lethal
rates in late summer/early autumn was investigated to manipulate the level
of the grass component in mixed swards for maximum seed production potential.
In wet years, Colletotrichum and Rhizoctonia spp. can devastate maturing
seed crops. Hot water treatment (20 minutes at 70°C) was the most effective
means of reducing hard seed levels. |
| Implications |
V.
parkeri is best grown for seed mixed with a grass (eg. Pennisetum clandestinum),
which can be slowed down by a sub-lethal dose of herbicide (haloxyfop,
sethoxydim, etc) in January to provide a strong leafy canopy for flowering.
It should not be cut back during the heat of summer, and requires good
soil moisture throughout the growing season to develop a strong vegetative
framework prior to flowering in February-March. Flowering in cv. Shaw appears
to be triggered by a significant rainfall event once the temperature falls
consistently below a temperature threshold, though the field behaviour
of a second blue-flowered line (CPI 100846) is suggestive of a short-day
response. |
| Publications |
Wade,
J. (1999) Optimising the conditions for growth and reproductive development
of Vigna parkeri, a sub-tropical legume. B.Sc. Honours Thesis, Department
of Botany, University of Queensland. 30 pp. |
| Project
Title |
Development
of export markets for cold-tolerant annual medics |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
DAS-31A |
| Researcher: |
Dr
Ian Kaehne |
| Organisation: |
Northfield
Research Laboratories
GPO Box 1671
ADELAIDE SA 5001 |
| Phone: |
(08)
8266 8333 |
| Fax: |
(08)
8261 4688 |
| Objectives |
To
develop export markets for cold-tolerant annual medics by:
· further demonstrating
that cold-tolerant cultivars with export potential can be economically
grown in Australia
· consolidating and
servicing an established overseas network of collaborators who are testing
the adaptation of cold-tolerant medics in target countries
· supporting product
development and encouraging evaluation of farming systems for using medics
in target countries
· developing those
procedures which will achieve further product improvement.
|
| Background |
Annual
medics were developed in southern Australia for use in pastures and in
ley farming systems in conjunction with cereal crops. Since the 1970s,
this practice has also been advocated in the Mediterranean and Western
Asian regions of the Old World and, as a result, significant quantities
of Australian medic seed has been exported to these regions. Most Australian
medic cultivars have been developed from naturalised introductions or by
screening accessions from overseas, and all have been developed in the
Mediterranean type environment of southern Australia. In export destinations,
except for certain areas, the lowest extremes of winter temperatures are
generally lower than in southern Australia. In these areas having colder
winters Australian cultivars often failed because they were killed or severely
damaged by frost. Consequently, in the early 1980s the export of Australia
cultivators contracted as customers found that they were poorly adapted
to frost-prone areas. The redevelopment of the export industry therefore
required the identification of genotypes of annual medics which were adapted
to the frost regimes which would be expected in target areas, and which
also would have seed yielding capability so that they could be produced
economically for export. |
| Research |
In
Australia sites were established at Mallala and Yongala in SA, to determine
levels of seed production and the grazing tolerance of the various cultivators
and lines selected for evaluation. Mallala is a centre for medic seed production,
and Yongala is a potential centre but is sometimes subject to severe frosts.
From 1991 to 1993 various
lines and check cultivators were also evaluated at La Fage in southern
France, and at Tulake in northern California, USA. Attempts to evaluate
material in north Africa were frustrated by drought (morocco), and civil
unrest (muslim fundamentalism in Algeria). |
| Outcomes |
As
a result of testing both in Australia and overseas, a short list of thirteen
genotypes from five species of Medicago have been chosen for further
commercial assessment by the commercial partner, Seedco. Three of the species
have not previously been advanced for commercial consideration in Australia. |
| Implications |
There
is strong commercial interest in this project from around the world. It
is difficult to predict what the demand for seed will be, but a realistic
estimate is 1000 tonnes per annum for markets not currently supplied with
Australian cultivators.
One of the strong features
of this project has been the close involvement of the commercial partner,
Seedco who bring considerable experience in developing export markets. |
| Project
Title |
Developing
management systems for European varieties of white clover for multiplication
in Australia and re-export |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
SED-2A |
| Researcher: |
Mr
Ted Higgs |
| Organisation: |
SEEDCO
78 Burbridge Road
HILTON, SA 5033 |
| Phone: |
(08)
8234 9333 |
| Fax: |
(08)
8234 6133 |
| Objectives |
Multiply
European vanities of white clover for export by:
· identifying the
optimum varieties suitable for multiplication in Australia
· developing optimal
management systems for these species.
|
| Background |
White
clover seed production in Australia increased following the registration
of the cultivar Haifa in March 1971, and has been concentrated in the south
east district of South Australia and adjacent Western Victoria. Haifa has
been the dominant cultivar grown for seed. Attempts to cultivate other
species have not been very successful. |
| Research |
An
overview of the industry was prepared and three experiments were conducted.
Experiment one compared Haifa
and Huia species, also Aran, Karina, Zaoican and Grasslands Kopu were considered.
Experiment two considered the species Tamar, Lune de Mai, and Crau. Experiment
three gave specific regard to vernalisation and its impact on inflorescences. |
| Outcomes |
Haifa
outperformed all other species. The lower success rate of these other species
is proportional to the degree that the species vary from Haifa particularly
in their adaptation to high latitudes and low winter temperatures. |
| Project
Title |
Development
of Four Fodder Legume Seed Species for Export |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
SED-3A |
| Researcher: |
Dr
Ross W Downes |
| Organisation: |
SEEDCO
78 Burbridge Rd
HILTON SA 5033 |
| Phone: |
(08)
8234 9333 |
| Fax: |
(08)
8234 6133 |
| Objectives |
· To develop suitable
varieties of fodder legumes so that seed can be produced in Australia for
export as sowing-seed.
|
| Background |
In
this program, varieties of species important in Europe have been modified
so that high yields of quality seed can be produced by Australian seed-growers
with minimal use of chemical sprays. The disease-resistant varieties that
have been developed can also be used by Australian farmers interested in
exporting quality hay to Asian markets. |
| Research |
The
four species of fodder crops are: Trifolium alexandrinum (berseem
clover), T. resupinatum (Persian clover), Vicia villosa (woolly-pod
vetch) and V .sativa (common vetch). The research approach varied
with species, but involved hybridisation, various forms of selection and
progeny testing, and evaluation. Much of the research was conducted on
commercial seed farms to ensure that the varieties produced are well adapted
to the seed-growing environment. |
| Outcomes |
For
Persian clover, two varieties, ‘Laser’ and ‘Leeton’, from this program
are in commercial production. They have high yields of seed and are rust-resistant
so that fungicides are not required. For the other three species, seeds
have been sown for increase so that varieties will be released for commercial
use in 1995 and 1996. |
| Project
Title |
Development
of varieties of six species of fodder legumes for sowing-seed and hay export |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
SED-8A |
| Researcher: |
Dr
Ross W Downes |
| Organisation: |
Seedco
78 Burbridge Rd
HILTON SA 5033 |
| Phone: |
(08)
82349333 |
| Fax: |
(08)
82346133 |
| Objectives |
· To modify selected
fodder species in order to enhance seed yield and forage production for
improved export potential.
|
| Background |
Tall-growing
annual fodder legumes have a long history of use in Europe for green manure,
silage and hay. In Australia they have found little acceptance in contrast
to the prostrate annual legumes such as sub clover and medics used for
grazing. When opportunities to export quality sowing-seed to the EU arose,
Australia could provide quality through seed certification schemes but
not the high seed yielding varieties of fodder legumes. This program was
designed to produce the required varieties for seed export with emphasis
on seed yield and disease resistance under Australian farm conditions to
make the varieties competitive and requiring minimal chemical inputs to
seed production. At the same time, changes in the prosperity of Australian
farming systems have suggested a place for fodder legumes for hay production
and in crop rotations on Australian farms. |
| Research |
Following
market research, six species were selected for modification. The aim was
to increase their seed production in the southern Australian winter rainfall
environment by adapting the crops’ growth patterns to seasonal rain expectation
and to increase disease resistance under these conditions. Accessions were
accumulated from various sources, direct selections were made in the field,
and the most appropriate stocks were identified. Recombination was achieved
by manually crossing plants to produce hybrids, or by allowing recombination
to be achieved by cross-pollination by bees. Plants were selected in various
locations and potential varieties were compared in plots. Plants were checked
for disease resistance in the field or with artificial inoculation in glasshouses.
Varieties commercialised were sown in nurseries for description and inspection
in order to obtain Plant Breeders Rights. |
| Outcomes |
The
following outcomes were achieved:
· In common vetch
(Vicia sativa) the varieties Vedura, Velero and
Vestar were released and
requirements for Plant Breeders Rights have been completed. These varieties
have high seed yield potential and differ in maturity, providing the opportunity
for vetch to be grown in different rainfall zones. Two other selections,
one early and one late flowering are also available for commercialisation
· Two varieties of
woolly-pod vetch (Vicia villosa) have also been produced. One is
Capello with soft seed, while Haymaker Plus has uniform flowering and high
seed yield. Both have been described for Plant Breeders Rights protection
· Elite II, a variety
of berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum) selected for high seed
yield and tolerance to Kabatiella attack has been released and PBR
applied for
· In persian clover
(Trifolium resupinatum var majus) the varieties Laser and Leeton
were selected for rust resistance and high seed yield have been described
for PBR and are available commercially
· A selection of arrowleaf
clover (Trifolium vesiculosum) is performing very well in both fodder
and seed production in trials and is being considered for commercialisation.
· Despite intensive
efforts to locate suitable types of red clover (Trifolium pratense)
for seed production in a winter rainfall environment, all accessions evaluated
flowered over an extended period and well into the summer. It appears that
this crop not is suited for seed production in regions with winter rainfall.
|
| Implications |
The
eight varieties developed, and three potential varieties of fodder legumes
emerging from this program have significant potential for sowing-seed export.
In addition, many of the varieties have considerable possibilities in Australia.
They are being evaluated for weed control, for hay and silage production,
as green manure crops in the cotton and rice industries, as cover crops
for lucerne and as alternatives to grain legumes. They can increase the
flexibility of farming rotations, fixing nitrogen and breaking disease
cycles. |
| Project
Title |
Development
of alternative pasture legumes for use in medium rainfall agricultural
regions with untapped subsurface water, and to enhance product range in
the seed and rhizobial inoculant export markets |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
DAW-50A |
| Researcher: |
Dr.
S.J. Carr |
| Organisation: |
Agriculture
WA/CLIMA
Locked Bag No. 4,
BENTLEY DELIVERY CENTRE
WA 6983 |
| Phone: |
(08)
9368 3870 |
| Fax: |
(08)
9367 2625 |
| Objectives |
· To develop new
deep-rooted herbaceous legume species and their root nodule bacteria adapted
to the sandy and duplex soils common in medium rainfall regions of southern
Australia. These species will exploit excess subsurface moisture and thereby
reduce waterlogging and secondary salinity. They will increase on-farm
productivity by extending the effective growing season, and their development
will be exploited by the seed and inoculant export industries to expand
product range in Europe and North Africa.
|
| Background |
The
underlying concept was to identify species able to remain green for extended
periods during late spring/early summer when rainfall in Mediterranean
climates declines. Our assumption is that such pasture plants are able
to use a higher proportion of the incident rainfall, an important consideration
in decreasing the rate of secondary salinisation. Another selection criteria
pertained to seed production. Historically pasture species such as sub-clover
have been suction harvested in a slow, environmentally damaging and certainly
non-sustainable process. We aimed to select species with high seed yielding
capacity and that does not require suction harvesting. |
| Research |
The
research conducted was split between standard field evaluation of known
pasture plants (eg. crimson clover) used in Mediterranean regions, and
more basic research to identify new species with the attributes we considered
desirable (eg. Biserrula pelecinus). In meeting the selection criteria
we had set, we concluded the plant ideotypes we were targeting were generally
more suited to ‘cut and carry’ types rather than regenerating farming rotational
pasture species. Hence, we were not constrained by attempting to fit in
with parameters such as conventional hard seed levels. |
| Outcomes |
Three
new pasture legumes (Trifolium vesiculosum cv Cefalu; Trifolium incarnatum
cv Caprera and Biserrula pelecinus cv Casbah) and a specific rhizobial
inoculant for each cultivar were commercialised during the final stages
of this research program, and the commencement of a related fodder project
(UWA-30). Several other species with commercial prospects were also identified,
and are subject to further evaluation. |
| Implications |
The
transition of these three new pasture legumes into commerce has recently
commenced. Unlike new varieties of standard pasture species like subterranean
clover which blend immediately into current management systems, these new
products require additional support. The ultimate success in increasing
the profitability and sustainability of agriculture in Mediterranean regions
will rely heavily on appropriate developmental support from government,
seed industry representatives and private agronomists. |
| Project
Title: |
Practical
guidelines for sub clover seed production in south eastern Australia |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
DAV-169A |
| Researcher: |
Angela
Avery |
| Organisation: |
Agriculture
Victoria Rutherglen
RMB 1145 Chiltern Valley
Road
Rutherglen 3685 |
| Phone: |
02
60 304 500 |
| Fax: |
02
60 304 600 |
| Email: |
angela.avery@nre.vic.gov.au |
| Objectives |
· To increase the
profitability, sustainability and the market profile of the subclover seed
production industry (including the RIRDC Pasture Seed Program) through
the development and publication of production based guidelines.
|
| Background |
Trifolium
subterraneum (subclover) is an important legume for farming systems in
South Eastern Australia. The subclover seed industry is small when compared
to other agricultural industries but is of great importance to Australian
agriculture as it supplies affordable, high quality legume seed to many
grazing and cropping enterprises. Economic viability and long-term sustainability
are major challenges for this industry, with industry analysis revealing
increased production costs, declining seed yield and a fall in the number
of growers. The continued ability of Australia to produce quality seed
at an acceptable price for both the domestic and export markets is critical.
Guidelines and benchmarks to support decisions relating to subclover seed
production will increase the competitiveness and economic and environmental
sustainability of the industry. Before this project there were no guidelines
available for the production of subclover for seed production. |
| Research |
Guidelines
based upon information from past and current research, seed certification
officers and case studies of leading farmers/enterprises have been developed.
Scientists, farmers and industry for accuracy, relevance and practicality
reviewed these guidelines before being published. The guidelines detail
critical areas for the production of quality seed, for example soil phosphorus
levels, weed densities and disease and grazing sequences to optimise seed
production. |
| Outcomes/
Implications |
The
guidelines provide useful information, however in some areas available
data and knowledge restricted the detail and further refinement of guidelines.
Clearly continued research and development is required to continue to improve
efficiency and sustainability of subclover seed production. There is a
need to work with subclover seed grower groups on-farm and in-crop to establish
benchmarks and useful monitoring programs. While the publication is targeted
to subclover growers much of the information will be relevant to all growers
of subclover pastures. Improved contribution of subclover to the grazing
and cropping industry is likely to build further confidence in this species. |
| Publications |
The
final product of this project was the publication "Practical guidelines
for subclover seed production in south-eastern Australia", RIRDC publication
No R01/159 |
| Project
Title: |
A
model for expansion of the Australian domestic temperate pasture seed market |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
DAV-106A |
| Researcher: |
Mr
Peter Schroder |
| Organisation: |
Rural
Consulting
2 Rippon Road
HAMILTON VIC 3300 |
| Phone: |
(03)
5572 3825 |
| Fax: |
(03)
5572 3828 |
| Email: |
pandjschroder@bigpond.com |
| Objectives |
To
develop a promotional model that will double the demand for pasture seed
in temperature Australia where grazing is the main enterprise. |
| Background |
Australia
produces about 28,000 tonnes of pasture seed annually with an estimated
value of $67 million. Certified temperate pasture seed production statistics
from 1980 – 81 to 1992 – 93 show a stagnant market situation. A National
Seed Industry Workshop held in Canberra in 1990, which was funded by RIRDC,
identified improving market penetration as one of six priority areas. The
future viability of the pasture seed industry depends on action being taken
on this. ‘Growing’ the domestic pasture seed market is particularly attractive
as the infrastructure is already in place. This means expansion can be
achieved quickly, at a relatively low cost and with minimal risk. The goal
will not be achieved by tinkering around with product, price, promotion
and place. |
| Research |
The
project involved five integrated steps:
1. Qualitative market research,
from which flowed a model.
2. Implementation of the
model over 2 years.
3. Evaluation of the impact
of the implementation.
4. Quantify the size and
attitudinal profile of the different market segments identified.
5. Testing, in other regions,
to verify the validity of the model.
The first 4 steps were done
in one district in south west Victoria. The fifth step involved work in
several other ares in Victoria and with one rural merchandise group. |
| Outcomes |
The
strongest impression gained from the qualitative research was graziers
lacked a detailed understanding of the system they managed and the key
drivers of its profitability. Two main groups were identified – intensive
and extensive graziers. The intensive group had a productivity orientation,
aimed to run their enterprise as a business and were comfortable working
with anyone who may be able to help them. The extensive group focussed
on reducing costs, over coming problems and relied heavily on rural merchandisers
for information. Peers influenced decisions in both groups but this was
particularly strong in the extensive group.
Over 2 years 5 groups of
intensive graziers were taken through a program by the author that challenged
them to take a managing directors view of their business and to identify
it’s key profit drivers. In this time 3 groups of intensive graziers were
taken through a program, in their paddocks, by a rural merchandiser, to
solve a problem which was of concern to them.
Evaluation of the program
found there had been a significant change in the way pastures were considered
by both groups. These changes flowed through into increased sales of pasture
related inputs. Testing parts of the model in other areas indicated it
could be applied successfully with very little modification. Discussions
with rural merchandisers added further to this belief.
The quantitative research
in the main study are found 35% of graziers fitted into the intensive group,
21% into the extensive group and would be receptive to the program and
46% were unlikely to ever become more interested in pastures no matter
what approach was taken. |
| Implications |
Change
to the consumption of pasture seed will be largely determined by the actions
taken by local service providers to the grazing industry. It is recommended
that an extension program be put in place to sell the vision flowing from
this project to these providers and ensure they have the knowledge, skills
and follow up support required to get local programs well established.
The follow up support is crucial because of the sharp change in mind set
required by all these providers. |
| Publications |
Schroder,
P M, (2001). A model for expansion of the Australian domestic temperate
pasture seed market. RIRDC Publication No: R01/132.
Schroder, P M, O’Keeffe,
M J and Marks, N L (1997). A model to double the demand for temperate pasture
seed in Australia. Wool Technology and Sheep Breeding, 45 (1) pp 81–87.
Schroder, P M and O’Keeffe,
M J. (1997). Getting more people to sow more pasture more often. 2nd
Australasia and Pacific Extension Conference, Albury November 1997. Pp
541-546. |
| Project
Title |
A
study of the costs of production of lucerne, medic and clover seeds |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
HAS-5A |
| Researcher: |
Hassall
& Associates Pty Ltd |
| Organisation: |
Hassall
& Associates Pty Ltd
GPO Box 4625, Sydney, NSW,
1044 |
| Phone: |
(02)
9241 5655 |
| Fax: |
(02)
9241 5684 |
| Objectives |
· To provide an
overview of the industry, analyse the costs of production, identify the
role of environmental regulation and identify future research priorities
for the industry.
|
| Background |
The
production of temperate pasture seeds in Australia is diverse. In addition,
the pasture seed industry within Australia has also been subject to significant
changes in recent years. Detailed information is not available on the costs
of production, assembly and distribution. This information is essential
for providing some benchmarks to allow individual growers to gauge their
performance and also to guide future directions for research and development
(R&D). |
| Research |
This
report was developed from available literature, the views of industry representatives
and the results of a survey of forty pasture seed producers across Australia.
Costs of production were analysed by species, State and by production method
(irrigation vs dryland). |
| Outcomes |
a) Profile: The
annual value of production for temperate legume pasture seeds in 1999 was
estimated to be $28 million. Production is highest in SA, then Victoria,
NSW and WA. There are about 640 certified producers in these four States.
b) Annual costs of production:
ranged from $386/ha (medics) to $661/ha (lucerne). Costs were lowest in
WA. Key cost components were irrigation (where relevant), growing and harvesting
costs.
c) Environmental Regulation:
none specific to pasture seed producers. Priority environmental issues
included: minimising soil damage from harvesting, developing integrated
management models, minimising inputs of pesticides and improving water
use efficiencies.
d) Priorities for future
research: improving efficiency and effectiveness of chemicals, improving
harvest technology, decreasing seed testing and certification costs, and
researching new marketing opportunities for products.
|
| Implications |
This
project provides a basis for future R&D as well as providing data that
can be used by producers in benchmarking their costs of production. |
| Publications |
Hassall
& Associates (1999) A study of the costs of production of lucerne,
medic and clover seed in Australia, RIRDC publication No R01/022. |
| Project
Title |
Pasture
establishment and management publication |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
KDI-7A |
| Researcher: |
Mark
Casey |
| Organisation: |
Kondinin
Group
177 Great Eastern Highway
BELMONT WA 6104 |
| Phone: |
(08)
9478 3343 |
| Fax: |
(08)
9478 3353 |
| Objectives |
To
survey farmers on their current pasture practises
· To collate information
on innovative methods of pasture establishment, renovation and management
· To publish a 300-400
page manual on the topic
|
| Background |
Pastures
are an integral part of Australian farming, and considerable research in
directed at solving various pasture problems. New establishment and management
strategies are being adopted by farmers, but much of the information resulting
from pasture research does not effectively reach the farmer.
Surveys have shown that younger
farmers particularly, do not have the knowledge on pasture issues that
their fathers had. This has lead to a general failure to maintain soil
fertility levels under pastures, and to inadequate control of pests and
diseases; a failure to replace pastures which have degenerated; and, a
failure to adopt sustainable grazing practices.
The publication resulting
material (case studies on successful practices etc) was produced as a pasture
manual. |
| Research |
Following
surveys of farmer practices in relation to pasture establishment and management,
topics were identified on which contributions could be made by pasture
experts in the various fields being considered. The resulting material,
(case studies on successful practices etc) was produced as a pasture manual. |
| Outcomes |
This
project has resulted in a high quality book of some 435 pages, which has
been well accepted by the farming community. |
| Implications |
This
book provides, in easily accessible format, all the information which is
needed for farmers to establish and maintain pastures in all the temperate
regions of Australia. Its use should result in more profitable animal production,
and the improvement of crop yields (particularly of grain crops). The information
provided should allow the better establishment and management of a wide
range of pasture types, and should arrest the decline in general knowledge
of pastures which is currently so clearly lacking in younger farmers. |
| Project
Title |
Lucerne
seed check: a management support system approach to improving lucerne seed
profitability |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
DAN-75A |
| Researcher: |
R
B Walker |
| Organisation: |
NSW
Agriculture
161 Kite Street
ORANGE NSW 2800 |
| Phone: |
063
913 174 |
| Fax: |
063
913 605 |
| Objectives |
· To increase the
rolling average of lucerne seed yield in the Lachlan Valley.
|
| Background |
A
potential existed to expand existing markets for lucerne seed at a state,
national and international level. By accelerating the adoption of seed
production technology, growers would be able to increase seed yields through
the efficient use of inputs, improving the long term prospects of the industry
in the Lachlan Valley and making a valuable contribution to the New South
Wales economy. |
| Research |
Through
consultation with seed growers a management support system was developed
encompassing current technology providing management targets to achieving
maximum economic seed yields. A paddock recording diary of key checkpoints
was also developed.
During the term of the project
growers were expected to utilise the accompanying resource information
compiled as an aid in making their management decisions. They were also
encouraged to monitor their crops regularly, recording details of field
observations, inputs and outputs in the recording diary.
At key checkpoints, growers
were expected to participate in group field inspections and workshops.
With the aid of visiting specialists and members of the team, growers were
assisted in meeting crop management targets in line with the established
checkpoint approach. Seed growers were also encouraged to have an input
into the progress of the project.
Participating growers were
assembled at the end of each season to discuss the results and reasons
for varying seed yield and crop profitability. Opinions would also be sought
on the format of paddock recording diaries. When undertaking scheduled
field observations seed growers were asked to record data and management
strategies for analysis at the end of each year. |
| Implications |
The
project has resulted in better insect management by growers. A change in
the insecticides used and their pattern of use has led to savings to growers
whilst reducing the impact on beneficial insects and pollinating honey
bees. Tentative economic thresholds and a method of monitoring seed crops
has been established.
An outcome of the project
is the acknowledgment by growers that plant densities of 15-20 plants per
square metre is most desirable in the Lachlan Valley when establishing
lucerne specifically for seed production.
More than 60% of growers
now undertake both winter and spring weed control programs and are able
to correctly identify weeds. Seedgrowers now also have a better understanding
of crop pollination and pollinating honey bees.
A "Water Watch" service has
been established and is supported by a resource information booklet compiled
by the team. The adoption of the use of the "Water Watch" service, improved
irrigation management techniques and the fostering of a commercially available
Neutron probe irrigation scheduling service has been an important outcome
of the project.
Growers understand that to
harvest quality seed a lucerne seed crop needs to be free of weeds and
sufficiently mature before commencing seed harvest. Failure to have a crop
in the correct condition at harvest may lead to increased mechanical damage
of seed which reflects on the quality of seed placed on the market. A major
achievement of the project has been the acceptance by seedgrowers that
most factors contributing to achieving high yields are controllable. |
| Project
Title |
Development
of rapid biochemical methods for the identification of medic cultivars |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
DAV-57A |
| Researcher: |
Martin
Mebalds & James Woodward |
| Organisation: |
Institute
of Horticultural Development
Private Bag 15
SOUTH EASTERN MAIL CENTRE
VIC 3176 |
| Phone: |
(03)
210 9226 |
| Fax: |
(03)
800 3521 |
| Objectives |
· To develop electrophoretic
‘finger-prints’ capable of differentiating between ‘look-a-like’ cultivars
of annual medics.
|
| Background |
Some
of the newer and superior cultivars of annual medics are morphologically
indistinguishable from older, agronomically different cultivars. If the
benefits conferred to pastoral industries through development of these
elite cultivars are to be exploited and sustained, then methods need to
be developed for distinguishing between these ‘look-a-likes’
The aim of this research
has been to develop electrophoretic ‘finger-prints’ to distinguish between
cultivars. The procedure should be rapid, inexpensive, and lend themselves
to automation. The technology should benefit the producer, and ultimately,
the pastoralist end user of the seed, by the ease and cost effectiveness
with which the ‘finger-prints’ might be generated. The maxim caveat
emptor will always be with us, but seed certification and the ability,
when necessary, to quickly identify seed will afford considerable protection
to the buyer. |
| Research |
Electrophoretic
tests were developed for a range of cultivars of annual medics. |
| Outcomes |
Successful
tests were developed for a distinguishing cultivars of annual medics in
eight different mixtures, each containing two cultivars. An illustrated
manual outlining the procedures for electrophoretic identification of these
major cultivars has been produced. |
| Implications |
Those
concerned with the need to identify morphologically indistinguishable cultivars
of annual medics, now have a reliable, established technique for doing
so biochemically. A manual describing the procedures is available for their
use. Application of this technology in seed certification procedures will
extend the useful number of years paddock may be used in the production
of certified medic seed. |
| Publications |
Woodward,
J. Electrophoresis Manual to assist in Annual Medic Mebalds, M.I (Medicago
sp.) Seed Identification (1993) Department of Agriculture Victoria |
| Project
Title |
Developing
an agronomic package to maximise profitability of sub clover seed crops |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
DAN-76A |
| Researcher: |
Dr
Jim Virgona |
| Organisation: |
NSW
Agriculture
Agricultural Research Institute
WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2550 |
| Phone: |
(02)
6938 1999 |
| Fax: |
(02)
6923 0809 |
| Objectives |
To
identify key agronomic and management factors limiting seed yield in subterranean
(sub)clover seed crops;
· To devise and
implement a management package to assist growers in maximising yield and
profitability
· To identify priorities
of future R&D into sub clover seed production
· To collate and summarise
existing knowledge on sub clover seed production as a basis for recommendations.
|
| Background |
Sub
clover is the predominant legume component of pastures in southern Australia.
The production of quality seed is vital to its success as a component of
pastures and to the introduction of new superior cultivars. Australia grows
all its sub clover seed and even exports a small amount.
However, the sub clover seed
industry is relatively small and technological problems encountered by
growers have rarely been addressed. Yields vary widely within the industry
(in NSW from 200-1000 kg/ha) and the reasons for this are not clear. Moreover,
yields are far below those in experimental plots which are harvested by
hand rather than the commercial suction harvester.
The problem then is one of
highly variable yields which, in many cases, means only marginal returns.
In addition it is thought that there is also potential for increasing yield
amongst the better growers (ie there is a considerable gap between yields
in experimental plots and those of the leading farmers). |
| Research |
The
research strategy for this project has been to monitor crops newly sown
in 1992. For each crop all relevant management data has been recorded.
In addition, sampling sites have been established in each paddock and monitored
for plant population, weed population, soil conditions (phosphorus, pH,
Al and Mn) and yield components. The data was analysed to determine the
management factors associated with more profitable yields and crop characteristics
that are related to high crop yield. |
| Outcomes |
Soil
phosphate was generally at levels known to be limiting for sub clover production.
Herbicides were frequently used, but not necessarily achieving long term
weed control.
In the establishment year
sowing rate and red legged earth mite control were the two most important
factors explaining differences in potential yield between seed growers.
In the two regenerating years, a suite of factors were implicated by aspects
of weed control, current and historical, and cultivar were the common factors
influencing yield in these years. |
| Implications |
The
use of fertiliser should be increased to ensure crops are grown at optimal
levels of soil phosphate. This simple message needs to be addressed by
both producers and their advisers. Likewise, in the year of establishment
growers should use a sowing rate that will achieve at least 200 plant/m2and
carefully control red legged earth mite. Future research should concentrate
on weed control. Two areas should be addressed:
· effective use
of herbicides, including examining the suitability of new herbicides under
commercial conditions and examining weed thresholds
· cropping systems
research - the use of break crops eg cereal/canola to increase the weed
control options after (for example) two years of seed production.
|
| Project
Title |
On
farm evaluation of the adaptation, distribution and potential value of
lucerne in Western Australia |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
DAW-60A |
| Researcher: |
Roy
Latta |
| Organisation: |
Agriculture
Western Australia
KATANNING WA. 6317 |
| Phone: |
(08)
9821 1755 |
| Fax: |
(08)
9821 1127 |
| Objectives |
· To develop the
lucerne seed industry by increasing area sown to lucerne in Western Australia.
|
| Background |
Lucerne
has the potential to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability
in Western Australia through filling the summer-autumn feed gap, improving
the legume component of pastures, lowering water tables and controlling
dryland salinity. The identification and release of the improved Rhizobia
strain
(WSM826) through RIRDC project DAW-36A will increase the area sown from
8000 ha’s (ABS, 1994) to at least 100,000 ha’s by 2000. |
| Research |
The
study looked at lucerne persistence and production with alternative Rhizobia
strains.
It compared the plant density and biomass of 7 Rhizobia
strains
applied to several lucerne cultivars of different growth activity ratings.
The experiment was established at Pingrup in 1994. The biomass production
for 1996 and remaining plant density were measured. Experiments at Katanning
and Jerramungup also compared lucerne cultivar persistence and production. |
| Outcomes |
Two
years after the Pingrup experiment was established there was no difference
in annual pasture production irrespective of Rhizobia strain applied
or cultivar sown. The highly winter active cultivar Sceptre had a higher
plant density than all other cultivars. At Katanning and Jerramungup the
highly winter active cultivars Sceptre and Quadrella produced more biomass
over the winter than the winter dormant cultivars, Cimmarron, Prime and
P581 but persistence was similar across cultivars. |
| Implications |
The
findings from the study provided information for current industry recommendations
which include:
· Sow highly winter
active cultivars
· Inoculate with commercial
Rhizobia
strain
WSM 826
|
| Extension |
Recommendations
on cultivars and inoculation are made annually through The Western Australian
Lucerne Growers newsletter, Agriculture WA Farmnotes, field days and the
rural media. The estimated sowing of 20,000 ha’s of lucerne in 1997 is
testimony to the success of this and collaborative projects. |
| Project
Title |
Survey
to determine demand factors in pasture legume seed usage in Australia |
| RIRDC
Project No: |
UA-24A |
| Researcher: |
Dr
P G Tow |
| Organisation: |
Department
of Agronomy and Farming Systems
University of Adelaide
Roseworthy Campus
ROSEWORTHY SA 5371 |
| Phone: |
(08)
8303 7857 |
| Fax: |
(08)
5824 8065 |
| Objectives |
To
develop a survey that would assist in developing a marketing strategy to
increase the use of pasture legume seeds. The main objectives were to determine:
· major roles of
permanent and ley pastures
· farmer practices
with respect to pasture species use, source of seed and resowing of pastures
· future intentions
regarding the use of pastures on the farm and sources of seed
· farmer opinion on
improvements thought desirable in the management of their pastures needs
for improvements in pasture legume cultivars sources of information used
for decisions on pastures.
|
| Background |
At
the Seed Industry Research Workshop in October 1990 it was agreed that
the slow growth in sales of pasture legume seed in Australia was poorly
understood.
Furthermore, there is little
feedback from seed users on the characteristics they require in pasture
legume cultivars or the information they need to assist in pasture establishment
and management. It was agreed that there is a need for the seeds industry
to be more ‘market-led’ and less ‘producer-driven’. |
| Research |
A
questionnaire was distributed in all areas where annual medics, subterranean
clovers or lucerne are sown, in rotation with crops (ley pastures). Such
areas, in total, correspond closely to the Australian cereal belt as far
north as southern Queensland.
Because some parts of farms
may be permanently under pasture due to soil type or topography, questions
on both permanent and ley pastures were included in the questionnaire. |
| Outcomes |
It
was found that about 90% of respondents had more that 10 years experience
in growing cereal grain; and that about 26% of respondents used private
consultants to obtain further information about pastures.
The overall impression was
that pastures are an important part of most cereal grower's farm systems.
The survey predicts that the great majority will continue to grow legume
pastures to feed livestock and improve soil nitrogen. |
| Implications |
There
are differences between states which should be taken into account when
planning future surveys and regional surveys may be necessary due to the
low number of replies from each region.
Information needed to develop
a program for pasture improvement and a strategy for seed marketing includes:
· the current state
of pastures, and use and value of pasture species
· most important roles
of pasture on farms
· future intentions
on resowing of pastures
· changes in pasture
area and sources of seed
· the need for improved
management practices and cultivars
· the major sources
of information on pastures
All these matters have been
addressed by the survey.
The generally high status
of state departments of agriculture needs to be taken into account regarding
information, as well as the tendency for farmers to use various other sources
of information (eg. private consultants). |
