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RIRDC Completed Projects in 2006-2007 & Research in Progress as at June 2007

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To Pasture Seeds Research in Progress
 

PASTURE SEEDS - COMPLETED PROJECTS
PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION

Improve Seed Production Technologies to maximise Yield, Quality & Processing Efficiency

AUA-1A	Improved maintenance and basic seed production of public pasture varieties	Mr John Blackstock	(03) 9381 2373	Australian Seeds Authority Ltd
SAR-56A	Preliminary assessment of the impact of nematodes on pasture seed production	Dr Sharyn Taylor	(08) 8303 9381	South Australian Research and Development Institute
US-131A	Lucerne yellows disease: testing and extension of disease management strategies	A/Prof. Geoff Gurr	(02) 6360 5551	The University of Sydney

Foster Emerging Sciences/Technologies and Risk Assessment

UTS-8A

Managing Intellectual Property Rights in Plant Varieties

Dr Rocque Reynolds

(02) 9514 3151

University of Technology, Sydney

*


 

2.6 PASTURE SEEDS - COMPLETED PROJECTS prior to 2005-2006
PROJECT No	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION

Improved Production Efficiency

CSE-91A	Improving lucerne pollination with leafcutter bees – stage 2	Dr. Denis Anderson	(02) 6246 4148	CSIRO Entomology
UWA-65A	Seed production limits to sulla and purple clover as fodders	Dr. Mike Ewing	(08) 9380 1876	University of Western Australia
DAV-196A	Effective weed control for the Australian white clover seed industry	Ms. Penny Riffkin	(03) 5573 0900	Department of Primary Industries (Vic)
US-85A	Development of an integrated control strategy for "lucerne yellows" disease in lucerne	Dr. Geoff Gurr	(02) 6360 5551	The University of Sydney
CSE-86A	Improved pollination of seed lucerne	Dr. Denis Anderson	(02) 6246 4148	CSIRO Entomology
IPB-1A	Evaluation of lucerne varieties for seed yield and strategies to enhance seed productivity	Dr. Ross Downes	(02) 6255 1461	Innovative Plant Breeders Pty Ltd
DAN-163A	Development of new alternative legumes and appropriate weed control technology	Mr. Graeme Sandral	(02) 6938 1850	NSW Department of Agriculture
DAV-144A	Improved seed production: "Towards 1.5 tonnes"	Ms Angela Avery	(02) 6030 4500	DNRE Victoria
DEB-1A	Evaluating and managing lucerne seed wasp in lucerne seed crops	Mr James De Barro	(08) 8755 3133	De Barro Agricultural Consulting
DAV-94A	Management of phytophthora root rot in subterranean clover for a viable pasture seeds industry	Dr R Aldaoud, W Guppy, Dr S Flett, T Cook	(03) 5833 5222	Agriculture Victoria
US-75A	Occurrence and severity of ‘lucerne yellows disease in lucerne seed crops	Dr Geoff Gurr	(02) 6369 5551	Orange Agricultural College
CMS-1A	Strategies to successfully establish and manage a productive dryland lucerne stand	M Stanley & R Christinat	(08) 8755 1295	Crop Monitoring Services
UA-27A	Herbicide failure and the need for integrated weed management in legume pasture seed crops	Stephen Powles	(08) 8303 7237	University of Adelaide
DAW-36A	Developing effective rhizobial inoculants for lucerne in WA	Pedro Evans	(08) 9821 3343	Agriculture WA
DAS-33A	Control of Rhizoctonia Burr Rot of subterranean clover	Alan Dube	08) 8226 1877	SARDI
ARM-1A	Review of weed control in lucerne, medic and sub clover seed crops	Charles Kidd	(08) 8842 3591	Australian Rural Management Services Pty Ltd
DAS-32A	Alfalfa Mosaic Virus (AMV) survey in Lucerne and Medic Seed and development of rapid tests	Evita Alberts	(08) 8372 2349	PIRSA

Export and Import Replacement Opportunities

SAR-25A	Determine international standards for disease testing of lucerne seed	Dr Kathy Ophel-Keller	(08) 8303 9368	South Australian Research & Development Institute
SAR-10A	Development of a bacterial wilt test to facilitate the export of lucerne seed	Dr Kathy Ophel-Keller	(08) 8303 9368	South Australian Research & Development Institute
SBS-1A	Seed production of creeping vigna	Dr Donald S Loch	(07) 32861488	QLD Dept of Primary Industries
DAS-31A	Development of export markets for cold tolerant annual medics	Dr Ian Kaehne	(08) 8266 8333	South Australian Research & Development Institute
SED-2A	Developing management systems for European varieties of white clover for multiplication in Australia and re-export	Mr Ted Higgs	(08) 8234 9333	Seedco
SED-3A	Development of Four Fodder Legume Seed Species for Export	Dr Ross Downes	(08) 8234 9333	Seedco
SED-8A	Development of varieties of six species of fodder legumes for sowing seed and hay export	Dr Ross Downes	(08) 8234 9333	Seedco
DAW-50A	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	Dr S J Carr	(08) 9368 3870	CLIMA


 

Availability of Technical and Economic Information

DAV-169A	Practical guidelines for sub clover seed production in south eastern Australia	Ms. Angela Avery	(02) 6030 4500	Department of Natural Resources & Environment (Vic)
DAV-106A	A model for expansion of the Australian domestic temperate pasture seed market	Mr Peter Schroder	(03) 5572 3825	Rural Consulting
HAS-5A	A study of the costs of production of lucerne, medic and clover seeds	Hassall & Associates Pty Ltd	(02) 9241 5655	Hassall & Associates Pty Ltd
KDI-7A	Pasture establishment and management publication	Mark Casey	(08) 9478 3343	Kondinin Group
DAN-75A	Lucerne seed check: a management support system approach to improving lucerne seed profitability	RB Walker	(02) 6391 3174	NSW Agriculture
DAV-57A	Development of rapid biochemical methods for the identification of medic cultivars	M Mebalds & J Woodward	(03) 210 9226	Agriculture Victoria
DAN-76A	Developing an agronomic package to maximise profitability of sub clover seed crops	Jim Virgona	(02) 6938 1999	NSW Agriculture
DAW-60A	On farm evaluation of the adaptation, distribution and potential value of lucerne in WA	Roy Latta	(08) 9821 1755	Agriculture WA
UA-24A	Survey to determine demand factors in pasture legume seed usage in Australia	P G Tow	(08) 8303 7857	University of Adelaide

Environmental Issues for Industry

DEB-3A	A water balance study for lucerne seed production resourced by an underground aquifier	Mr. James de Barro	(08) 8756 2777	De Barro Agricultural Consulting
HS-1A	The development of a more effective harvesting method for shaw creeping Vigna (Vigna parkeri)	Mr Bob Campbell	(07) 5523 4543	Heritage Seeds Pty Ltd
DAQ-148A	Improved handling of chaffy grass seeds	Dr Donald S Loch	(07) 3286 1488	QLD Dept of Primary Industries

Support Industry Quality Assurance and Self Regulation

SAR-48A	Confirmation of pest free area status from bacterial wilt of lucerne in export seed production areas	Mr. Rob Rees	(08) 8226 0446	South Australian Research and Development Institute
SED-6A	Alternative seed certification schemes in Europe and USA for adoption in Australia	Max Jongebloed	(08) 8231 6675	Seedco

Incorporate Environmental Considerations in Sustainable Production Systems

DEB-5A

Water balance and quality study for lucerne seed production resources by an underground aquifer

Mr. James De Barro

(08) 8756 2777

De Barro Agricultural Consulting

Completed Projects - Foster Emerging Sciences/Technologies and Risk Assessment

Project Title	Managing Intellectual Property Rights in Plant Varieties
RIRDC Project No.:	UTS-8A
Researcher:	Dr Rocque Reynolds
Organisation:	University of Technology, Sydney
Phone:	(02) 9514 3151
Email:	rocque.reynolds@law.uts.edu.au
Objectives	·12 The objective of this project is to prepare a report on the management of intellectual property rights in plant varieties including plant breeder's rights, patents, trade marks, copyright, passing off and confidentiality agreements in the grain and seed industries. In particular the report will focus on the incidence, status and content of IP contracts and licensing agreements, including growing agreements, and the exhaustion of IP rights under IP sales agreements. The report will analysis existing standard contracts in these industries and comment on the legality of effectiveness of existing industry practices.
Background	This research grew out of a paper presented at the 2003 Agribusiness Conference which looked at strategies for managing plant breeder’s rights (PBR). It considered cascading royalties whereby breeders would seek royalty payments not just from growers but also from seed conditioners, retailers, exporters and storage facilities. It considered how end point royalties were being introduced and urged conference participants to look to the Copyright Act (Cth) 1968 as a possible template for the future management of PBR. On the basis of this paper and my past work in managing intellectual property rights, the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation provided funding to consider how intellectual property was being managed in the pasture seeds industry. The research was to focus on the impact of plant breeder’s rights on growers.
Research	From the very beginning the research took a very clear direction. From discussions with industry leaders, growers, breeders and the Project Steering Committee it quickly emerged that, from the grower’s point of view, the most important issue to consider in relation to managing plant breeder’s rights was contract growing.  We therefore sought to establish how contract growing was related to the introduction of plant breeder’s rights; the role which contract growing played in managing intellectual property in pasture seeds; grower attitudes to contract growing and whether, from a legal point of view there were particular problems with growing contracts.
Outcomes	We determined that the introduction of PBR had facilitated the separation of farming and marketing in the pasture seeds industry; that this new specialist marketing industry relied on contract growing to supply its distribution networks; that growers who had experience of contract growing were on the whole favourably disposed towards it but growers who did not have contract growing experience were suspicious. We determined that existing contracts were poorly drafted and that the introduction of a standard contract would be desirable.
Implications	The report has challenged the popular view that contract growing is oppressive and instead suggests that the enterprise of contract growing is a joint venture between marketing and growing partners who together are creating a modern pasture seed market.
Publications	Reynolds R. (2006). Plant breeder’s, growers and the transformation of a market", Conference Paper. Cornwall J. (2005). Nature’s Capital. The history of pasture plants in Australia. Reynolds R. (2007 - In Press). Plant Breeder’s Rights and Contract Growing in the Pasture Seeds Industry: A market in transition. RIRDC Project No. UTS-8A.

Completed Projects prior to 2006-2007 – Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title	Improving lucerne pollination with leafcutter bees - stage 2
RIRDC Project No.:	CSE-91A
Researcher:	Dr Denis Anderson
Organisation:	CSIRO Entomology
Phone:	(02) 6246 4148
Fax:	(02) 6246 4000
Email:	Denis.Anderson@csiro.au
Objectives	The outcome will be increased profitability for the lucerne seed industry, achieved by improving seed yield through the use of leafcutter bees as pollinators. The deliverables: · Cost-effective quarantine procedures for importing Canadian leafcutter bees. · Improved methods for managing imported Canadian leafcutter bees under Australian conditions.
Background	Seed yields from lucerne crops in Australia are, on average, much smaller than those obtained in Canada and the United States. The higher overseas yields are mostly attributed to better pollination achieved through the use of the leafcutter bee, Megachile rotundata. The establishment of this bee in Australia, and its wide adoption as a pollinator of lucerne, will improve lucerne seed yields. Major obstacles have prevented the rapid establishment of the leafcutter bee in Australia. During an earlier stage of the current project the complex quarantine and environmental issues involved with importing the bee from Canada and getting it established in the field were resolved. The thrust of the current project was to assist the rapid establishment of the bee in Australia by improving importation and quarantine processes to enable very large numbers of bees to be imported in single shipments.
Research	Approximately 1 million leafcutter bees were imported from Canada during each year of the project (2002/03, 2003/04 and 2004/05). Shipping procedures were streamlined and shorted, reducing bee losses. Upon arrival in Australia the bees were introduced into a high security quarantine centre at CSIRO Entomology in Canberra. Modifications made to the way bees were processed in quarantine, particularly modifications made to containers used to remove bees from incubation chambers, resulted in faster processing times and the release of healthier bees. Improvements made to on-farm practices for managing bees released from quarantine, particularly to the ways bees were released and held on crops, resulted in fewer bee losses. Recovery of cells (leaf-covered cocoons containing immature new bees) from each batch of released bees was below expectation, being adversely affected by poor weather shortly after the bees were released, or by inappropriate insecticide use once the bees were established on crops. The holding of recovered cells at 2oC for two days during the over-wintering phase was found to be an effective control against a local parasitoid, Melittobia hawaiensis.


 

Outcomes	· Streamlined processes for safely importing large numbers of Canadian leafcutter bees in single shipments. · Improved methods for (a) delivering imported bees from quarantine to lucerne crops and, (b) managing leafcutter bees on lucerne crops under Australian conditions. · A DNA based diagnostic method for distinguishing imported leafcutter bees (Megachile rotundata) from native leafcutter bee species.
Implications	This project has allowed for large numbers of leafcutter bees to be imported from Canada in single shipments, thus overcoming the last major obstacle for establishing leafcutter bees in Australia. It is now up to the Australian lucerne industry to exploit this opportunity and move toward establishing the bee as a means to improving lucerne seed yields.
Publications	Lawrence, L. & Anderson, D. (2004). Leafcutter bees lift lucerne seed production. Farming Ahead, 152: 60-62. Lawrence, L. & Anderson, D. (2004). Using leafcutter bees to improve the pollination of seed lucerne. Australian Grain, Nov-Dec, i-ii. Anderson D. (2006). Improving lucerne pollination with leafcutter bees – stage 2. RIRDC Publication No 06/108.


 

Completed Projects (prior to 2006 - 2007) - Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title	Solving seed production limits for sulla and purple clover as fodders
RIRDC Project No:	UWA-65A
Researcher:	Dr Mike Ewing
Organisation:	University of Western Australia
Phone:	(08) 9380 1876
Fax:	(08) 9380 1140
Email:	mewing@cyllene.uwa.edu.au
Objectives	The project will deliver for sulla and purple clover: · Commercial cultivars of sulla and purple clover with good adaptation and acceptable harvest/processing characteristics. · A detailed understanding of current best practice for commercial harvest and seed processing of the target species. · A detailed understanding of the plant characters that will confer improved harvestability and handling. · Selection methodologies for use in practical plant breeding programs for enhanced harvest and handling characteristics. · Cohorts for further field evaluation that will provide second generation cultivars with elite harvest/processing abilities.
Background	Purple clover (Trifolium purpureum) and sulla (Hedysarum coronarium) were identified in RIRDC project UWA-30A "Sulla and Other Forage Species for Southern Australia" (Publication No. 00/41) as being highly productive species with great potential as high quality forage legumes in new farming systems for southern Australia. A major constraint to their adoption, however, is in the provision of low-cost seed, while Paratta, the original purple clover cultivar, failed commercially due to its susceptibility to clover scorch disease (Kabatiella caulivora).
Research	The project identified 74 accessions of purple clover with resistance to clover scorch disease. This is the first record of resistance to the disease. The 13 promising purple clover genotypes in UWA-30 were further evaluated in WA and NSW. CPI 139465 and CIZ12Pur-A, both with resistance to clover scorch and good threshing characteristics, were identified as the best performing varieties and underwent selection for uniformity of leaf markers. CPI 139465NM, has subsequently been short-listed for cultivar release. Eighteen elite lines have also been selected for national field evaluation trials. Field evaluation of promising sulla genotypes from UWA-30 identified HRN83-A as one of the best performing line. It has been short-listed for cultivar release. New softseeded sulla genotypes that would not require post harvest dehulling have also been identified. Their further development is the subject of a new RIRDC project.  Threshability experiments, using both commercial and experimental machinery, were conducted on both species to develop improved seed processing efficiencies.
Outcomes	CPI 139465NM purple clover and HRN83-A sulla, have been short-listed for release as new cultivars, subject to satisfactory pre-basic seed increase. A final decision on their release will be made in early 2006, in consultation with RIRDC. Elite germplasm of both species, with improved seed processing capabilities and disease resistance, has also been identified for further variety development.  Reliable screening techniques in both species have been developed for threshability, while the mechanical, physical and climatic parameters for harvesting are better understood.
Implications	This project has taken two relatively unknown species to Australian agriculture to the point of commercial release. This will provide industry with two new highly productive and sustainable forage options. While some seed production and processing hurdles still need overcoming to markedly reduce seed costs, this project has identified genotypes and harvesting technologies to make significant inroads towards this objective.
Publications	Gajda, K. and Snowball, R. (2002). Morphological diversity of purple clover. Proceedings of the 12th Australasian Plant Breeding Conference, September 2002, Perth Western Australia, 218-221. Ewing et al. (2006). Sulla and Purple Clover for Fodders - Limits on Seed Production. RIRDC Publication No 06/049

Completed projects (prior to 2006 - 2007) – Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title	Effective weed control for the Australian white clover seed industry
RIRDC Project No.:	DAV-196A
Researcher:	Penny Riffkin and Michael Moerkerk DPI (Hamilton & Horsham)
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries (Vic)
Phone:	(03) 55730900 or (03) 53622111
Fax:	(03) 55711523 or (03) 53622187
Email:	Penny.riffkin@dpi.vic.gov au, michael.moerkerk@dpi.vic.gov.au
Objectives	· To develop effective weed control strategies for white clover seed production in Australia. Identification of suitable herbicides, optimum rates and times of application for effective weed control is expected to increase seed yield by over 40% and reduce seed production costs (over $2 million per annum) and development of herbicide resistance.
Background	Poor weed control in white clover seed crops was identified by growers as a major threat to the White Clover Seed Industry. Although a number of herbicide effectiveness studies have been reported, generally herbicide impacts have only been assessed on white clover biomass or conducted overseas where results are not reliably transferable. This project examined the effectiveness of herbicides on weed species, the tolerance of white clover to different herbicides and the herbicide tolerance and yield potential of new white clover cultivars.
Research	Fifteen herbicides were applied either alone or as a mix at different rates and timing to 11 white clover stands between 2001 and 2003. For herbicide efficacy experiments, chemicals were applied where there were high infestations of one of 4 problem weed species, Annual Ryegrass, Maltese Cockspur, Jersey Cudweed or Sowthistle. Herbicide tolerance experiments were conducted at weed free sites. The potential of 6 alternative cultivars to Haifa for seed production in the region (NuSiral, Mink, Jura, Barblanca, Demand and Huia) were also assessed.
Outcomes	With a few exceptions (glufosinate), white clover seed yields were largely unaffected by the herbicides used in these experiments. On occasion white clover seed or biomass yields suffered minor reductions but results were inconsistent. Herbicides applied often had little or no significant effect on weeds compared to the unsprayed control. Some individual treatment provided varying levels of control but results were inconsistent across sites and years. There was some indication that propyzamide may offer some control but this chemical is not registered for use in white clover.
Implications	Growers are spending 25% of variable costs on herbicides that are having little or no effect on weed control. Long-term use of chemicals under increasing weed burdens will threaten the sustainability of the industry through weed resistance and a lack of weed control options. Growers need to investigate and adopt alternative strategies to herbicide use for the control of weeds in white clover seed crops.
Publications	Riffkin P, Moerkerk M, Kearney G, Jahufer Z and Argall R. (2005). Effective weed control for the Australian white clover seed industry. (2005, 64pgs). RIRDC Publication Number 05/089.


 

Completed projects (prior to 2006 - 2007) – Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title	Development of an integrated control strategy for "lucerne yellows" disease in lucerne
RIRDC Project No:	US-85A
Researcher:	Dr. Geoff Gurr
Organisation:	The University of Sydney
Phone:	(02) 6360 5551
Fax:	(02) 6360 5590
Email:	ggurr@orange.usyd.edu.au
Objectives	· To identify the cause of the important disease 'lucerne yellows'; to determine how it is spread; and to devise, test and extend a strategy for best practice disease management.
Background	Lucerne yellows is one of several major lucerne diseases in NSW and has a particularly severe impact on seed production, causing death of plants and reduced vigour in those that survive. The magnitude of this disease problem was assessed in an earlier RIRDC pilot project (US-75A Occurrence and severity of ‘lucerne yellows’ disease in lucerne seed crops) that estimated annual losses in NSW and SA to $7M pa.
Research	The project has used electron microscopy, molecular biology and traditional plant pathology methods to investigate the cause of the disease. Field surveys explored spatial and temporal development of symptoms in newly sown lucerne and the relevance of non-crop vegetation. Several field experiments explored scope for symptom alleviation as well as disease management via control of vector insects. Transmission test have investigated vector species.
Outcomes	Electron microscopy and molecular biology methods have identified a new species of phytoplasma (and no other pathogen) associated with diseased plants. Field surveys showed that newly sown crops develop symptoms within 32 weeks of sowing and that within-field distribution of symptomatic plants was highest in sections of the crop margin. No indications of seed borne transmission have been found. Leafhopper transmission is supported by results. Field distribution of leafhoppers was correlated with disease levels and they were found also on some field-side weed species. Experimental treatments of non-crop vegetation with herbicide or insecticide reduced catches of leafhoppers and reduced disease levels. A range of possible symptom alleviation treatments failed to reduce disease levels in a field experiment.
Implications	Results indicate that even newly-sown crops are at risk of infection of lucerne yellows – a disease caused by a novel phytoplasma and transmitted by leafhoppers. Disease management appears possible by reducing immigration of vectors from non-crop vegetation adjacent to the crop. Pesticide applications may accomplish this though scope exists to develop physical barriers as a low-input strategy.


 

Publications

Pilkington L. J., et al. Detection and identification of a phytoplasma associated with ‘Australian lucerne yellows’ disease. Plant Pathology (submitted). Pilkington L. J., et al. (2001). First report of a phytoplasma associated with ‘Australian lucerne yellows’ disease. New Disease Reports, (unpaginated) <http://www.bspp.org.uk/ndr/index.htm>. Pilkington, L. J., et al. (2003). Australian lucerne yellows: Spatial and temporal analysis of symptom severity and purported vector density. 8th International Congress of Plant Pathology, Christchurch, New Zealand.  Pilkington, L. J et al. (2003). Limiting immigration of suspected vectors of Australian lucerne yellows disease. 8th International Congress of Plant Pathology, Christchurch, New Zealand.  Pilkington, L. J et al. (2001) 'Lucerne yellows' disease - TEM and molecular studies. Conference Handbook, 13th Biennial Plant Pathology Conference, 24-27 September 2001, Cairns, Australia. p 276. Gurr G., Pilkington L., Fletcher M., Elliott E., Nikandrow A. and Gibb K. (2005). Australian Lucerne Yellows Disease – Pathogen, vector and control. RIRDC Publication No 05/033.


 

Completed projects (prior to 2006 - 2007) – Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title	Improved pollination of seed lucerne with leafcutter bees
RIRDC Project No:	CSE-86A
Researcher:	Dr. Denis Anderson
Organisation:	CSIRO Entomology
Phone:	(02) 6246 4148
Fax:	(02) 6246 4000
Email:	Denis.Anderson@csiro.au
Objectives	To improve the profitability of the lucerne seed industry by significantly increasing yields through improved pollination. The research will facilitate the establishment of a leafcutter bee industry by: · Improving current quarantine import protocols for leafcutter bees · Developing methods to improve the recovery of leafcutter bees released on to lucerne crops · Identifying and characterizing pests and pathogens of imported bees and their offspring · Production of a booklet outlining requirements for successfully importing leafcutter bees and multiplying these in different Australian environments.
Background	There is significant scope for improving profits from producing lucerne seed in Australia. Annual production of lucerne seed is only about one-third of that achieved in the US and Canada and the difference is largely attributed to better pollination in the US and Canada from the use of leafcutter bees (Megachile rotundata). Early attempts to establish leafcutter bees in Australia were unsuccessful. In 1997 the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) commissioned a risk assessment on the bees and later that year approved a procedure for importing them from Canada. Two introductions followed: 300,000 cells containing prepupae from Canada in September1997; and 450,000 cells containing prepupae from Canada in December 1998.
Research	Adult leafcutter bees were reared from these cells in CSIRO’s high security quarantine facility in Canberra and released on to lucerne crops in NSW. However, very few bees survived. Their failure to survive was attributed to the severe quarantine treatments they passed through prior to release. The current project was designed to build on the lessons learnt from the 1997-98 introductions. In the first year (1999), 110,000 leafcutter bee prepupae that had been carried-over in cold storage from December 1998 introduction were reared into adults in quarantine and released on to lucerne crops in NSW and the ACT. In May 2000 and May 2001 a further 700,000 and 1.2 million Canadian leafcutter bee prepupae were introduced and similarly processed. During each of these introductions attempts were made to (a) improve quarantine procedures, (b) improve the way bees were released to, and managed on, lucerne crops and, (c) identify new pests and parasites affecting the bees in the Australian environment.
Outcomes	·1 An improved procedure for importing Canadian leafcutter bees. ·2 Identification of (a) high temperatures and (b) the production of second generation bees within the same season, as factors that will affect the future management of leafcutter bees in Australia. ·3 Identification of a parasitoid (Melittobia hawaiensis) a cuckoo bee (Coelioxys sp.) and several moth species, as pests that will affect the future management of leafcutter bees in Australia.
Implications	·1 An improved procedure for importing Canadian leafcutter bees will lead to the establishment of the bee in Australia. ·2 Methods are needed for managing second generation and parasitoids under Australian conditions.


 

Completed projects (prior to 2006 - 2007) – Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title	Evaluation of lucerne varieties for seed yield and strategies to enhance seed productivity
RIRDC Project No:	IPB-1A
Researcher:	Dr Ross Downes
Organisation:	Innovative Plant Breeders
Phone:	02 6255 1461
Fax:	02 6278 4676
Email:	rdownes@ipbaustralia.com
Objectives	·1 To identify lucerne varieties with the greatest yield potential; to identify genetic and environmental factors related to low seed production; and to advise breeders of attributes which positively affect yield potential.
Background	Lucerne seed production makes an important contribution both to exports, and for hay and pasture production. However there is variation among varieties in yield and reliability of seed production and seed growers have no way of determining which varieties are best, and how production can be made more reliable. There is also a discrepancy between average seed yields and superior production obtained by experienced growers.
Research	In studies at Keith and Forbes, many varieties were evaluated. It was concluded that an ideal variety would be one which contains many plants which have flowers which ‘trip’ readily, and produce large numbers of pods quickly. Observation revealed that seed yield is limited by sub-optimal plant numbers, and modified by such management factors as irrigation timing and pest control. Seasonal conditions, particularly rain at flowering time, have major effects on pollination, fertilisation and seed production. Lucerne varieties are variable, containing many unproductive plants but there is ample variation in lucerne for the development of varieties capable of high seed yield.
Outcomes	Evaluation of varieties for seed production in seed production districts would assist in identification of varieties with high yield potential. If fields contain adequate numbers of plants, seed yield potential is optimised. If crops are staggered so that risks imposed by rain at flowering time are minimised, losses will be reduced. There is cause to compare the potential of irrigated spring crops and traditional irrigated summer seed crops, particularly with respect to yield and water use efficiency. If breeders include seed yield among selection criteria, higher yielding varieties can be produced and profitability of seed production will be increased.
Implications	Increased seed production can be expected and profitability can be increased by use of appropriate varieties. Yield can be increased by development of varieties that do not require pollinating insects for seed production. Irrigated and dry land spring crops offer prospects for substantial increases in area devoted to lucerne seed production.
Publications	Downes, R. W. (2002). An evaluation of lucerne varieties and strategies to enhance seed yield. RIRDC Publication No R02/099.


 
 
 

Completed projects (prior to 2006 - 2007) – Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title:	Development of new alternative legumes and appropriate weed control technology
RIRDC Project No:	DAN-163A
Researcher:	Mr. Graeme Sandral
Organisation:	NSW Department of Agriculture
Phone:	02 6938 1850
Fax:	02 6938 1809
Email:	Graeme.sandral@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 To develop weed control options for new alternative annual legume species released from the National Alternative Annual Legume Improvement Program. Weed control options identified will ensure high seed crop yields and purity and assist with species adoption. ·2 To select legumes suitable for direct heading to reduce harvest costs and environmental damage caused by vacuum harvesting procedures. This will reduce seed costs and enhance species adoption.  ·3 To significantly expand the range of annual legumes available for seed production by selecting new species and cultivars suitable for domestic and overseas markets and problem soils and climates in Australia.
Background	The project tackled three problems associated with the annual legume seed industry. The first two are closely related and focus on developing new annual legumes that can be direct headed using a header harvester and on the development of new cultivars to increase market diversification. The problem is that all sub clover and annual medics seed crops have to be vacuum harvested which causes considerable soil erosion and structural degradation. To avoid this and increase market diversification new products are required that can be header harvestable and become new choices for seed crop production. The third problem relates to weed control in commercial seed crops and pasture paddocks. To control invading weeds herbicides are often used however considerable herbicide damage can occur to the sown legume. To avoid this knowledge is needed on the phytotoxicity of a range of herbicides that are used on commercially sown annual legumes.
Research	A series of experiments were established to identify header harvestable annual legumes. This research was completed in close association with the National Annual Pasture Legume Improvement Program (NAPLIP). In addition a large number of experiments were undertaken to identify the herbicide toxicity of various herbicide by cultivar combinations.
Outcomes	Two cultivars have been developed and released from the efforts of this project and the NAPLIP. The two cultivars are Frontier balansa clover, and Prima gland clover. Both cultivars are header harvestable. Frontier was commercially available last year (2001) and Prima gland clover is commercially available this year (2002).  A large database of information has also been generated on the phytotoxicity of annual legumes to a range of broadleaf herbicides. This information will be analysed during 2002 with the aim of releasing the information in the Weed Control in Lucerne and Pastures 2003 booklet.
Implications	Information on herbicide phytotoxicity will ensure any unnecessary legume seed crop losses are avoided through better knowledge of likely non-target plant damage with herbicide application. In addition herbicide use in pasture systems will be better target to ensure any unnecessary plant losses are avoided. The new cultivars Frontier and Prima are new legume seed crops that can be direct headed. They provide new seed crop options for seed growers and importantly do not require vacuum harvesting and hence environmental soil degradation is avoided.
Publications	Sandral G. and Dear B. (2005). Weed control options in annual pasture legumes (2005, 25pgs) RIRDC Publication Number R05/102.


 

Completed projects (prior to 2006 - 2007) – Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title	Improved seed production: "Towards 1.5 tonnes"
RIRDC Project No:	DAV-144A
Researcher:	Angela Avery
Organisation:	Agriculture Victoria Rutherglen, RMB 1145 Chiltern Valley Road
Phone:	(02) 60 304 500
Fax:	(02) 60 304 600
Email:	angela.avery@nre.vic.gov.au
Objectives	· To increase production of quality subterranean clover seed by 50% in northern Victoria and southern NSW. · To develop a grower network in the subterranean clover seed production industry and to facilitate shared learning and communication.
Background	Trifolium subterraneum (sub clover) is an important legume for farming systems in South Eastern Australia. The sub clover 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 principles behind sub clover seed production have changed little over the last sixty years. There has been a significant increase in mechanisation of the harvesting process as well as adoption of improved agronomic practices. Despite these advances little research or extension has been directly targeted towards the sub clover seed industry over the last four decades. It was from this basis that the project Improved sub clover seed production evolved.
Research	The general aim of the experimental work was to explore management options needed to increase seed yield through enhanced herbage, nutrient and weed management. In Victoria, all research was conducted at an irrigation site at Katamatite. In NSW, research was conducted at two dryland locations at Mangoplah and Wagga. The sites were linked through common design and measurements and through shared extension activities. Experiments were clustered into three broad management areas, herbage, nutrient and weed management.
Outcomes/ Implications	From this study, it would appear that on irrigated sub clover seed crops cutting for silage is a good management practice as it offers a combination of seed yield and minimal residual herbage at harvest time. Herbicides such as Paraquat and Sprayseed in spring at or post 5% flowering should be avoided, timing should be between June and July. This is however likely to be dependent upon season and cultivar of sub clover. . Further work is required to better define the optimal window to use these chemical tools. Defoliation of sub clover seed crops, regardless of method, post about 30-50% flowering (October) has the potential to significantly reduce seed yield. Ideally, defoliation, as with herbicide application, should not occur after 2 weeks before the onset of flowering. This study concluded that 300 kg/ha of superphosphate is below maintenance levels for both dryland and irrigated sub clover seed production. Growers should also use gypsum to increase seed yield should cautiously, with application decisions being based upon on a combination of soil and seed analysis results. A key outcome of the project was the facilitation of networks between Victorian and NSW growers. This enabled them to address important issues, such as supply of basic seed, R&D levy collection and Plant Breeders Rights legislation.
Publications	Clover Seed Summit Proceeding February 1997. Avery A., Ronnfeldt G., Virgona J. and Owen O. (2001). Improved sub-clover seed production. RIRDC Publication No 01/155.


 

Completed projects (prior to 2006 - 2007) – Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title	Evaluating and managing lucerne seed wasp in lucerne seed crops
RIRDC Project No:	DEB-1A
Researcher:	James De Barro
Organisation:	De Barro Agricultural Consulting
Phone:	(08) 8756 2777
Fax:	(08) 8756 2776
Email:	dbac@lm.net.au
Objectives	· To quantify the peak presence of lucerne seed wasp in lucerne seed crops and its cost to lucerne seed producers and the industry; and determine the influence of sanitation and closing date of lucerne seed crops on wasp population development. A management plan for lucerne seed wasp will be produced for lucerne seed producers and industry related personnel.
Background	The Australian lucerne seed industry is worth over A$100 million to the Australian economy with over A$13 million in seed exports. The rapid increase in dryland lucerne seed production in Australia’s major production area, South Australia’s south east region, is increasing the area for the wasp to develop populations capable of infesting irrigated seed. The wasp is capable of overlapping generations and the use of insecticides as the sole means of control is not sustainable. There is a real threat to producer returns and international market share. The project represents cost effective research to increase understanding of the wasp’s impact on seed production and improve its management.
Research	The research quantified the peak presence of lucerne seed wasp in lucerne seed crops and the cost to lucerne seed growers and the industry. The influence of sanitation and closing date of lucerne seed crops on wasp population development was determined. A management plan for lucerne seed wasp was produced for lucerne seed growers and industry related personnel.
Outcomes	The wasp develops its population peak in response to quantity of available host at the susceptible stage rather than any environmental condition such as day length or temperature. Seed loss directly caused by the seed wasp was 67.39 kg/ha, which equates an estimated loss to producers in the vicinity of A$2.0 million per season. In 1999/00 a total of 4993 tonne of the lucerne seed at a value of A$3.63/kg was exported, equating to a value in excess of A$18.2 million. 34.0% relative seed yield losses were calculated as attributable to the wasp, which is equivalent to A$5.18 million of lost export potential. Sanitation and time of crop closing trials on properties with a history of significant seed wasp infestations have shown that whilst seed wasp presence has not been eradicated, timely sanitation practices such as mowing, grazing and spraying significantly reduced the wasp’s presence in the seed crops. Coupled with alterations in closing date of the seed crop further impacts on seed wasp presence were achieved. Two species of parasitic wasps were isolated from infected seed. Idiomacromerus perplexus and Pteromalus were collected from offal from across the district providing evidence that they are widespread but in low populations. They have also been detected in Forbes and Deniliquin in New South Wales.
Implications	A key concept in the management of the lucerne seed wasp is to concede that this pest cannot be eradicated due to the scale of lucerne production (seed and pasture crops) in Australia. Industry must learn to live with its presence and accept that a degree of damage is a normal aspect of lucerne seed production and that techniques such as sanitation and crop closure timing reduce the pest’s impact.
Publications	De Barro, J. (2001). Living with the enemy: managing lucerne seed wasp in lucerne seed crops, RIRDC Publication No. R01/136. Eight page pocket guide also available, RIRDC Publication No. R01/135.

Completed projects (prior to 2006 - 2007) – Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title	Management of phytophthora root rot in subterranean clover for a viable pasture seeds industry
RIRDC Project No:	DAV-94A
Researcher:	Dr Ramez Aldaoud, Wendy Guppy, Dr Sze Flett, Tony Cook
Organisation:	Department of Natural Resources and Environment -  Agriculture Victoria Institute of Sustainable Irrigated Agriculture
Phone:	(03) 5833 5222
Fax:	(03) 5833 5299
Objectives	· To define the most appropriate timing for cost effective fungicide application for subclover root rot control in dryland pastures.
Background	Subterranean clover (subclover) root rot is a serious disease problem caused by the fungus P. clandestina. There are currently two methods for root rot control: (1) the use of root rot resistant subclover varieties, and (2) the application of potassium phosphonate (Foli-r-Fosâ ). However, disease resistance is becoming threatened due to the development of new forms (races) of the fungus which are capable of breaking down resistance. In particular, race 1, which has been isolated in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia, is highly infectious on Trikkala, Larisa and Karridale, cultivars previously known for their high root rot resistance. This shows an urgent need to: (1) understand the range of variation this fungus has, and (2) complement resistance with other methods for disease control.
Research	A national survey, covering NSW, Vic, SA and WA was conducted during 1994 - 97 to determine the distribution of P. clandestina and its races. This fungus was found to infect 28 - 48 % of the subclover paddocks surveyed and appears to have many different races. Only four of these races are recognisable, and the majority (60 - 75 %) of them do not fit into the four known races. Distribution maps positioning where P. clandestina and its races were detected have been produced using the latest Global Positioning System (GPS) technology.  The effect of the fungicide Foli-r-Fosâon subclover root rot in dryland pastures was also studied. Seedling counts and the first autumn break (rainfall is greater or equal to 25mm) were factors monitored to determine timing of fungicide applications. However, this study was not conclusive enough to define the most effective way of using this fungicide, an area that requires more research.
Outcomes	A resistance screening protocol was developed, incorporating both previously known races and the new races of the fungus. It is proposed breeders and pathologists use this protocol to provide industry with subclover varieties which are resistant to a wide range of P. clandestina races.  A large collection of P. clandestina was obtained during the national survey. This collection is a valuable resource for future research into this disease and its control.
Implications	· The key for making resistance in commercial cultivars more reliable and lasting for root rot control is that the resistance screening protocol is kept updated. This cannot be achieved without continuous monitoring of P. clandestina races and then incorporating the new races into the protocol. The large fungal collection (256 P. clandestina cultures) we have still requires grouping into races. · Developing and adopting other complementary approaches (eg. chemicals and cultural best practices) for root rot control would contribute to improving the effectiveness and durability of resistant varieties and the overall control of root rot. This area requires further exploration. · Maps showed random spreads of P. clandestina and its races, which is perhaps an indication of how subclover was initially introduced and distributed around Australia. Managing resistance by means of regulating the release and use of resistant cultivars can be important in reducing disease risks due to new races and may impact positively on the longevity of resistance.


 

Completed projects (prior to 2006 - 2007) – Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title	Occurrence and severity of ‘lucerne yellows’ disease in lucerne seed crops
RIRDC Project No:	US-75A
Researcher:	Dr Geoff Gurr,
Organisation:	Orange Agricultural College  The University of Sydney,
Phone:	(02) 6360 5551
Fax:	(02) 6360 5590
Objectives	· To determine, by means of survey work, the occurrence and severity of ‘lucerne yellows’ disease in lucerne seed crops in Australia. · To ascertain the need for further research and development investment in order to better understand the causes of this disease and to devise an appropriate control strategy.
Background	Lucerne is one of the most valuable pasture legume seed crops in Australia. Anecdotal evidence available prior to this project being undertaken suggested that lucerne yellows was an important disease of seed crops. However, such evidence related to isolated outbreaks and specific reporting incidents. No work had been undertaken to estimate the overall impact of the disease. Formal research was therefore required to determine its occurrence and severity before an appropriate response could be planned.
Research	Two surveys were conducted to determine the impact of the disease on two important sectors of the seed industry. An interview-based survey captured detailed information from eight seed house offices regarding severity of the disease in their seed crops in recent years. A second, telephone and post-based survey captured equivalent data from 62 individual growers. Reliability of information was maximised by giving all interviewees an illustrated, colour guide to the identification of lucerne yellows. In addition to the explicit objective of the original study, data was captured from New South Wales (NSW) and from South Australia (SA) in a fashion which allowed comparisons between these two major lucerne seed-growing States to determine whether they suffered different levels of disease damage.
Outcomes	The chief findings are that just 2 of the 36 growers surveyed in NSW and 4 of the 26 growers from SA had not observed the disease in their crops. The most common response to a question seeking information about how frequently symptoms had been observed was ‘every year’ in both States. In NSW the majority of growers reported the disease in all or most of their lucerne stands, whilst in SA occurrence in few or very few stands was reported as frequently. Incidence within crops was reported to be as high as 50-75 percent of plants but the majority of interviewees estimated incidence of affected plants to be lower. The vast majority of growers in both States took no action against the disease; an understandable response since neither the identity of the pathogen nor its vector(s) are known so formal control recommendations have not been available. Overall the majority of growers surveyed in both States viewed the disease as an actual or potential problem. Disease severity estimates were obtained for a total of 31 cultivars. Individual growers indicated that marked differences were evident in susceptibility of cultivars but responses were not always consistent; some growers reporting a given cultivar badly affected whilst others reporting it to be unaffected. Results were obtained from two NSW-based seed houses, two SA-based seed houses, and one with interests in both States. Eight interviews were held with different representatives of seed houses in order to capture detailed information specific to defined districts. Of the eight interviewees, all reported lucerne yellows within their crops. Indications of losses resulting from lucerne yellows included estimates of: 25 % yield loss, 50% yield loss (worth $0.5M) in 1997, losses of 10-60%, and losses of up to 90% in ‘bad’ years. Generally the frequency and severity of the disease was higher in NSW than in SA. Information on varietal susceptibility suggested that marked differences were evident though no formal screening was reported.
Implications	This project has delivered an understanding of the impact of lucerne yellows. Overall, results from seed houses support those from individual growers in showing that lucerne yellows disease occurs frequently in both NSW and SA and that its severity is such that significant economic losses are resulting. The annual loss is estimated to be $7M. It is therefore considered appropriate that further research investment be made to determine the causes of the disease and develop a cost effective and environmentally sustainable control strategy for this important seeds industry. Results are being disseminated by industry-orientated (as well as technical) publications and the Internet.


 

Completed projects (prior to 2006 - 2007) – Improved Production Efficiency

Project Title	Strategies to successfully establish and manage a productive dryland lucerne stand
RIRDC Project No:	CMS-1A
Researcher:	Mark Stanley Raymond Christinat
Organisation:	Crop Monitoring Services DPI
Phone:	(08) 8755 1295 (08) 8688 3402
Fax:	(08) 8755 1713 (08) 8688 3407
Objectives	· To improve the success rate of dryland lucerne establishment by dem