Final Reports

The subject matter of the reports presented here may have been revisited or may have been wholly or partially superseded in subsequent work funded by GRDC or others. Please check the date of publication and refer to our Policy section before making any decisions based on the content of these reports. Before being able to view any of the Final Reports, you will be asked to accept the Report Disclaimer.

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  • Improved techniques for managing resistant ryegrass

    Category: FinalReport

    BWD00005

    Supervisor: Harm van Rees (BCG Technical Consultant)

    The 'Improved techniques for managing resistant ryegrass' project was in four parts:
    1. Conducting trial work with the Birchip Cropping Group (BCG) based at Birchip in Victoria, and the Hart Field Day group, based in South Australia’s Mid-North, concentrated on (i) optimising knockdown herbicide use; (ii) pre-emergent herbicides for ryegrass control; and (iii) improving 'dim' group herbicide efficacy.
    2. Studying ryegrass population dynamics in relation to crop rotation and herbicide choice.
    3. Undertaking four case studies of farmers who have successfully managed herbicide resistance.
    4. Training and in paddock assessment.

    The trial work in the project was successfully completed and reported in the BCG and Hart manuals produced for members and the general community. A Herbicide Resistance Manual has been completed and distributed to interested farmers and industry.

  • Farming systems improvement in the Upper North of South Australia

    Category: FinalReport

    CFS00002

    Supervisor: Michael Wurst (Project Leader)

    Increased grower skills and confidence through capacity building have resulted in best management practices being applied to farming systems.  This has been achieved by the

    -development of risk management strategies to increase efficiency of integration between livestock and cropping systems e.g. improved grazing management and pasture species evaluation

    - identification of the role of livestock as a risk management tool in adverse seasons

    - development of profitable and sustainable farming systems through the prioritisation areas of risk and the development of strategies to manage these risks

    - increased knowledge of improved cropping practices to reduce soil erosion and enable better targeting of cropping inputs.

  • Province, paddock or patch? Giving farmers tools to optimise the scale at which fertiliser decisions are made

    Category: FinalReport

    CSA00007

    Supervisor: Michael Robertson (Principal Research Scientist)

    This project developed methods for matching fertiliser applications to crop nutrient requirements, based on simple tools that integrate effects of soils and weather and their variation in properties over space and seasons.

    They include:(1) a modified version of French and Schultz method to estimate crop yield potential accounting for soil type, (2) field and lab-based methods for estimating soil plant-available water capacity (PAWC), (3) frameworks for relating PAWC to potential yield and hence economic optimum nutrient requirements. We applied these tools to two case study catchments in Western Australia (WA) and showed that by taking account of soil type and seasonal influences on crop yield potential, gains of $2-40/ha are possible.

  • Training growers to manage soil water

    Category: FinalReport

    CSA00011

    Supervisor: Neal Dalgliesh (Farming Systems Researcher)

    Whilst managing the water balance of crops is one of the most critical issues in Australian dryland agriculture, there has been limited information available to farm managers that allows the productive capacity of soils to be considered when making crop management decisions. This project aimed to provide training opportunities for farm managers to improve their understanding of soil water management and to develop tools for its measurement. Over 800 growers and consultants have undertaken training nationally with more than 500 soils now available in the APSoil database for use in general agronomic decision making and as input to decision support tools such as APSIM and Yield Prophet®.

  • Phosphine resistance initiative

    Category: FinalReport

    CSE00031

    Supervisor: Colin Waterford (Deputy Head, Stored Grain Research Laboratory)

    An industry workshop was held to determine the demand for a national strategy for phosphine# resistance and to define a mechanism to establish such a strategy.

    A steering committee of representatives from industry, research and GRDC developed the program and invitation list. The two-day workshop was held in Canberra during May 2005. Day One consisted of presentations followed by group discussions on economic impact, current knowledge and extension programs. During the second day, the workshop focussed on defining research and extension priorities and mapping a path towards a national strategy. 

  • Fluid fertilisers - the next step toward raising yield potentials

    Category: FinalReport

    CSO231

    Supervisor: Mike McLaughlin (Chief Research Scientist)

    This project aimed to improve crop phosphorus (P) nutrition on the 34 million hectares of alkaline soils in southern Australia, through a better understanding of the fundamental processes involved in the efficiency of fluid and granular phosphorus (P) fertilisers. The project combined field agronomic investigations with glasshouse and laboratory experiments. The mechanisms responsible for effectiveness of fluid fertilisers in calcareous soils, and the ineffectiveness of granular P, were identified chemically and spectroscopically. Field experiments confirmed the widespread responsiveness of calcareous soils to fluid fertilisation, and identified the need for simultaneous supply of nitrogen (N) and micronutrients.

  • Managing the fallow period for optimum water use and nitrogen availability

    Category: FinalReport

    CSO232

    Supervisor: Kirsten Verburg

    This project aimed to evaluate the effect of summer fallow management on soil water storage. A combination of field experimentation and simulation analysis was used to quantify the effects of different management practices and to explore management strategies. Control of weeds had the greatest impact on soil water storage during the fallow (11 mm on average). In autumn and winter residue retention past May 1st was effective in conserving moisture (average 9-25 mm depending on residue levels). The findings have been communicated to growers and advisers. Fallow management strategies have been developed that benefit the crop in drier years and reduce the risk of deep drainage in wetter years.

  • Risk assessment and preventative strategies for herbicide resistance in the northern grain region (Phase II)

    Category: FinalReport

    DAN00079

    Supervisor: Andrew Storrie (Technical Specialist (Weeds))

    The number of glyphosate# resistant weeds and multiple resistant wild oats is increasing in the northern region (NR).

    The project developed and validated strategies to prevent resistance in wild oats, liverseed grass, barnyard grass, and sweet summer grass. Strategies to manage resistant weeds were also developed and validated for annual ryegrass, wild oats, barnyard grass and fleabane.

    These strategies were modified for regionally specific farming systems and were widely promoted at 15 workshops, 69 presentations and field days, and published in brochures, articles in our newsletter and 51 rural media articles.

  • A pilot project on control of Bean leafroll virus on faba bean in the northern region

    Category: FinalReport

    DAN00090

    Supervisor: Joop van Leur (Senior Plant Pathologist)

    Bean leafroll virus (BLRV) is the most significant faba bean virus in Australia's northern grain region. Growers perceive viruses as more threatening than fungal diseases due to a lack of control options as compared to fungal diseases.

    In this one-year pilot project, three practical control measures were evaluated on aphid colonisation and virus spread.

    Imidacloprid# seed treatment proved to have a season-long lasting effect on aphid colonisation and virus development. Insecticide rates could be reduced to 0.7 g ai/kg seed without losing their effectiveness. Lower seeding rates resulted in higher virus development. No interactions between insecticide treatment, seeding rates and virus resistance were found.

  • Sorghum crop improvement - manipulating height for yield advance in sorghum

    Category: FinalReport

    DAQ00014

    Supervisor: Graeme Hammer (Professor in Crop Science)

    Achieving genetic advances in grain yield in sorghum are currently slow. However, yield increases of up to 10% have been associated with increased plant height. Detailed physiological studies were undertaken to examine the basis of a previously poorly understood relationship between plant height and sorghum yield. The results of field and single plant studies conducted at Hermitage Research Station from 2002-2005 indicated enhanced partitioning to above ground organs may be responsible. Results were incorporated into a PhD thesis and analysis of these findings contributed to the formulation of strategies to manipulate plant height for yield increase in sorghum. 

  • Reducing the impact of pulse diseases in the northern region (incorporating DAQ00073)

    Category: FinalReport

    DAQ00108

    Supervisor: Malcolm Ryley (Principal Plant Pathologist)

    Diseases remain a significant impediment to the achievement of maximum yield potential of pulses (chickpea, peanut and mungbean) and sunflowers in the GRDC northern region.  This project worked closely with public and private breeding programs to identify sources of resistance to the major diseases of pulses and sunflower that dominate in the region. Through varied surveillance activities, a watching brief on pulse and sunflower diseases was maintained and a timely and appropriate response was made to several significant disease outbreaks. Information on the biology and management of diseases was extended to clients in a wide variety of ways.

  • Diagnostic Support to Crown Rot Strategic Initiative

    Category: FinalReport

    DAS00034

    Supervisor: Dr Alan McKay (Leader, Plant and Soil Health Diagnostic Unit)

    A method was developed to use DNA assays to measure Fusarium pseudograminearum and F. culmorum levels in stubble to complement our existing ability to process soil samples. To speed development of crown rot management strategies, 4114 soil and stubble samples were processed for crown rot projects in South Australia (SA), Victoria (Vic), New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland (QLD).

    The DNA technology used also forms the basis of PreDicta B, which grain producers can use to assess soil-borne disease risks in paddocks before sowing their crops. The provisional risk categories for crown rot, based on soil DNA levels, still appear to provide a good guide to assist agronomists interpret PreDicta B results. Collecting a representative sample is critical.

  • Pathology support for pulse crops in the southern region - SA module

    Category: FinalReport

    DAS00041

    Supervisor: Jennifer Davidson (Senior Pulse Pathologist)

    Disease is one of the major yield constraints in pulse crops in Australian cropping systems. This project aimed to collect information on prevalence and severity of the pathogens on pulse crops in the southern regions, and to gather epidemiology data associated with these pathogens. From this information strategic management practices can be developed to reduce the level of disease in crops, thus making them more reliable and profitable.

  • Tools to reduce the impact of climate variability in South Eastern Australia

    Category: FinalReport

    DAV00006

    Supervisor: Garry O'Leary (Senior Scientist (Systems Modelling))

    This project aimed to improve growers' skill in assessing exposure to climate risk, and developed a framework that can be incorporated into farm decision-making at eight locations across South Eastern Australia (SEA). Important climate variables and grain yields showed significant year-to-year variation, some of which was linked to the El Nino/La Nina Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events. Spring rainfall and wheat yield showed a clear association with various indices in June-July across the studied locations. The accuracy of forecasts for spring rainfall and wheat yield made at the end of July ranged between 60-83%. This figure is consistent enough for many farmers to improve their tactical nitrogen (N) management.

  • Improving the profitability of cropping on hostile subsoils

    Category: FinalReport

    DAV00049

    Supervisor: Roger Armstrong (Senior Agronomist)

    This project aimed to improve profitability of cropping by improving the ability of farmers to select appropriate management strategies when growing a range of crops on hostile subsoils in the neutral-alkaline soils of south-eastern (S-E) Australia. The project utilised field trials to assess the effectiveness of subsoil amelioration treatments on different crops, a farmer paddock survey that established the relationship between subsoil properties and grain yield, and glasshouse trials to evaluate the potential of genetic solutions. Information from the project was packaged into a Reference Manual with complimentary Diagnostic Schools targeted at improving the skills and knowledge of growers and advisers.

  • Resistance Monitoring and Management - Western Region

    Category: FinalReport

    DAW00017

    Supervisor: Robert Emery

    Grain markets are becoming more discerning and demand grain that is insect and residue-free. For the Australian industry to continue to be successful, it is essential that it adapts to these changing markets especially given that 75% of its annual harvest is exported. Australia is well placed to meet this demand through its extensive use of fumigation, sealed storages and flow-through systems, both on-farm and in the central handling system. However, there is the ever-present threat of resistance developing which can be either widespread and weak or localised and strong, leading to control failures. Resistance monitoring and early intervention will prolong the life of fumigants.

  • Management of dodder - a new parasitic weed in WA cropping systems

    Category: FinalReport

    DAW00028

    Supervisor: Abul Hashem, Senior Research Officer, (weed science)

    This project determined the effects of Cuscuta planiflora (small-seeded dodder) and its management in crops. Laboratory and glasshouse trial results showed that dodder can successfully parasitise legume crops, sub-clover and canola with the highest preference to lupin. It can reduce pod numbers by 57% in field pea, 60% in lupin and 75% in chickpea. It can germinate over a range of temperatures while 88% seeds are dormant. Pre-sowing herbicides such as trifluralin# and simazine#, and post-emergent herbicides such as atrazine# and Lexone®# can effectively control dodder. Dodder plants die within five to eight days after germination in the absence of a host plant. Delaying sowing time by two to four weeks can also control this weed.

  • A farming systems approach to sustainable management of nematodes in Western Australia

    Category: FinalReport

    DAW00030

    Supervisor: Vivien Vanstone (Senior Nematologist)

    At least 60% of Western Australian (WA) cropping paddocks are infested with Root Lesion Nematode (RLN - Pratylenchus spp.). Pratylenchus neglectus is predominant (40%) followed by P. teres (10%). P. thornei is rare. Additional species (notably P. penetrans) were identified. RLN species are more diverse in WA than in eastern Australia. Two species of Burrowing Nematode (Radopholus) occur. Cereal Cyst Nematode (CCN) is increasing under intensive cereal cropping. Stem Nematode does not occur. Crops were tested for P. neglectus resistance. More data are needed for P. teres, P. penetrans and Radopholus spp. Rotations are the key to management of these pests, but since break crops vary with nematode species, diagnosis and identification are critical.

  • The use and impact of deep drains on improving salt affected soils used for grain cropping in the WA Wheatbelt

    Category: FinalReport

    DAW00138

    Supervisor: Dr Richard George

    This project had two main components to deliver contracted outcomes:
    (i) Build DrainLogic (a spreadsheet-based decision support tool that helped assess site suitability and economics) to enable improved farm-based decision making prior to drainage (Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia (DAFWA)) and,
    (ii) To research crop response to existing experimental drains at four sites across Western Australia  (Murdoch University - Bell).
    In addition, a partnership with the University of Western Australia (UWA) was developed to seek guidance as to which soils respond better to drainage (Bob Gilkes, PhD student). The first two contracted components have been completed and the third will continue as part of a PhD.

  • Validation and integration of new technology through grower groups in north-west NSW and south-west Queensland grain growing zones

    Category: FinalReport

    NGA00001

    Supervisor: Richard Daniel

    The project rationale was to provide a regional mechanism that could conduct and evaluate efficient, on-farm, applied agronomic research directly in response to industry needs. A critical component was ensuring that research issues and priorities were determined by the industry itself through three local committees made up of experienced advisers together with local growers. The majority of committee members were consultants and agronomists to ensure issues were of broad regional importance and that project outcomes were effectively and rapidly communicated to a large cross section of growers. This helped ensure economic benefits were rapidly realised by growers and the industry in general.