he latest outcomes from grains research and development, which offer the potential for positive impact on-farm, will be delivered to grain growers at a forum in Crystal Brook next month.

The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) is hosting a regional Grains Research Update at the Crystal Brook Football Club on Thursday, February 11.

GRDC Grower Relations Manager – South, Tom Blake, says the Update will present information, advice and recommendations for informing growers’ tactical decision-making for improved profitability.

“The Grains Research Update will bring several experts to the region to discuss with growers and advisers new knowledge from research into issues of local importance,” Mr Blake says.

The Update will be attended by growers, agronomists, consultants, researchers and other grains industry personnel from across the Lower, Mid and Upper North regions, Yorke Peninsula and elsewhere.

Among the guest speakers will be entomologist Maarten van Helden from the South Australian Research and Development Institute which is the research division of the SA Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) who will provide an update on the management of Russian wheat aphid (RWA).

Dr van Helden will focus his presentation on the performance capability of the new RWA threshold calculator in determining cost-effective treatment.

Brian Hughes from PIRSA will present the latest knowledge on treatment of soil acidification, including the impact of lime type, rate, manures, mapping and incorporation.

Getting the best results from harvest weed seed control will be explored by Chris Davey from WeedSmart, while CSIRO’s Mark Farrell will look at the strategies available to slow or reverse the decline of soil organic matter.

The state of play with glyphosate resistance will be examined by Peter Boutsalis from the University of Adelaide and Plant Science Consulting. Dr Boutsalis will look at ways of improving efficacy to minimise the increase in resistance of this critically important chemistry.

The Update will be from 9am to 1pm, with catering provided. For a detailed program and to register, please see Upcoming Updates and events or phone ORM on 03 5441 6176 or email admin@orm.com.au.

Contact details

For interviews

Tom Blake, GRDC Grower Relations Manager
0418 863 186
tom.blake@grdc.com.au

Contact

GRDC Adelaide office Communications Manager – South
(08) 8198 8400
media@grdc.com.au