Tuesday, March 13, 2001 (11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
Multistate Research Committee (Working lunch) - Ian Gray
5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. - Welcoming Reception for NCRA
Dinner on your own
Wednesday, March 14, 2001 (8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
North Central Regional Association
1.0 Call to Order and Introductions - Virginia Clark
Attendees: Steve Pueppke, University of Illinois; Gerald
Klonglan, Wendy Wintersteen, Iowa State University; Cornelia Flora,
North Central Regional Center for Rural Development, Iowa State
University; George Ham, Kansas State University; Janet Bokemeier,
Ian Gray, Daniel Guyer, Gary Lemme, Doreen Woodward, Michigan
State University; Sarah Greening, Phil Larsen, Bert Stromberg,
University of Minnesota; Michael Chippendale, Tom Payne, University
of Missouri; Marjorie Kostelnik, Darrell Nelson, Dale Vanderholm,
University of Nebraska; Virginia Clark, Cole Gustafson, North
Dakota State University; Casey Hoy, Bill Ravlin, Steven Slack,
Ohio State University; Kevin Kephart, South Dakota State University;
Margaret Dentine, Kevin McSweeney, University of Wisconsin; Darrell
F. Cole, ARS, Peoria, Illinois; Colien Hefferan, CSREES; Madelyn
Alt, Daryl Lund, Executive Director's Office
2.0 Approval of the September 2000Minutes - Virginia Clark
(Available at: http://www.wisc.edu/ncra/september2000.htm)
The minutes were approved as submitted.
3.0 Adoption of Agenda - Virginia Clark
Additional agenda items:
5.1 C-FAR - Regional Association As a Member - Daryl Lund
6.5 ESCOP Fellows Program - Gary Lemme
9.3 IMSS - Daryl Lund
9.4 Web Page Issues - Ian Gray
13.1 Plans for Spring Meeting - 2002
13.2 Plans for July NCRA Meeting - 2002
4.0 Executive Committee Report and Interim
Actions of the Chair - Virginia Clark
5.0 Executive Director's Report - Daryl Lund
5.1 C-FAR - Regional Association As a Member - Daryl Lund
ESCOP Reports
6.1 Status of ESCOP Activities, i.e., Committee Activities, Report of February ESCOP Meeting - Tom Payne
6.2 SARE - SARE Representative/Darrell Nelson
6.3 FY 02 Budget and Legislative Subcommittee - Tom Payne
6.4 National C-FAR Initiative - Tom Payne (a handout will be provided at meeting)
6.5 ESCOP Fellows Program - Gary Lemme
7.0 Rural Development Center - Cornelia Flora
8.0 AESOP Update - March 14 at 1:00 p.m.
by teleconference - Terry Nipp
9.0 Multistate Research Committee
9.1 MRC Report - Ian Gray
9.2 NRSP Philosophy - Margaret Dentine
9.3 IMSS - Daryl Lund
9.4 Web Page Issues - Costs/Expectations -
Ian Gray
10.0 Umbrella Project Followup - Jerry Klonglan/Mike
Chippendale/Doreen Woodward/Cole Gustafson
11.0 Ranking Agricultural Disciplines - Steve
Slack
Executive Session (5:00 p.m.)
· Executive Director's Office FY 02 Budget - Virginia Clark
and Margaret Dentine, UW-Madison Representative
Thursday, March 15, 2000 - 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
12.0 Agency Reports
12.1 CSREES - Colien Hefferan (8:00 a.m.)
12.2 ARS - Darrell F. Cole, Associate
Area Director
13.0 Plans for July NCRA Meeting - Kevin Kephart
14.0 Nominations Committee Report - Dale Vanderholm/Margaret
Dentine
15.0 Resolutions Committee - Cole Gustafson
16.0 Announcements
· ESCOP Executive Committee Meeting - May 1-2, 2001 - Denver, Colorado
· NCRA Meeting - July 16-17, 2001 - Madison, Wisconsin
· Joint COPS Meeting - July 23-26, 2001 - Minneapolis, Minnesota
· Experiment Station Section, SAES/ARD Workshop, Regional Meetings - September 24-27, 2001 - Couer d'Alene, Idaho
· NASULGC - November 11-13, 2001 - Washington, D.C.
17.0 Summary and Review of Assignments
- Virginia Clark
Agenda Item: 4.0
Agenda Item Title: Executive Committee Report and Interim
Actions of the Chair
Presenter: Virginia Clark
Since being Chair of NCRA, I have taken part in the following:
· Participated in the Multistate Research Sub-Committee
meeting in Chicago, October 2000.
· Participated in NCRA Executive Committee phone calls.
· Participate at the ESCOP meeting in September 2000.
· Participated in initial calls related to planning the
Summer 2001 meeting to be held in Madison, Wisconsin. Appointed
a representative from NCRA to serve as a member of the planning
committee for the meeting.
· Attended NASULGC in San Antonio, November 2000.
· Attended the "Partnership" meeting in Baltimore,
February, 2001.
Action Requested: None
Action Taken: Information only
NC-62 NC-113 NC-119 NC-140 NC-142 |
NC-167 NC-168 NC-170 NC-185 NC-209 |
NC-210 NC-502 NCR-84 NCR-103 NCR-131 |
NCR-134 NCR-159 NCR-173 NCR-174 |
NCR-184 NCR-185 NCR-194 NCR-195 |
NCR-196 NRSP-3 NRSP-5 |
NC-94 NC-125 NC-215 NC-225 |
NC-226 NC-227 NC-228 NC-229 |
NCR-188 NCR-190 |
1. Benefits of the generation of the annual report:
| Please answer the following statements with a yes or no |
|
|
| I learned more about our experiment station |
|
|
| It was helpful to address the overall program of our AES |
|
|
| We will reconsider our priorities as a result of this exercise |
|
|
| Information was generated which was not already available to USDA through CRIS (AD 416, 417, 421) and Form 422 |
|
|
| The most difficult part of the report was the following section (place an X): | |
| Planned Programs | 4 |
| Stakeholder Input Process | _ |
| Program Review Process | 1 |
| Evaluation of the Success of Activities | 6 |
| Multistate Extension Activities | 1 |
| Integrated Research and Extension Activities | _ |
| Other - Aligning Budget with program | 1 |
| Other - Understanding the directions | 1 |
| 0 - 50hrs ___ | 50 - 100hrs 3 | 100 - 150hrs 2 |
| 150 - 200hrs 2 | 200 - 300hrs 1 | 300 - 400hrs ___ |
| 400 - 500hr 2 | >500hrs 2 | |
1101 W Peabody Drive · Urbana IL 61801
217-333-6575; Fax 217/244 8594 · E mail Jdcoffey@home.com
February 21, 2001
Dear Madelyn Alt,
On behalf of the National Coalition for Food and Agricultural
Research (National C-FAR), I cordially invite you to join and
participate in our coalition. Your inquiry and interest is appreciated.
As indicated in the enclosed brochure, National C-FAR is a newly
founded broad-based nonpartisan stakeholder coalition of food,
agriculture, nutrition, natural resources and conservation organizations.
Our primary goals are to increase funding of U.S. food and agricultural
research and extension and to expand meaningful participation
by stakeholders in priority setting and funding. Our specific
objective is to secure $1 billion of additional federal funds
each year for the next five years to support research and related
outreach programs. This is to be new additional funding that would
complement, not compete with existing federal programs for food
and agricultural research and extension. The funds would be awarded
to universities, research organization s and government agencies.
We recently held a meeting in Washington, DC, on January 31 to
inaugurate the Coalition and communicate to the new Administration
and Congress our commitment to enhancing federal support and stakeholder
involvement in food and agricultural research. Public funding
of food and agricultural research is now on the "B"
list; we want to get it on the "A" list. As you may
know, public funding of food and agricultural research, when measured
in inflation-adjusted dollars, now amounts to only $1 per every
$500 of consumer food and fiber expenditures, which is much less
than it was 20 years ago.
Approximately 100 leaders from food, agriculture, nutrition, natural
resource and conservation organizations and top officials from
the new Administration, Congress and USDA attended. We were pleased
to have Dr Norman Borlaug, the 1970 Nobel Peace Prize Recipient,
accept our invitation to be the featured speaker.
Our Coalition builds upon the experience of the Illinois Council
of Food and Agricultural Research (C-FAR). In several meetings
over the past months, we have met with over 100 leaders of major
food and agricultural organizations and have already made substantial
progress. Exploratory talks have been held with representatives
of the new Administration and representatives of Congress to outline
our goals. We are convinced that a strong, dedicated and focused
coalition of stakeholders can make a difference.
We look forward to your acceptance of this invitation to membership.
Please return the enclosed membership application in the enclosed
envelope. Please contact us for additional information.
Sincerely,
/s/ Terry Wolf
President, Board of Directors
Action Requested: Does the NCRA want to join C-FAR as a
region?
Action Taken: A motion was passed and carried that the
NCRA join C-FAR as a regional organization.
Ellen Jansen, 03 03 PM 3/9/01 -0600,
National C-FAR News Release Page 1 of 2
Date Fn, 09 Mar 2001 15 03 49 -0600
From Ellen Jansen <eJansen@uiuc edu>
Subject National C-FAR News Release
X-Sender JansenE@mail aces uiuc edu
To (Recipient list suppressed)
X-Mailer QUALCOMM Windows Eudora Pro Version 422
Following is a National C-FAR News Release that will be distributed
to national media contacts. A Word version is also attached Feel
free to forward.
March 6 2001
For Immediate Release
Contact Joe Coffey
New coalition seeks doubling of food and agriculture research
funds
Investments in U S agricultural research have paid huge dividends
to the United States and the world, especially in the latter part
of the 20th century. Technological advances, such as
high-yield farming, have allowed for a more abundant, efficient
and environmentally friendly food supply. But for the past two
decades, federal support for agricultural research has remained
stagnant while support for other federal research has increased
substantially. Concerned about how a lack of investment in food
and agricultural research will impact the future of our country,
a new coalition has been formed. The National Coalition for Food
and Agricultural Research (National C-FAR)
National C-FAR a broad-based stakeholder coalition of food, agriculture
nutrition, conservation and natural resource organizations, is
seeking a doubling in public food and agriculture research dollars
over the next five years to bring about
· Safer, more nutritious, convenient and affordable foods
· More efficient and environmentally friendly food, fiber
and forest production
· Improved water quality, land conservation and other environmental
conditions
· Less dependence on non-renewable sources of energy
· Expanded global markets and improved balance of trade
· More Jobs and sustainable rural economic development
The funding will complement, not compete with existing federal
research programs.
In late January, the coalition held its inaugural meeting in Washington,
D C. One hundred leaders in the food, agriculture, natural resource
organizations and key federal officials participated. The Coalition
elected a 15-member board of directors and officers, and agreed
to use the collective resources of its membership to actively
advocate for an increase in food and agricultural research. Leaders
of the coalition met with U S Department of Agriculture Secretary
Ann Veneman, Congressmen Charles Stenholm (Dem, TX) and Calvin
Dooley (Dem, CA) and Senator Richard Lugar (Rep, IN) to discuss
the need for increased federal funding to support stakeholder-driven
food and agricultural research.
Meeting highlights included remarks given by Dr Norman Borlaug,
a Nobel Peace Prize award winner credited with starting the "Green
Revolution," which saved one billion people from around the
globe from starvation. The 87-year-old agronomist, who is world-renowned
for his agricultural research, has devoted his life to transforming
food production systems. In his speech, Borlaug underscored the
past contributions of food and agricultural research. "Few
industries have been as productive and innovative as agriculture
during the 20 century. While less than 2 percent of the U.S. population
is directly engaged in primary agricultural production, American
farmers provide consumers with the lowest-cost food supplies in
the world, plus produce ever-growing surpluses for export to food-deficit
nations abroad," said Borlaug. Yet he cautioned, "Despite
the successes of the Green Revolution, the battle to ensure food
security for hundreds of millions of miserably poor people is
far from won. For food crop production to continue at a pace sufficient
to meet the needs of the 8.3 billion people projected by 2025,
continuing research breakthroughs will be needed." Borlaug
also noted that "Agricultural productivity increases, made
possible through research and new technology development, spared
an area slightly greater than all the land in 25 states east of
the Mississippi River for other uses."
Currently, National C-FAR has over 50 individual and organizational
members, broadly representing all phases of the food and agriculture
sector. The newly-elected Board of Directors includes: President
Terry Wolf, National Corn Growers Association; Vice President
David Graves, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives; Pete Bizzozero,
Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges; Susan Borra,
American Dietetic Association; Jon Caspers, National Pork Producers
Council; Marc Curtis, American Soybean Association; John Denison,
USA Rice Federation; Barbara Glenn, CoFARM; Andy Jordan, National
Cotton Council; Ray McAllister, American Crop Protection Association;
Sam Minor, Council on Agriculture Research, Extension and Teaching;
Dwight Roberts, U.S. Rice Producers Association; Mary Schmidl,
Institute of Food Technologists; Rollin Sparrowe, Wildlife Management
Institute; and Bob Stallman, American Farm Bureau Federation.
National C-FAR is a new and evolving coalition. Under the leadership
of Vice President David Graves, the legislative committee will
bring forward a legislative plan after extensive discussion with
National C-FAR members, members and staff of Congress, and the
Bush Administration. Barbara Glenn, the chair of the research
committee, is assembling a list of research priorities from National
C-FAR members, which will be used to develop broad research areas
that will be supported with additional funding. The primary research
and education program areas encompass agricultural production
systems, natural resources and conservation, expanding agricultural
markets, rural development, human nutrition and food safety, and
animal nutrition and feed safety.
National C-FAR has been patterned after the successful Illinois
Council on Food and Agricultural Research (C-FAR). President Terry
Wolf, who has served as Illinois C-FAR chairman, explains, "National
C-FAR is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, stakeholder-driven, and consensus-based
coalition focused on food and agricultural research funding and
priority setting." Coalition membership is open to those
who support the objectives of (1) enhancing federal investments
in U.S. food and agricultural research and extension and (2) expanding
participation by stakeholders in priority setting and funding.
For more information on National C-FAR, contact Secretary/Treasurer
Joe Coffey at (804) 744-1486 or visit the coalition's website
at http://hill beef.org/ncfar.
Agenda Item:
6.1
Agenda Item Title: Status of ESCOP Activities
Presenter: Tom Payne
Advocacy and Marketing Committee: The Advocacy and Marketing Committee decided
to focus on a few specific items rather than a broad agenda. The
need for a marketing specialist to write up material and coordinate
activities nationally was discussed. Proposed activities include
developing a bookmark listing the four themes - Dependable Food
Supply, Environmental Balance, Revitalized Communities, Educated
Workforce; develop a set of impact statements on selected IFAFS
projects. Targeted messages will be focused on Congressional members
and their staff.
Budget and Legislative Committee: See Agenda Item 6.3.
Partnership Committee: The Partnership Committee was instrumental
in developing plans that culminated in the Partnership Workshop
to address ways to improve communication among members of the
land-grant system. About 250 members of the land-grant system
participated in the recent Workshop. Continuing discussion will
center on three areas: Outcome, Recommendations, Action Items.
Planning Committee: The Planning Committee suggested improvements
to the budget initiative process flow chart -- develop a potential
time line for the process and an explanatory statement to accompany
the flowchart. An ad hoc committee with representatives from the
ESCOP Planning Committee, ECOP and the ECOP Strategic Planning
Council has been appointed to address the six objectives in the
Strategies for Enhanced Engagement Report which the Joint Planning
Committee prepared in response to several studies criticizing
the programs of land-grant colleges of agriculture. The ESCOP
Planning Committee and the ECOP Strategic Planning Council will
reconcile priorities and identify areas of overlap.
Science and Technology Committee:
· The Agricultural Biotechnology Implementation Task Force
- "Critical Issues and Recommended Responses from the Land-Grant
Universities," a report to ESCOP and ECOP, is available in
the ESCOP Workroom web page.
· The Science Roadmap Task Force - Nominees for the 20-member
task force are being finalized. Their charge is to develop a longer
term, i.e., 20-year time horizon, "roadmap" of the science
relating to agriculture. The task force expects to have a finished
product within three months.
· The Social Science Task Force - The task force was charged
with looking at the human aspects of three major issues facing
the food and agricultural system: (1) food safety, (2) genetically
modified organisms, and (3) community vitality. Three proposals
were developed for research, education and outreach and have been
vetted with other ESCOP/ECOP committees.
· The ESCOP-ECOP-CSREES Environmental Initiative Task Force
- The task force has developed a draft document as to how the
land-grant system might best proceed in development of an environmental
initiative.
Action Requested: None.
Action Taken: Information only.
Agenda
Item: 6.2
Agenda Item Title: North Central Region Sustainable Agriculture
Research and Education Program
Presenter: Darrell Nelson, University of Nebraska, Lincoln,
Agricultural Research Division
The SARE program received level funding for FY 01 - approximately
$2.05 million for the research and education program and $0.85
million for the Professional Development Program. The National
Agroforestry Center continues to support the SARE program through
its financial assistance, totaling 0.1 million.
David Baltensperger has replaced Steven Waller as Regional Coordinator
for a two year term. Paula Ford was extended as the Professional
Development Program Coordinator for two years.
The NCR SARE program hosted two Outcome Funding meetings to introduce
researchers and producers to SARE's new funding direction. Highlights
of that conference include: 1) 80 attendees of which 61 were authors
intending to submit grant proposals, 2) Several scholarships were
awarded to producers throughout the region to attend the conference,
3) Outcome funding was introduced in the one day workshop, focusing
on grant writing to more effectively convey the author's intentions,
4) 100% of the participants felt the information presented would
be helpful in future grant writing endeavors, 5) conference notebooks
were distributed to all attendees, and any organizations that
requested a notebook thereafter.
This year, the SARE Administrative Council has welcomed six new
members, and we anticipate five members to be nominated this year.
The new members welcomed to the SARE program in November were
Gary Hein, University of Nebraska Research Representative; Jeff
DeWald, producer from North Dakota; Sandra Hodge, University of
Missouri Extension Officer; Dale Mutch, Michigan State University
Research Representative; Gene Alberts, ARS; John Gardner, University
of Missouri, Columbia, Extension Officer. The positions to be
filled are an Extension officer from Missouri, a Producer from
Minnesota, a Research Representative from Ohio, and a State Agency
Representative from Michigan.
Individual grant program highlights include:
· Research and Education Competitive Grants
The following tables indicate submission statistics and funding
recommendations by state for FY-01 preproposals and proposals.
Project funding recommendations have not occurred as of yet; the
SARE AC will vote on this issue at the March AC meeting in Nebraska
City, Nebraska.
| FY-01 Proposals Received by State | |||||||||||||
| IL | IN | IA | KS | MI | MN | MO | NE | ND | OH | SD | WI | Other | Total |
| 11 | 2 | 15 | 6 | 18 | 23 | 19 | 32 | 13 | 18 | 8 | 24 | 2 | 191 |
| FY 01 Preproposals Invited to Submit Full Proposals by State | |||||||||||||
| IL | IN | IA | KS | MI | MN | MO | NE | ND | OH | SD | WI | Other | Total |
| 1 | 0 | 4 | 3 | 6 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 7 | 0 | 41 |
| FY 01 Proposals Received by State | |||||||||||||
| IL | IN | IA | KS | MI | MN | MO | NE | ND | OH | SD | WI | Other | Total |
| 1 | 0 | 4 | 2 | 6 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 7 | 0 | 40 |
| ·
Professional Development Program The following tables indicate submission statistics and funding recommendations by state for FY 01 Professional Development Program proposals. Recommended projects dealt with, among other things, nutrition education, marketing initiatives, website development, local food systems, whole-farm planning, and specialty forestry products. |
|||||||||||||
| FY 01 Proposals Received by State | |||||||||||||
| IL | IN | IA | KS | MI | MN | MO | NE | ND | OH | SD | WI | Other | Total |
| 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 16 |
Introduction
The adoption of new national guidelines for multistate research
activities in September 2000 represented a major organizational
and procedural step forward in meeting the multistate research
requirements specified in the Agricultural Research, Extension,
and Education Reform Act (AREERA) of 1998. To implement the processes
specified in those guidelines the Northeastern Regional Association
of State Agricultural Experiment Station Directors (NERA) launched
a special initiative. This initiative, designed, developed and
beta-tested a World Wide Web (WWW) mediated computer software
program that has in the past been referred to erroneously as a
"paperless management system". But the system is more
than the avoidance of paper transactions. This software is a comprehensive
Information Management and Support System (IMSS) that fulfills
multiple research management support tasks.
The system is crafted in the ColdFusion, a complete Web design
and application technology used in e-commerce. It has been beta-site
tested. Region-wide training has been offered. The system is now
fully operational on an Oracle platform hosted at the University
of Maryland. The software has been named the NE Multistate Research
Information Management and Support System (NE MRIMSS). All transactions
in NE multistate research activities are now supported by this
system. And all NE multistate research documents, all of the project-associated
information archives, and all reported research outcomes and impacts
are organized within and retrievable from this database.
So just what does this new system do?
The NE MRIMSS:
1. Assists project participants in the creation of a multistate
research project:
Past Procedure: The investigators were directed to
the "Multistate Research Manual" on the association's
web site, and the national guidelines at the ESCOP web site. Oftentimes
little if any assistance was available to them beyond this referral.
New System: All forms and procedures are clearly outlined
in the step-by-step procedure for creating a multistate research
project development. Everything is accomplished electronically,
including peer review and MRC evaluation.
2. Supports the management of the project proposal peer review
processes.
Past Procedure: The administrative advisor (AA) and
multistate research committee (MRC) subject the resulting proposal
to the peer review and selection processes
Scientific review is done by the AA, NCA(s)1, and MRC (they may call upon
expertise to accomplish the review). Today, in most cases, the
individual associations accomplish this process electronically.
And, there is commonly a required form but no formal template
for the scientific review.
New System: All forms and procedures are clearly outlined,
including the routing of documents to reviewers, and the generation
of electronic letters-of-notification as various steps are initiated
or completed.
3. Supplements the management-decision making processes of
the regional associations:
Past Procedure: The MRC assigns a lead reviewer for
each proposal. Then, as a result of those reviews and any revisions
the MRC makes a recommendation to the member directors. All regional
association web sites have the title, objectives and participating
states for each sponsored project and a link to the project's
home page, if there is one. After a project is approved by the
association, if a Director wants specific information on a project
in which they do not have a participant, he/she would ask the
AA, the chair of the project, or the regional office for the information.
New System: A portfolio of documents is created for each
project that contains all pertinent information on a project.
Contained in each portfolio are the project outline (either draft
or Official, as the case may be), peer reviewers comments, annual
meeting minutes, SAES-422 reports, participants (as reported through
Appendix E forms), any other attachments that have been provided,
and links to the CRIS classification scheme and CRIS forms2. This portfolio of information
is available to each Director, for her use when preparing for
a meeting, planning station budgets, reviewing proposals for approval,
or when reporting outcomes and impacts, as the information is
permanently available through the association's home page.
4. Provides administrative advisors with project management
support:
Past Procedure: AAs were responsible for all administrative
follow up with the project. This included timely notification
of report deadlines and the content of those reports.
New System: Letters are generated electronically for the
AA and chair of the MRP for all notices of actions, as well as
to CSREES and the national SAES list server, if appropriate. Examples
of these communications would include notices of meeting authorizations,
submission of SAES-422, etc.
5. Links to the Current Research Information System (CRIS)
for non-financial data:
Past Procedure: Directors currently have a link through
the various associations' web site to the CRIS system. But not
all of these sites contain all of the forms that are routinely
sent by a station into the USDA CRIS system.
New System: All non-financial forms submitted to CRIS are
contained in the system and are accessible for use by password-authorized
personnel.
6. Protects critical management decisions with passwords:
Past Procedure: For the most part the regional associations'
web sites are open to the public. The Southern Associations is
the primary exception, wherein a password protects some of their
pages. For the other regional associations however, there is no
protected information in the system.
New System: Access to the system data is restricted to
those who are authorized. Decisions on access are made and authorized
by the system manager, who is currently Rubie Mize of NERA.
7. Permits project-by-project reporting of research results:
Past Procedure: Each research project must prepare
an annual report of progress and minutes of meetings and project
accomplishments (SAES-422). This report is submitted to the regional
office. This report is then forwarded to the Partnership Office,
with a hard copy retained by the responsible regional office.
Form AD-421 is submitted directly to CRIS by each participating
SAES. Form AD-421 is not now retained in a centralized, regional
database, either electronically or in hard copy.
New System: All report forms are retained in the system's
database, and are accessible to those with password clearance.
8. Facilitates impact reporting across the entire multistate
research portfolio:
Past Procedure: Regional associations currently vary
on the extent to which they develop impact statements for their
multistate project portfolios. Furthermore, few have access to
the completed Form SAES-422s, some of which are hard copy and
some are electronic copy.
New System: Impact statements for MRP are readily and easily
generated from the project- and station-reported forms that are
now retained by the regionally organized system.
9. Satisfies AREERA requirements by allowing participation
of Extension scientists to be captured and recorded using the
new form, Appendix E:
Past Procedure: Previous to the development of the
national Guidelines for Multistate Research, no process existed
for recording Extension's participation in integrated activities,
except through records of meeting minutes and annual reports,
where names and affiliations of participants had been recorded.
New System: The new system records Extension participation
through the form referred to as "Appendix E" and automatically
computes and displays the percentage participation of research
and Extension personnel.
1. Facilitates record-keeping for individual stations:
Past Procedure: MRP records are kept at CRIS, but searching
can be cumbersome. A station has to perform several searches to
locate the information. Summaries are not available.
New System: All MRP documents: project outline, SAES-422
annual reports/minutes, participants (SY, PY, TY) and their corresponding
RPA, SOI and FOS are all permanently recorded in the system and
can be retrieved anytime by project, by station/state, or by scientist,
or any combination of RPA, SOI, and FOS.
Requests for use of the Software:
Requests from other SAES regional associations to share the
software has led to discussion on how that might be accomplished.
The most desirable deployment of the system would be as an integrated
component of CRIS, operated on their computer, and serviced by
their staff as a national MRIMSS. However, this approach would
require major redesign of the program, substantial structural
changes, and considerable software reprogramming. The Chair of
the Experiment Station Committee on Organization and Policy (ESCOP)
McArthur Floyd sent a request to Cooperative State Research, Education
and Extension Service (CSREES) Administrator Colien Hefferan in
January 2001 proposing implementation of a national information
management and support system for all multistate research activities.
At the Baltimore Partnership meeting in February 2001 Administrator
Hefferan acknowledged receiving the request, but declined to fund
the project because of the projected costs.
As an alternative to developing a national IMSS the regional SAES
Executive Directors have been exploring a low cost region-by-region
implementation strategy. What has emerged is a proposal that would
build on the NE-developed software, preserve interregional commonality,
and allow program customization to accommodate the acknowledged
regional differences in implementing the national multistate research
guidelines.
Conditional Agreement:
Subject to approval by NERA's leadership, we are offering
the software at no cost to the other regions, with the following
conditions. To preserve the ability to move across the databases,
the regional customization of the software needs to be done by
a central entity. To assure ready access to the preserved information
broad agreement is needed on the reorganization and reformatting
of the databases' contents. To reduce computer service and maintenance
costs the regional databases should be co-located and serviced
by the same entity.
The rationale for offering the software at no cost to the other
regions is derived from the acknowledged benefits of having everyone
operating in a common information system. Recovery of the association's
investments expended so far are thus foregone by NERA, in the
interest of establishing a set of common, regionally-organized
information management systems.
A Low Cost Proposal:
The NE IMSS software was developed by Mrs. Rubie Mize and
programmed by Ms. Natalie Moy, an undergraduate student at the
University of Maryland. Both individuals have direct and intimate
knowledge on the program and both would be valuable in customizing
the software to meet regional needs.
Natalie graduates from the University of Maryland in May. However,
she has indicated a willingness to remain in a full time position
on this project until September 30, 2001, to provide the anticipated
software-customization services. NERA will release a portion of
Rubie Mize's time to manage the system's implementation during
the next 6 months, at no cost to the activity. The University
of Maryland will provide computer storage space on their Oracle
platform sufficient for the four region's needs for $200.00 per
month.
This proposed region-by-region activity would not give the benefits
of creating a CRIS-integrated national multistate research information
management and support system. And, it would not include CSREES
as a partner in its development, at this point. However, the anticipated
costs for creation and operation are substantially less by this
plan, than for a nationally organized system.
Proposed Budget I (Implementation 3/1/01 to 9/30/01):
Student worker hourly pay for Natalie Moy (March 1 to May 15)
20 hours per week at $10.00.hr. $ 2,000
Salary for Natalie Moy: (May 15 to September 30, 2001)
@45,000/year $15,577
Fringe benefits @ 26% $4,050
Subtotal: $21,627
Computer Services @ $200/month (March 1 to September 30) $ 1,400
Workshops and training services to regions $ 5,000
Total: $28,027
Shared regional costs (assumes all four regions are participating)
$ 7,000/region
Proposed Budget II (Annual Operation) (costs after September 30,
2001)
Subsequent services for the system and its maintenance after September
30, 2001 (which are at this point our best guesses) are offered
below. The preferred model would be to provide centralized services
for software adjustments, customizations, and enhancements for
the four regions to assure adequate follow-up to implementation
and continued computer access and retrieval for stored information
for a subsequent period of 12 months.
The University of Maryland's Office of Information Technology
has informed us that they can provide on a sustained basis computer
storage space, program operation, and Oracle support services
at $200 per month (or $2400 /year) for all four databases. We
propose that the direct costs for computer storage space, program
operation, and Oracle support services will be shared equally
by the four participating associations.
We are further proposing that we budget the following for FFY
2002 (i.e., October 1 2001 to September 30, 2002):
Consulting services for software maintenance: $20,000
Follow-up to training services: $ 6,000
Computer capacity services: $ 2,400
Total Annual Cost $28,400
Shared Cost (per region) $ 7,100
Subsequent years should be less costly, and should represent mostly
the cost of computer space and occasional software consulting
services, as needed. But at this time cost estimates are not available,
and will mostly depend on regional demands for services.
Timing:
To launch this four-region activity we need a decision as
soon as possible to gain, in turn, an employment agreement with
Natalie Moy. We have set March 15, 2001 as the deadline for this
decision.
As an alternative, NERA is open to having another region serve
as the host for this multi-regional IMSS.
1 In the NC region the AA sends
the proposal to the appropriate committees for review. In the
NE only animal science proposals receive this additional review.
The system allows for such customization.
2 Also being explored at this
time is the possibility of building links to the project's CRIS
data, giving full consideration to maintaining confidentiality.
Action Requested: Agreement to utilize the
NERA system.
Action Taken: After discussion, the directors agreed to
the above proposal. A committee consisting of: Daryl Lund, Madelyn
Alt, Ian Gray, Doreen Woodward, Cathy Good, Bill Ravlin, Margaret
Dentine (chair) and a department chair (to be announced) will
work together to conform the NCRA guidelines to the IMSS project.
Daryl Lund will ask David MacKenzie to follow-up with the NERA
directors for feedback regarding the use of the system.
Agenda Item: 9.4
Agenda Item Title: Web Page Issues - Costs/Expectations
Presenter: Ian Gray
Concerns have been expressed regarding web page costs for regional
projects (maintaining server space, creating/updating/maintaining
a web page, etc.). How should these expenses be handled?
Action Requested: Solution to these costs.
Action Taken: After a discussion, it was recommended that
costs related to web page maintenance should be added to the registration
fee for annual meetings. Daryl Lund will follow-up with the Executive
Directors about a centralized location for the server.
Agenda Item: 10.0
Agenda Item Title: Umbrella Project Update
Presenter: Gerald Klonglan/Cole Gustafson/Mike Chippendale/Doreen
Woodward
This issue was brought up from the discussion held at the September
2000 meeting where Iowa State has been working under this concept
for projects. The committee was formed to discuss this concept
at the meeting.
The committee reported that last fall USDA was working on an umbrella
project concept, and the committee is waiting for USDA to develop
a philosophy or a policy. There was no consensus at CSREES regarding
the umbrella projects. The national program leaders in Washington
need to visit universities and see what activities are on-going
in regard to human care, human subjects, etc.
Colien Hefferan then reported that Ted Wilson is heading up a
committee and will include university personnel on the committee.
A small group should be initiated and then bring a larger group
together; need to also include McIntire-Stennis personnel.
Action Requested: None.
Action Taken: Information only.
Agenda Item: 11.0
Agenda Item Title: Ranking Agricultural Disciplines
Presenter: Steven Slack
· Universities equate excellence with National Ranking
and look to US News and World Report and National Research Council
for ranks.
· Universities are allocating internal resources on the
basis of these rankings. Those not ranked, for whatever reason,
lose.
· LGCs and agricultural disciplines have avoided ranking
historically. In the current environment, this position works
against us.
Action Requested: Discuss whether or not there is support
for action. If so, put this on the agenda for ESS meeting in September
and get this on the AHS agenda.
Action Taken: After a lengthy discussion on this topic,
there are many issues that need to be addressed. Dr. Tom Payne
will have this added to the Administrative Heads meeting agenda,
and then possibly AHS can have this added to the meeting of NASULGC
provosts and presidents.
Agenda Item: 12.1
Agenda Item Title: CSREES Update
Presenter: Colien Hefferan
Dr. Hefferan joined the NCRA the morning of Thursday, March 15.
The NCRA is very appreciative of the time she gave to the group.
Issues that were discussed:
Some of the concerns recently in Washington/CSREES have been:
Action Requested. None.
Action Taken: Information only. The NCRA is very appreciative
of the time Dr. Hefferan gave to the group.
Agenda Item: 12.2
Agenda Item Title: Midwest Area Office/Agricultural Research
Service
Presenter: Darrell Cole, Midwest Area
Attached is the Midwest Area submission for the NCR Director's
Meeting Agenda Briefs.
ILLINOIS
PEORIA, Peter Johnsen, Center Director, National Center
for Agricultural Utilization Research, 309/681-6541,
1815 N. University St., Peoria, IL 61604
Michael A. Cotta, RL, Fermentation Biochemistry
Research
Agenda Item Title: Development of Improved Biocatalysts for Production
of Lactic Acid
Background Information: Global interest in large scale production
of lactic acid from renewable agriculture has increased dramatically
in recent years. This organic acid is commonly used as an additive
for foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. New uses as a raw material
for the manufacture of the biodegradable plastic polylactic acid
(PLA) and the non-toxic solvent ethyl lactate are markets that
have tremendous growth potential. However, fermentation efficiency
for producing lactic acid must be improved to ensure the economic
feasibility of this anticipated market expansion and to all the
U.S. to maintain its leadership role in this field.
In an effort to produce more suitable biocatalysts for the conversion
of agricultural biomass to lactic acid, ARS researchers developed
bacterial and fungal strains with improved fermentative characteristics.
A series of lactic acid producing strains of Escherichia coli
were constructed by introduction of a lactic dehydrogenase gene
(ldh) from Streptococcus bovis into non-fermentative
strains of E. coli. When grown anaerobically, these recombinant
strains stably maintained the ldh genes in the absence
of added antibiotics and produced high levels of lactic acid (8%
lactic acid, 90-93% of theoretical conversion).
A Cooperative Research and Development Agreement continues with
Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) Company of Decatur, IL, for the further
development and testing of genetically engineered fungal strains
with improved lactic acid productivity and yield. ARS researchers
have developed technologies to genetically modify key metabolic
conversion steps in the fungus Rhizopus and have demonstrated
the ability to significantly increase fermentation yields of lactic
acid. ADM is evaluating several of these proprietary strains for
comparison with organisms currently used in fermentation facilities.
This agreement with ADM is expected to hasten the transfer of
the technology as a direct result of ADM's vast experience and
knowledge of industrial production of lactic acid by Rhizopus.
Patricia J. Slininger, Acting RL, Bioactive Agents
Research
Agenda Item Title: Discovery of Strategies and Microorganisms
for Biologically Controlling Fusarium Head Blight of Wheat
Background Information: Fusarium head blight (scab), primarily
incited by the fungus Fusarium graminearum (teleomorph=Gibberella
zeae), is a destructive disease on wheat and barley in humid
and semihumid regions throughout the world. In the 1990's, pandemics
have been recorded across the North Central region of the United
States. The Red River Valley of North Dakota, Minnesota, and Manitoba
has been particularly hard hit. Farm losses due to FHB since 1990
are estimated at greater than 3.0 million dollars in the United
States alone. Besides dramatically affecting yield, the pathogen
produces the mycotoxins deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone.
Deoxynivalenol poses a health hazard in food and feed. Concomitantly,
it threatens the viability of U.S. wheat and barley producers,
elevator operators and the bread, pasta, and malting industries
in areas affected by FHB because of strict National and international
limits for DON levels in flour and flour products.
In response to a lack of effective control measures or cultivars
of wheat that are highly resistant to FHB, an extensive cooperative
research project between the Ohio State University and ARS was
launched in the Fall of 1997 that is directed towards discovering
and developing microorganisms to biocontrol FHB. In the initial
stage of the research, effort was concentrated on selecting microorganisms
that possessed attributes that would indicate an enhanced aptitude
in colonizing anthers and inhibiting infection by F. graminearum.
Organisms were isolated primarily from wheat anthers and then
characterized as to their ability to utilize tartaric acid. This
compound is a readily available byproduct in the production of
fruit juices and could be used in formulations to selectively
enhance some biocontrol agents since F. graminearum does
not readily consume it. Six microbial strains, including three
that utilize tartaric acid, were discovered that have consistently
reduced that severity of FHB disease in greenhouse and field tests.
A third year of cooperative studies testing the amenability of
these biocontrol agents to be mass produced and control disease
in the field were carried out in 2000 at sites in Peoria, IL,
Langdon, ND and Wooster, OH. The most effective microbes reduced
disease severity in field trials by as much as 75% percent with
disease reduction being demonstrated on hard red spring, soft
red winter and durum wheats. With this discovery, the feasibility
of biologically controlling scab of wheat has been demonstrated
and a crucial step towards the development of a biological control
product for use against this disease has been completed. Patent
applications have been submitted regarding theses biological control
agents. In 2001, large-scale cooperative field studies will be
conducted at 15 sites across the United States with one of these
biocontrol agents as part of the Uniform Fungicide Trial of the
U.S. Wheat and Barley Scab Initiative.
Action Issues: This research activity was initiated in response
to agricultural customers and stakeholders and was made possible
through the use of Ohio State University and ARS funds. Cooperation
continues in the form of interactions between these institutions'
scientific and resource personnel which has united the efforts
of scientific experts in the fields of plant pathology, epidemiology
and molecular biology. Additionally, a durum wheat grower cooperative
provided funding in 1999 and 2000 to support cooperative studies
specifically designed to evaluate the feasibility of biologically
controlling scab on durum wheats.
Agenda Item Title: Controlling Corn Rootworms with a Variety
of Insecticides Applied at Reduced Rates
Background Information: The use of the same insecticide year after
year has raised concerns about the development of insecticide
resistance by corn rootworms. NCAUR scientists worked under a
Cooperative Research and Development Agreement with Trécé,
Inc., to develop a new feeding-stimulant adjuvant formulation
that can be applied with reduced rates of many commercially available
insecticides for adult (rather than larval) stage rootworm control.
A sticky, wheat gluten-based formulation of the feeding-stimulant,
now being marketed by Trécé under the name CIDETRAK,
imparts rainfastness, shields ultraviolet rays, and attracts adult
beetles. When CIDETRAK is combined with any of three types of
insecticides–pyrethroids, carbamates, and organophosphates,
corn root worm control is much more effective than conventional
sprays, and one-tenth the normal application rates of the insecticides
provide efficient root worm control.
Action Issues: The CRADA between ARS and Trécé has
been extended into 2001, and tests are underway to determine the
potential for use of CIDETRAK with other insecticides. As a result
of the Area-Wide Management Project and cooperation with industry,
a new tool is already available to corn growers for rootworm control
with reduced rates of a variety of commercial insecticides.
Agenda Item Title: Controlling Apple Maggot Adults with Reduced
Pesticide Usage
Background Information: The apple maggot and related fly pests
are one of the most destructive group of insect pests of apples
and other fruit crops. To control this, insect growers have applied
extensive amounts of insecticides to plant foliage. Research by
a University of Massachusetts entomologist identified odor and
visual adult fly attractants and used this information to develop
a spherical decoy that could be used to monitor fly abundance.
We became involved with this project in an attempt to create an
attract-and-kill device. Decoys were made of corn flour and sugar,
and extruded into the shape of a ball. The decoys were coated
with a mixture of paint, sugar, and pesticide and field tested
at Michigan State University, where they effectively reduced fly
numbers in applies and blueberries. In research plots, the decoys
controlled apple maggots with an insecticide rate of less than
1% of the conventional application rate.
Action Issues: In the summer of 2001, more extensive tests
are planned. The spherical decoy technology has been licensed
by Fruit Spheres, Inc., Macomb, IL. Marketing, product registration,
and funds for developing the large-scale manufacturing process
are being pursued. As a result of ARS, university, and industrial
partnerships, the potential decoy hung in trees at the edge of
orchards may provide an alternative to repeated chemical insecticide
sprays.
Craig Carriere, RL, Biomaterials Processing Research
Agenda Item Title: Using grain based technologies to create new
markets for surplus grains and to provide more health related
consumer products
Background Information: Grain and grain flours and related components
are readily available and the price is very low and the supply
exceeds the market demands. Utilization of these agricultural
products is a major goal of NCAUR research. The Trim Technologies
are a part of this ongoing research. These technologies consist
of Oatrim, Z-Trim, and Nutrim. Oatrim, made from enzyme-treated
oat and barley flours, has the qualities of shortening and is
used as a fat replacer in many baked and dairy foods. Oatrim is
commercially available from two USDA licensed manufacturers. Z-trim
is an insoluble fiber gel prepared from high-fiber agricultural
materials like corn and oat hulls. Added to foods, it lowers calories
in brownies, cakes, and other baked goods without affecting taste
or texture. Nutrim is a new generation hydrocolloid made from
oat and/or barley grain. It has the health benefits of soluble
beta-glucan fiber in addition to its ability to reduce the amount
of saturated fat and cholesterol in foods.
Action Issues: The Trim Technologies project is one of many research
activities at NCAUR focused on grain value-added products. Continued
cooperation with the private sector will result in additional
of new clusters of products designed for providing abundant and
more health related products in the marketplace. Our ongoing program
of basic research has increased our understanding of the Trim
Technologies. These studies along with expanded dialog and cooperation
will result in additional consumer useful applications.
C. P. Kurtzman, RL, Microbial Properties Research
Agenda Item Title: Genomics for Detection, Identification and
Risk Assessment of Plant Pathogens, Biocontrol Microorganisms,
Foodborne Pathogens and Spoilage Microorganisms
Background Information: Microorganisms are notoriously hard to
identify, but their identity is essential for protection of plants,
animals, and humans from disease, for use in biocontrol of pests
and for control of foodborne pathogens and prevention of food
spoilage. MPR conducts research on detection and characterization
of microbial germplasm from gene sequence comparisons. This research
has the following objectives: 1. Provide molecular sequence comparisons
and nucleotide databases of agriculturally important species for
the purposes of rapid detection and identification of plant pathogens,
mycotoxigenic fungi, foodborne pathogens (Listeria, Bacillus),
food spoilage bacteria and fungi, and biocontrol microorganisms,
and 2. Exploitation of novel germplasm for agricultural and industrial
uses, especially that detected in the ARS Culture Collection.
Species-specific gene sequence databases have been developed for
all known species of yeasts, Fusarium, Aspergillus and
Penicillium, and databases for actinomycetes and eubacteria
are under development. These databases allow, for the first time,
rapid and definitive identification of species in the preceding
groups. Specific examples include the following: 1. Determination
that the wheat scab fungus Fusarium graminearum is actually
a complex of genetically isolated populations that can be expected
to vary in their pathogenicity to different crops. 2. Detection
of a new species of aflatoxin-producing Aspergillus. 3.
Determination that the potato scab pathogen Streptomyces scabies
is actually a species complex, 4. Discovery that the mosquito
pathogen Bacillus sphaericus is a species complex and that
a cryptic new species is the actual pathogen, and 5. Identification
of many of the yeasts used by ARS for biocontrol by comparison
with the MPR/NCAUR yeast gene sequence database. In addition,
molecular sequences are being used to characterize the 80,000
strains maintained in the ARS Culture Collection (Website: http://nrrl.ncaur.usda.gov)
to better use this extensive source of microbial germplasm for
the research programs of ARS and our cooperators. This year, a
project on population genetics of Listeria was initiated
to develop a molecular detection system for this serious foodborne
bacterial pathogen.
Action Issues: Molecular sequence comparisons provide the only
known method for rapid, accurate identification of microorganisms,
and the widespread application of this technology will have a
dramatic impact on understanding agricultural ecosystems, including
food safety. For this reason, MPR scientists have developed extensive
nucleotide sequence databases for five microbial groups of major
importance to agriculture.
INDIANA
WEST LAFAYETTE
D. Norton, RL, National Soil Erosion Research Laboratory
Agenda Item Title: Soil amendments, including gypsum, composted
biosolids with coal fired boiler ash, waste paper, and polyacrylamides,
are found to be effective for reducing soil erosion
A) Field studies in Texas and Indiana showed that amendments reduced
erosion and chemical runoff. B) We completed work this year on
the first common model interface, MOSES, to simultaneously assess
water and wind erosion for purposes of conservation planning.
C) Forest Service is now using the lab's WEPP model to assess
erosion on disturbed forest lands for planning and project management
purposes. This model has a web-based interface for easy customer
use. D) Several studies were recently completed to evaluate expected
changes in erosion rates during the 21st century due
to climate change, using data from Global Circulation Models and
erosion models developed at the erosion laboratory. Results indicate
the potential for significant erosion increases through the next
century as a result of climate change.
Donald Lay, RL, Livestock Behavior ResearchAgenda Item
Title: Well-being Issues in the Dairy IndustryThe dairy industry
has been plagued by animal rightist attacks such as the "drink
beer" campaign. Major attacks on the dairy industry include
the practice of tail-docking that is increasing in use in the
Mid-west, particularly in large parlors that attach the milking
units from the rear of the cow. To address the tail-docking concern,
Dr. Eicher has conducted multiple experiments on tail-docking
issues. The first addressed acute pain of tail-docking in 24 mo-old
dairy cattle by documenting behavioral, physiological, and immunological
indicators of stress. She discovered an increase in eating behavior
that followed tail-banding and decreased immediately following
removal of the necrotic tail. Haptoglobin, an acute phase reactant,
was the primary immuno-physiological indicator that responded
to the docking procedure. Significant increases in haptoglobinaccompanied
the removal of the tail. The second experiment was with the same
group of cows during fly season. This research was a collaborative
effort with Dr. Ralph Williams (Entomology) and Dr. Jack Albright
(Animal Science). This study demonstrated increased cleanliness
of docked cows, but increased fly numbers and fly avoidance behaviors
on the rear legs of those cows. The third experiment was with
neonatal calves. Many producers band tails at three to four wk-of-age.
Behavior indicators of acute pain were evident in the neonatal
calves. These heifers, upon coming into their first lactation
were tested for evidence of chronic pain. Behavior during heat
and cold sensitivity testing, sensitivity to pin-pressure testing,
and surface temperature of the underside of the tail were used
to assess chronic pain. Only one behavior, stomping, was altered
by the cold pack. Temperature of the tail remained higher prior
to and even more so after the testing. These experiments provide
scientific evidence of some benefits and well-being concerns of
tail-docking in dairy cattle that may be used by producers to
determine benefits of the procedure and perhaps by legislatures.
Larry Dunkle, RL, Crop Production and Pest Control ResearchAgenda
Item Title: Genetics of resistance to Septoria tritici blotch
in wheat
Background Information: Septoria is one of the most important
wheat diseases worldwide. Yield losses caused by septoria can
range from 30 to 50% in climates conducive to disease development.
In the United States, septoria usually is the second most important
wheat disease after rust. It occurs in most wheat-growing regions
every year. Losses to septoria probably cost United States wheat
growers $500 million in lost revenue every year; much more in
years of severe epidemics. Chemical controls are available but
generally are too expensive for United States wheat growers. Increasing
the level of host resistance will ensure a safe, stable food supply
for United States consumers with no negative effects on the environment.
ARS scientists have identified a potentially new gene for resistance
to Septoria tritici blotch and developed populations that segregate
for this gene. These data were used to map the resistance gene
to chromosome 7B of wheat; this is the first major gene for resistance
to Septoria tritici blotch that has been mapped in wheat. Knowing
the map location will allow us to identify molecular markers linked
to the resistance gene that can be used by wheat breeders in industry
and the public sector to transfer the resistance into new wheat
cultivars.Action Issues: The ARS scientist on this project works
closely with AES personnel as well as other ARS scientists in
the Crop Production and Pest Control Research Unit to identify
new sources of resistance and to find molecular markers that are
genetically linked to those resistance genes. Cooperative research
with the wheat breeding program at Purdue allows the research
to proceed much faster and speeds the attainment of our mutual
goals.
Agenda Item Title: Functional Genomic and Proteomic Analysis of
Pathogen and Pest Resistance in Wheat
Background Information: The ARS scientists involved in wheat research
have taken an integrated approach to define resistance to major
pests of wheat. They have formed a collaborative effort with Purdue
faculty to develop disease specific expressed sequence tagged
DNAs (ESTs) to identify and monitor genes involved in pathogen
and pest resistance. This collaboration has resulted in the submission
of over 500 EST DNA sequences to the sequence database DBEST.
This functional information combined with a high throughput analytical
chemistry approach for identifying wheat proteins that change
in abundance during pest/pathogen attack will allow these ARS
scientists to begin delineating genetic and biochemical pathways
leading to disease resistance in wheat. Action Issues: This project
is a collaboration between two internationally recognized programs,
the Purdue/USDA-ARS Small Grain Breeding and Genetics Program
and the Purdue Chemistry Department, which are fostering a unique
approach to defining the basis of pest and pathogen resistance
in wheat. This interdisciplinary partnership offers the strong
prospect that we will become international leaders in plant functional
genomics and proteomics (qualitative and/or quantitative analyses
of large numbers of proteins simultaneously) in general and specifically
in the area of plant-pathogen relationships.
Agenda Item Title: Soybean Varieties with Rps Gene Combinations
to Reduce Yield Losses to Phytophthora Root Rot and Minimize Pathogen
Diversity
Background Information: Soybean is the major oilseed crop in the
world. About 95% of the soybean oil produced is consumed as a
vegetable oil in margarine, shortenings, and as salad and cooking
oils. Soybean yield losses due to Phytophthora root rot have increased
during the 1990s and were estimated at $124,000,000 for the U.S.
in 1994. This disease is potentially devastating in soybean varieties
lacking Rps genes that confer resistance to specific races of
the soilborne pathogen. To date, 46 races have been reported in
the U.S. The Rps1-k gene controls several different races or strains
of the Phytophthora sojae pathogen and is the most widely used
Rps resistance gene in soybeans. However, it is not effective
against several of the new races identified in IN, OH, IL and
IA during the 1990s. Effective control by Rps resistance genes
requires current information about new and dominant races of the
root rot pathogen. At present, little is known about the population
dynamics of these races except for the current research in Indiana.
Results of this continuing project indicate that: (1) races 1,3,4,7,13,25,28,33,43
and 44 still occur most frequently; (2) Rps gene combinations
(1-k or 1-c + 3-a or 6) are needed to effectively control diverse
races of this important pathogen; and, importantly, (3) growing
soybeans without Rps resistance causes a marked increase in incidence
and diversity of P. sojae races. Managing Phytophthora root rot
with genetic resistance currently available would provide full
season disease control, minimize the development of high inoculum
potentials for successive crops and result in significant economic
benefit, and reduce the need for fungicide treatment that provides
only partial or temporary control.Action Issues: This research
activity comprised of personnel and funds from ARS, Purdue University,
and the Indiana Soybean Growers Association is focused on reducing
disease losses in soybean. Documentation of new races or biotypes
of major soybean pathogens and identification of host resistance
enhances development of soybean germplasm and varieties that minimize
yield losses caused by soybean pathogens. Soybean breeders and
extension educators throughout the Midwest use this information
regularly. A new initiative to establish and maintain a culture
collection of Phytophthora races described in the US has begun
at West Lafayette. This repository will serve as a resource for
public and private soybean breeders.
Agenda Item Title: Gray Leaf Spot of Corn: A Global Problem
Background Information: Gray leaf spot (GLS) of corn has been
a serious problem in the USA for the last two decades, especially
associated with no-till production practices. During the last
five years, GLS has increased in incidence and severity to become
a yield-limiting factor in Africa and South America. Molecular
analyses of the GLS fungal pathogen by ARS scientists have indicated
that two closely related sibling species of Cercospora zeae-maydis
can cause GLS. Both of these occur in the USA, but only one form,
designated Group II, is the sole representative of the species
in Africa. Unlike its sibling isolates, Group II isolates do not
produce the phytotoxin, cercosporin, suggesting that this secondary
metabolite is not essential for the fungus to damage corn. ARS
scientists are investigating the role of cercosporin in the disease
process. Methods for transformation and gene disruption were developed
to provide information essential to determine the role of cercosporin
in GLS. This information can be used to reveal vulnerable points
in the disease process for genetic modification of the host or
for selection of resistant corn germplasm. Action Issues: Information
on the genes that are essential for disease development is critical
for achieving innovative control strategies that minimize the
use of fungicides and for genetic manipulation of crop plants
with durable resistance. Considerable research in the private
sector involves approaches to transform genes for cercosporin
resistance into corn to provide resistance to gray leaf spot.
The information outlined above will be essential to determine
the potential effectiveness of such approaches. Research on this
project involves the collaboration of ARS and Purdue scientists.
Expertise in fungal biology in the Department of Botany and Plant
Pathology at Purdue University, provides significant opportunities
for mutual collaboration.
IOWA
AMES
Jerry Hatfield, RL, National Soil Tilth Laboratory
Agenda Item Title: Reduction in nitrate-N and phosphorus from
agricultural practices has been the goal of several research projects
within the National Soil Tilth Laboratory
These projects are being conducted at a combined field and watershed
scale at three different locations, Deep Loess Soils in Western
Iowa, Walnut Creek watershed and combined fields studies in central
Iowa, and the Southfork of the Iowa River watershed in central
Iowa. These study sites have begun to reveal that we can improve
surface water quality through nutrient management practices that
enhance the nutrient use efficiency by crops. Studies on nitrate-N
losses have shown that we can reduce losses by over 25% and increase
nutrient use efficiency by 40% compared to conventional systems.
Phosphorus in surface waters can be reduced by management of runoff
from fields in vulnerable watershed areas combined with nutrient
management plans. These studies are being conducted in cooperation
with agricultural cooperatives, consultants, producers, and NRCS
to determine the potential of extending this information to a
broader user community.
MICHIGAN
EAST LANSING
George L. Hosfield, RL, Sugarbeet and Bean Research
Agenda Item Title: Genetics and Genomics of Sugar Beet and Related
Germplasm
Background Information: Genetics of agronomic, morphological,
and disease resistance traits in beet and related species are
not well defined in most cases. Progress is being made in our
laboratory and worldwide on developing molecular maps and superimposing
trait analyses on these maps. The breeding system of Beta
species complicates genetic analysis due to the self-incompatibility
system that prevents generating selfed progenies from hybrids
that facilitates genetic analyses in many other crops, and pollen
dispersal by wind that requires strict pollination control. Virtually
nothing is known of the actual genes involved in specific expression
of agronomic traits in beets, or any other member of this large
plant family. Two approaches are being followed to rectify these
deficiencies. The first is the deployment of a dominant self-fertility
gene which is allowing selfed progeny of experimental hybrids
to facilitate molecular dissection of the appropriate traits.
Four second generation progeny sets are being analyzed currently,
including a red beet X sugar beet population, a Rhizoctonia resistant
X susceptible segregating population, and two Aphanomyces resistance
X susceptible populations that are derived from a `traditional'
resistant source as well as a novel wide cross. Markers being
used include AFLP and ESTs, however the marker screens have not
coalesced into a unified linkage map to date. Over ESTs have been
isolated to date, and include genes expressed under stress germination
isolated via subtractive hybridization, with their nucleotide
sequences having been deposited in Genbank dbEST. Current efforts
are geared towards characterizing these genes during germination,
incorporating them as genetic markers for use in mapping via novel
approaches, and expanding the set of ESTs to include leaf, root,
and flower specific sequences. Current limitations are the lack
of a large-insert genomic library (e.g. a BAC library) that will
serve a number of objectives, and the lack of a microarray for
beet. The BAC library is needed to (1) recover and characterize
gene promoter sequences, and (2) unite the genetic linkage maps
with physical pieces of chromosomes. The microarray technology
is required to dissect metabolic and regulatory gene networks
to better deduce genes and gene interactions contributing to agronomic
performance.
Action Issues: This is one research activity comprised of personnel
from ARS, Michigan State University, and the Beet Sugar Development
Foundation as well as Betaseed, Inc. and the University of Kiel,
Germany to develop a comprehensive, state-of-the-art, public resource
for beet researchers.
Agenda Item Title: Development of Sensing Technologies for Nondestructive
Assessment of Fruit Postharvest Quality
Background Information: The U.S. fruit industry is facing many
serious challenges, including record low commodity pricing, increasing
costs and scarcity of dependable labor, and intensified competition
in both domestic and foreign markets. To compete successfully,
the industry must adopt new technologies that would allow 100%
inspection of fruit for internal quality, such as firmness, sugar
content, and acid. The industry is also looking for techniques
for automated sorting of fruit for both surface and internal defects
to reduce its dependence on human labor and, thus, reduce production
costs. The ARS lab at Michigan State University is developing
new sensors for nondestructive assessment of the firmness and
sugar content of tree fruits and new imaging techniques for detection
of surface defects on apples. We are applying near-infrared reflectance
and laser imaging techniques for developing sensors for predicting
the firmness and sugar content of apples and sweet cherries. Hyperspectral
imaging is being applied to develop a new technique for effective
detection of surface defects on apples. Successful implementation
of this research will lead to the development of new sensors for
grading and sorting fruit for firmness and sugar content and new
techniques for segregating inferior fruit from superior ones.
This research will benefit the industry by providing new technologies
to assess, retain, and assure the quality of fruit and increase
consumers' satisfaction and confidence in fruit they purchase.
This should increase the industry's competitiveness and lead to
improved profitability.
Aly M. Fadly, RL, Avian disease & Oncology Laboratory
(ADOL)
Agenda Item Title: Evaluation of field and vaccine strains of
fowlpox virus for contamination with reticuloendotheliosis virus,
a retrovirus capable of inducing cancer-like disease in chickens
and turkeys
Background Information: Fowlpox, a virus-induced disease of many
avian species is characterized by development of pox lesions on
the skin and pharyngeal cavity. The disease is important and can
lead to significant economic losses due to mortality and decreased
productivity. Several years ago, scientists at ADOL provided evidence
that a commercial fowlpox vaccine was contaminated with a retrovirus
termed reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV). The use of this contaminated
vaccine resulted in cancer-like disease in vaccinated commercial
broiler breeder flocks. Because of work conducted at ADOL, the
commercial vaccine was pulled off the market. This year, in collaboration
with scientists at Michigan State University, several vaccine
and field strains of fowlpox virus were evaluated for contamination
with REV. The data indicate that at least four fowlpox viruses
tested are contaminated with REV. Studies to determine the role
of contamination of fowlpox virus with REV in epidemiology and
transmission of REV are needed.
Agenda Item Title: Development of specific reagents (monoclonal
antibodies) for the diagnosis and characterization of various
strains of subgroup J avian leukosis virus (ALV-J)
Background Information: Eradication is the only method currently
available to the poultry industry for control of avian retrovirus
infection including subgroup J avian leukosis virus (ALV-J). Control
of retroviruses in poultry is complicated by lack of specific
diagnostics and vaccines as well as a high frequency of antigenic
and molecular variation among strains of virus. The broiler breeder
industry has recently identified an ALV-J-induced disease termed
myeloid leukosis as its highest disease priority.
Development of specific reagents for detection of ALV-J is an
essential component of any successful program to control this
important viral infection of chickens. In collaboration with scientists
at Michigan State University, we have developed specific monoclonal
antibodies against ALV-J. These monoclonal antibodies proved to
be effective in detection of ALV-J in infected cell cultures.
Plans are being prepared to use such monoclonal antibodies to
develop an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) that can
be used for detection of ALV-J in field samples.
MINNESOTA
MORRIS
Ward B. Voorhees, RL, North Central Soil Conservation Research
Laboratory
Agenda Item Title: Developing agronomic production guidelines
for commercializing Cuphea in the north central US
Background Information: The US is currently totally dependent
on foreign supplies of a unique kind of oil used in the manufacture
of detergents. Cuphea, a plant native to North America,
contains a relatively high concentration of this oil, and has
potential to be grown in rotation with corn and soybeans as a
means of breaking the corn root-worm cycle. Cuphea is being
domesticated through a breeding program at Oregon State University.
Other aspects of commercializing this plant are being done within
a CRADA between Proctor and Gamble, Western Illinois University,
and ARS units in Peoria, IL and Morris, MN.
Action Issue: The Morris unit will research water use, fertility
requirements, seeding and harvesting techniques, and weed control
strategies for growing Cuphea in cool wet soils. Cooperation
with the University of Minnesota Extension Service will be critical
for developing and transferring practical agronomic guidelines
for commercial production in the north central region.
Agenda Item Title: Improvement of Weedcast software
Background Information: As costs of chemical weed control continues
to increase, along with environmental concerns, its important
that farm managers use herbicides as efficiently as possible.
Farmers often use one application of a herbicide regiment, hoping
to control several weed species. However, each weed specie has
a unique set of optimum environmental conditions for germination
and growth. Thus, maximum weed control for all species is seldom
achieved with just one chemical application.
Action Issue: The Weedcast computer software developed at the
Morris Lab, and available for downloading from the Morris web
site, predicts emergence and early growth of the most common weeds
in the Corn Belt, using inputs that are easily obtained by individual
farmers or crop consultants. Weedcast version 2.0 is now available
from our web site. This new version is more user-friendly and
has the capability of showing graphs of several weeds simultaneously,
thus allowing farm managers to formulate and apply more efficient
chemical strategies for their specific weed problems.
Agenda Item Title: Nitrogen Decision Aid for more efficient use
of fertilizer
Background Information: The most common practice of fertilizing
for corn production is to apply all of the crop's anticipated
nitrogen at one time, hopefully following University research-based
recommendations. However, with the recent dramatic increase in
nitrogen fertilizer, coupled with increasing pressures to reduce
nitrogen loss form a field, its important to consider refinement
of standard practices with respect to timing and amount of nitrogen
fertilizer applied to corn.
Action Issue: A Nitrogen Decision Aid computer software was developed
and is now available from the Morris web site. This model uses
a pre-plant soil analysis and then predicts the amount of nitrogen
mineralized between planting and the 5-leaf growth stage. By applying
just the right amount of nitrogen fertilizer at the 5-leaf growth
stage to raise the soil nitrate concentration to the desired critical
level, we can avoid over-use of an expensive purchased input.
This model, while developed in on-farm trials, needs involvement
of the University system to refine and broaden its application,
and hopefully improve current standard recommendations.
MISSOURI
COLUMBIA
R. L. Matteri (recently moved to CA), Animal Physiology Research
Agenda Item Title: Appetite control
Feed intake is a major limiting factor of early piglet growth.
Feed intake and subsequent growth are drastically affected by
production practices such as weaning. A variety of hormones and
neuropeptides are involved in appetite control. At this point,
our research unit is credited with the cloning of 14 porcine genes
involved in appetite control. Past research with the Orexins,
neurohormones involved with appetite stimulation, received the
1999 Innovation Award for Basic Research by the National Pork
Producers Council. Reports on this work have appeared in trade
magazines and professional journals. Our research unit was invited
to contribute the lead-off presentation of a symposium on appetite-regulation
at the 2000 meeting of the American Society of Animal Sciences.
International interest in appetite research has increased dramatically
over the last 5 years. The development of effective methods to
control feed intake would have a major impact on the productivity
of all livestock species.
R. M. Wagner, RL, Biological Control of Insects
Research Laboratory
Agenda Item Title: Manipulation of diapause to increase efficiency
of biological control
Background Information: Diapause is a state in which insects are
in a state of hibernation; food utilization, overall metabolism
and activity decreases and reproduction is inhibited. Diapause
(facultative) often occurs as a result of unfavorable environmental
conditions (temperature, day length, humidity) or insufficient
nutrient sources, but may be required for normal development of
some insects (obligative). Diapause is a factor that enables pest
and beneficial insects to survive unfavorable conditions, but
it also complicates the ability to rear insects in a cost- and
labor-effective manner. Understanding and being able to manipulate
diapause is important in determining the most efficient times
at which to release biological control agents and when to apply
pesticides and is critical in being able to mass rear insects
for biological control in a cost-effective manner. Results of
this research will be used by regulatory and action agencies in
their rearing programs and by small businesses that produce and
sell insects for biological control.
E. E. Alberts, RL, Cropping Systems and Water Quality Research
Agenda Item Title: Defining management zones helps reduce data
overload in precision farming
Background Information: Precision farming concepts and technologies
are gaining increasing acceptance among agricultural producers.
The ability to measure within-field variations in soils and yields
is now commonplace, thanks to combine yield monitors and commercial
soil testing services. Less well-developed are methods to interpret
these data and develop site-specific management plans. Many farmers
express frustration with "data overload" as they collect
more data each cropping season and see no obvious way to turn
their investment into profit-making decisions. One idea proposed
for addressing this issue is to identify and develop specific
management plans for like regions, or "management zones,"
within fields. Management zones are generally sub-field regions
that are similar based on some quantitative measure, such as grain
yield or slope. For example, we have found that soil electrical
conductivity, slope, and relative elevation provide a good basis
on which to define zones for claypan soil fields in Missouri.
Such zones were able to account for up to 50% of yield variation
within the study fields during water-limited growing seasons.
The measures used to define zones may be different for different
locations and for different management operations. Therefore,
we created a software decision aid called Management Zone Analyst
to allow efficient examination of potential zone delineation variables
and strategies. We expect
that this tool will be useful to researchers, crop consultants,
and extension specialists wanting to extract useful management
information from precision farming data.
Action Issues: As part of a regional project funded by soybean
checkoff dollars, we are working with researchers in Illinois,
Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, and South Dakota to evaluate our management
zone delineation approach and software. Continued cooperation
with Land Grant scientists and the private sector will allow us
to develop a refined product that will be of value to precision
farmers and their advisors.
Action Requested: None
Action Taken: Dr. Cole indicated that the budget for ARS
is similar to USDA and there is a great need to increase federal
funding of research and development. The ARS office would be happy
to work with the directors to help promote more money. ARS is
continuing to see a turnover in staff. The Research Support Agreements
are limited to four years. This needs to be discussed on a case-to-case
basis with individual states.
Agenda Item: 13.0
Agenda Item Title: Plans for July NCRA Meeting
Presenter: Kevin Kephart
The joint summer meetings will be held in Madison, Wisconsin from
July 16-18, 2001.
The Multistate Research Committee will meet on Monday, July 16
from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon.
The NCRA will meet on Monday, July 16 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The joint meetings will be held July 17-18, 2001.
Action Requested. Plan to attend.
Action Taken: Mark your calendars!
Agenda Item: 14.0
Agenda Item Title: Nomination Committee Report
Presenter: Dale Vanderholm
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| NC-94 | G. Ham, KS | R. Warner, IL |
| NC-107 | F. Cholick, SD | K. Asem, IN |
| NC-113 | S. Slack, OH | W. Ravlin, OH |
| NC-170 | J. Laughlin, NE | NE Pending |
| NC-174 | G. Ham, KS | K. McSweeney, WI |
| NC-205 | E. Ortman, IN | S. Pueppke, IL |
| NC-208 | G. Klonglan, IA | C. Gustafson, ND |
| NC-210 | C. Scanes, IA | B. Stromberg, MN |
| NC-213 | T. Payne, MO | S. Slack, OH |
| NC-227 | G. Ham, KS | D. Vanderholm, NE |
| NC-502 | E. Ortman, IN | S. Slack, OH |
| NC-1001 | G. Klonglan, IA | Pending |
| NC-1002 | J. Bokemeier, MI | J. Bokemeier, MI |
| NCR-25 | L. R. Nault, OH | D. Gallenberg, SD |
| NCR-84 | W. I. Loescher, MI | G. Lemme, MI |
| NCR-125 | S. Ramaswamy, KS | J. S. Yaninek, IN |
| NCR-131 | J. R. Parson, SD | D. H. Beermann, NE |
| NCR-199 | D. H. Vanderholm, NE | D. Schaefer, WI |
| NCR-200 | W. Wintersteen, IA | S. Slack, OH |
| NCR-201 | E. Ortman, IN | Pending |
| NCR-202 | W. R. Woodson, IN | W. R. Woodson, IN |
| NCR-203 | G. Lemme, MI | D. Woodward, MI |
| NCT-186 | K. McSweeney, WI | K. McSweeney, WI |
| NCA-1 | G. Ham, KS | D. Nelson, NE |
| NCA-5 | J. Bokemeier, MI | V. Clark, ND |
| NCA-6 | M. Dentine, WI | D. Vanderholm, NE |
| NCA-13 | G. Klonglan, IA | J. Bokemeier, MI |