Summary

This project will build on the findings of the RIRDC funded projects PFA-1A and DAN-22A. Research will be targeted so that it incorporates recommendations from this report, with results then being extended to oaten hay producers.

Outcomes include improved ability to manage disease and quality in export oaten hay and potential for a wider range of fungicides available for disease control. Promotion of a product quality culture and more reliable production of a quality product will increase individual farm business profits and improve access to export markets for Australian product, which contributes to regional wealth and prosperous regional communities.

Program

Export Fodder

Research Organisation

Rural Directions Pty Ltd

Objective Summary

The objectives of this research are to improve the quality colour and yield of export oaten hay by: -Evaluating the effectiveness of a range of registered and non-registered fungicides on controlling septoria stem and leaf rust and/or bacterial leaf blight in oaten hay – Determining whether control of leaf diseases leads to improvements in visual and chemical hay quality and hay yield and – Calculating the cost effectiveness of fungicide use including as a precautionary application