The work proposed in this project will: (a) Use the capacity of the model to integrate responses of cotton to Insect damage and to varying environmental conditions to yield improved tools for pest management that can account for compensation. This will also result in a capacity to assess the likely extent and value of compensation under different conditions. (b) Make the model applicable to a wider section of the cotton industry by incorporating the capacity to deal with skip row cotton and with short and long season cotton cultivars. These are two key limitations noted by grower groups currently using the Ozcot model in decision support. (c) Put the model into a simulation environment in which it can be readily applied to production decisions and which will enhance both model development and the ability of other researchers to work with the model; thus increasing its availability to industry

The review examines semiochemicals, substances or mixtures of substances emitted by one species that can be used to modify the behaviour of receptor organisms, and the role of these semiochemicals, particularly those derived from the inner tissues and organ surfaces of cotton plants, in the sustainable management of Helicoverpa spp. in cotton

objectives . To quantify the effects from multi-herbicide use on key soil biological processes in soils 2. To quantify the magnitude and duration of the effects from multi-herbicide applications (pre- and post-emergence) during the cotton season on populations and activities of key microbial groups essential for nutrient availability and uptake, crop residue decomposition and plant growth - Experiments conducted both under field conditions (2000/01, 2001/02 and 2002/03) at ACRI and glasshouse conditions at CSIRO L&W in Adelaide. 3. To evaluate the effects of multi-herbicide application on microbial processes in the rhizosphere and near crop residues of genetically modified cotton varieties and determine their impact on cotton growth and the maintenance of soil health. Since the microbiology of the GM cotton residues was found to be significantly different to that of conventional GM cotton residues, experiments were conducted to determine the extent of differences between GM and conventional cotton varieties (as part of collaboration with CLWC) as a foundation to any future experimentation to investigate the herbicide x GM cotton interaction. 4. To provide recommendations to changes in herbicide usage patterns based on potential impacts on key soil processes

The primary aim of this study was to investigate a range of strategies for the identification of molecular markers linked with Verticillium wilt response in cotton. The research was carried out on the parental G. hirsutwn cultivars Sicala V-1 (wilt-tolerant) and Siokra 1-4 (wilt-susceptible) together with progeny derived by crossing these plants. A new disease grading system based on foliar symptoms, vascular discolouration and plant stunting was developed in order to compare plant responses to Verticillium wilt disease following pathogen inoculation. A study of inheritance showed for the first time that a single genetic locus, designated VwRJ, was responsible for tolerance to Verticillium wilt in Sicala V-1.

A Pilot Study carried out in a NSW cotton crop in 1993 showed that lint and seed production could be improved by up to 25% by honey bee pollination. The current project had the objective of determining whether yield and fibre quality of an irrigated cotton crop grown in NSW could be improved by introducing managed honey bees into the crop.

Objectives The objectives were to produce a pocket sized booklet which contained important BMP information for groundrig operators, including growers operating their own rigs. In addition, the booklet format was to be suitable for in-field usage by all persons who may involved in groundrig spray applications. These objectives were met and the booklet produced in a pocket sized format which can be carried in the cab or vehicle glovebox. The Groundrig Operators Association will be gathering feedback from members for future reference

The aim was to develop and pilot a coordinated, national ChemCert Groundrig Spray Applicators Training course which meets the needs of groundrig spray operators (contract and farmer) in both cotton and grains industries. Objectives included: *Development of the framework of the training program and administrative arrangements '*Writing draft workshop/ reference manuals and supporting resources including assessments * Conducting two pilot courses * Training presenters These objectives have been met. Implementation administrative arrangements are in place through the national ChemCert organisation; a draft reference manual has been produced; supporting resources are in draft form; assessments have been developed; 8 pilot courses have been conducted and presenters in Old, NSW, SA and WA have been trained

OBJECTIVES* To confirm the identity of the species of the apple dimpling bug and develop alaboratory protocol for mass rearing of the insect.* To conduct detailed studies of the insect's life cycle, behaviour and feedingmechanisms on conventional and transgenic cotton.* To assess the pest status of apple dimpling bug, evaluate its damage to cottonplants and develop economic threshold for the management of the insect in cotton.*To study the population dynamics of apple dimpling bug including its sources,principal host plants and movement.

The objectives of this project were: (i.) To modify the existing structure analysis program Solicon 3.0 so that it is functional on all personal computers (PCs); and (ii.) To widely distribute and demonstrate the converted Solicon 3.0 program to researchers linked with the cotton industry who have a need for accurate, quantitative measures of soil structural features

One hundred & seventy people were given training in soil assessment and management Hands-on training in soil management was given to one hundred & seventy members of the Australian cotton industry at a series of 11 courses between October 1997 and September 1999. The courses were held in the Narrabri, Warren, Moree, Emerald, Dalby, Wee Waa, Goondiwindi, Gunnedah, Theodore. Walgett and Bourke districts. The main aim of the courses was to demonstrate how to use 'SO!Lpak for Cotton Growers, Third Edition ' *, with emphasis on soil sampling for yield map interpretation. Soil monitoring for farm accreditation schemes also was discussed. Most of the soil inspections were carried out via 1.5 metre deep backhoe pits, which usually were dug in triplicate. The courses focussed on the needs of Private Consultants and Government Advisers associated with the cotton industry - a summary of course attendees is shown in Table 1. Details are in Appendix 1. David McKenzie also demonstrated soil description methods to the UNE Cotton Production Course at Narrabri on 12 February 1999