The objective of this project was to provide enhancements to a partially established network of Apple Macintosh microcomputers and central VAX. microcomputers. The proposed hardware and software have been purchased and installed and the enhancements have benefited all cotton research scientists, from both CSIRO and NSW Dept. of Agriculture, based at Narrabri Agriculture Research Station.

The objective for this project was to field test the basic pest management version of SIRA TAC Plus and to educate SIRATAC Ltd field staff in the use of SIRATAC Plus. The main objectives of this project have not been fulfilled. SIRA TAC Plus was not delivered in a usable form for field testing for the 1989/90 cotton season.

Summary of results: A 30hp Kubota tractor fitted with an air conditioned safety cab was purchased from the government contract supplier in Sydney. The tractor was trucked to Kingaroy Engineering Works for modifications, including: - raising the tractor to have I.Sm ground clearance - conversion to a 2m wheeltrack suitable for row crops - fitting of tanks, pump, boom and plumbing. The sprayer was delivered to Narrabri Agricultural Research Station in November, 1989, and has been extensively used through the last 2 cotton seasons in m.iticide and insecticide trials, chemical labelling of H eliothis spp, investigation of rates and timing of plant growth regulators and foliar fertilizers. An article reporting the development of the sprayer was published in the Australian Cottongrower (August - September, 1990).

This study determined the genetic basis of pyrethroid resistance in Heliothis annigera and characterised those factors that lead to cyclical fluctuations in the frequency of resistance in field populations. The major findings were: (1) A single major semi-dominant gene, associated with mixed function oxidases, is responsible for most pyrethroid resistance in field populations. 2 (2) The nerve insensitivity mechanism, which appeared to be important in field failures with pyrethroids in the early 1980's, no longer contributes significantly to the expression of resistance in field populations. (3) Field application rates kill resistant larvae < 4~days old. (4) Very small resistant larvae can survive field exposure to pyrethroids as the pesticide decays or is diluted by plant growth. (5) Field application rates kill susceptible but not resistant adults. (6) Pupae overwintering under cotton crops have high levels of resistance and high survival

The new truck for plant breeding use has been purchased. It was used to transport harvesting equipment during the recent harvest and it perfomed well, giving us greater flexibility and timeliness with our operations.

The VAX cluster at Myall Vale is an important and essential facility for research and for the use of SIRA TAC by the industry. Maintenance of both hardware and software is vital for provision a reliable service with high availability to SIRATAC users and researchers. Both the hardware and the software were maintained by Digital at their BASIC level with telephone support where neccessary. Digital continued the routine maintenance to our satisfaction, and responded promptly and well to all calls. No major problems were encountered.

The summer edition of CRDC's magazine, Spotlight, continues the focus on sustainability, in line with the industry's current work to set new sustainability targets. Of significance is CRDC’s commitment to RD&E to improve fish health in our rivers, and a ground-breaking program with CRDC, Cotton Australia, Landcare and clothing brand Country Road to improve the health of river red gums and riparian zones in the Namoi Valley.

Also in this edition, we look at a new sampling and spray-decision support system for silverleaf whitefly; we investigate a new disease, reoccurring wilt, that has been found in cotton fields; and we include a snapshot of CRDC’s 2019-20 Annual Report, which outlines our key investments and impacts during the year.

The Farm Biosecurity Manual for the Cotton Industry outlines the recommended on farm biosecurity practices that aim to reduce the risk of pests.

Key Points fro report of direct energy consumption