Annual/Termination Reports:

[01/19/2004] [12/09/2004] [10/08/2005] [11/23/2006] [10/08/2007] [10/09/2008] [07/29/2009] [09/07/2010] [09/19/2011] [08/31/2012] [09/04/2013] [08/29/2004] [10/08/2015] [09/09/2016] [01/01/1970]

Report Information

Participants

Surya Acharya (AFCSK, Agric. Agri-Food Canada); John Balasko (Univ. West Virginia); John Berdahl (NGPRL, USDA-ARS); Arvid Boe (South Dakota State Univ.); Charlie Brummer (Iowa State Univ.); Bruce Coulman (AFCSK, Agric. Agri-Food Canada); Nancy Ehlke (Univ. Minnesota); Real Michaud (AFCSF, Agric. Agri-Food Canada); Yousef Papadopoulos (AFCC, Agric. Agri-Food Canada); Michael Peel (FRRL, USDA-ARS); Matt Sanderson (PSWMRL, USDA-ARS); Don Viands (Admin. Advisor, Cornell Univ.); Michael Fitzner (USDA-CSREES).

Brief Summary of Minutes

Committee was welcomed by Jon Hansen, NGPRL Research Leader and host committee member John Berdahl. Hansen gave an overview of NGPRL and discussed things the lab was doing to increase public awareness of their research activities. Michael Fitzner, new CSREES representative, presented an overview of FY 2004 CSREES budget and commented on recent reductions in public plant breeding positions and the need for raising public awareness of public plant breeding accomplishments. He reminded the group that CSREES is the federal partner in the land grant system that traces back to the Hatch Act. He listed homeland security, invasive species, integrated pest management, and genomics as big issues. Fitzner indicated there is movement away from support for formula funds toward competitive grants due to accountability issues. Administrative Advisor Don Viands discussed direct links with extension and stakeholders as ways to demonstrate the impact of the work NE 1010 does. He also suggested that the project should eventually develop a web site. Charlie Brummer introduced Dejan Solokovic, research associate in forage grass breeding at the Center for Forage Crops in Krusevac, Yugoslavia. Solokovic is a visiting scientist of the forage breeding program at ISU. He described his experience with breeding perennial forage legumes and cool-season grasses in eastern Europe. The committee then moved to discussion of the progress made during the current project period for the three objectives. Discussion was initiated by the lead investigators for each sub-objective, followed by updates from each collaborator.



Collaborative Research Reports:



Objective 1. Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources.



(A): Alfalfa: Agronomic evaluation of Medicago sativa ssp. falcata germplasm from (1) NPGS accessions and (2) naturalized rangeland populations: Identified traits to evaluate in 2003 plantings in IA, SD, UT, ND, and QU; data compilation/analysis near completion for study completed in 2002; manuscript preparation in 2004 [Brummer (IA), Boe (SD), AFCSF, NGPRL, FRRL].



(1) Breeding for resistance to (a) alfalfa snout beetle and (b) potato leafhopper: Sources of resistance (alfalfa snout beetle) identified, and selection under controlled conditions has begun; crosses made between germplasms with different morphological/anatomical sources of resistance (potato leafhopper); plans for screening at several locations discussed [Viands (NY), AFCSF, IA, SD, WV]. Seed for establishing nurseries will be ready by spring 2005.



(2) Genetic mapping of agronomic traits: Several hundred SSR markers obtained; QTL map focuses on yield stability, quality, and root traits [Brummer (IA), NY, AFCSF].



(3) Breeding for aluminum tolerance: St. Amand departed from committee; Acharya (AFCSK) will lead; NY and AFCC will cooperate in selected germplasm acquisition/evaluation.



(B): Birdsfoot trefoil: Rhizomatous germplasm: Evaluation/selection for winterhardiness/persistence/forage traits ongoing [Brummer (IA), AFCC, NY, SD].



(C): Reed canarygrass: Collection and evaluation of naturalized populations for forage/biofuel: Numerous accessions being evaluated at Ames and Madison; extensive variability for biomass production; aggressiveness of this introduced species may be an issue in its adoption for biofuel [Brummer (IA), SD, AFCSF, KY, AFCSK, WI, NY].



(D): Tall fescue: Relationships between nonstructural carbohydrate concentration and forage and seed yield and quality, winterhardiness, and persistence: Genetic variation and relationship between TNC in inflorescence and seed yield have been documented; clonal evaluation will continue and divergent populations will be selected [Balasko (WV), KY].



(E): Multiple species: (1) Selection for fiber digestibility: Results to date indicate selection for a single quality trait may impact other important traits in legumes (e.g., alfalfa) and grasses (e.g., timothy) [Viands (NY), AFCSF, WI]. Progress from selection and relationship to digestibility are being documented. (2) Grass-forb mixtures for long-term sustainable biomass: Experimental design, species selection, and management strategies for mixtures still in developmental stages; recent publications on design of experiments for evaluation of mixtures of perennial species will be helpful; planting will begin in 2004 [Boe (SD), Ehlke (MN), IA, WV, NY]. (3) Molecular fingerprinting in forage crop populations: St. Amands departure leaves no lead scientist; discussion tabled until 2004 meeting.



Objective 2: Build on previous research to evaluate traditional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.



(A): Alfalfa: (1) Comparison of mass, S1, and S2 selection for forage yield: Syn. 2 seed to be produced in 2004 and 2005 with yield trials planted in 2006. (2) Clonal selection in multiple environments to improve forage yield: Development of three-cultivar composite completed; nurseries will be established at three locations in 2004 [Viands (NY), Michaud (AFCSF), IA].



(B): Orchardgrass: Selection for broad adaptation: At least three populations from other regions will be planted in KY in 2004; evaluation will begin in 2005 [Phillips (KY), IA, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD].



(C): Red clover: Selection for general adaptation: Seed will be sent to cooperating stations in 2004; selection will be made after two winters [Papadopoulos (AFCC), NY, AFCSF, AFCSK, WV, SD, IA].



Objective 3: Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, seed and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.



(A): Alfalfa: Evaluation of new selected M. sativa ssp. falcata populations: Syn. 1 seed from selected plants from 1997 nurseries being produced at evaluation sites; seed supplies are low; multiple-location evaluations will begin when seed supplies are adequate [Brummer (IA), AFCSF, NGPRL, SD].



(B): Black medic: Evaluation of naturalized collections for forage and conservation traits: Committee members will collect populations in their regions and send to IA; spaced-plant nurseries will be planted in 2005 [Brummer (IA), NY, SD].



(C): Multiple species: Evaluation of cultivars and germplasms under grazing: Designed to evaluate new cultivars, including European, in North American environments; trials may be initiated at some locations in 2005 [Brummer (IA), NY, AFCSF, AFCC, PSWMRL, KY, SD, NGPRL, WI].





Meeting Site and Nominations Committee Report:



Meeting site and nominations committee chair R. Michaud reported the 2004 meeting will be in Charlottetown, P.E.I. on September 2-3. The 2005 meeting will be in Logan, UT. Nancy Ehlke was nominated and elected incoming secretary and M. Peel nominated and elected chair for 2004.



Meeting adjourned 11 AM, September 13, 2003.

Accomplishments

2003 Accomplishments:<br /> <br><br /> <br>Objective 1: (1) Development of an alfalfa population that contains three distinct sources of genetic resistance to potato leafhopper yellowing; (2) Incorporation of the rhizome trait from Moroccan sources into regionally adapted birdsfoot trefoil populations; (3) Refinements in the protocol for greenhouse screening alfalfa for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle; (4) Development of birdsfoot trefoil populations with improved seedling vigor and resistance to Fusarium oxysporum and Pratylenchus penetrans; (5) Establishment and initial evaluation of Medicago sativa ssp. falcata half-sib family nurseries in four diverse environments (i.e., SD, IA, UT, ND); (6) Nearing completion of genetic map for agronomic traits in alfalfa; (7) Identification of selection criteria to increase digestibility while maintaining or increasing yield in timothy and alfalfa. <br /> <br><br /> <br>Objective 2: (1) Completion of two cycles comparing effectiveness of mass, S1, and S2 selection in alfalfa. <br /> <br><br /> <br>Objective 3: (1) Completion of first cycle of selection within M. sativa ssp. falcata from previous evaluations (NE 144) for forage yield, growth habit, regrowth potential, and potato leafhopper resistance; seed increases of synthetic populations initiated at multiple locations.<br /> <br><br /> <br>Plans for 2004: <br /> <br><br /> <br>In general, since 2004 is only the second year of the new project, the NE 1010 Committee will continue its focus on evaluation/description, selection, and population development in perennial grasses and legumes that exhibit potential for agronomic, environmental, and industrial uses in North America. Data collected from multiple locations and multiple years are essential for accurate estimates of genetic variation for traits of interest and determination of ranges of adaptation for accessions/collections and selected populations of perennial grasses and legumes. Data will continue to be collected from comparison of selection methods for improving agronomic traits and genetic mapping of agronomic trait studies. Separate introduced and native grass-grass and grass-forb mixtures will be planted at several locations ranging from the northeastern to northcentral United States to evaluate effects of introduced vs. native biodiversity on long-term productivity and sustainability of biomass production across diverse environments. New projects in the planning stage include multi-location evaluation of improved populations of meadow bromegrass (B. Coulman, lead), selection for grass-legume compatibility (C. Brummer, lead), and evaluation of native grasses and legumes for forage, environmental, and industrial uses (N. Ehlke, lead).

Publications

Bertrand, A.Y., Y. Constonguay, P. Nadeau, S. Laberge, R. Michaud, G. Belanger, and P. Rochette. 2003. J. Experimental Botany 54:1721-1730.<br /> <br><br /> <br>Casler, M.D., R.E. Barker, E.C. Brummer, Y.A. Papadopoulos, and L.D. Hoffman. 2003. Selection for orchardgrass seed yield in target vs. non-target environments. Crop Sci. (in press). <br /> <br><br /> <br>Hansen, J., D. Viands, R. Deubler, E. Thomas, J. Neally, and J. Yaeger. 2003. 2003 forage crops data summaries. Plant Breeding Mimeo 03-3. Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY.<br /> <br><br /> <br>Hansen, J.D., D. Viands, R. Deubler, E. Thomas, J. Neally, and J. Yaeger. 2003. Cornell Univ./New York State Forage Yield Trials Summary-2003. Company and Extension Report. Plant Breeding Mimeo 03-4. Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY. (Also at http://www.plbr.cornell.edu/pbbweb/foragetest<br /> <br><br /> <br>Hansen, J.L., D. Viands, R. Deubler, E. Thomas, J. Neally, and J. Yaeger. 2003. Cornell Univ./New York State Forage Yield Trials Summary-2003:Producer Report. Plant Breeding Mimeo 03-5. Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY. (Also at http://www.plbr.cornell.edu/pbbweb/foragetest<br /> <br><br /> <br>Hansen, J.D., D. Viands, R. Deubler, E. Thomas, J. Neally, and J. Yaeger. 2003. Cornell forage yield trials results guide producers in variety selection. Country Folks 11 (Dec. 2002).<br /> <br><br /> <br>Hansen, J.L., J.K. Waldron, and D. Viands. 2003. Potato leafhopper-resistant alfalfa-2002 update. Cent. Alfalfa Improv. Conf. (virtual conference). 21-25 July 2003. (In print).<br /> <br><br /> <br>Hendrickson, J.R., and J.D. Berdahl. 2003. Survival of 16 alfalfa populations space planted into a grassland. J. Range Manage. 56:260-265.<br /> <br><br /> <br>Michaud, R. 2002. Les plantes fourraghres-nouveaux cultivars pour 2002-2003. Le Producteur de lait quibicois, juin 2002, p. 25-29.<br /> <br><br /> <br>Michaud, R. 2002. Le Conseil des productions vigitales du Quibec: Recommendations de plantes fourraghres 2002-2003. Grandes Cultures 12:27-30. <br /> <br><br /> <br>Michaud, R., A. Chabot, and J. Michaud. 2003. Ivaluation des cultivars de luzerne pour le Quibec. Dans CRAAQ, Plantes fourraghres-rapport des essays des cultivars 2002, section luzerne, p.1-47.<br /> <br><br /> <br>Michaud, R., R. Rivard, and J. Michaud. 2003. Ivaluation des cultivars de fliole pour le Quibec. Dans CRAAQ, Plantes fourraghres-rapport des essays de cultivars 2002, section fliole, p. 1-24.<br /> <br><br /> <br>Tremblay, G.F., G. Belanger, K.B. McRae, and R. Michaud. 2002. Leaf and stem dry matter digestibility and ruminal degradable protein of alfalfa cultivars. Can. J. Plant Sci. 82:383-393.<br /> <br><br /> <br>Tremblay, G.F., R. Michaud, and G. Belanger. 2003. Protein fractions and ruminal undegradable proteins in alfalfa. Can. J. Plant Sci. 83:555-559.<br /> <br><br /> <br>Viands, D., J. L. Hansen, E. Thomas, and J. Neally. 2003. Registration of Oneida Ultra alfalfa. Crop Sci. (in press).<br /> <br><br /> <br>Viands, D., J.L. Hansen, E. Thomas, and J. Neally. 2003. Registration of Seedway 9558 alfalfa. Crop Sci. (in press).<br /> <br><br /> <br>Viands, D., J.E. Miller-Garvin, J.L. Hansen, G.C. Bergstrom, B.P. Tillapaugh, C.C. Lowe, E.M. Thomas, and J.L. Neally. 2003. Registration of Pardee birdsfoot trefoil. Crop Sci. (in press).

Impact Statements

1. The NE 1010 Multistate Research Committee focuses on four general intended outcomes from collaborative research: (Outcome 1) through evaluation of diverse assemblages, determination and description of the extent of genetic variation in perennial cool- and warm-season grasses and temperate climate legumes for traits related to agronomic, environmental, and bioenergy/industrial uses.
2. (Outcome 2) Through selection, development of improved/novel experimental populations within the aforementioned species groups.
3. (Outcome 3) in addition to conventional procedures, utilization of alternate breeding methods and aids to selection, including molecular markers, for expeditious development of new and improved cultivars.
4. (Outcome 4) collaboration among North American forage breeders in the development of new cultivars with broad geographic adaptation, thus maximizing returns on research and development investments.
5. The potential impacts of this Multistate Research Activity include, but are not limited to: (Impact 1) enhanced livestock performance/health and as well as economics through development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved forage yield and quality characteristics.
6. (Impact 2) improved environmental quality through development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved persistence, increased resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and enhanced soil binding/improvement capabilities (e.g., reduced soil erosion, loss of nutrients, and runoff; increased soil carbon and reduced atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters).
7. (Impact 3) increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems through development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes that have multiple uses/attributes (e.g., forage for livestock and native herbivores, habitat for wildlife production, and biomass for biofuel/bioenergy).

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Report Information

Participants

Acharya, Surya(acharya@agr.gc.ca) AFCL, Agric. Agri-Food Canada;
Balasko, John(Jbalasko@wvu.edu) Univ. West Virginia;
Berdahl, John(berdahlj@mandan.ars.usda.gov) NGPRL, USDA-ARS);
Boe, Arvid(Arvid_Boe@sdstate.edu) South Dakota State Univ.;
Brummer, Charlie(brummer@iastate.edu) Iowa State Univ.;
Coulman, Bruce(coulmanb@agr.gc.ca) AFCSK, Agric. Agri-Food Canada;
Michaud, Real (michaudr@agr.gc.ca) AFCSF, Agric. Agri-Food Canada;
Papadopoulos, Yousef (papadopoulosy@agr.gc.ca) AFCC, Agric. Agri-Food Canada;
Peel, Michael D. (mpeel@cc.usu.edu) FRRL, USDA-ARS;
Phillips, Tim (tphillip@uky.edu) Univ. Kentucky;
Ridlay, Heathcliffe (riday@wisc.edu) DFRC, USDA-ARS;
Viands, Don (drv3@cornell.edu) Admin. Advisor, Cornell Univ.;

Brief Summary of Minutes

At 8:30 a.m., Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2004, the meeting convened at the Crops and Livestock Centre. The group was welcomed to Charlottetown, P.E.I. and the Crops and Livestock Centre by Ted Van Lunen. This was followed by an overview of National Research Program at Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada by Bruce Coulman, Acting Science Director, Cultivar Development and Genetic Enhancement. New members and visitors were introduced. This was followed by accomplishment reports and planning discussions from committee members until 12:30 pm. The group was taken to the Ag Canada Research Farm at Harrington where lunch was provided. Following lunch the group toured the research facilities and forage research on the farm.

The group reconvened Sept. 3rd at the Crops and Livestock Centre and completed reporting and discussing new research. The next meeting is scheduled for August 15-16, 2005. It will be hosted in Logan, Utah by Michael Peel. Heathcliffe Ridlay agreed to be incoming secretary for 2005; Bruce Coulman agreed to be incoming chair for 2005 and will host the meeting in 2006.

Accomplishments

Objective 1 Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources.<br /> <br /> 1.1.1 Identification of traits useful for improving Medicago sativa ssp. falcata germplasm.<br /> <br /> Ten plant plots have been planted at five locations in 2003. In 2004 data were collected on flower color, dry matter yield, spring vigor, regrowth vigor, growth habit, leafhopper injury where possible, height, relative maturity, relative leaf size and dormancy. Large variation for most traits has been detected. The evaluation will be repeated in 2005.<br /> <br /> 1.1.2 Genetics and improvement of naturalized alfalfa (M. sativa subsp. falcata).<br /> <br /> A nursery composed of about 220 half-sib families from naturalized parent plants on the Grand River National Grassland in Northwest SD was transplanted in SD, ND, and IA in 2002, and a nursery with a subset of 80 families was transplanted in Logan, UT 2003. Data have been collected on spring vigor, regrowth vigor, growth habit, leaf type, flower color, pod shape, dry matter production, and leaf hopper injury. <br /> <br /> 1.1.3 Breeding for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle in alfalfa.<br /> <br /> Cooperation continues with Cornell entomologists to refine the protocol for a greenhouse screening procedure where insect populations on plants can be controlled. During 2003-04, 14 alfalfa populations were screened for a first cycle of selection and 8 for a second cycle. Extension presentations have provided information regarding the problem and the breeding effort as a possible solution.<br /> <br /> 1.1.4 Developing alfalfa germplasm with potato leafhopper resistance from three diverse genetic sources.<br /> <br /> A resistant germplasm source from SD (SD201) was selected in NY and crossed with Peruvian germplasm to generate a population with three distinct sources of resistance to potato leafhopper. Seed was sent to cooperating locations for establishing field nurseries in 2004. Each nursery was established with about 1000 plants to begin three cycles of recurrent phenotypic selection for resistance. <br /> <br /> 1.1.5 Genetic mapping agronomic traits in alfalfa<br /> <br /> This project primarily composed a PhD thesis by Joseph Robins at IA. A map and analysis has been completed. Joseph successfully defended his thesis, and manuscripts will be submitted for publication late fall 2004 or early winter 2005. <br /> <br /> 1.1.6 Aluminum tolerance in tetraploid alfalfa.<br /> <br /> Screening nurseries were established at NY, P.E.I., and Alberta in 2004 to evaluate NA90-1002, LRC9695PG-1, LRCAT04-01 and NY9627. In 2005-2006 plants will be evaluated for mortality, vigor, and flower date at each harvest. Following evaluation the 10 best plants from each population will be selected and sent to each cooperator. All selections will be used to generate seed for a second cycle of selection at all sites.<br /> <br /> <br /> 1.2 Rhizomatous birdsfoot trefoil for yield improvement.<br /> <br /> A selection nursery at IA was visually evaluated and selections made for winter survival, upright growth, and density of stems and leaves. We will make selections during autumn 2004 for intercrossing over the winter. NY is now in the second cycle of selection for the rhizomatous trait in population partially derived from 'Pardee' trefoil. This project was described to seed company representatives and seed producers during a field tour in July.<br /> <br /> 1.3 Collection and evaluation of naturalized reed canarygrass populations for biofuel and forage traits.<br /> <br /> Charlie Brummer (IA) reported that he is working with Mike Casler (DFRC) and Jerry Cherney (NY) on a project that sounds very much like this one. Native collections were made this past summer and will be planted in spring 2005.<br /> <br /> 1.4 Tall Fescue. Interactions of nonstructural carbohydrates, seed yield, forage quality and yield components.<br /> <br /> Forage trails have been harvested for two years. Two populations were bred for high and low nonstructural carbohydrate content in endophyte-free tall fescue. Seed yield trials will need to be established to measure interactions among forage quality traits, nonstructural carbohydrates, and seed yield. <br /> <br /> 1.5 Multiple Species<br /> <br /> 1.5.1 Selection for fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin.<br /> <br /> At Ste-Foy, Quebec, ADL/cellulose and ADL/hemi + cellulose seem to be the most promising selection criteria to increase digestibility while maintaining or increasing yield in timothy. The observed changes in overall herbage digestibility due to selection for this ratio can be attributed mainly to modification of stem digestibility.<br /> <br /> At NY, sampling was completed in 2004 from trials planted in 2000 and 2001 to confirm progress from two cycles of selection for ratios of various fiber constituents and to determine the associations between fiber ratios and in vitro digestible dry matter. We are now in the second and third cycles of recurrent phenotypic selection for increasing neutral detergent soluble fiber (NDSF, mostly pectin in alfalfa) concentration in several alfalfa populations. Results to date suggest that genetic improvements for pectin concentration and indirectly for IVDMD in alfalfa appear to be possible, but more than one cycle of selection would need to be done before differences from base populations are statistically significant. These results were reported to seed company representatives and seed producers in July 2004.<br /> <br /> 1.5.2 Grass-grass and grass-forb mixtures for long-term sustainable biomass production.<br /> <br /> Discussions continued on how to design this research. Because most of us are interested in introduced cool-season grass-temperate legume mixtures for forage production, should we consider developing a simple and relatively inexpensive project on adaptation and production of combinations of those species (e.g., orchardgrass, meadow brome, timothy, white clover, birdsfoot trefoil, alfalfa, red clover)?<br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 2 Build on previous research to evaluate additional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.<br /> <br /> 2.1 Alfalfa<br /> <br /> 2.1.1 Comparison of mass, S1, and S2 selection in alfalfa.<br /> <br /> At Ste-Foy, IA, and NY, selection began in 1997 to compare two cycles of phenotypic selection made at the S1 and S2 levels versus two cycles made at the non inbred level for improving yield potential. For each cycle, about 200 each of S1 and S2 families were evaluated for 2 years. The best plant within each of the 20 best S1 and the 20 best S2 families were selected and intercrossed. Similarly, 2000 plants from the same base population were evaluated and after 2 years, the best 100 plants were intercrossed to produce another population; each collaborator selecting in his own population. The second cycle of selection has been completed at AFCSF and NY. Following seed production from the base populations and the Syn-2 generation of the first and second cycles of selection, replicated trials will be established at multiple locations to determine relative progress.<br /> <br /> 2.1.2 Replicated clonal line selection for improving forage yield of alfalfa.<br /> <br /> A broad-based alfalfa population was developed by two generations of random mating among Seedway 9558 (from NY), 5454 (sent by IA), and SF 9001=AC Viva (from AFCSF). Stem cuttings from 200 genotypes were made and sent to the cooperators to establish a nursery at each of four locations. In 2004 nurseries were established that consisted of three replicates of each of the 200 genotypes. Each genotype-replicate row consisted of three ramets. At each harvest, the number of plants and forage yield will be recorded for two production years. At the end of the second production year, the highest yielding 10% (20 genotypes) of the genotypes across the locations will be intercrossed to produce Cycle 1 seed. A second cycle will be done in the same way. Each cooperator also will produce their own populations within their locations.<br /> <br /> 2.2 Orchardgrass. Clonal selection in orchardgrass for broad adaptation.<br /> <br /> Two IA orchardgrass cultivars were planted with those from B. Coulman and two KY populations. One hundred plants from each entry were dug in mid February and transferred to the greenhouse. Crosses will be made with plants at weekly intervals beginning in February, 2005. Equal numbers from each source will be used. Seed should be available early summer.<br /> <br /> 2.3 Red Clover. Selection for general adaptation in red clover.<br /> <br /> A spaced-plant nursery with 200 plants from each of 10 populations was established at AFCSF in the spring of 2003. There was severe winterkill in that nursery last winter. Data were taken in spring and summer 2004. Final selection should be done this fall in these populations. They will be planted at IA in 2005.<br /> <br /> At P.E.I., parental clones were established in 2002. A limited amount of NE1010-C0 seeds were produced during the establishment year. Seed was produced in 2004 and should be available to the seven cooperating sites by January 2005 to activate Phase II.<br /> <br /> 2.4 Legume/Grass mixtures: Compatibility of legumes with various grasses.<br /> <br /> Trials were established at some locations in 2004. <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 3 Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, seed and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.<br /> <br /> 3.1 Alfalfa. Evaluation of new M. sativa subsp. falcata populations.<br /> <br /> Approximately 100 M. Sativa subsp. falcata accessions were established at four locations. Each cooperator selected plants and developed populations from the most desirable accessions. A comparative trial should be planted along with check cultivars in 2005.<br /> <br /> 3.2 Black Medic. Evaluation of naturalized Medicago lupulina collections.<br /> <br /> No report.<br /> <br /> 3.3 Multiple Species. Evaluation of cultivars and germplasm under grazing.<br /> <br /> At IA, several cultivar trials currently are under grazing. Tim Phillips (KY) invites interested individuals to send material for evaluation under grazing. <br /> <br /> 3.4 Meadow and hybrid bromegrass: Evaluation of meadow and hybrid bromegrass<br /> <br /> Eleven lines sources were established in nurseries in 2004 at Charlottetown, PEI, Madison, WI, and Brookings, SD. They were previously established at Saskatoon, SK, and Ste-Foy, QC. In 2003 there was not much variability among the entries at Ste-Foy, QC; however, severe winterkill occurred over the 2003-2004 winter. Relative winter survival was as follows: smooth brome > meadow brome > hybrids. Data collection at the remaining sites will start in 2005.<br /> <br /> New project.<br /> <br /> Selecting birdsfoot trefoil with and without grass competition. <br /> <br /> Seedlings of Norcen and Witt were transplanted as space plants in the spring of 2004 at Ames, IA, and Brookings, SD. One half of the plots were oversown with orchardgrass and one half left as monocultures. Two cycles of selection will be done and then compared for progress under the two scenarios. Selection will be based on visual vigor, erect growth, and other traits.<br /> <br /> Work Planned for 2005: Cooperators will continue germplasm evaluation. Traits and germplasm will be identified for improving alfalfa, Trifolium spp, birdsfoot trefoil, brome grasses, tall fescue, and orchardgrass. Selection for resistance to biotic stress will be done for alfalfa snout beetle and potato leaf hopper in alfalfa. Selection for tolerance to abiotic stress will be done for aluminum in alfalfa. Improvement of alfalfa quality also will be continued. Evaluation will continue on 100 M. sativa subsp. falcata accessions for developing useful germplasm. Comparison of selection methods in alfalfa will continue by producing seed in preparation for establishing evaluation trials. Improved persistence in birdsfoot trefoil will be attempted by selection for rhizome development. Results from completed projects will be reported in extension and refereed journal publications.<br />

Publications

Berdahl, J.D., J.F. Karn, and J.R. Hendrickson. 2004. Nutritive quality of cool-season grass monocultures and binary grass-alfalfa mixtures at late harvest. Agron. J. 96:951-955.<br /> <br /> Berdahl, J.D., and I.M. Ray. 2004. Comparison of S1 with open-pollination progenies in selection for yield in crested wheatgrass. Crop Sci. 44:768-771.<br /> <br /> Claessens, A., R. Michaud, G. Belanger, and D. Mather. 2004. Characteristics of timothy genotypes divergently selected for fiber traits. Crop Sci. 44 : 81-88<br /> <br /> Claessens, A., R. Michaud, G. Belanger, and D. Mather. 2004. Responses to divergent phenotypic selection for fiber traits in timothy. (Submitted for publication in Crop Sci.)<br /> <br /> Frank, A.B., J.D. Berdahl, J.D. Hanson, M.A. Liebig, and H.A. Johnson. 2004. Biomass and carbon partitioning in switchgrass. Crop Sci. 44:1391-1396.<br /> <br /> Hansen, J., D. Viands, R. Deubler, E. Thomas, J. Neally, and J. Yaeger. 2004. 2004 Forage crops data summaries. Plant Breeding Mimeo 04-3. Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY.<br /> <br /> Hansen, J., D. Viands, R. Deubler, E. Thomas, J. Neally, and J. Yaeger. 2004. Cornell University/New York State Forage Yield Trials Summary-2004: Company and Extension Report. Plant Breeding Mimeo 04-4. Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY. (Also at http://www.plbr.cornell.edu/pbbweb/foragetest)<br /> <br /> Hansen, J., D. Viands, R. Deubler, E. Thomas, J. Neally, and J. Yaeger. 2004. Cornell University/New York State Forage Yield Trials Summary-2004: Producer Report. Plant Breeding Mimeo 04-5. Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY. (Also at http://www.plbr.cornell.edu/pbbweb/foragetest)<br /> <br /> Hansen, J., D. Viands, R. Deubler, E. Thomas, J. Neally, and J. Yaeger. 2004. Cornell forage yield trial results guide producers in variety selection. Country Folks. December 2004 issue.<br /> <br /> Karn, J.F., A.B. Frank, J.D. Berdahl, and W.W. Poland. 2003. Water, nitrogen, and ploidy effects on Russian wildrye mineral concentrations. J. Range Manage. 56:535-541. <br /> <br /> Michaud, R., G.F. Tremblay, and G. Belanger. 2003. Protein fraction and N fertilization in timothy (Phleum pratense L.) Czech J. Genet. Plant Breeding., 39 (Special Issue) : 279-281.<br /> <br /> Michaud, R., A. Chabot et M.C. Pepin. 2004. Evaluation des cultivars de luzerne pour le Quebec. Dans CRAAQ, Plantes fourrageres - rapport des essais de cultivars 2003, section luzerne, p. 1-46.<br /> <br /> Michaud, R., M.C. Pepin et J. Michaud 2004. Evaluation des cultivars de fleole pour le Québec. Dans CRAAQ, Plantes fourrageres - rapport des essais de cultivars 2003, section fleole, p. 1-20.<br /> <br /> Michaud, R. 2004. Le Centre de reference en agriculture et agroalimentaire du Quebec : Recommandations de plantes fourragères 2004-2005. Grandes Cultures, 14 (3): 19-22.<br /> <br /> Michaud, R. 2004. Les plantes fourragères - Les nouveaux cultivars pour 2004-2005. Le Producteur de lait quebecois, juin 2002, p. 23-29.<br /> <br /> McKenzie, D. B., Y. A. Papadopoulos, and K. B. McRae. 2004. Cutting management affects yield and persistence of birdsfoot trefoil. Can. J. Plant Sci. 84: 525 - 528.<br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A., J. Kimpinski, K.B. McRae, A. Mellish, and F. VanderKloet. 2003. Resistance of red clover cultivars to invasion of root lesion nematodes. Czech J. Genet. Plant Breed., 39: 304  306.<br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., K.H. Asay, D.A. Johnson, and B.L. Waldron. 2004. Forage production of sainfoin across an irrigation gradient. Crop Sci. 44(2):614-619.<br /> <br /> Tecle, I.Y., D.R.Viands, J.L. Hansen, and A.N. Pell. 2004. Evaluation of progress from selection for pectin in alfalfa populations. 39th North Amer. Alfalfa Improv. Conf. 18-21 July 2004. Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. http://www.naaic.org/Meetings/National/2004NAAIC&TC/2004abstracts/itecle.pdf<br /> <br /> Tecle, I.Y., D.R.Viands, J.L. Hansen, and A.N. Pell. 2004. Progress from divergent selection for cell wall components in alfalfa. Amer. Soc. of Agron. 31 October - 4 November 2004. Seattle, WA (in press).<br /> <br /> Viands, D. R., J.L. Hansen, E.M. Thomas, and J.L. Neally. 2004. Registration of 'Oneida Ultra' alfalfa. Crop Sci. 44:1484-1485.<br /> <br /> Viands, D. R., J.L. Hansen, E.M. Thomas, and J.L. Neally. 2004. Registration of 'Seedway 9558' alfalfa. Crop Sci. 44:1485.<br /> <br /> Viands, D.R., J.E. Miller-Garvin, J.L. Hansen, G.C. Bergstrom, B. P. Tillapaugh, C.C. Lowe, E.M. Thomas, J.L. Neally. 2004. Registration of 'Pardee' birdsfoot trefoil. Crop Sci. 44:1488.<br />

Impact Statements

1. 1. Development of improved cultivars and germplasm enhance the productivity and economic viability of the livestock industry through increased yield, longer persistence, and higher quality or used are by other plant breeders in development of improved cultivars. For example, Pardee birdsfoot trefoil is beginning to replace older, less productive cultivars on marginal soils where other forage legumes will not persist. This cultivar has higher forage yield than other cultivars and is more persiste
2. 2. Improved breeding methodologies enable forage breeders to be more effective and efficient in improving yield potential, translating in development of cultivars that will make forage production more economical for the livestock industry.
3. 3. Evaluation of forage cultivars and germplasm, followed by extending this information to extension educators, seed company representatives, and producers assures that more productive forage cultivars will be used and contribute to enhanced economic viability of farm operations.

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Report Information

Participants

Acharya, Surya (acharya@agr.gc.ca) - AFCSK, Agric. Agri-Food Canada;
Boe, Arvid (arvid_boe@sdstate.edu) - South Dakota State Uniersity.;
Brummer, Charlie (brummer@iastate.edu) - Iowa State University;
Coulman, Bruce (coulmanb@agr.gc.ca) - AFCSK, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada;
Ehlke, Nancy (nancy@umn.edu)  University of Minnesota;
Michaud, Real (michaudr@agr.gc.ca) - AFCSF, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada;
Papadopoulos, Yousef (papadopoulosy@agr.gc.ca) - AFCC, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada;
Peel, Michael (mpeel@cc.usu.edu) - FRRL, USDA-ARS;
Phillips, Timothy (tphillip@uky.edu)  University of Kentucky;
Riday, Heathcliffe (riday@wisc.edu) - USDA-ARS, USDFRC;
Viands, Donald (drv3@cornell.edu) - Admin. Advisor, Cornell University;

Brief Summary of Minutes

The annual meeting of the NE-1010 committee was hosted by committee member Michael Peel. The committee was welcomed to Logan, Utah by Jerry Chatterton, Research Leader of the USDA-ARS FRRL. Chatterton gave a brief overview of the Forage and Range Research Laboratory activities. Michael Peel gave an overview of the schedule of the meetings and introduced Joseph Robins, USDA-ARS Plant Geneticist at the FRRL.


Meeting Site and Nominations Committee Report: Meeting site and nominations committee chair Arvid Boe reported the 2006 meeting will be in Madison, WI on September 18-20 and the 2007 meeting will be in Alberta, Canada. Surya Acharya was nominated and elected incoming secretary and Healthcliffe Riday was nominated and elected chair for 2006. The meeting adjourned at 11:00 AM, August 16, 2005.

Collaborative Research Reports:
Objective 1. Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources.


Alfalfa
1.1.1 Identification of traits useful for improving Medicago sativa ssp. falcata germplasm. Brummer IA-lead, AFCSF, NGPRL, SD, FRRL  Experiment is being finalized. Substantial variation was present in the germplasm including significant winter injury and survival at AFCSF.

1.1.2 Genetics and improvement of naturalized alfalfa (M. sativa subsp. falcata). Boe SD-lead, IA, FRRL  Experiment will be completed in 2006 and a publication will be written. The data measured include pod shape, flower color (over 30% of plants were pure yellow flowered), and biomass production.

1.1.3 Breeding for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle in alfalfa. Viands NY-lead, AFCSF, SD, IA. The third cycle of selection will be completed soon. Differences were observed among HS-families. Regional agronomic testing of the improved germplasm will be conducted in the future.

1.1.4 Developing alfalfa germplasm with potato leafhopper resistance from three diverse genetic sources. Viands NY-lead, IA, SD. Three germplasm sources of resistances including Peruvian, glandular trichromes, and M. falcata were evaluated for potato leafhopper resistance. Good tolerance was observed in the breeding materials and future research will include investigating the mechanisms of resistance.

1.1.5 Genetic mapping agronomic traits in alfalfa. Brummer, IA-lead, NY.
Experiment is completed and the manuscripts have been submitted for publication.

1.1.6 Aluminum tolerance in tetraploid alfalfa. Acharya AFCL-lead, NY. Data collection this year showed large variability, which will make selection for aluminum tolerance difficult in 2006.


Birdsfoot Trefoil

1.2 Rhizomatous birdsfoot trefoil for yield improvement. Brummer, IA-lead, AFCC, NY, SD. Evaluation and selection for rhizomes, winter hardiness, persistence, and forage traits is continuing.


1.3 Reed Canarygrass

Collection and evaluation of naturalized reed canarygrass populations for biofuel and forage traits. Brummer, IA-Lead, SD, AFCSF, KY, AFCSK, NGPRL, USDFRC. Numerous collections are being evaluated at IA and USDFRC. Extensive variability has been observed for biomass production. Aggressiveness of this species may be an issue in its adoption for biofuel production.


1.4 Tall Fescue

Interactions of nonstructural carbohydrates, seed yield, forage quality and yield components. Balasko, WV-lead, KY. Relationships between total nonstructural carbohydrate (TNC) concentration and forage and seed yield, quality, winter hardiness, and persistence are being investigated. Genetic variation and the relationship between TNC in inflorescence and seed yield have been documented. Clonal evaluation will continue and divergent populations will be selected.


1.5 Multiple Species

1.5.1 Selection for fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin. Viands, NY-lead, AFCSF, WI. In NY, selection for higher pectin concentration in alfalfa resulted in increased digestibility. Selection for changes in the fiber ratios was less successful. Simple selection for decreased NDF may be more cost and time effective and just as successful as pectin selection. At AFCSF, altering the fiber ratios in timothy stems was successful and produced no change in lignin content (ADL).

1.5.2 Grass-grass and grass-forb mixtures for long-term sustainable biomass production. Boe, SD-lead, IA, WV, PGRU, NY, MN. Due to high seed costs, many of the species proposed for this experiment will have seed produced in SD and MN. Trials should be planted in 2006 or 2007.


Objective 2: Build on previous research to evaluate traditional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.


2.1 Alfalfa:

2.1.1 Comparison of mass, S1, and S2 selection for forage yield: Two cycles of selection have been completed. Michaud, AFCSF-lead, NY. Seed is being produced for planting in replicated yield trials in 2006. Biomass data will be collected starting in 2007.

2.1.2 Clonal selection in multiple environments to improve forage yield. Viands, NY-lead, AFCSF, IA, AFCL. The first production year of the nursery measuring biomass, plant height and vigor will be completed in 2005 at NY and IA. Selection will begin in 2006 or after two years of data from all locations is available.



2.2 Orchardgrass:

Clonal selection for broad adaptation: Phillips KY-lead, IA, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD. Three source populations available (IA, KY, SK). During 2005-06, 200 plants will be clonally propagated to produce 9 ramets of each plant per location (3 ramets per replication and 3 replications per location). Ramets will be sent to each location for planting in spring 2006.


2.3 Red clover:

2.3.1 Selection for general adaptation in red clover: Papadopoulos, AFCC-lead, NY, AFCSF, AFCSK, KY, SD, IA, USDFRC. 1000 transplants were established at each location in 2005. Initial plant counts will be taken in Autumn 2005. Data collection will begin in 2006 with selections made after first growth and harvest in 2007.

2.3.2 Selection for persistence in red clover using half-sib families: Riday USDFRC-lead, IA, SD, AFCCH. Four locations planted in WI (USDFRC), two locations planted in IA and one location planted in SD and PEI. Initial stand counts will be taken autumn 2005. Additional data including height and biomass will be collected on the two plants in the center of each HS-family plot.


2.4 Legume/Grass Mixtures.

Compatibility of legumes with various grasses. Brummer IA-lead, USDFRC, SD. Selection of Birdsfoot trefoil in monoculture or in mixtures with orchardgrass will be made in 2005 based on height, regrowth, and vigor. Fifty plants per population treatment combination per location to be selected and sent to IA for seed increase during winter 2005-2006. Half-sib seed from 150 parental plants per pop/treatment combo will be transplanted into the field in 2006 for evaluation of the selection protocol.


Objective 3: Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, seed and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.

3.1: Alfalfa: Evaluation of new selected M. sativa ssp. falcata populations: Brummer IA-lead, AFCSF, NGPRL, SD, USDFRC, FRRL, NY. Data collection will begin in 2005. Sward plots (SD, USDFRC, and IA), single row plots (AFCSF, NGPRL, SD, USDFRC, FRRL, NY, and IA) and grazing plots (USDFRC and IA) are being evaluated. Traits measured include yield, height, flower color, leaf hopper resistance, and stand.

3.3: Multiple species: Brummer IA-lead, NY, AFCSF, AFCC, PSWMRL, KY, SD, NGPRL, WI. Evaluation of cultivars and germplasms under grazing with the objective being the evaluation of new cultivars and advanced breeding materials.

Accomplishments

Objective 1: (1) Useful traits have been identified in Medicago sativa ssp. falcata germplasm ; (2) Three cycles of selection for resistance to the alfalfa snout beetle has been completed and the germplasm will be tested in regional trials; (3) Alfalfa populations that contain three distinct sources of genetic resistance to potato leafhopper yellowing show good levels of tolerance; (4) the genetic mapping of agronomic traits in alfalfa is completed and the manuscripts have been submitted for publication; and (5) selection criteria were identified to increase digestibility by altering fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin while maintaining or increasing yield in timothy and alfalfa. <br /> <br /> Objective 2: (1) Two cycles of selection comparing effectiveness of mass, S1, and S2 selection were completed in alfalfa and seed is being produced to evaluate the selection methods; (2) additional studies have been initiated using clonal selection for improving forage yield in alfalfa and general adaptation in orchardgrass; (3) new experiments to select for general adaptation and persistence in red clover were initiated; and (4) selection for compatibility of birdsfoot trefoil with and without orchardgrass was completed in 2005. Evaluation of the selection program will begin in 2006.<br /> <br /> Objective 3: (1) Evaluation of new, selected M. sativa ssp. falcata from previous evaluations (NE 144) for forage yield, growth habit, regrowth potential, and potato leafhopper resistance at numerous locations as single row plots, sward plots, and grazing plots; and (2) numerous evaluations of cultivars, germplasms, and advanced breeding materials is being evaluated under grazing or in forage plots at numerous locations.<br />

Publications

Bélanger, G., A., Brégard, R. Michaud, and G.F. Tremblay. 2004. Leaf and stem nutritive value of timothy genotypes under varying N fertilization. Can. J. Plant Sci. 84: 1101-1104.<br /> <br /> Berdahl, J.D., A.B. Frank, J.M. Krupinsky, P.M. Carr, J.D. Hanson, and H.A. Johnson. 2005. Biomass yield, phenology, and survival of diverse switchgrass cultivars and experimental strains in western North Dakota. Agron. J. 97:549-555.<br /> <br /> Claessens, A., R. Michaud, G. Belanger, and D. Mather. 2004. Characteristics of timothy genotypes divergently selected for fiber traits. Crop Sci. 44 : 81-88.<br /> <br /> Claessens, A., R. Michaud, G. Belanger, and D. Mather. 2005. Responses to divergent phenotypic selection for fiber traits in timothy. Crop Sci. 45: 1017-1022.<br /> <br /> Claessens, A., R. Michaud, G. Belanger, and D. Mather. 2005. Leaf and stem characteristics of timothy plants divergently selected for the ratio of lignin to cellulose. Crop Sci. 45: in press. <br /> <br /> Ehlke, N.J. and D.J. Vellekson. 2005. University of Minnesota Forage Yield Variety Trials: Alternative Forage Legumes and Grasses. http://www.maes.umn.edu/maespubs/vartrial/vt-cntnt.asp<br /> <br /> Fike, J.H., D.J. Parrish, D.D. Wolf, J.A. Balasko, J.T. Green, Jr., M. Rasnake, and J.H. Reynolds. 200X. Switchgrass management for the upper South: Influence of cytotype and cutting frequency on biomass production. Biomass and Bioenergy. In press.<br /> <br /> Fike, J.H., D.J. Parrish, D.D. Wolf, J.A. Balasko, J.T. Green, Jr., M. Rasnake, and J.H. Reynolds. 200X. Switchgrass for biomass: Management to maximize sustainable yields. Biomass and Bioenergy. In press.<br /> <br /> Han, G., B.L. Waldron, M.D. Peel, K.B. Jensen, and R.D. Harrison. 2004. Using herbicide and no-till planting to establish garrison creeping foxtail in wet meadows. Online. Forage and Grazinglands:10.1094/FG-2004-0705-01-RS. (Log 115: 164905)<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., R.P. Murphy, D.R. Viands, and A.A.G. Westra. 2005. Registration of 'York' Smooth Bromegrass. Crop Sci. 45 (In press).<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, and M. Davis. 2005. Forage varieties. In Cornell Field Crops Guide. http://www.fieldcrops.org/<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, and M. Davis. 2005. New York forage legume and grass yield trails summary for 2005. http://plbrgen.cals.cornell.edu/programsandprojects/departmental/foragetest/<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, and M. Davis. 2005. New York alfalfa variety yield data. In Alfalfa Variety Comparison. U. of WI. http://www.uwex.edu/ces/ag/alfalfa/<br /> <br /> Karn, J.F., H.F. Mayland, J.D. Berdahl, K.H. Asay, and P.G. Jefferson. 2005. Russian wildrye nutritive quality as affected by accession and environment. Can. J. Plant Sci. 85:125-133.<br /> <br /> Krupinsky, J.M., J.D. Berdahl, C.L. Schoch, and A.Y. Rossman. 2004. Leaf spot on switch grass (Panicum virgatum), symptoms of a new disease caused by Bipolaris oryzae. Can. J. Plant Path. 26:371-378. <br /> <br /> Michaud, R. et M.C. Pépin. 2004. Évaluation des cultivars de luzerne pour le Québec. Dans CRAAQ, Plantes fourragères - rapport des essais de cultivars 2004, section luzerne, p. 1-39.<br /> <br /> Michaud, R. et J. Michaud 2004. Évaluation des cultivars de fléole pour le Québec. Dans CRAAQ, Plantes fourragères - rapport des essais de cultivars 2004, section fléole, p. 1-20.<br /> <br /> Michaud, R. 2005. Le Centre de référence en agriculture et agroalimentaire du Québec : Recommandations de plantes fourragères 2005-2006. Grandes Cultures, 15 (3): 19-22.<br /> <br /> Michaud, R. 2005. Les plantes fourragères - Les nouveaux cultivars pour 2005-2006. Le Producteur de lait québécois, juin 2005, p. 21-27.<br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y. A., D. B. McKenzie, K. B. McRae, E. A. Clark, and E. Charmley. 2005. Evaluating the performance of alfalfa cultivars in rotationally grazed pastures. Can. J. Plant Sci. 85: 147 - 150.<br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., K.H. Asay, D.A. Johnson, and B.L. Waldron. 2004. Forage production of sainfoin across an irrigation gradient. Crop Sci. 44(2):614-619.<br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., B.L. Waldron, K.B. Jensen, N.J. Chatterton, H. Horton, and L.M. Dudley. 2004. Screening for salinity tolerance in alfalfa: a repeatable method. Crop Sci. 44 (In Press)<br /> <br /> Sheaffer, C.C., N.J. Ehlke, D.L. Wyse, D. J. Vellekson, D.R. Swanson, J.L. Halgerson, and R.D. Matheson. 2004. Forage yield and nutritive value of selected quackgrass. Online. Forage and Grazinglands. http://www.plantmanagementnetwork.org/sub/fg/research/2004/quackgrass/<br /> <br /> Tecle, I.Y., D.R. Viands, J.L. Hansen, and A.N. Pell. 2005. Indirect response in digestibility of alfalfa to selection for pectin concentration. Crop Sci. 45. (In review).<br />

Impact Statements

1. The potential impacts of this Multistate Research Activity include, but are not limited to: enhanced livestock performance/health as well as economic advantages through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved forage yield and quality characteristics and multiple pest resistance.
2. Contribute to improved environmental quality through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved persistence, increased resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and enhanced soil binding/improvement capabilities (e.g., reduced soil erosion, loss of nutrients, and runoff; increased soil carbon and reduced atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters).
3. Through the use of improved forages, increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems should be achieved. The new cultivars of grasses and legumes will have multiple uses/attributes such as forage for livestock and native herbivores, habitat for wildlife production, and biomass for biofuel/bioenergy production.

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Report Information

Participants

Acharya, Surya (acharya@agr.gc.ca) - AFCCL, Agric. Agri-Food Canada; Boe, Arvid (arvid.boe@sdstate.edu) - South Dakota State Uniersity; Brummer, Charlie (brummer@uga.edu) - University of Georgia;Casler, Michael (mdcasler@wisc.edu)  USDFRC, USDA-ARS;Coulman, Bruce (bruce.coulman@usask.ca) - AFCSK, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada; Ehlke, Nancy (nancy@umn.edu) - University of Minnesota; Lamb, JoAnn (joannlamb@umn.edu)  USDA-ARS, St. Paul, MN;Papadopoulos, Yousef (papadopoulosy@agr.gc.ca) - AFCCH, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada; Peel, Michael (mpeel@cc.usu.edu) - FRRL, USDA-ARS; Phillips, Timothy (tphillip@uky.edu) - University of Kentucky; Riday, Heathcliffe (riday@wisc.edu)  USDFRC, USDA-ARS; Viands, Donald (drv3@cornell.edu) - Admin. Advisor, Cornell University;

Brief Summary of Minutes

The annual meeting of the NE-1010 committee was hosted by committee member Heathcliffe Riday at the US Dairy Forage Research Center in Madison, WI. JoAnn Lamb USDA-ARS, St. Paul, MN was welcomed as a new member of NE-1010 committee.

Meeting Site and Nominations Committee Report: Meeting site will be in Saskatoon, Canada on August 9-10, 2007 hosted by Bruce Coulman. Surya Acharya was elected chair for 2007 and JoAnn Lamb was elected secretary for 2007.

Collaborative Research Reports: Objective 1. Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources.

1.1.1 Identification of traits useful for improving Medicago sativa ssp. falcata germplasm. Brummer GA-lead, AFCSF, NGPRL, SD, FRRL. Experiment is ready for publication.

1.1.2 Genetics and improvement of naturalized alfalfa (M. sativa subsp. falcata). Boe SD-lead, GA, FRRL. Experiment is ready for publication.

1.1.3 Breeding for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle in alfalfa. Viands NY-lead, AFCSF, SD. To date, we have completed three to four cycles of selection in 15 alfalfa populations. We have observed variability among progenies, suggesting that genetic variability for resistance exists at levels that should enable us to make significant progress from selection. Experiments should be complete this fall to determine progress from selection. The first segment of this experiment revealed variability among populations, but also indicated that a better experimental design is needed to determine progress from selection within a plant population. Regardless, it was a promising trend to see the average root damage rating decrease by 17% in one population (from 3.58 to 3.05 [1=no root damage, 5=dead plant]) after three cycles of selection. However, these data indicate that more selection is needed.


1.1.4 Developing alfalfa germplasm with potato leafhopper resistance from three diverse genetic sources. Viands NY-lead, GA, SD. The goal of this project is to develop germplasm with multiple mechanisms for more stable resistance to potato leafhopper (PLH). Seed of Medicago falcata SD201, which was selected for resistance to PLH in SD, subsequently was selected for resistance in NY. These selected plants were pollinated by hand as 2x X 4x crosses, using pollen from NY germplasm that had been selected for resistance to this insect. The NY germplasm originated from glandular trichome sources crossed with Peruvian germplasm that had been selected for resistance. The cross with the SD germplasm created an alfalfa population with three distinct sources of resistance in one plant population. The five hybrid plants from these crosses were intercrossed by hand, followed by a second generation of intercrossing to accomplish genetic recombination. Seed was sent to the cooperators for establishing field nurseries in 2004. Each nursery was established with about 1000 plants at each cooperating location to begin three cycles of recurrent phenotypic selection for resistance. Potato leafhopper infestations were high enough during the 2006 growing season to select the plants that were most vigorous and had the least symptoms from PLH. Plants from NY and the other cooperators will be intercrossed in the greenhouse during the winter of 2006-07. This seed will be used to establish nurseries in spring 2007 for the second cycle of selection.


1.1.5 Aluminum tolerance in tetraploid alfalfa. Acharya AFCL-lead, NY, AAFCCH, GA. This experiment was initiated during the 2004 growing season. During the first two production seasons (2005 and 2006), each plant was evaluated for seedling vigor on a scale of 1 to 10; 1 = plant dead and 10 = very vigorous plant. Phase I is progressing as planned and early variation was observed among the populations studied in this project.

1.2 Rhizomatous birdsfoot trefoil for yield improvement. FRRL, AFCC, NY, SD. New York is completing the third cycle of selection for the rhizomatous trait and agronomic traits. Another study will be planned that will be planted in 2008.

1.3 Collection and evaluation of naturalized reed canarygrass populations for biofuel and forage traits. USDFRC, Casler-Lead, SD, AFCSF, KY, AFCSK, NY, MN, AAFCCH. Extensive variability has been observed for biomass production. Aggressiveness of this species may be an issue in its adoption for biofuel production. Studies are planned to be planted in 2009.

1.5.1 Selection for fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin. Viands, NY-lead, AFCSF, USDFRC. Genetic improvement in alfalfa for reduced total cell wall concentration and/or higher proportion of the more digestible cell wall components would enhance the efficiency of utilization of its high protein and dry matter digestibility by ruminants. Data reported last year indicate that NDSF concentration (pectin) can be increased in alfalfa forage by phenotypic selection, resulting in higher forage digestibility. Based on this research, we have begun selecting plants that are higher in NDSF concentration and cell wall digestibility (NDFd). During 2006, we are selecting plants from four alfalfa populations that were first selected for vigor and good agronomic traits, followed by selection for higher forage quality.

1.5.2 Grass-grass and grass-forb mixtures for long-term sustainable biomass production. Boe, SD-lead, GA, NY, MN, USDFRC. Trial in planning stages.
Objective 2: Build on previous research to evaluate traditional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.

2.1 Alfalfa:

2.1.1 Comparison of mass, S1, and S2 selection for forage yield: Two cycles of selection have been completed. Michaud, AFCSF-lead, NY, GA, MN, AFCSK, AFCCL. Trials to evaluate progress from selection will be established this year. Biomass data will be collected starting in 2007.

2.1.2 Clonal selection in multiple environments to improve forage yield. Viands, NY-lead, AFCSF, GA, AFCL. A broad-based alfalfa population was developed by two generations of random mating among Seedway 9558 (from NY), 5454 (sent by IA), and SF 9001=AC Viva (from AFCSF). Progenies were grown during winter 2003-04 to produce 200 genotypes. Stem cuttings were made and sent to the cooperators to establish a nursery at each location. Each nursery consists of three replicates of each of the 200 genotypes. Each genotype-replicate row has three ramets. For each of three harvests in each of two production years, data were recorded for the number of plants, forage yield, and disease symptoms. The first cycle of selection should be complete at the end of the 2007 growing season. Cooperators will send their data to D. Viands so that the highest yielding genotypes (10% = 20 genotypes) across all the locations can be selected. Seed will be produced on these plants in the greenhouse during winter of 2007-08. In 2008, 200 random plants from this seed will be cloned to establish nurseries for the second cycle of selection in 2009. Each cooperator also will produce their own populations within their locations for both the replicated clonal selection and phenotypic selection.
2.2.1. Orchardgrass clonal selection for broad adaptation: Phillips KY-lead, GA, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD. Three source populations available (IA, KY, SK). 400 genotypes clonally replicated are being maintained in KY awaiting shipment for transplanting in 2007.

2.3 Red clover:

2.3.1 Selection for general adaptation in red clover: Papadopoulos, AFCC-lead, NY, AFCSF, AFCSK, KY, SD, GA, USDFRC. Phase II of this project was initiated during the 2005 growing season. NE1010-C0 seeds were supplied to 10 cooperating sites. One thousand plants of NE1010-C0 were established at all 10 locations. In the transplant year, a standard management protocol was followed to insure good crop establishment. During the first production season (2006), each plant was evaluated for seedling vigor on a scale of 1 to 10; 1 = plant dead and 10 = very vigorous plant.

2.3.2 Selection for persistence in red clover using half-sib families: Riday USDFRC-lead, GA, SD, AFCCH. Four locations planted in WI (USDFRC), two locations planted in IA and one location planted in SD and PEI. Yield, height, maturity, and persistence measures were taken in 2006. In 2007 focus will be on top 10-20 HS-families for individual plant evaluation for yield. Persistence notes will continue to be taken.

2.4 Legume/Grass Mixtures. Compatibility of legumes with various grasses. Brummer GA-lead, USDFRC, SD. Birdsfoot trefoil plants were selected in fall of 2005 and sent to Iowa for intercrossing and cycle-1 seed production. Cycle-1 seed produced in 2006.

Objective 3: Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, seed and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.

3.1: Alfalfa: Evaluation of new selected M. sativa ssp. falcata populations: Brummer GA-lead, AFCSF, NGPRL, SD, USDFRC, FRRL, NY. Data collection will begin in 2005. Sward plots (SD, USDFRC, and GA), single row plots (AFCSF, NGPRL, SD, USDFRC, FRRL, NY, and GA) and grazing plots (USDFRC and GA) are being evaluated. Traits measured include yield, height, flower color, leaf hopper resistance, and stand.

3.3: Multiple species: Brummer GA-lead, NY, AFCSF, AFCC, PSWMRL, KY, SD, NGPRL, WI. Evaluation of cultivars and germplasms under grazing with the objective being the evaluation of new cultivars and advanced breeding materials.

3.4: Meadow and hybrid bromegrass: Evaluation of meadow and hybrid bromegrass: Coulman AFCSK-lead, AFCSF, AFCCH, SD, USDFRC. This experiment was initiated during the 2004 growing season. This project is progressing as planned and early differences were observed among the populations studied in this project.

3.5: Red clover evaluation: Response to selection under controlled environment versus natural selection under field conditions. Papadopoulos AFCCH-lead, AFCSF, AFCSK, AFCL, AFCA, NY, KY, USDFRC, SD. Phase III of this project was initiated during the 2005 growing season. Seeds from six new synthetics, the original seed population and appropriate check cultivars were supplied to each of the above locations in the spring of 2005. Also included in this trial are several new red clover synthetics recently developed by three red clover breeders participating in the NE1010 initiative. Plots were harvested with a plot harvester and herbage yield was recorded throughout the first production year (2006).

Accomplishments

Objective 1: (1) Useful traits have been identified in Medicago sativa ssp. falcata germplasm; (2) Three cycles of selection for resistance to the alfalfa snout beetle has been completed and the germplasm will be tested in regional trials; (3) Alfalfa populations that contain three distinct sources of genetic resistance to potato leafhopper yellowing show good levels of tolerance; (4) the genetic mapping of agronomic traits in alfalfa is completed and the manuscripts have been submitted for publication; and (5) selection criteria were identified to increase digestibility by altering fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin while maintaining or increasing yield in timothy and alfalfa.<br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 2: (1) Two cycles of selection comparing effectiveness of mass, S1, and S2 selection were completed and progenies were planted at multiple sites for testing; (2) additional studies have been initiated using clonal selection for improving forage yield in alfalfa and general adaptation in orchardgrass; (3) Studies in red clover are underway to examine persistence; and (4) selection for compatibility of birdsfoot trefoil with and without orchardgrass was completed in 2005. Evaluation of the selection program will begin in 2007 or 2008.<br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 3: (1) Evaluation are underway of new, selected M. sativa ssp. falcata from previous evaluations (NE 144) for forage yield, growth habit, regrowth potential, and potato leafhopper resistance at numerous locations as single row plots, sward plots, and grazing plots; and (2) numerous evaluations of cultivars, germplasms, and advanced breeding materials is being evaluated under grazing or in forage plots at numerous locations. <br />

Publications

Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, and M. Davis. 2006. Forage varieties. In Cornell Field Crops Guide. http://www.fieldcrops.org/<br /> <br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, and M. Davis. 2006. New York forage legume and grass yield trails summary for 2006. http://plbrgen.cals.cornell.edu/programsandprojects/departmental/foragetest/<br /> <br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, and M. Davis. 2006. New York alfalfa variety yield data. In Alfalfa Variety Comparison. U. of WI. http://www.uwex.edu/ces/ag/alfalfa/<br /> <br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, and M. Davis. 2006. New York 2006 alfalfa variety trial results. http://www.plantmanagementnetwork.org/cm/trials/<br /> <br /> <br /> Tecle, I.Y., D.R. Viands, J.L. Hansen, and A.N. Pell. 2006. Response from selection for pectin concentration and indirect response in digestibility of alfalfa. Crop Sci. 46:1081-1087.<br /> <br /> <br /> Tsao R., Y.A. Papadopoulos, R. Yang, J. C. Young, K.B. McRae. 2006. Isoflavone Profiles of Red Clovers and their Distribution in Different Parts Harvested at Different Growing Stages. J. Agric. Food Chem. (In Press)<br />

Impact Statements

1. The potential impacts of this Multistate Research Activity include, but are not limited to: enhanced livestock performance/health as well as economic advantages through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved forage yield and quality characteristics and multiple pest resistance.
2. Contribute to improved environmental quality through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved persistence, increased resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and enhanced soil binding/improvement capabilities (e.g., reduced soil erosion, loss of nutrients, and runoff; increased soil carbon and reduced atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters).
3. Through the use of improved forages, increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems should be achieved. The new cultivars of grasses and legumes will have multiple uses/attributes such as forage for livestock and biomass for renewable energy production.

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Report Information

Participants

Acharya, Surya (acharya@agr.gc.ca) - AAFC, Lethridge, AB, Canada;
Boe, Arvid (arvid.boe@sdstate.edu) - South Dakota State University;
Brummer, Charlie (brummer@uga.edu) - University of Georgia;
Casler, Michael (mdcasler@wisc.edu) - USDFRC, Madison, WI;
Coulman, Bruce (bruce.coulman@usask.ca) - University of Saskatchewan, Canada;
Ehlke, Nancy (nancy@umn.edu) - University of Minnesota;
Fales, Steve (slf@iastate.edu) - Iowa State University;
Lamb, JoAnn (JoAnn.Lamb@ars.usda.gov) - USDA, PSRU, St. Paul, MN;
Michaud, Real (michaudr@agr.gc.ca) - AAFC, Ste-Foy, PQ, Canada;
Papadopoulos, Yousef (papadopoulosy@agr.gc.ca) - AAFC, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada;
Peel, Michael (Mike.Peel@ars.usda.gov) - USDA FRRL, Logan, UT;
Riday, Heathcliffe (Heathcliffe.Riday@ars.usda.gov) - USDFRC, Madison, WI;
Viands, Don (drv3@cornell.edu) - Cornell University;

Brief Summary of Minutes

University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada, August 9-10, 2007.


The NE1010 meeting participants were welcomed by Graham Scoles, Acting Dean of the College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan.


Steve Fales announced the forage breeding position will be replaced at Iowa State and circulated a job description.


Objective 1: Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources.


1.1 Alfalfa
1.1.1 Identification of traits useful for improving Medicago sativa ssp. falcata
Lead: Charlie Brummer; Locations: AFCSF, FRRL, IA, NGPRL, SD. The data collection is essentially complete and Charlie asked everyone to send final data to him. Some locations are done and at others the plots are still in the ground. Mike Peel has made selections. Arvid Boe stated that John Berdahl made 3 pops and gave them to him.


1.1.2 Genetics and improvement of naturalized alfalfa (M. sativa subsp. falcata)
Lead: Arvid Boe; Locations: FRRL, IA, NGPRL, SD. Data collection is essentially complete, Arvid needs data from Charlie Brummer. John Berdahl created one population, Arvid Boe created two populations, and Mike Peel created one population.
NEXT STEP - go to 3.1


1.1.3 Breeding for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle in alfalfa.
Lead: Don Viands; Location: NY. Three cycles of selection completed. Data showed selection worked - see report. Don stated that he will likely seek cooperation for evaluation in yield trials sometime in the future.


1.1.4 Developing alfalfa germplasm with potato leaf hopper resistance from three diverse genetic sources.
Lead: Don Viands; Locations: AFCL, IA, NY, SD, ?KS and WV? Charlie Brummer created one population and Don has created another and has planted both populations this year. All sources are at NY right now. Lethbridge also has plots and will select this year for vigor only. All plants are variegated.


1.1.5 Done and published.


1.1.6 Aluminum tolerance in tetraploid alfalfa.
Lead: Surya Acharya; Locations: AFCCH, AFCL, NY
SEE Papadopoulos report. Phase 2 locations: Charlottetown, Lethbridge, and Syracuse. Yousef requested soil samples of all sites. Discussion was initiated for changes in experimental design because soils have been variable. Next cycle of selection was proposed for 2008-2009. All seed will be sent to Lethbridge. Charlie Brummer offered a site for evaluation in Georgia.


1.2 Birdsfoot Trefoil
1.2.1 Rhizomatous Birdsfoot Trefoil for yield improvement
Lead was transferred to Mike Peel then to Heathcliffe Riday - put on back burner.
Locations: AFCCH, FRRL, NY, USDFRC. Currently there is no interest in leading this project. If Paul Beuselinck returns to the group perhaps he would have interest in leading this project. Viands still has the study at NY.


1.2.2 Single row plot evaluations for vigor in Birdsfoot Trefoil.
Lead: Mike Peel; Locations: AFCCH, FRRL, MN, NY, USDFRC. Next cycle of selection discussion was initiated for establishment in 2009. The five cooperators involved will discuss again next year. Mike Peel established a grazing study at FRRL using materials from MN, NY, and AFCCH and will be collecting data this year.


1.3 Reed Canarygrass
Collection of evaluation of naturalized reed canarygrass populations for biofuel and forage traits.
NARC Phase II: NEW Lead: Mike Casler; Locations: IA, NY, USDFRC. Evaluation sites for yield trials of 90 sources of reed canarygrass are two in NY, two in WI and one in IA. Second and last year of harvests will be taken in 2007. Related: Mike Casler believes that reed canarygrass is native, but behaves as an opportunist. He would like to investigate whether sources are native or introduced from a European type, so asked everyone if they were traveling and came upon a generally undisturbed site with reed canarygrass to collect samples. Further discussion led to proposal for new research from Mike Casler and Charlie Brummer: SEE NEW Objective 2.5: Reed canarygrass


1.4 -Tall Fescue: not functional - No lead scientist at this time.


1.5 Multiple Species


1.5.1 Selection for fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin
Lead: Don Viands; Locations: AFCSF, NY, WI, USDFRC. Selection in alfalfa for higher pectin concentration has more energy, "1.7 pounds milk equivalent energy per day". See Viands' annual report. Population is currently out for increase. Comment: Real Michaud has conducted divergent selection for non-structural CHO (soluble carbohydrates) in alfalfa. He has found large differences and variability between plots cut in the - AM and PM. Values are greater in the afternoon. Changes in NDF and ADF also occurred.


1.5.2 Grass-grass and grass-forbs mixtures for long-term sustainable biomass production.
NEW Lead: Nancy Ehlke; Locations: MN and SD (possibly ND). Polycultures, up to 16 species and monoculture grasses with N rates at four locations in MN were established in 2006. Warm (one harvest) and cool (two harvest) season mixtures and monocultures were included in response to Tillman article. Yousef Papadopoulos has mixtures of alfalfa and reed canarygrass (less competitive type), and will be in contact with Nancy. This research is part of an overall biodiversity study he is participating in.


Objective 2: Build on previous research to evaluate additional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.

2.1 Alfalfa
2.1.1 Comparison of mass selection, S1 and S2 in alfalfa.
Lead: Real Michaud; Locations: AFCSF (lost to winterkill), AFCSK, IA, PSRU, NY. Plots were established in 2006. Yield will be evaluated in 2007 and 2008.


2.1.2 Replicated clonal selection for improving forage yield in alfalfa.
Lead: Don Viands; Locations: AFCL, AFCSF, IA, NY. Research essentially completed, but Don needs data from all sites in order to select clones for the next cycle which he would like to establish in 2009. Don will produce an overall group population, and each collaborator will produce individual location populations.


2.2 Orchardgrass


2.2.1 Clonal selection in orchardgrass for broad adaptation.
Lead: Phillips; Locatons: AFCSF, AFCSK, IA, KY, SD. Tim did not attend or send a report - progress unknown.


2.2.2 Non-heading orchardgrass. NEW
Lead: Mike Casler; Locations: AFCCH (was planted 2007), AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, FRRL, MN, NY, USDFRC. It appears that cold temperatures inhibit flowering in orchardgrass. Mike also mentioned that he believes that epistasis is involved. Phase 2 of OPUS3 see Casler's annual report.


2.3 Red Clover


2.3.1 Selection for general adaptation of red clover.
Lead: Yousef Papadopoulos; Locations: AFCCH, AFCSF, AFCSK, GA, KY, NY, SD, USDFRC. See Papadopoulos annual report. Each site has selected slightly different criteria and number of plants to keep. Yousef requested that all seed be sent to him. He will take equal seed from each location and set up a series of diallel crosses. Increases of each of the location populations are also needed, and Yousef asked if each location cooperator could do a cage increase. Discussion continued on how best to do the crosses, and individuals involved will talk again before crosses are made.


2.3.2 Selection for persistence in red clover using half sib families.
Lead: Heathcliffe Riday, Locations: AFCCH, GA, SD, USDFRC. See Riday annual report. Heritability estimate over locations equaled 0.7. - Heathcliffe would like to conduct a stability trial using transplants to be established in 2009. Scoring for yield or actually harvesting with two replications per site. Volunteered locations included: AFCCH, AFCSF, GA, NY, SD and USDFRC.


2.4 Legume/grass mixtures. Compatibility of legumes with various grasses.
Lead: Charlie Brummer, currently; Locations: GA, SD, USDFRC. One cycle of selection for birdsfoot trefoil with orchardgrass has been completed. Seed of 70 half sib families was collected (seed needs to be cleaned  Heathcliffe has the seed at USDFRC). Birdsfoot trefoil was not a good fit with orchardgrass. If this research is to be continued, perhaps a different grass should be used. No interest in continuing this research at this time. If Paul Beuselinck returns to the group perhaps he would have interest in leading this project. The future of this research will be discussed again in 2008.


Objective 3: Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, seed and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.


3.1 Alfalfa
3.1.1 Evaluation of new M. sativa subsp. falcata populations
NEW Lead: Heathcliffe Riday; Locations: AFCL, AFCSF, NGPRL, SD. This year (2007) is the last year of data collection. Heathcliffe will compile data.


NEW 3.1.2 Evaluation of M. sativa subsp. falcata hybrids.
Lead: Heathcliffe Riday; Locations: GA (IA), MN, NY, SD, USDFRC. Plots were established in 2006. Plots will be harvested in 2007 and 2008.


3.2 Black medic  Done.


3.3 Multiple Species 
Charlie Brummer stated that new ideas were needed for future studies.


3.4 Meadow and hybrid bromegrass
Lead: Bruce Coulman; Locations: AFCCH, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD, USDFRC. At all three CA locations populations were selected for vigor. Mike Casler only selected meadow bromegrass plants, and rated recovery after scalping the plots, rust resistance and panicles to create his population. Real Michauds population is a mixture of hybrid and meadow bromegrasses. Both Yousef Papadopoulos and Bruce Coulman created separate hybrid and meadow bromegrass populations. Four out the five locations have produced seed and SD will produce seed this winter. All seed increases will be conducted by Bruce Coulman in 2008 and 2009. Evaluation trial will be established at all five locations in 2010.


3.5 Red clover evaluation
Lead: Yousef Papadopoulos; Locations: AFCCH, AFCSF, AFCSK, AFCL, NY KY, SD, USDFRC.. Yousef asked for one more year of data. The following locations: AFCCH, AFCSK, NY, SD, and USDFRC, will keep the plots and collect data in 2008.


NEW PROJECTS:


NEW 2.5 Reed canarygrass - methods to improve forage yield.
Lead: Mike Casler. Charlie Brummer and Mike Casler will make selections out of 2 polycross nurseries in reed canarygrass (one PIs, the other collection selections from Objective 1.3). They proposed seeding about 450 plots per location in 2009 and harvesting in 2010 & 2011. The goal is to create half sib families to compare methods of breeding for yield. Proposed empirical study is to compare selecting the best individuals within the families and using them or going back and using the parents of the best families. Two traits will be used: yield among families and survivorship within families. Volunteered future evaluation sites: AFCCH, AFCSF, AFCSK (possible), GA, KY, NY, SD, USDFRC. Topic will be discussed again next year.


NEW 3.3.1 Evaluation of cultivars and germplasms under grazing.
New Lead: Heathcliffe Riday . Initiate new experiment with red clover and grass mixtures under simulated and actual grazing treatments in 2010. Heathcliffe Riday and Mike Casler will bring proposal to group in 2008.


New Objective on Tall Fescue: Charlie Brummer stated that he would like to initiate new studies with tall fescue in the near future. Nancy Ehlke mentioned that she could be a possible collaborator depending on the proposal. Other collaborators suggested were Tim Phillips and Andy Hopkins.


New Objectives on Trifolium species: Research on sequencing (SSR) the Trifolium species is nearing completion and future research objectives should be proposed for both red and white clover.
NEW Objective 1.6 Marker assisted selection in red clover
Lead: Heathcliffe Riday

New Objective 1.7 Marker assisted selection in white clover
Lead: Charlie Brummer


New Objective on Kura Clover: Lead: Nancy Ehlke. Heathcliffe Riday will look at old Dick Smith data for the seed coating trial that was conducted in the 1990's. Many in the group had this trial as well as Jane King (in Alberta) and Phillipe Seguin. Nancy Ehlke will bring a proposal in 2008 with the idea of establishing a study in 2009.


Next meetings:

2008 - Lethbridge, AB, Canada
August, 7-8, 2008
Host: Surya Acharya
Flights to Calgary, then drive or catch a commuter flight.


2009  Minnesota either at St. Paul or at Roseau, MN (will discuss in 2008)
Hosts: Nancy Ehlke and JoAnn Lamb

Accomplishments

Objective 1: (1) Useful traits have been identified in Medicago sativa ssp. falcata germplasm and selections have been made; (2) Three cycles of selection for resistance to the alfalfa snout beetle have been completed and more resistant populations produced. The germplasm will be tested in regional trials; (3) Two alfalfa populations more tolerant to potato leafhopper that contain three distinct sources of genetic resistance have been selected; and (4) Selections have been made for higher pectin concentration.<br /> <br /> Objective 2: (1) Two cycles of selection comparing effectiveness of mass, S1, and S2 selection were completed and progenies are being tested at multiple sites; (2) Studies in red clover are underway to examine persistence and selections are being made for general adaptation at multiple sites; (3) selection for compatibility of birdsfoot trefoil with and without orchardgrass was completed; and 4) Selections of non-flowering orchardgrass have been made and are being tested at multiple locations. <br /> <br /> Objective 3: (1) Evaluation will be completed in 2007 of new, selected M. sativa ssp. falcata from previous evaluations (NE 144) for forage yield, growth habit, regrowth potential, and potato leafhopper resistance at numerous locations as single row plots, sward plots, and grazing plots; and (2) Selections of meadow and/hybrid bromegrass have been made at five locations. Seed will be increased and all selected lines tested at all five locations. <br />

Publications

Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, M. Davis, and J.K. Waldron. 2007. New York forage legume and grass yield trials summary for 2007.<br /> http://plbrgen.cals.cornell.edu/programsand projects/departmental/foragestest/ also linked from the North American Alfalfa Improvement Conference web page at http://www.naaic.org/Resources/yields.html<br /> <br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, M.Davis, and J.K. Waldron. 2007. New York alfalfa variety yield data. In Alfalfa Variety comparison. U. of WI. http://www.uwex.edu/ces/ag/alfalfa/<br /> <br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, M. Davis, and J.K. Waldron. 2007. Forage varieties. In Cornell field Crops Guide. http://www.fieldcrops.org/<br /> <br /> <br /> McElroy M., Y.A. Papadopoulos, and Sina Adl. 2006. Effects of pasture sward diversity and composition on soil functional diversity. Can. J. Plant Sci. 86: (1414). Abstract.<br /> <br /> <br /> McElroy, M. 2006. Effect of plant species diversity and composition on soil organism functional diversity in an establishing pasture. M.Sc. thesis. Dalhousie University.<br /> <br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A., Tsao, R., McRae, K., Mellish, A.E. and Fillmore, S.A.E. 2006. Genetic variability of main isoflavones in red clover. Can. J. Plant Sci. 86: 1345-1347.<br /> <br /> <br /> Robins, J.G., D. Luth, T.A. Campbell, G.R. Bauchan, C. He, D.R. Viands, J.L. Hansen, and E.C. Brummer. 2007. Genetic mapping of biomass production in tetraploid alfalfa. Crop Sci. 47:1-10.<br /> <br /> <br /> Tsao, R., Papadopoulos, Y.A., Yang, R., Young, J.C. and McCrae, K. 2006. Isoflavone profiles of red clovers and their distribution in different parts harvested at different growing stages. J. Agric. Food Chem. 54:5797-5805.<br />

Impact Statements

1. 1. The potential impacts of this Multistate Research Activity include, but are not limited to: enhanced livestock performance/health as well as economic advantages through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved forage yield and quality characteristics and multiple pest resistance.
2. 2. Contribute to improved environmental quality through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved persistence, increased resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and enhanced soil binding/improvement capabilities (e.g., reduced soil erosion, loss of nutrients, and runoff; increased soil carbon and reduced atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters).
3. 3. Through the use of improved forages, increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems should be achieved. The new cultivars of grasses and legumes will have multiple uses/attributes such as forage for livestock and biomass for renewable energy production.

Back to top

Report Information

Participants

Acharya, Surya acharya@agr.gc.ca; AAFC, Lethbridge, AB, Canada;
Brummer, Charlie brummer@uga.edu; University of Georgia;
Coulman, Bruce bruce.coulman@usask.ca; University of Saskatchewan, Canada;
Ehlke, Nancy nancy@umn.edu; University of Minnesota;
Hopkins, Andy aahopkins@noble.org; Noble Foundation;
Lamb, JoAnn JoAnn.Lamb@ars.usda.gov; USDA-ARS, PSRU, Saint Paul, MN;
Michaud, Real michaudr@agr.gc.ca; AAFC, Ste-Foy, QC, Canada;
Papadopoulos, Yousef papadopoulosy@agr.gc.ca; AAFC, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada;
Peel, Michael Mike.Peel@ars.usda.gov; USDA-ARS, FRRL, Logan, UT;
Robins, Joe Joseph.Robins@ars.usda.gov; USDA-ARS, FRRL, Logan UT;
Viands, Don drv3@cornell.edu; Cornell University;

Brief Summary of Minutes

Held at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge, AB, 08/07/2008

The group was welcomed by Jeff Stewart, Science Director for crop breeding and genetics programs in Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

The group welcomed Joe Robins of FRRL and Andy Hopkins of the Noble Foundation to the meeting.
Objective 1: Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources.

1.1 Alfalfa

1.1.1 Identification of traits useful for improving M. sativa ssp. falcata germplasm.
Lead: Brummer, GA. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, NGPRL, SD, FRRL.
Data have been collected and C. Brummer will analyze the data and write the manuscript.

1.1.2 Genetics and improvement of naturalized alfalfa (M. sativa subsp. falcata).
Lead: Boe, SD. Cooperating locations: GA, FRRL.
Data were collected and a manuscript is under preparation. Ivan Mott at FRRL has completed a molecular diversity study of this plant material and a manuscript on this molecular data has been initiated.

1.1.3 Breeding for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle in alfalfa.
Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: other alfalfa researchers.
This pest is spreading throughout NY. Five to six selection cycles have now been completed in several alfalfa populations under field conditions. Resistant populations will be evaluated by the NE1010 collaborators.

1.1.4 Developing alfalfa germplasm with potato leafhopper resistance from three diverse genetic sources.
Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: IA (now GA), SD.
Many different mechanisms appear to be involved in PLH tolerance, not just glandular hairs. Second cycle of selection nearly completed. Viands will send seed to C. Brummer (GA) for fall establishment.

1.1.6 Acid and Aluminum tolerance in tetraploid alfalfa.
Lead: Acharya, AFCL. Cooperating locations: NY, AFCCH
Phase I of research is completed. Phase II will be established next year (2009). Seed from all three locations will be shared and used for spaced plants in half sib progeny. The three scientists involved will speak separately and plan Phase II of the study. Soils will be tested for both acidity and aluminum. Oklahoma State U. can test for aluminum.

C. Brummer is mapping QTLs for aluminum tolerance in collaboration with Maria Monteros at Noble Foundation. Brummer will discuss with Maria whether this project will become a sub-objective in NE1010.

1.2 Birdsfoot trefoil

1.2.1 Rhizomatous birdsfoot trefoil for yield improvement.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC. Cooperating locations: NY, SD, AFCCH.
Fourth cycle of selection is currently at NY. Plant vigor not great but will be backcrossed to Pardee. Ehlke will evaluate when needed.

1.2.2 Single-row plot evaluation of birdsfoot trefoil for vigor.
Lead: Peel, FRRL. Cooperating locations: MN, NY, AFCCH, USDFRL.
Research is scheduled to begin in 2009. Seed from all locations should be sent to Peel (40 g) by April 1st 2009 and he will package. Single row trial will be scored for seedling vigor, and assessed for dry matter yield.

1.3 Reed canarygrass (NARC): Collection and evaluation of naturalized reed canarygrass populations for biofuel and forage traits.
Lead: Casler, USDFRC. Cooperating locations: IA (now GA), NY.
Data collection has been completed and data analysis is underway.

1.5 Multiple species

1.5.1 Selection of fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin.
Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, WI.
Viands reported that selection for ratios of quality components has not worked as well as selection for individual quality components in alfalfa. Michaud reported that selection for nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) was impacted by the time of cutting (morning or afternoon) in alfalfa. New selection nurseries were established in NY in 2008. NY has released its first alfalfa cultivar that was bred for higher concentration of pectin.

1.5.2 Grass-grass and grass-forb mixtures for long-term sustainable biomass production. CoLeads: Ehlke, MN and Boe, SD. Cooperating locations: other researchers MN, ND.
Several combinations of native forbs, grasses and legume polycultures are being compared for biomass/bioenergy production. This study was initiated in 2007 and biomass from these plots will be harvested each year through 2016.

1.6 Red Clover:

To be developed: Marker-assisted selection.
Lead: Riday, USDFRL. Cooperating locations: AFCNS, GA and European researchers. Half sib seed production is underway. Germplasm has been sent to Japan for genotyping and the three cooperating locations will have evaluation trials.

1.7 White Clover:

To be developed: Marker-assisted selection.
Lead: Brummer, GA. Cooperating locations: USDFRC and NOBLE Foundation.
Seed produced in New Zealand: half sib seed - 16 genotypes from 24 cultivars. Drought tolerance will be main research thrust. Currently there are no dedicated monies.

1.8 Kura Clover:

To be developed: Vigor and spreadability.
Lead: Ehlke, MN. Cooperating locations: USDFRL, AFCCH, FRRL.
Plans delayed until 2009- Riday, Ehlhe, Papadopoulos, and Peel.
Group will discuss next meeting


Objective 2: Build on previous research to evaluate additional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.

2.1 Alfalfa

2.1.1 Comparison of mass, S1, and S2 selection in alfalfa.
Lead: Michaud, AFCSF. Cooperating locations: AFCSK, AFCL, PSRUMN, NY.
Last harvests will be taken in 2009.

2.1.2 Replicated clonal selection for improving forage yield of alfalfa.
Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, GA, AFCL.
One cycle of selection completed and evaluated. Seed will be intercrossed in winter 2008/2009. Viands will send cuttings to cooperators by January 2009. Brummer doing some marker work with this material. For the second cycle of selection we may do some selection using markers only.

2.2 Orchardgrass:

2.2.1 Clonal selection in orchardgrass for broad adaptation.
Lead: Phillips, KY. Cooperating locations: GA, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD.
No report. This project has never gotten off the ground - Curious as to the status of Phillips. Viands will try to contact Phillips. Hopkins mentioned that he has tested a number of Moroccan orchardgrass accessions, but they were not winterhardy.

2.2.2 Non-heading orchardgrass research.
Lead: Casler, USDFRL. Cooperating locations: AFCNS, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, FRRL, ID, MN, KY, WV, NY, Newfoundland.
Plots were established in 2007 and harvests began in 2008. Quality data are being collected at some locations but not all.

2.3 Red clover:

2.3.1 Selection for general adaptation in red clover.
Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH. Cooperating locations: NY, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD, USDFRC.
Phase II of the research is completed. Selection was conducted at seven locations and eight populations were planted for seed increase. Diallel population crosses will be made. It will take two to three years before enough seed will be available for evaluation trials.

2.3.2 Selection for persistence in red clover using half-sib families.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC. Cooperating locations: IA (now GA), SD, AFCCH.
All locations have finished selections.

2.4 RENEW Legume/Grass mixtures: Compatibility of legumes with various grasses.
Originally trefoil and orchard grass. Brummer stated that Riday has the seed and the original project is likely on the back burner. Peel has trefoil and tall fescue mixtures - with and without grazing.
NEW Co Leads: Peel, and Robins at FRRL. Volunteered cooperating locations: USDFRC, AFCNS, GA, MN, NY, PSRUMN AFCCH, AFCL.
Project could include: breeding methodology for mixtures, focusing on red clover, trefoil, sainfoin, and selection of lines in mixtures with grasses or other legumes. The new group will decide on protocol and use species appropriate to each region in 2009 with starting projects in 2010/2011.

2.5 NEW Red Clover for Biofuels:
To be developed: Lead: Papadopoulos.
Small project started but not funded. Looking at N2 fixation inputs and lower ash production. This project will be discussed in 2009.

2.6 NEW Reed Canarygrass  Methods to improve forage yield
Lead: Casler, USDFRC. Volunteered cooperators: AFCCH, AFCSF, AFCSK, GA, NY, SD.
Create half sib families and compare methods of breeding for yield.



Objective 3: Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, seed and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.

3.1 Alfalfa

3.1.1 Evaluation of new M. sativa subsp. falcata populations.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCL, NGPRL, SD, FRRL, AFCSK, GA, NY.
Data have been collected. Peel would like to have the data. Peel suggested a new trial in 2-3 years with different lines. This will be discussed in 2009.

3.1.2 Hybrid alfalfa yield evaluation.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC Cooperating locations: NY, SD, IA, PSRUMN.
Population hybrids (collaboration with Dairyland) - established in 2006 - evaluated in 07-08.

3.1.3. Salt tolerance in alfalfa- (new  To be developed)
Lead: Acharya AFCL Cooperating locations: FRRL.
Will discuss in 2009 and start 2010/2011.

3.3 Multiple species

3.3.1 Biomass Alfalfa/Grass mixture evaluation.
Lead: Lamb USDA-ARS, Cooperating locations SD, USDFRC.
Compare monocultures and mixtures of two experimental biomass alfalfas, reed canarygrass, intermediate wheatgrass, and smooth bromegrass for biomass yield and quality. Plots were established in 2008.

3.3.2 NEW Evaluation of cultivars and germplasms under grazing.
Co Leads: Riday and Casler, USDFRC.
Neither of the leaders attended annual meeting. Discussion of this project will be in 2009 with seeding proposed for 2010.

3.4 Meadow and hybrid bromegrass: Evaluation of meadow and hybrid bromegrass
Lead: Coulman, AFCSK. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCCH, SD, USDFRC.
Selected populations are currently under seed increase and seed will be distributed to the collaborators in time for establishment of new evaluation nurseries in 2009.


3.5 Red clover evaluation:
3.5.1 Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH. Cooperating locations: AFCSF (plowed), AFCSK, AFCL, NY, USDFRC, SD.
Please record stand data in fall 2008. For those that still have the plots, 2008 will be the final year of data collection. Papadopoulos will send information to collaborators as to whether to send seed or plants for next round of selection. Peel would like to be included in next round of selection.

3.5.2 Red Clover Yield Stability:
Lead: Riday. Cooperating locations: NY, others.
Replicated rows of 10 entries selected for forage yield stability, 10 non-selected entires, and 5 control entries were established in 2008. Yield will be measured in multiple harvests in the next two years to determine yield stability at various locations.

3.6 Tall Fescue

3.6.1 NEW Tall Fescue -Selection for persistence in the Southern Coastal plains
Lead: Brummer, GA. Cooperating locations: Noble Foundation, KY, FRRL.
Brummer made selections from GA, Noble and KY lines under drought conditions in Tifton, GA. These populations will be evaluated.


NEED TO GET TEMPLATE FROM DON VIANDS FOR ALL LEAD SCIENTISTS TO PREPARE A DESCRIPTION PAGE OR PARAGRAPH FOR EACH PROJECT FOR POSTING ON THE WEBSITE

NEXT MEETING: June 18-19, 2009 at the University of Minnesota, Saint Paul Campus.
Hosts: Nancy Ehlke and JoAnn Lamb
Chair: Surya Acharya
Secretary: Joe Robins

2010 Annual Meeting will be in Atlanta or Athens, GA, hosted by Charlie Brummer.

The business meeting was followed by a field tour of the Lethbridge forage research program.

The group thanked Surya Acharya for his excellent hosting of this NE1010 meeting.

Accomplishments

Objective 1: (1) Useful traits have been identified in Medicago sativa ssp. falcata and germplasms are currently under multi-location evaluation; (2) Snout beetle resistant alfalfas have been produced and are currently being evaluated; (3) Potato leaf hopper resistant alfalfa populations have been developed; and (4) alfalfa populations with increased pectin concentration have been created and a cultivar released. <br /> <br /> Objective 2: (1) Selection methods for increased yield in alfalfa are currently under multiple site evaluation; (2) Red clover populations with improved persistence are currently under evaluation at multiple sites; (3) Selections for non-flowering orchardgrass are currently under evaluation at several locations in the U.S. and Canada.<br /> <br /> Objective 3: (1) Selection of meadow and hybrid bromegrass are currently under seed increase and all populations will be established in 2009 at five locations; (2) improved red clover populations for general adaptation are currently being evaluated acroos the U.S. and Canada. <br />

Publications

Hansen, J.L., H. Mayton, P. Salon, J. Crawford, C. Watkins, and D. R. Viands. 2008. Evaluation of perennial warm season grasses for use as bioenergy feedstock. NE Branch Amer. Soc. Agron. 13-16 July 2008. Montreal, Canada. Plants and Soils:57.<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, M. Davis, and J.K. Waldron. 2008. New York 2006 alfalfa variety trial results. Forage and Grazinglands. http://www.plantmanagementnetwork.org/sub/cm/trials/2006/alfalfa/Hansen.xls<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, M. Davis, and J.K. Waldron. 2008. New York 2007 alfalfa variety trial results. Forage and Grazinglands. http://www.plantmanagementnetwork.org/sub/cm/trials/2007/alfalfa/Hansen.xls<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, J.K. Waldron, M. Hall, J. Losey, D. Johnson, and J. Hanchar. 2008. Reducing potato leafhopper (PLH) impacts on alfalfa through PLH-resistant cultivars intercropped with perennial forage grass. North Amer. Alfalfa Improv. Conf., 1-4 June 2008. Dallas, TX. http://www.naaic.org/Meetings/National/2008meeting/proceedings/proceedings2008.htm<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., J.K. Waldron, J. Losey, D.R. Viands, and J. Hanchar. 2008. Agronomics and economics of potato leafhopper (PLH)-resistant alfalfa intercropped with perennial forage grass for PLH control. NYS Integrated Pest Mgt. Project Repts. 2007-2008. NYS IPM Pub. No. 506. 110-125.<br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A., R. Michaud, A. Bertrand, B. Coulman, S.N. Acharya, S. Bittman, D. Viands, H. Riday, A. Boe, S.A.E. Fillmore, and Y. Castonguay. 2008. Response to selection under controlled environment versus natural selection in diverse regions across Canada. North Amer. Alfalfa Improv. Conf., 1-4 June 2008. Dallas, TX. http://www.naaic.org/Meetings/National/2008meeting/proceedings/proceedings2008.htm<br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A., B. Coulman, R. Michaud, S.N. Acharya, S. Bittman, D. Viands, H. Riday, A. Boe, T. Phillips, M. D. Casler, and S. A. E. Fillmore. 2008. Forage breeding and new varieties. Abstr. Can. J. Plant Sci. 88: (in press).<br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A., B. Coulman, R. Michaud, S.N. Acharya, S. Bittman, D. Viands, H. Riday, A. Boe, T. Phillips, M. D. Casler, and S. A. E. Fillmore. 2008. Forage breeding and new varieties. Proc. 41st Biennial Atlantic Agron. Workshop. (invited presentation). Organized by Can. Soc. of Agron. at the Rodd Charlottetown Hotel, Charlottetown, PEI.<br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A. S. Todd, K.B. McRae, S.A.E. Fillmore. 2008. (Abstract). The identification of perennial ryegrass and 'Festulolium' cultivars adapted for production in Atlantic Canada. Can. J. Plant Sci. 88: (in press) <br /> <br /> Riday, H., S. Wagner, D. Viands, J. Lamb, D. Meyer, M. Smith, E.C. Brummer, and A. Boe. 2008. Sativa by falcata alfalfa hybrid variety trials. North Amer. Alfalfa Improv. Conf., 1-4 June 2008. Dallas, TX. http://www.naaic.org/Meetings/National/2008meeting/proceedings/proceedings2008.htm<br /> <br /> Tecle, I.Y., J. L. Hansen, A.N. Pell, and D.R. Viands. 2008. Divergent phenotypic selection for alfalfa cell wall fractions and indirect response in digestibility. Can. J. Plant Sci. 88:891-898.<br /> <br /> Viands, D.R., J.L. Hansen, E.M. Thomas, and J.L. Neally. 2007. Registration of ReGen alfalfa. J. Plant Registrations 1:106.<br />

Impact Statements

1. The potential impacts of the multistate research include, but are not limited to: enhanced livestock performance/health as well as economic advantages through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved forage yield and quality characteristics and multiple pest resistance.
2. Contribute to improved environmental quality through the development of new cultivars of grass and legumes with improved persistence, increased resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and enhanced soil/binding improvement capabilities (e.g. reduced soil erosion; improved nutrient cycling; less surface water runoff; increased soil carbon sequestration; reduce atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters).
3. Through the use of improved forages, increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems should be achieved. The new cultivars of grasses and legumes will have multiple uses/attributes such as forage for livestock and biomass for renewable energy production.

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Report Information

Participants

Acharya, Surya acharya@agr.gc.ca; AAFC, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
Boe, Arvid arvid.boe@sdstate.edu, South Dakota St. Univ., Brookings, SD
Brummer, Charlie brummer@uga.edu; University of Georgia
Casler, Michael mdcasler@wisc.edu; US Dairy Forage Research Center, WI
Coulman, Bruce bruce.coulman@usask.ca; University of Saskatchewan, Canada
Ehlke, Nancy nancy@umn.edu; University of Minnesota
Hopkins, Andy aahopkins@noble.org; Noble Foundation
Lamb, JoAnn JoAnn.Lamb@ars.usda.gov; USDA-ARS, PSRU, Saint Paul, MN
Michaud, Real michaudr@agr.gc.ca; AAFC, Ste-Foy, QC, Canada
Papadopoulos, Yousef papadopoulosy@agr.gc.ca; AAFC, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada
Peel, Michael Mike.Peel@ars.usda.gov; USDA-ARS, FRRL, Logan, UT
Phillips, Tim tphillip@uky.edu, Univ. Kentucky, Lexington, KY
Riday, Heathcliffe heathcliffe.riday@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Madison, WI
Viands, Don drv3@cornell.edu; Cornell University

Brief Summary of Minutes

Meeting held at the University of Minnesota (St. Paul) on 18 June 2009.

The group was welcomed by Nancy Ehlke (Department Head of the University of Minnesota Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics) and Beverly Durgan (Dean of the University of Minnesota Extension and Director of the Minnesota Agriculture Experiment Station).


Objective 1: Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources.

1.1 Alfalfa

1.1.1 Identification of traits useful for improving M. sativa ssp. falcata germplasm.
Lead: Brummer, GA. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, NGPRL, SD, FRRL.
Field work is finished. A post-doctoral research associate is analyzing the data, but they are waiting for data from Arvid Boe. They are hoping to write a manuscript this summer.

1.1.2 Genetics and improvement of naturalized alfalfa (M. sativa subsp. falcata).
Lead: Boe, SD. Cooperating locations: GA, FRRL.
Field work is completed and a population has been developed.

1.1.3 Breeding for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle in alfalfa.
Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: other alfalfa researchers.
This pest is spreading throughout NY. Five to six selection cycles have now been completed in several alfalfa populations under field conditions. Progress from selection is being evaluated under field conditions. Viands wants to release resistant material as soon as possible.

1.1.4 Developing alfalfa germplasm with potato leafhopper resistance from three diverse genetic sources.
Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: IA (now GA), SD.
PLH resistance has been found in Boes falcata materials. Crosses have been made other sources of resistance and work is ongoing to complete the second selection cycle.

1.1.6 Acid and Aluminum tolerance in tetraploid alfalfa.
Lead: Acharya, AFCL. Cooperating locations: NY, AFCCH
Phase I of research is completed. Phase II will be established next year (2010). Y. Papadopoulos: Materials have gone through a couple of cycles of selection and are now ready for wider testing. He wants to send some seed out this winter for wider testing. He also proposed a genetic study characterizing heritability using parent-offspring regression or half-sib families. Questions were asked concerning the effect of adding sulfate to lower soil pH.

C. Brummer and Maria Monteros are interested in participating this project.

1.2 Birdsfoot trefoil

1.2.1 Rhizomatous birdsfoot trefoil for yield improvement.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC. Cooperating locations: NY, SD, AFCCH.
Crosses have been made and a trial will be put out next spring based on spaced-plant evaluations in sod. Riday asked for entries, including half-sib families, to be included in the trial. The trial will focus on vigor and persistence.
In NY the fourth cycle of selection for the rhizomatous trait is being completed in a population developed by crossing Pardee trefoil to wild type germplasm with the rhizomatous trait.


1.2.2 Single-row plot evaluation of birdsfoot trefoil for vigor.
Lead: Peel, FRRL. Cooperating locations: MN, NY, AFCCH, USDFRL.
The study was delayed due to lack of winter seed production. He requested seed from participating locations, which he will package and distribute this year (2009).

1.3 Reed canarygrass (NARC): Collection and evaluation of naturalized reed canarygrass populations for biofuel and forage traits.
Lead: Casler, USDFRC. Cooperating locations: IA (now GA), NY.
The study has been completed and the publication is in review. There was extended conversation on the appropriate measurement of alkaloids.

1.5 Multiple species

1.5.1 Selection of fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin.
Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, WI.
Viands reported that a high pectin line has been released as an alfalfa cultivar.. Comparisons are being made to Vernal for weight gain in sheep.
Michaud reported that time of day of harvest impacts carbohydrate levels more than selection in timothy.

1.5.2 Grass-grass and grass-forb mixtures for long-term sustainable biomass production. CoLeads: Ehlke, MN and Boe, SD. Cooperating location: MN.
Several combinations of native forbs, grasses and legume polycultures are being compared for biomass/bioenergy production. N. Ehlke: A graduate student has started on the project. A. Boe: The South Dakota site started poorly, but is looking better.

1.6 Red Clover:

To be developed: Marker-assisted selection.
Lead: Riday, USDFRL. Cooperating locations: AFCNS, GA and European researchers. H. Riday: The population is still being developed  384 genotypes. He is seeking collaboration from Papadopoulos, IBERS and Japanese group. Selection will be based on vigor and persistence on a space-plant basis. D. Viands: Interested in working on the project.

1.7 White Clover:

To be developed: Marker-assisted selection.
Lead: Brummer, GA. Cooperating locations: USDFRC and NOBLE Foundation.
C. Brummer: The population is still underdevelopment  384 genotypes. Collaborators include Ireland and IBERS and possibly New Zealand. The details are still being worked out.

1.8 Kura Clover:

To be developed: Vigor and spreadability.
Lead: Ehlke, MN. Cooperating locations: USDFRC, AFCCH, FRRL.
Plans further delayed until 2010- Riday, Ehlke, Papadopoulos, and Peel.
Group will discuss during the next meeting


Objective 2: Build on previous research to evaluate additional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.

2.1 Alfalfa

2.1.1 Comparison of mass, S1, and S2 selection in alfalfa.
Lead: Michaud, AFCSF. Cooperating locations: AFCSK, AFCL, PSRUMN, NY.
R. Michaud: Due to semi-retirement, he asked Viands to lead project. The third production year data from the trials to evaluate progress from selection should be complete this year.

2.1.2 Replicated clonal selection for improving forage yield of alfalfa.
Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, GA, AFCL.
D. Viands: The study has been planted in New York and Nova Scotia. It will be planted in Alberta next year. C. Brummer: Looking at markers on original parents and original cycle of selection.

2.2 Orchardgrass:

2.2.1 Clonal selection in orchardgrass for broad adaptation.
Lead: Phillips, KY. Cooperating locations: GA, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD.
T. Phillips: A population of 400 genotypes is ready to be distributed as clones. The clones will go to B. Coulman for Canadian distribution. Distribution will occur this fall or in 2010.

2.2.2 Non-heading orchardgrass research.
Lead: Casler, USDFRL. Cooperating locations: AFCNS, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, FRRL, ID, MN, KY, WV, NY, Newfoundland.
Yield will be collected for 2 years. Heading and panicle numbers will be collected for 3 years. He requested that samples be sent to him from locations involved in forage quality analysis.

2.3 Red clover:

2.3.1 Selection for general adaptation in red clover.
Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH. Cooperating locations: NY, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD, USDFRC.
Y. Papadopoulos: Hopes that diallel crosses will result in sufficient seed to begin trials in 2011.

2.3.2 Selection for persistence in red clover using half-sib families.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC. Cooperating locations: IA (now GA), SD, AFCCH.
H. Riday: The field work is completed. There was no evidence of GxE interaction. He is preparing the manuscript.

2.4 RENEW Legume/Grass mixtures: Compatibility of legumes with various grasses.
Originally trefoil and orchard grass.
NEW Co Leads: Peel, and Robins at FRRL. Volunteered cooperating locations: USDFRC, AFCNS, GA, MN, NY, PSRUMN AFCCH, AFCL.
M. Peel: Surprised to discover he was designated as the lead. Y. Papadopoulos: Preparing a manuscript on the topic. J. Lamb: New lead.

2.5 Red Clover for Biofuels:
Lead: Papadopoulos.
Evaluated Canadian cultivars--all have high ash content.

2.6 NEW Reed Canarygrass  Methods to improve forage yield
Lead: Casler, USDFRC. Volunteered cooperators: AFCCH, AFCSF, AFCSK, GA, NY, SD.
No discussion.


Objective 3: Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, seed and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.

3.1 Alfalfa

3.1.1 Evaluation of new M. sativa subsp. falcata populations.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCL, NGPRL, SD, FRRL, AFCSK, GA, NY.
Data have been collected but not sent to Riday. A new trial will be established in 2-3 years with different lines. Further discussion in 2010 meeting.

3.1.2 Hybrid alfalfa yield evaluation.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC Cooperating locations: NY, SD, IA, PSRUMN.
Population hybrids (collaboration with Dairyland) - established in 2006 - evaluated in 07-08. No discussion in 2009.

3.1.3. Salt tolerance in alfalfa- (new  To be developed)
Lead: Acharya AFCL Cooperating locations: FRRL.
Y. Papadopoulos has a population developed by flooding the field with sea water, and S. Acharya has a populations developed using salt lab facility. Will be discussed further in 2010.

3.3 Multiple species

3.3.1 Biomass Alfalfa/Grass mixture evaluation.
Lead: Lamb USDA-ARS, Cooperating locations SD, USDFRC.
Compare monocultures and mixtures of two experimental biomass alfalfas, reed canarygrass, intermediate wheatgrass, and smooth bromegrass for biomass yield and quality. Plots were established in 2008.

3.3.2 NEW Evaluation of cultivars and germplasms under grazing.
Co Leads: Riday and Casler, USDFRC.
This project was removed from the list.

3.4 Meadow and hybrid bromegrass: Evaluation of meadow and hybrid bromegrass
Lead: Coulman, AFCSK. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCCH, SD, USDFRC.
B. Coulman: Seed will be produced this year and distributed in 2010. Eleven entries will be included.
There was some discussion about whether testing should include frequency of defoliation.

3.5 Red clover evaluation:
3.5.1 Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH. Cooperating locations: AFCSF (plowed), AFCSK, AFCL, NY, USDFRC, SD.
Y. Papadopoulos: Results were presented in Texas in 2008. If a third year of data are collected, please send to Papadopoulos for the publication.

3.5.2 Red Clover Yield Stability:
Lead: Riday. Cooperating locations: NY, others.
Yield and stand data are being collected this year (first production year) from trials established in 2008 in WI and NY.

3.6 Tall Fescue

3.6.1 NEW Tall Fescue -Selection for persistence in the Southern Coastal plains
Lead: Brummer, GA. Cooperating locations: Noble Foundation, KY, FRRL.
C. Brummer: No differences were found during the first 2 years, and all entries died in the third year. Surviving plants will be used to generate a new population.


REPORTS SHOULD BE SENT TO S. ACHARYA AND J. ROBINS ELECTRONICALLY.

NEXT MEETING: Held in conjunction with NAAIC on July 26th in Boise ID. NAAIC meeting is scheduled for July 27-28, 2010.
Host and Chair: Joseph Robins
Secretary: To be determined.

Combining this meeting with NAAIC and the Grass Breeders Planning Conference was discussed, and a decision will be made during the next meeting.
The business meeting was followed by a field tour of the University of Minnesota forage program.
The group thanked Nancy Ehlke and Jo-Ann Lamb for the excellent hosting of this NE1010 meeting.

Accomplishments

Objective 1: (1) Useful traits have been identified in Medicago sativa ssp. falcata, and germplasms are currently under multi-location evaluation; (2) Snout beetle resistant alfalfas have been produced and are currently being evaluated in the field; (3) Potato leaf hopper resistant alfalfa populations have been developed; and (4) alfalfa populations with increased pectin concentration have been created and a cultivar released.<br /> <br /> Objective 2: (1) Selection methods for increased yield in alfalfa are currently under multiple site evaluation; (2) Red clover populations with improved persistence are currently under evaluation at multiple sites; (3) Selections for non-flowering orchardgrass are currently under evaluation at several locations in the U.S. and Canada.<br /> <br /> Objective 3: (1) Selection of meadow and hybrid bromegrass are currently under seed increase, and all populations will be established in 2009 at five locations; (2) improved red clover populations for general adaptation are currently being evaluated across the U.S. and Canada.<br />

Publications

Hansen, J.L., H. Mayton, P. Salon, J. Crawford, C. Watkins, and D. R. Viands. 2008. Evaluation of perennial warm season grasses for use as bioenergy feedstock. NE Branch Amer. Soc. Agron. 13-16 July 2008. Montreal, Canada. Plants and Soils:57.<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, M. Davis, and J.K. Waldron. 2008. New York 2006 alfalfa variety trial results. Forage and Grazinglands. http://www.plantmanagementnetwork.org/sub/cm/trials/2006/alfalfa/Hansen.xls<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Neally, E. Thomas, J. Yaeger, M. Davis, and J.K. Waldron. 2008. New York 2007 alfalfa variety trial results. Forage and Grazinglands. http://www.plantmanagementnetwork.org/sub/cm/trials/2007/alfalfa/Hansen.xls<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, J.K. Waldron, M. Hall, J. Losey, D. Johnson, and J. Hanchar. 2008. Reducing potato leafhopper (PLH) impacts on alfalfa through PLH-resistant cultivars intercropped with perennial forage grass. North Amer. Alfalfa Improv. Conf., 1-4 June 2008. Dallas, TX. http://www.naaic.org/Meetings/National/2008meeting/proceedings/proceedings2008.htm<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., J.K. Waldron, J. Losey, D.R. Viands, and J. Hanchar. 2008. Agronomics and economics of potato leafhopper (PLH)-resistant alfalfa intercropped with perennial forage grass for PLH control. NYS Integrated Pest Mgt. Project Repts. 2007-2008. NYS IPM Pub. No. 506. 110-125.<br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A., R. Michaud, A. Bertrand, B. Coulman, S.N. Acharya, S. Bittman, D. Viands, H. Riday, A. Boe, S.A.E. Fillmore, and Y. Castonguay. 2008. Response to selection under controlled environment versus natural selection in diverse regions across Canada. North Amer. Alfalfa Improv. Conf., 1-4 June 2008. Dallas, TX. http://www.naaic.org/Meetings/National/2008meeting/proceedings/proceedings2008.htm<br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A., B. Coulman, R. Michaud, S.N. Acharya, S. Bittman, D. Viands, H. Riday, A. Boe, T. Phillips, M. D. Casler, and S. A. E. Fillmore. 2008. Forage breeding and new varieties. Abstr. Can. J. Plant Sci. 88: 732.<br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A., B. Coulman, R. Michaud, S.N. Acharya, S. Bittman, D. Viands, H. Riday, A. Boe, T. Phillips, M. D. Casler, and S. A. E. Fillmore. 2008. Forage breeding and new varieties. Proc. 41st Biennial Atlantic Agron. Workshop. (invited presentation). Organized by Can. Soc. of Agron. at the Rodd Charlottetown Hotel, Charlottetown, PEI.<br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A. S. Todd, K.B. McRae, S.A.E. Fillmore. 2008. (Abstract). The identification of perennial ryegrass and 'Festulolium' cultivars adapted for production in Atlantic Canada. Can. J. Plant Sci. 88: 732-733. <br /> <br /> Riday, H., S. Wagner, D. Viands, J. Lamb, D. Meyer, M. Smith, E.C. Brummer, and A. Boe. 2008. Sativa by falcata alfalfa hybrid variety trials. North Amer. Alfalfa Improv. Conf., 1-4 June 2008. Dallas, TX. http://www.naaic.org/Meetings/National/2008meeting/proceedings/proceedings2008.htm<br /> <br /> Tecle, I.Y., J. L. Hansen, A.N. Pell, and D.R. Viands. 2008. Divergent phenotypic selection for alfalfa cell wall fractions and indirect response in digestibility. Can. J. Plant Sci. 88:891-898.<br /> <br /> Viands, D.R., J.L. Hansen, E.M. Thomas, and J.L. Neally. 2007. Registration of ReGen alfalfa. J. Plant Registrations 1:106.<br /> <br /> Waldron, B.L., J.G. Robins, K.B. Jensen, and M.D. Peel. 2008. Predicted efficiency of spaced plant selection to indirectly improve tall fescue sward yield and quality. Crop Sci. 48:443-449.<br /> <br /> Jensen, K.B., B.L. Waldron, J.G. Robins, T.A. Monaco, and M.D. Peel. 2008. Breeding meadow bromegrass for forage characteristics under a linesource irrigation design. Can. J. Pl. Sci. 88:695-703.<br /> <br /> Robins, J.G., K.B. Jensen, M.D. Peel, and B.L. Waldron. 2009. Establishment of warm-season grasses in summer and damage in winter under supplementary irrigation in a semi-arid environment at high elevation in western United States of America. Grass and Forage Science. 64:42-48.<br /> Peel, M.D., K.H. Asay, B.L. Waldron, K.B. Jensen, J.G. Robins, and I.W. Mott. 2009. Don a diploid falcata alfalfa for Western US rangelands. J. Pl. Reg. 3:115-118.<br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., B.L. Waldron, and I.W. Mott. 2009. Ploidy determination and agronomic characterization of Small burnet germplasm. Crop Sci. 49LJuly-August issue)<br /> <br /> Kelly, A.M., P.G. Johnson, B.L. Waldron, and M.D. Peel. 2009. A survey of apomixis and ploidy levels among Poa L. (Poaceae) using flow cytometry. Crop Sci. 49: (In Press).<br />

Impact Statements

1. The potential impacts of the multistate research include, but are not limited to: enhanced livestock performance/health as well as economic advantages through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved forage yield and quality characteristics and biotic and abiotic stress resistances/tolerances.
2. Contribute to improved environmental quality through the development of new cultivars of grass and legumes with improved persistence, increased resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and enhanced soil/binding improvement capabilities (e.g. reduced soil erosion; improved nutrient cycling; less surface water runoff; increased soil carbon sequestration; reduce atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters).
3. Through the use of improved forages, increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems should be achieved. The new cultivars of grasses and legumes will have multiple uses/attributes such as forage for livestock and biomass for renewable energy production.

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Report Information

Participants

Participants:
Boe, Arvid, arvid_boe@sdstate.edu, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD;
Casler, Michael, michael.casler@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Madison, WI;
Coulman, Bruce, bruce.coulman@usask.ca, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK;
Ehlke, Nancy, nancy@umn.edu, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN;
Lamb, Joann, joann.lamb@ars.usda.gov, ARS, St. Paul, MN;
Michaud, Real, michaudr@agr.gc.ca, AAFC, Sainte-Foy, QC;
Peel, Michael, mike.peel@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Logan, UT;
Riday, Heathcliffe, heathcliffe.riday@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Madison, WI;
Robins, Joseph, joseph.robins@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Logan, UT;
Viands, Donald, drv3@cornell.edu, Cornell, University, Ithaca, NY;
Guests
Byington, Evert, evert.byington@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Beltsville, MD;
Crouse, Matthew (representing Y. Papadopoulos), crousem@agr.gc.ca, AAFC, Truro, NS;
Dinkins, Randy, randy.dinkins@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Lexington, KY;
McCord, Per, per.mccord@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Prosser, WA;

Brief Summary of Minutes

The annual meeting was held on 27 July 2010 at the Grove Hotel in Boise, ID in conjunction with the North American Alfalfa Improvement Conference and the Trifolium Conference. Joseph Robins served as the meeting chair and Arvid Boe served as the meeting secretary.

Research Reports

Objective 1: Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources.
1.1 Alfalfa

1.1.1. Identification of traits useful for improving M. sativa ssp. falcata germplasm. Lead: Brummer, Noble Fnd. Cooperating Locations: AFCSF, NGPRL, SD, FRRL. Brummer has received data from all cooperators.

1.1.2. Genetics and improvement of naturalized alfalfa (M.sativa subsp. falcata). Lead: Boe, SDSU. Cooperating Locations: GA, NGPRL, FRRL. Boe has data from half-sib family evaluation in IA, ND, SD, and UT. Manuscript will be developed during early 2011. Selections from a naturalized population are being evaluated under grazing in inter-seeded rangeland in northwestern SD. Peel has completed 2 cycles of selection in UT. Discussion was on the progress from selection made recently in the falcata types, seed production issues, and exclusive vs. public releases of falcata types. Recent releases in Canada and NY have been exclusives.

1.1.3 Breeding for resistance to snout beetle in alfalfa. Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: other alfalfa researchers. Problem is primarily in NY, but is spreading slowly. Progress has been made from 8 cycles of selection in the greenhouse. Field trials were established 2 yrs ago in NY. Plants will be dug this fall to evaluate root traits for damage from insect larvae. Seed is being produced in ID for two populations. Plan is to evaluate at several locations for general agronomic traits. Biological controls are being investigated. A nematode shows promise.

1.1.4 Developing alfalfa germplasm with potato leafhopper resistance from three diverse genetic sources. Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: GA, SD. Glandular hair x diploid falcata (SD 201) x Peruvian were made in NY. Second cycle of selection is in a field in NY. Goal is horizontal resistance better than that from glandular hair trait alone.

1.1.6 Aluminum tolerance in tetraploid alfalfa. Lead, Acharya, AFCL. Cooperating locations: NY, AFCCH, Noble Fd. Phase 1 completed. See annual report from AFCL.

1.2 Birdsfoot Trefoil

1.2.1 Rhizomatous birdsfoot trefoil for yield improvement. Lead: Riday, USDFRC. Cooperating locations: NY, SD, AFCCH. Riday is evaluating half-sib families from a Czechoslovakian population. Viands is in the 4th cycle of selection from a cross of rhizomatous x Pardee. So far, genotypes with rhizomatous characteristics are agronomically inferior. Therefore, we are planning to make a backcross of this population to an advanced population of Pardee to restore agronomic performance.

1.2.2 Plot evaluation of birdsfoot trefoil for vigor. Lead: Peel, FRRL. Cooperating locations: MN, NY, AFCCH, USDFRL. Planted in seeded trials in UT, NY, Nova Scotia, and MN this spring. Several experimentals with improved forage production are near cultivar release. Value of variation in tannin content for breeding purposes was discussed; if too high, it decreases absorption of amino acids in lower gut.

1.3 Reed canarygrass (NARC): Collection and evaluation of naturalized reed canarygrass populations for biofuel and forage traits. Lead: Casler, USDFRC. Cooperating locations: IA (now GA), NY. The study has been completed and the publication is in review. There are no current plans for further collaborative studies.

1.5 Multiple Species

1.5.1 Selection of fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin. Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, USDFRC. NY has an alfalfa cultivar selected for high pectin in seed increase. The new cultivar will be compared to Vernal in a trial of hay fed to sheep. Weight gain and in vivo digestibility will be determined. Michaud reported on the 2nd cycle of selection for non-structural carbohydrates in alfalfa and started discussion of effect of time-of-day on pectin concentration. Viands suggested selection for high pectin may decrease yield. Michaud indicated no correlation between TNC and yield in his trials.

1.5.2 Grass-grass and grass-forb mixtures for long-term sustainable biomass. Lead: Ehlke, MN. Cooperating locations: SD. Ehlke reported that the project is on hold because a graduate student resigned. The SD site was terminated in spring 2010.

1.6 Red Clover: Marker-assisted selection. Lead: Riday, USDFRL. Cooperating locations: AFCNS, GA, and Europeans. Riday is using this technique in his breeding program. Protocol is simple to use.

1.7 White Clover: Marker-assisted selection. Lead Brummer, Noble. Cooperating locations: USDFRL. 384 half-sib lines are available from seed produced in NZ. Data are being collected in GA, with a subset in WI. The goal is association mapping.

1.8 Kura Clover: Vigor and spreadability. Lead: Ehlke, MN. Cooperating locations: FRRL, USDFRL. Riday is selecting for seed yield and would like to establish a variety trial in WI. Peel is selecting for upright growth habit, has produced seed, and is going to do a half-sib progeny test. Ehlke is evaluating lines and will check on the status of the Rhizobium program an UM.
Objective 2: Build on previous research to evaluate additional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.

2.1 Alfalfa

2.1.1 Comparison of mass, S1, and S2 selection in alfalfa. Lead: Hansen and Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCL, AFCSK, GA, MN. Viands noted the project complete regarding data collection. Selections were compared to original populations in field trials (3 yrs data from MN, NY, and SASK). NY had some progress from S1 and mass selection, but not from S2. Progress only seen in NY. Data from all locations should be sent to Viands for analysis this winter.

2.1.2. Replicated clonal selection for improving forage yield of alfalfa. Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: AFSSF, GA, AFCL. Viands stated that the 2nd cycle of selection is in the ground with first production in 2010. The first cycle was selected for yield. Method was 3 populations randomly mated for two generations, select 200 clones, and collected data from 4 locations (CAN and USA). After Cycle 2, the plan is to produce Syn-2 seed for further evaluation. QTL analyses were done for Cycle 1, and publication is in print.

2.2 Orchardgrass

2.2.1. Clonal selection in orchard grass for broad adaptation. Lead: Phillips, KY. Cooperating locations: GA, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, FRRL, SD, Noble Fd. Clones are in multiplication in KY.

2.2.2. Non-heading orchardgrass research. Lead: Casler, USDFRL. Cooperating locations. AFCSK, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCNS, FRRL, ID, MN, KY, WV, NY, Newfoundland. Data are available from 2008 and 2009 for all except 3 of 21 the locations. Four populations of sparse flowering plants vs. 3 checks. Sparse flowering plants produced 5 culms/ft.2 compared with 12 culms/ft.2 for checks. First cut yield was lower but forage quality was higher for the sparse flowering plants.

2.3 Red clover

2.3.1. Selection for general adaptation in red clover. Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH. Cooperating locations: NY, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD, KY, GA, USDFRC. Replicated trials with up to 28 entries will be planted at cooperating locations when seed production is complete.

2.3.2. Selection for persistence in red clover using half-sib families. Lead: Riday, USDFRL. Cooperating locations: GA, SD, AFCCH. Project is completed. Seed produced on selections in WI in 2009 (Syn. 2 seed from AFCCH and WI) will be used to establish trials in future.

2.4. 1 Legume/Grass Mixtures: Compatibility of legumes with various grasses. Lead: Peel, FRRL. Cooperating locations. AFCCH, AFCL, GA, MN, NY, USDA-MN. Peel has a SARE grant for this research and is looking at 25%, 50%, and 75% legume composition.

2.4.2 Biomass/Alfalfa Mixtures: Lead: Lamb, USDA-MN. Cooperating locations: USDFRC, SD. Lamb is directing a grass/alfalfa mixtures biomass trial at MN, WI, and SD. Robins is evaluating 24 cultivars of orchardgrass in monocultures and mixtures with alfalfa in UT to determine economic return from N fertilizer vs. biological fixation from alfalfa.

2.5. Red Clover Biofuels: Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCNS. Initial study included mixtures with reed canarygrass or switchgrass. Switchgrass establishment was unacceptable. A new study is planned.

2.6. Methods to improve reed canarygrass: Lead, Casler, USDFRL. Nothing to report.


Objective 3: Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, seed and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.

3.1 Alfalfa

3.1.1. Evaluation of new M. sativa subsp. falcata populations. Lead: Peel, FRRL. Cooperating locations: AFCSK, SD, USDFRL, MN, NY, SD. As experimental populations are developed, a variety trial will be established in WI and other locations. New trial at 4 locations in WI is planned for 2012.

3.1.2. Hybrid alfalfa yield evaluation: Lead: Riday, USDFRL. Cooperating locations. USDA-MN, GA, NY, FRRL, SD. Project completed. Data from all locations will be sent to Riday.

3.1.3. Evaluation of salt tolerant alfalfa. Lead: Acharya, AFCL. Cooperating locations: FRRL. Acharya released new cultivar that is salt tolerant under controlled conditions. After 3 cycles for salt tolerance in the greenhouse, Peel is conducting a trial with irrigated salt water from a coal-fired plant.

3.3 Multiple species

3.3.1 Biomass Alfalfa/Grass mixture evaluation. Lead: Lamb USDA-ARS, Cooperating locations SD, USDFRC. Compare monocultures and mixtures of two experimental biomass alfalfas, reed canarygrass, intermediate wheatgrass, and smooth bromegrass for biomass yield and quality. Due to mortality at the locations the plots will need to be re-established next year.

3.4 Meadow and hybrid bromegrass: Evaluation of meadow and hybrid bromegrasses. Lead: Coulman, Univ. Sask. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCCH, SD, USDFRL. Seed of six populations distributed to five sites in 2010 for hay and simulated pasture management studies. Data to be collected in 2011 and 2012.

3.5 Red Clover Evaluation: Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCSK, AFCL, NY, USDFRL, SD. Study has been completed, and a manuscript is being prepared.

3.5.2 Red Clover Yield Stability: Lead: Riday. Cooperating locations: NY, others. This study has been completed.

3.6 Tall Fescue

3.6.1 Tall Fescue -Selection for persistence in the Southern Coastal plains Lead: Brummer, GA. Cooperating locations: Noble Foundation, KY, FRRL. No report.
New Projects: McCord will be initiating a new research project on drought tolerance in alfalfa at Prosser, WA.

REPORTS SHOULD BE SENT TO J. ROBINS AND A. BOE ELECTRONICALLY.
Election of Officers and Meeting Place in 2011: Boe was elected Secretary for 2010. The 2011 meeting will be held in Rapid City, SD. Meeting dates and place to be determined.

Combining the North American Alfalfa Improvement Conference, Trifolium Conference, and North American Grass Breeders Planning Conference was further discussed. There was agreement from committee members, although industry members of the NAAIC may be opposed.

Accomplishments

Objective 1: <br /> <br /> (1) Useful traits have been identified in Medicago sativa ssp. falcata, and germplasms are currently under multi-location evaluation; a new cultivar is being released; <br /> <br /> (2) Snout beetle resistant alfalfas have been produced and are currently being evaluated in the field; seed is currently being produced on two alfalfa populations that have potential to becoming the first resistant cultivars;<br /> <br /> (3) Potato leaf hopper resistant alfalfa populations have been developed;<br /> <br /> (4) alfalfa populations with increased pectin concentration have been created and a cultivar released; and (5) marker-assisted selection is being used in red clover breeding.<br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 2: <br /> <br /> (1) Selection methods for increased yield in alfalfa are currently under multiple site evaluation; <br /> <br /> (2) Red clover populations with improved persistence are currently under evaluation at multiple sites and an MAS strategy for red clover improvement is now in use; <br /> <br /> (3) Selections for non-flowering orchardgrass are currently under evaluation at several locations in the U.S. and Canada; <br /> <br /> (4) Legume/grass mixture trials have been established and are being evaluated for use as feedstocks for biofuels and livestock feed; <br /> <br /> (5) Selection has resulted in 62% reduction in flowering in an effort to increase biomass production in orchardgrass for biofuel use.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 3: <br /> <br /> (1) Selection of meadow and hybrid bromegrass are currently under seed increase, and all populations will be established in 2010 at five locations; <br /> <br /> (2) improved red clover populations for general adaptation are currently being evaluated across the U.S. and Canada; <br /> <br /> (3) Release of a salt tolerant alfalfa cultivar is planned for next year. <br />

Publications

1. Dong, C., M.D. Peel, K.C. Olson, B.C. Weiner, and D. B. DeWald. 2009. Differential ruminal degradation of alfalfa proteins. Can. J. Plant Sci. 89:1065-1074.<br /> <br /> 2. Hansen, J.L., J. Miller-Garvin, G.C. Bergstrom, M. Wunsch, D. Kalt, B. Tillapaugh, J. Crawford, and D.R. Viands. 2009. Breeding birdsfoot trefoil for resistance to Fusarium wilt in New York. ASA meeting. Nov. 1-4, 2009. Pittsburgh, PA. Agronomy Abstracts. ASA, Madison, WI. <br /> http://a-c-s.confex.com/crops/2009am/webprogram/paper55116.html.<br /> <br /> 3. Hansen, J., S. Acharya, B. Coulman, C. Brummer, J. Lamb, J. Crawford, and D. Viands. 2010. Comparison of breeding methods for improved alfalfa yield. North Amer. Alfalfa Improv. Conf. 27-29 July 2010. Boise, ID.<br /> <br /> 4. Hansen, J., J. Crawford, and D. Viands. 2010. Correlations among forage quality, yield, and maturity for alfalfa in central New York. NE Branch of Crop, Soil, and Agron. Soc. Amer. 27-30 June, 2010. Ithaca, NY.<br /> <br /> 5. Jensen, K.B., B.L. Waldron, M.D. Peel, and J.G. Robins. 2010. Forage quality of five semi-irrigated pasture species across and irrigation gradient. Grass Forage Sci. 65-92-101.<br /> <br /> 6. Kelly, A.M., P.G. Johnson, B.L. Waldron, and M.D. Peel. 2009. A survey of apomixes and ploidy levels among Poa L. (Poaceae) using flow cytommetry. Crop Sci. 49:1395-1402.<br /> <br /> 7. Li. X., Y. Wei, K.J. Moore, R. Michaud, D. Viands, J.L. Hansen, and C. Brummer. 2010 Association mapping of biomass yield and stem composition in a tetraploid alfalfa breeding population. Crop Sci. [In review].<br /> <br /> 8. Mayton,H.S., J.L. Hansen, P. Salon, J. Crawford, L. Fink, and D.R. Viands. 2009. Quality analysis of perennial grasses for use as bioenergy feedstock. ASA Meeting. Nov. 1-4, 2009. Agronomy Abstract. ASA, Madison, WI.<br /> http://a-c-s.confex.com/crops/2009am/webprogram/paper55377.html.<br /> <br /> 9. Miller-Garvin, J.E., J.L. Hansen, N.J. Ehlke, Y.A. Papadopoulos, R.R. Smith, G.C. Bergstrom, M.J. Wunsch, D.W. Kalb, B.P. Tillapaugh, J.L. Crawford, and D. R. Viands. 2010. Improving birdsfoot trefoil for resistance to Fusarium wilt. Crop Sci. [In press].<br /> <br /> 10. Robins, J.G., and E.C. Brummer. 2009. QTL underlying self-fertility in tetraploid alfalfa. Crop Sci. 50:143-149.<br />

Impact Statements

1. 1. The potential impacts of the multistate research include, but are not limited to: enhanced livestock performance/health as well as economic advantages through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved forage yield and quality characteristics and biotic and abiotic stress resistances/tolerances.
2. 2. Contribute to improved environmental quality through the development of new cultivars of grass and legumes with improved persistence, increased resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and enhanced soil/binding improvement capabilities (e.g. reduced soil erosion; improved nutrient cycling; less surface water runoff; increased soil carbon sequestration; reduce atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters).
3. 3. Through the use of improved forages, increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems should be achieved. The new cultivars of grasses and legumes will have multiple uses/attributes such as forage for livestock and biomass for renewable energy production.

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Report Information

Participants

Boe, Arvid, arvid.boe@sdstate.edu, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD;

Brummer, Charles, ecbrummer@noble.org, Noble Foundation, Ardmore, OK;

Casler, Michael, michael.casler@ars.usde.gov., ARS, Madison, WI;

Claessens, Annie, annie.claessens@agr.gc.ca, AAC, St. Foy, Quebec, QC;

Coulman, Bruce, bruce.coulman@usask.ca, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK;

Ehlke, Nancy, nancy@umn.edu, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN;

Riday, Heathcliffe, heathcliffe.riday@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Madison, WI;

Viands, Don, drv3@cornell.edu, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY;

Abbreviations:

AFCCH: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Charlottetown, NS
AFCL: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge, AB
AFCSF: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ste. Foy, QC
AFCSK: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Saskatoon, SK
FRRL: USDA-ARS Forage and Range Research Lab, Logan, UT
GA: University of Georgia, Athens, GA
IA: Iowa State University, Ames, IA
KY: University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
MN: University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN
NY: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
PSRUMN: USDA-ARS Plant Science Research Unit, St. Paul, MN
PSWMRL: USDA-ARS, Pasture Systems & Watershed Management Research Lab, PA
SD: South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD
USDFRC: US Dairy Forage Research Center, Madison, WI

Brief Summary of Minutes

Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting:

The annual meeting was held 26 July 2011 at the South Dakota State University West River Ag Center in Rapid City, SD. Arvid Boe served as meeting chair and Heathcliffe Riday served as meeting secretary. Research reports were given by lead investigators and cooperators, if present. Discussion focused on: 1) identifying those collaborative research projects that were completed during the past year and the status of manuscripts in preparation that will report the results and impacts of those studies, and 2) the present status and future direction of ongoing collaborative research projects.


Accomplishments


Objective 1: Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources.

1.1 Alfalfa

1.1.1. Identification of traits useful for improving M. sativa ssp. falcata germplasm. Lead: Brummer, Noble Fnd. Cooperating Locations: AFCSF, NGPRL, SD, and FRRL. This project was completed and a manuscript is in preparation. At FRRL selections were made for vigor, growth habit and forage yield. Progeny were established in spaced-plant nurseries at two locations in 2010 and data were collected on vigor, growth habit, and yield in 2011.

1.1.2. Genetics and improvement of naturalized alfalfa (M.sativa subsp. falcata). Lead: Boe, SDSU. Cooperating Locations: GA, NGPRL, and FRRL. Boe has data from half-sib family evaluations in IA, ND, SD, and UT. This project was completed and a manuscript is in preparation. Selections from naturalized population are being evaluated under grazing in inter-seeded rangeland in northwestern SD. At FRRL data were collected in 2011on progenies of plants selected for vigor, growth habit, and forage yield in 2010.


1.1.3 Breeding alfalfa for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle. Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: other alfalfa researchers. Problem is primarily in NY, but is spreading slowly. Progress has been made from 8 cycles of selection in the greenhouse. Field trials were established 2 yrs ago in NY. Significant increases in resistance have been realized from recurrent phenotypic selection in some populations. In 2009 and 2011, these populations were planted in replicated plot trials on land naturally infested with alfalfa snout beetle. Yield, plant stand, and root damage from alfalfa snout beetles will be determined this year. This field research will allow comparison of the later cycles of selection to Cycle 0 to determine if the breeding efforts under greenhouse conditions translate into differences in forage yield and plant stand in the field. When the 2009 trial was harvested in late June 2011, the alfalfa populations with the highest cycles of selection appeared greener and more vigorous than the non-selected populations. Seed of two of the alfalfa populations with the highest level of resistance is being produced by a commercial company this year in anticipation that one or both will be released as our first cultivar with at least moderate level of resistance. After developing plant populations with resistance, NE-1010 participants will evaluate these populations for yield and persistence at multiple field locations. This project was described to seed company representatives and seed producers during a field tour in March and July 2011.

1.1.4 Developing alfalfa germplasm with potato leafhopper resistance from three diverse genetic sources. Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: Noble, SD. Glandular hair x diploid falcata (SD 201) x Peruvian were made in NY. The goal of this project is to develop germplasm with multiple mechanisms for more stable resistance to potato leafhopper (PLH). Seed of Medicago sativa ssp. falcata SD201, which was selected for resistance to PLH in SD, subsequently was selected for resistance in NY. These selected plants were pollinated by hand as 2x X 4x crosses, using pollen from NY germplasm that had been selected for resistance to this insect. The NY germplasm originated from glandular trichome sources crossed with Peruvian germplasm that had been selected for resistance to PLH. The cross with the SD germplasm created an alfalfa population presumably with three distinct sources of resistance in one plant population. The five hybrid plants from these crosses were intercrossed by hand, followed by a second generation of intercrossing to accomplish genetic recombination. Seed was sent to the cooperators for establishing field nurseries in 2004. Each nursery was established with about 1000 plants at each cooperating location to begin three cycles of recurrent phenotypic selection for resistance. Plants appearing to be resistant to PLH from NY and from IA were intercrossed as separate populations in the greenhouse during the winter of 2006-07. A field nursery for the third cycle of selection was established in NY in June 2010. Individual plants will be evaluated for plant vigor, lodging resistance, and freedom of symptoms due to PLH in 2011 and 2012.

1.16. Aluminum tolerance in tetraploid alfalfa. Lead, Acharya, AFCL. Cooperating locations: NY, AFCCH, Noble. From Phase I we were able to complete the selection and produced half-sib seeds from the selected plants from each of four starting parent synthetics (LRC9695PG-1, NA90-1002, NY9627, and LRCAT04-01). Phase II was initiated in 2010. In Phase II we are evaluating the performance of off-springs on acidic soils in Kentville, Lethbridge and Ithaca. Phase II will include two experiments. Experiment 1 was initiated in the spring of 2010 (see above). In experiment 1 we are currently completing the assessment of heritability of acid tolerance in alfalfa. Due to lack of sufficient seeds, experiment 2 will be initiated in 2012 (Kentville, Lethbridge, Ithaca and Athens) and evaluate alfalfa response to selection for acid tolerance under field conditions in four diverse regions. In NY, the first cycle of selection for acid tolerance in all the cooperators alfalfa populations had been completed in a field nursery in 2008. A field experiment with half sib progenies was established in 2010 to determine heritability for this trait. For each of three harvests, individual plants are being visually scored in 2011 for vigor and plant color, and the half-sib rows are being harvested for forage yield.


1.2. Birdsfoot Trefoil

1.2.1 Rhizomatous birdsfoot trefoil for yield improvement. Lead: Riday, USDFRC. Cooperating locations: NY, SD, AFCCH. Riday is evaluating half-sib families from a Czechoslovakian population. NY has been selecting birdsfoot trefoil for rhizomes and plant vigor in germplasm developed in MO by crossing rhizomatous germplasm with NY germplasm (a precursor of Pardee trefoil). We completed the fourth cycle of selection in 2010, but the vigor of this population is still low; therefore, we are backcrossing the Cycle 4 plants to advanced germplasm from Pardee, followed by more selection for plant vigor and rhizome production.

1.2.2 Single-row plot evaluation of birdsfoot trefoil for vigor. Lead: Peel, FRRL. Cooperating locations: MN, NY, AFCCH, USDFRLThis trial was established at Nappan, Nova Scotia in the spring of 2010. During the first production year, plots were harvested (first cut) on June 22, 2011. In spring 2010 NY established a replicated plot trial with 17 birdsfoot trefoil populations. These populations were evaluated for vigor, plant stand, and diseases in 2011, and data will continue to be collected during subsequent production years. This trial was re-established in 2010, following a failure in 2009, at Utah State Universities Pasture research facility as a seeded plot for forage yield and in a separate trial for grazing tolerance. It has been harvested once in 2011, and the second trial is being grazed with cattle.


1.5 Multiple Species

1.5.1 Selection of fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin. Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, USDFRC. Data reported previously indicate that neutral detergent soluble fiber (NDSF) concentration (pectin) can be increased in alfalfa forage by phenotypic selection, resulting in higher forage digestibility. Based on this research, we selected plants higher in NDSF and NDF (neutral detergent fiber) concentrations. In 2008, NY released a new alfalfa cultivar N-R-GEE, which was the result of two cycles of selection for higher pectin concentration. According to a Cornell computer model, this cultivar was predicted to produce 25 pounds more milk per dry ton of forage and 1,759 pounds more milk per acre than WL 322 HQ. In 2009, we established a small field of N-R-GEE (higher pectin) and Vernal (lower pectin) to compare these two cultivars for the effects on weight gain in sheep feeding trials. Sheep weight gain is correlated to cow milk production. Hay baled in 2010 was fed to sheep during a 38-day feeding trail in spring 2011. Data on weight gain of sheep will be analyzed to compare the two cultivars later in 2011. Selection for pectin and other quality components will continue on alfalfa populations in 2011, and a new field nursery was established in 2011 to continue selection in subsequent years in additional plant populations.


1.5.2 Grass-grass and grass-forb mixtures for long-term sustainable biomass. Lead: Ehlke, MN. Cooperating locations: SD. Ehlke reported that this project was terminated due to resignation of a graduate student. Data collected prior to resignation will be analyzed and manuscripts will be prepared.

1.5.3 Red Clover: Marker-assisted selection. Lead: Riday, USDFRL. Cooperating locations: AFCNS, Noble, and Europeans. Markers are being developed.

1.6 White Clover: Marker-assisted selection. Lead Brummer, Noble. Cooperating locations: USDFRL. Five hundred half-sib families were evaluated. Additional research is uncertain at this time.

1.7 Kura Clover: Vigor and spreadability. Lead: Ehlke, MN. Cooperating locations: FRRL, USDFRL. Selections from multiple cycles are being evaluated in MN, UT, and WI. Additional testing at multiple locations may justify release of one or more cultivars.

Objective 2: Build on previous research to evaluate additional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.


2.1 Alfalfa

2.1.1 Comparison of mass, S1, and S2 selection in alfalfa. Lead: Hansen and Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCL, AFCSK, GA, MN. Synthetic 2 seed of alfalfa populations selected by the mass, S1 and S2 methods was planted in yield trials in 2006 at multiple locations in North America to determine progress from selection for yield during three production years. Third production year data were collected in 2009 at both NY and MN. Preliminary data analyses were done and reported at the North American Alfalfa Improvement Conference in Boise, ID in 2010. This project has been completed, and a manuscript will be prepared in the future.


2.1.2. Replicated clonal selection from improving forage yield of alfalfa. Lead: Viands, NY. Cooperating locations: AFSSF, GA, AFCL. A broad-based alfalfa population was developed by two generations of random mating among Seedway 9558 (from NY), 5454 (sent by IA), and SF 9001=AC Viva (from AFCSF). For each of three harvests in each of two production years (2005 and 2006), data were recorded for the number of plants, forage yield, and disease symptoms. Cooperators sent their data to NY, and the highest yielding genotypes (10% = 20 genotypes) across all the locations were selected. Seed was produced on these plants in the greenhouse in 2008. A population at each location also was developed from the same germplasm using mass selection. In 2009, 200 random plants from the Cycle 1 clonal population were cloned to establish nurseries for the second cycle of selection in spring 2009. Data on the second production year are being collected in 2011.


2.2 Orchardgrass

2.2.1. Clonal selection in orchard grass for broad adaptation. Lead: Phillips, KY. Cooperating locations: GA, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, FRRL, SD, Noble. Clones have not been successfully propagated. Evaluation will begin when adequate clonal replicates are produced.

2.2.2. Non-heading orchardgrass research. Lead: Casler, USDFRL. Cooperating locations. AFCSK, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCNS, FRRL, ID, MN, KY, WV, NY, Newfoundland. Project was completed and manuscripts are in preparation.


2.3 Red Clover

2.3.1. Selection for general adaptation in red clover. Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH. Cooperating locations: NY, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD, KY, GA, USDFRC. Phase III of this project was initiated during 2007 winter. Up to 100 plants from each location were selected and inter-crossed to produce Syn. 1 seed. Seven of the cooperating sites successfully completed plant selection to initiate Phase III: AFCSF lost all plants due to severe 2006/2007 winterkill; IA plots were accidentally plowed; KY lost all plants during the first production year. Crossing of the seven populations (AFCCH, AFCSK, AFCL, AFCA, NY, USDFRC, SD), using bumble bees and leafcutter bees, was initiated in a diallel mating design (in Nova Scotia and Idaho). A total of 28 populations (seven populations selected from each cooperating site and 21 pairwise population crosses) were developed in 2008, 2009 and 2010. For each pairwise cross, 50 plants were chosen at random from each of the two populations. We are anticipating completing the required seed production during the winter and summer of 2011 and initiating Phase IV in 2012.


2.3.2. Selection for persistence in red clover using half-sib families. Lead: Riday, USDFRL. Cooperating locations: GA, SD, AFCCH. Project completed. Seed produced on selections in WI (Syn. 2 seed from AFCCH and WI) will be used to establish trials in future. In Charlottetown, three populations were selected in the fall of 2007; TRC07-101, TRC07-102 (based on best plant in best family performance) and TRC07-103 (based on most vigorous plants in the fall of 2007). The seed production of Syn. 1 from the three selected populations is currently underway in cages using bumble bees and leafcutter bees. We anticipate completing the crossing during the winter of 2011.


2.4. Legume/Grass Mixtures: Compatibility of legumes with various grasses. Lead: Peel, FRRL. Cooperating locations. AFCCH, AFCL, GA, MN, NY, USDA-MN. Peel has SARE grant for this research and is looking at 25%, 50%, and 75% legume composition. Lamb is directing grass/alfalfa mixtures biomass trials at MN, WI, and SD. Robins is evaluating 24 cultivars of orchardgrass in monocultures and mixtures with alfalfa in UT, to determine economic return from N fertilizer vs. biological N fixation from alfalfa.

2.5. Red Clover Biofuels: Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCNS. Initial study included mixtures with grasses and several combinations of red clover and grasses that were identified as having potential for biofuels. Based on those results, a new study was initiated in 2011.

2.6. Methods to improve reed canarygrass: Lead, Casler, USDFRL. Collections have been made from populations across much of North America. Evaluations of molecular and phenotypic genetic variation are ongoing.

Objective 3: Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, seed and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.

3.1 Alfalfa

3.1.1. Evaluation of new M. sativa subsp. falcata populations. Lead: Peel, FRRL. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCL, NGPRL, SD. New trials will be established as new populations are developed from breeding programs. New populations recently developed in SD, UT, and WI will be available for multiple-site testing after adequate seed supplies are generated.

3.1.2. Hybrid alfalfa yield evaluation: Lead: Riday, USDFRL. Cooperating locations. USDA-MN, GA, NY, FRRL, SD. Project completed. Data from all locations were sent to Riday, and a manuscript is in preparation.

3.1.4. Evaluation of salt tolerant alfalfa. Lead: Acharya, AFCL. Cooperating locations: FRRL. This project will be developed after more salinity studies are completed during 2011.

3.3 Multiple Species
3.3.1. Biomass alfalfa/grass mixture evaluation. Lead: Lamb USDA-ARS, Cooperating locations SD, USDFRC. Biomass and species composition data were collected during 2010 and 2011. Biomass yield data and plant samples for species composition analysis will be sent to Lamb after the second harvest in autumn 2011.

3.4 Meadow and hybrid bromegrass: Evaluation of meadow and hybrid bromegrasses. Lead: Coulman, Univ. Sask. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCCH, SD, USDFRL. Evaluation of five meadow brome and two hybrid brome synthetic populations selected at five locations began in 2011. Replicated trials at these five locations in USA and Canada will provide data to support potential germplasm or cultivar release.

3.5 Red Clover Evaluation: Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH. Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCSK, AFCL, NY, USDFRL, SD. Study was completed and manuscript is in preparation.


3.6 Tall Fescue

3.6.1. Selection for persistence in the Coastal Plain area. Lead: Brummer, Noble. Cooperating locations: KY, FRRL, Noble. This project is in development.

New Projects:

Discussion of new projects focused primarily on the inclusion of collaborative research on bioenergy crop genetics, breeding, production, and management. It was decided that specific objectives would be developed at the 2012 meeting. Since most of the committee members are actively involved in bioenergy crop breeding and evaluation, primarily with native and introduced perennial grasses, biomass production and other agronomic data collected by committee members in their respective regions over the past 10 years will provide a basis for developing strong collaborative long-term multistate research projects. These projects will generate new knowledge as to the range of adaptation of current experimental populations and cultivars in a wide range of environmental settings in North America and thus lead to collaborative development of new high-biomass-yielding cultivars with wider adaptation than those presently available (e.g., some of the highest yielding families of switchgrass presently under evaluation in the northern Great Plains were developed by selection for biomass production in Wisconsin within natural populations from Wisconsin).

Election of Officers and Meeting Place in 2012: Riday was elected Secretary for 2012. The 2012 meeting will be held in Ithaca, NY in conjunction with the NAAIC, Grass Breeders, and Trifolium Conference meetings in early July.

Accomplishments

Objective 1: a) More than 200 accessions and a naturalized rangeland population of alfalfa (Medicago sativa ssp. falcata) were evaluated for forage yield, pest resistance, and adaptation for 3 years in the Intermountain West, Northern Great Plains, Midwest, and eastern Canada. Those collaborative studies have produced genetic information on agronomic traits in this germplasm (manuscripts in preparation), and selected populations are being tested for potential cultivar development. b) Eight cycles of selection for resistance to snout beetle in the greenhouse produced two populations of alfalfa (Medicago sativa ssp. sativa) currently being evaluated in the Northeast in fields with high natural infestations of snout beetle. It is anticipated that one or both will be released as cultivars after adequate testing by NE 1010 participants at multiple locations. c) Mode of gene action and heritability of tolerance to toxic levels of aluminum is being determined for alfalfa in field nurseries in high-aluminum soils at diverse locations in Canada and USA. Results obtained over the next 2 to 3 years will provide the genetic information necessary to design the appropriate selection schemes for developing tolerant populations. d) Three different sources of resistance (two tetraploid and one diploid) to potato leafhopper were combined by hand pollination in the greenhouse in a population of alfalfa, and the third cycle of selection for resistance is being evaluated in the field. e) Progress was made in the introgression of rhizomatous growth habit into birdsfoot trefoil. Agronomic potential is being improved by backcrossing to an elite non-rhizomatous cultivar, Pardee, followed by additional cycles of recurrent selection. f) Several promising birdsfoot trefoil populations are being evaluated for multiple years under hay and grazing systems for forage production and persistence. g) Recurrent selection is ongoing for increasing pectin concentration and fiber digestibility in alfalfa.<br /> <br /> Objective 2: a) Seven synthetic populations and 21 pairwise population crosses of red clover were developed by intercrossing selected plants from field nurseries for each of four locations in Canada and three locations in USA. Those populations are currently in the seed increase phase for testing in multiple environments to determine ranges of adaptation for each population. In addition, selection among and within families for improved persistence also is ongoing within three of these recently developed populations.<br /> <br /> Objective 3: a) The first multiple-location and multiple-year evaluation of Medicago sativa ssp. falcata x M. sativa ssp. sativa crosses and their parents compared with elite alfalfa cultivar checks was completed and a manuscript is in preparation. b) Seed was produced from intercrossing selected genotypes from replicated forage production trials composed of two cultivars each of meadow and hybrid (smooth bromegrass x meadow bromegrass), one cultivar of smooth bromegrass, five experimental populations of meadow bromegrass, and two experimental populations of hybrid bromegrass conducted at three locations in Canada and two locations in USA. Syn. 1 seed from seven populations was planted at five locations, and data collection will begin in 2012.<br />

Publications

Hansen, J.L., and D. Viands. 2010. Alfalfa variety comparison. University of Wisconsin Agriculture & Natural Resources. Editors Undersander, D., and K. Silveira. http://www.uwex.edu/ces/ag/alfalfa/index.cfm<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L, D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Crawford, and J. Schiller. 2010. New York forage legume and grass variety yield trials summary for 2010 - season totals<br /> http://plbrgen.cals.cornell.edu/cals/pbg/programs/departmental/forage/foragetest.cfm<br /> <br /> Lui, X., Y. Wei, K.J. Moore, R. Michaud, D. Viands, J.L. Hansen, and C. Brummer. 2011. Association mapping of biomass yield and stem composition in a tetraploid alfalfa breeding population. The Plant Genome, 10.3835/plantgenome2010.09.0022.<br /> <br /> Mayton, H.S., J.L. Hansen, P. Salon, L. Fink, J. Crawford, R. Crawford, and D.R. Viands. 2010. Yield and quality of perennial warm season grasses for bioenergy feedstock in response to inorganic nitrogen fertilizer in New York State. ASA Meeting 31 Oct. 31  4 Nov. 2010. Long Beach, CA. Agron. Abstr. ASA Madison, WI. <br /> http://a-c-s.confex.com/crops/2010am/webprogram/Paper59455.html<br /> <br /> Mayton, H.S., J. Hansen, R. Crawford, J. Crawford, and D. Viands. 2011. Field-scale yield of switchgrass under varying nitrogen management treatments in New York State. ASA Meeting. 16-19 October 2011. San Antonio, TX. Agron. Abstr. ASA Madison, WI. http://ncsungrant1.sdstate.org/upload/FeedstockStatusReport_ExecutiveSummary33111.pdf<br /> <br /> Miller-Garvin, J.E., J.L. Hansen, N.J. Ehlke, Y.A. Papdopoulos, R.R. Smith, G.C. Bergstrom, M.J. Wunsch, D.W. Kalb, B.P. Tillapaugh, J.L. Crawford, and D.R. Viands. 2011. Improving birdsfoot trefoil for resistance to Fusarium wilt. Crop Sci. 51:585-591.<br /> <br /> Owens, V.N., C. Hong, E. Heaton, J. Fike, D. Viands, R. Farris, R. Mitchell, and D. Bransky. Biomass resource development of herbaceous energy crops. In Regional Biomass Feedstock Partnership Status Report. Sun Grant/Dept. of EnergyOffice of Biomass Programs. pp. 15-18. http://ncsungrant1.sdstate.org/upload/FeedstockStatusReport_ExecutiveSummary33111.pdf [not NE-1010 research, but related]<br /> <br /> Viands, D.R., E.J. Shields, J. Crawford, A. Testa, and J. Hansen. 2010. Northern New York Agricultural Development Program 2008-2009 Project Report. Breeding Alfalfa Varieties with Resistance to Alfalfa Snout Beetle. http://www.nnyagdev.org/_fieldcrops.htm#Alfalfa<br />

Impact Statements

1. 1. Livestock performance and economics will be realized by developing grass and legume cultivars with improved yield and quality and biotic and abiotic stress resistances/tolerances. Cultivars with new morphological characteristics (e.g., rhizomes in birdsfoot trefoil) might be more persistent. Forages with higher energy capacity should increase utilization of plant protein for more economical milk production.
2. 2. Improved cultivars will enhance soil-binding improvement capabilities (e.g., reduced soil erosion; improved nutrient cycling; less soil surface runoff; increased soil carbon sequestration; reduced atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters). Alfalfa cultivars with tolerance to acid soils will provide more economical forage by eliminating or reducing the need for lime applications.
3. 3. Increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems can be achieved. Identification of breeding methods that will improve forage and biomass yield and quality is essential for improving the economics of forage and biomass crops in production agriculture and in conservation and wildlife habitat systems. New cultivars of alfalfa from M. sativa ssp. Falcate, for example, will expand the area that alfalfa can be profitably grown to include semiarid and other dry marginal lands.
4. 4. In the coming year, emphasis will be placed on: 1) publication of results of projects that were completed during 2011, 2) continued testing in multiple environments of promising synthetic populations and other germplasms developed over the last several years for potential cultivar development, and 3) development of new projects that reflect the national emphasis on the dual use of perennial grasses and legumes for forage and bioenergy production.

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Report Information

Participants

Acharya, Surya, acharya@agr.gc.ca, AAC, Lethbridge, AB;
Baldwin, Brian, BBaldwin@pss.msstate.edu, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS;
Boe, Arvid, arvid.boe@sdstate.edu, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD;
Brummer, Charles, ecbrummer@noble.org, Noble Foundation, Ardmore, OK;
Casler, Michael, michael.casler@ars.usde.gov, ARS, Madison, WI;
Claessens, Annie, annie.claessens@agr.gc.ca, AAC, Quebec, QC;
Ehlke, Nancy, nancy@umn.edu, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN;
Lamb, Joann, joann.lamb@ars.usda.gov, ARS, St. Paul, MN;
Papadopoulos, Yousef, papadopoulosy@agr.gc.ca, AAC, Charlottetown, NS;
Peel, Michael, mike.peel@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Logan, UT;
Riday, Heathcliffe, heathcliffe.riday@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Madison, WI;
Robins, Joseph, joseph.robins@ars.usda.gov, ARS, Logan, UT;
Viands, Don, drv3@cornell.edu, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY; (Administrative Advisor)
Guests: Hansen, Julie, jlh17@cornell.edu, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY;
Bergstrom, Gary, gcb3@cornell.edu, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY.


Abbreviations

AFCCH: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Charlottetown, NS
AFCL: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge, AB
AFCSF: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ste. Foy, QC
AFCSK: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Saskatoon, SK
FRRL: USDA-ARS Forage and Range Research Lab, Logan, UT
GA: University of Georgia, Athens, GA
KY: University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
MN: University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN
NY: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
PSRUMN: USDA-ARS Plant Science Research Unit, St. Paul, MN
PSWMRL: USDA-ARS, Pasture Systems & Watershed Management Research Lab, PA
SD: South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD
USDFRC: US Dairy Forage Research Center, Madison, WI

Brief Summary of Minutes

The annual meeting was held 10 July 2012 at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. Donald Viands was meeting chair and Annie Claessens was secretary.


New Projects:


Discussion of new projects focused primarily on crop genetics, breeding, production, and management for forage and bioenergy feedstock. Leaders have been identified to develop proposals for collaborative long-term multistate research projects that we will discuss during the next meeting.


1) Yield evaluation of N-R-Gee alfalfa bred for higher pectin concentration and of alfalfa germplasm bred for resistance to alfalfa snout beatle; Lead: Don Viands

2) Improving alfalfa water flooding tolerance and N uptake for sustainable production systems; Lead: Yousef Papadopoulos

3) Switchgrass genotyping platform; Lead: Michael Casler

4) Switchgrass diseases and share pathogens from various regions; Gary Bergstrom, Arvid Boe, Brian Baldwin

5) Kura clover and alfalfa molecular markers development for paternity testing; Lead: Heathcliffe Riday

6) Sainfoin and alfalfa mixture to reduce bloating problems; Lead: Surya Acharya

7) Grasses and legumes mixture for N transfer; Leads: Yousef Papadopoulos, Joann Lamb

8) Birdsfoot trefoil germplasm development for persistence, yield and nutrition; Leads: Heathcliffe Riday, Yousef Papadopoulos, Surya Acharya, Nancy Ehlke, Michael Casler

9) Domestication of native switchgrass and evaluation of how far north they will persist; Lead: Brian Baldwin

10) Evaluation of native grasses (i.e.: bermudagrass, bluestem, reed canarygrass&) as biomass crops; Lead: Michael Peel, Arvid Boe, Michael Casler, Annie Claessens

11) Clover germplasm evaluation for persistence, insect and disease resistance; Lead: Yousef Papadopoulos

12) Biomass and legumes mixture for N transfer; Leads: Michael Casler, Annie Claessens, Arvid Boe

13) Genomic research with water soluble carbohydrates in forage grasses; also winterhardiness and alfalfa-grass mixtures; Leads: Joseph Robins, Charles Brummer, Annie Claessens

14) Introduction of new species as forages; Brian Baldwin, Arvid Boe



Accomplishments:

Objective 1: Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources.


1.1 Alfalfa


1.1.3 Breeding alfalfa for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle.
Lead: Viands, NY.
Cooperating locations: other alfalfa researchers.
Problem is primarily in NY, but is spreading slowly. Progress has been made from 7 to 9 cycles of selection in several alfalfa populations. Both greenhouse and field evaluations show that the selection program is successful and can be used to find alfalfa seedlings that have some level of tolerance or resistance to ASB root feeding damage. Seed of a potential cultivar with moderate levels of resistance is being produced commercially, and we will be involving NE-1010 participants to evaluate this cultivar for yield and persistence at multiple field locations when seed is available next spring.


1.1.4 Developing alfalfa germplasm with potato leafhopper resistance from three diverse genetic sources.
Lead: Viands, NY.
Cooperating locations: Noble, SD.
The goal of this project is to develop germplasm with multiple mechanisms for more stable resistance to potato leafhopper (PLH). A population created from three sources of resistance was established in a field nursery for the fourth cycle of selection in NY in 2012.


1.1.6 Aluminum tolerance in tetraploid alfalfa.
Lead, Acharya, AFCL.
Cooperating locations: NY, AFCCH, Noble.
From Phase I we completed selection in four parent synthetics. In Phase II we are evaluating the performance of offspring on acidic soils in Kentville, Lethbridge and Ithaca. Experiment 1 was initiated in 2010 to determine heritability of acid tolerance. Experiment 2 was initiated in 2012 (Kentville, Lethbridge, Ithaca and Athens) to evaluate alfalfa response to selection for acid tolerance in four diverse regions.



1.2 Birdsfoot Trefoil


1.2.1 Rhizomatous birdsfoot trefoil for yield improvement.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC.
Cooperating locations: NY, SD, AFCCH.
Riday is evaluating half-sib families from a Czechoslovakian population. NY has been selecting birdsfoot trefoil for rhizomes and plant vigor in germplasm developed by crossing rhizomatous germplasm with adapted germplasm related to Pardee. Seed of the backcross to Pardee-type germplasm will be available for evaluation after selecting for higher expression of the rhizomatous trait.


1.2.2 Evaluation of birdsfoot trefoil for yield or vigor.
Lead: Peel, FRRL.
Cooperating locations: MN, NY, AFCCH, USDFRC.
This trial was established at Nova Scotia in 2010. Plots were harvested in 2011 and 2012. In spring 2010 NY established a replicated plot trial with 17 birdsfoot trefoil populations. These populations were evaluated for vigor, plant stand, and diseases in 2011 and 2012. This trial was established in 2010 at Utah State Universitys Pasture Research Facility as a seeded plot for forage yield and in a separate trial for grazing tolerance. It has been harvested once in 2011, and the second trial is being grazed with cattle in 2012.



1.3 Multiple Species


1.5.1 Selection of fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin.
Lead: Viands, NY.
Cooperating locations: AFCSF, USDFRC.
In NY selection for higher pectin (neutral detergent soluble fiber) and lower NDF concentrations will continue on alfalfa populations in 2012, and a new field nursery was established in 2012 to continue selection in subsequent years in additional populations. A lamb feeding trial showed that the new alfalfa cultivar N-R-Gee has higher feed efficiency than the check cultivar Vernal.


1.6 Red Clover: Marker-assisted selection. To be developed.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC.
Cooperating locations: AFCNS, GA (and Europeans), NY (?).
Riday is using this technique in his breeding program. Protocol is simple to use.


1.7 White Clover: Marker-assisted selection.
Lead Brummer, Noble.
Cooperating locations: USDFRC.
Five hundred half-sib families were evaluated. The goal is association mapping.


1.8 Kura Clover: Vigor and spreadability. To be developed.
Lead: Ehlke, MN.
Cooperating locations: FRRL, USDFRC.



Objective 2: Build on previous research to evaluate additional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.


2.1 Alfalfa


2.1.2. Replicated clonal selection from improving forage yield of alfalfa.
Lead: Viands, NY.
Cooperating locations: AFSSF, GA, AFCL.
A broad-based alfalfa population is in the second cycle of selection using the replicated clonal evaluation method to increase forage yield compared to mass selection. Syn. 2 seed is being produced in 2012, and replicated plot trials will be established at multiple locations in 2013 to determine progress from selection.



2.2 Orchardgrass

2.2.1. Clonal selection in orchard grass for broad adaptation.
Lead: Phillips, KY.
Cooperating locations: GA, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, FRRL, SD, Noble.
Evaluation will begin when adequate clonal replicates are produced.


2.2.2. Non-heading orchardgrass research.
Lead: Casler, USDFRC.
Cooperating locations. AFCSK, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCNS, FRRL, ID, MN, KY, WV, NY, Newfoundland.
Project was completed and manuscripts are in preparation.



2.3 Red Clover


2.3.1. Selection for general adaptation in red clover.
Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH.
Cooperating locations: NY, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD, KY, GA, USDFRC.
Seven of the cooperators completed plant selection. Crossing of the seven populations, using bees, was initiated in a diallel mating design. A total of 28 populations were developed in 2008, 2009 and 2010. Seed production was completed in 2011. In 2012 a new replicated plot trial was established in at seven locations, as part of a multiple location evaluation of the populations selected in previous years. Data will be collected in subsequent years.



2.3.2. Selection for persistence in red clover using half-sib families.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC.
Cooperating locations: GA, SD, NY, AFCCH.
Populations are available to begin research. Riday will design experiments.


2.4.2 Legume/Grass Mixtures: Compatibility of legumes with various grasses. Lead: Peel, FRRL.
Cooperating locations: AFCCH, AFCL, GA, MN, NY, USDA-MN.
Peel is looking at 25%, 50%, and 75% legume composition. Lamb is directing grass/alfalfa mixtures biomass trials at MN, WI, and SD (management was different at three sites). Another mixture trial will be planned for the future. Robins is evaluating 24 cultivars of orchardgrass in monocultures and in mixtures with alfalfa in UT, to determine economic return from N fertilizer vs. biological N fixation from alfalfa.


2.5. Red Clover Biofuels
Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCNS.
Initial study included mixtures with grasses and several combinations of red clover and grasses that were identified as having potential for biofuels. Based on those results, a new study was initiated in 2011.


2.6. Methods to improve reed canarygrass
Lead: Casler, USDFRC.
Collections have been made from populations across North America. Evaluations of molecular and phenotypic variation are ongoing.




Objective 3: Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, seed and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.


3.1 Alfalfa


3.1.1. Evaluation of new M. sativa subsp. falcata populations.
Lead: Peel, FRRL.
Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCL, NGPRL, SD.
Peel has both diploid and tetraploid populations in field evaluations. New populations recently developed in SD, UT, and WI (USDFRC) will be available for multiple-site testing after adequate seed supplies are generated (2014).


3.1.2. Hybrid alfalfa yield evaluation.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC.
Cooperating locations. USDA-MN, GA, NY, FRRL, SD.
Data from all locations were sent to Riday, and a manuscript is in preparation.


3.1.4. Evaluation of salt tolerant alfalfa.
Lead: Acharya, AFCL.
Cooperating locations: FRRL.
Acharya has one salt tolerant cultivar that was released (Bridgeview). He also has control environment facilities that could be used for the next round of studies with Peel. Peel also is doing selection in UT.



3.3 Multiple Species


3.3.1. Biomass alfalfa/grass mixture evaluation.
Lead: Lamb USDA-ARS,
Cooperating locations: SD, USDFRC.
Biomass data and plant samples for species composition analysis will be sent to Lamb after the second harvest in autumn 2012. The alfalfa has died out in the SD trial, and the USDFRC trial is the grasses.


3.4 Meadow and hybrid bromegrass: Evaluation of meadow and hybrid bromegrasses.
Lead: Coulman, Univ. Sask.
Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCCH, SD, USDFRC.
Plants from an experiment initiated in 2004 were selected to form two experimental synthetics: Hybrid brome (12 genotypes) and Meadowbrome (12 genotypes). Half-sib seeds from the selected plants were produced in 2007 and shipped to AFCSK. Phase II of this study was initiated in 2010, and stands of the lines selected from the above study were established at four sites. Due to poor establishment in 2010, the plots were reseeded in 2011 at three sites (AFCCH, AFCSF, USDFRC). Reseeded plots were successfully established, and the first production year data are being collected in 2012.


3.5 Red Clover Evaluation: Response to selection under controlled environment versus natural selection under field conditions across diverse regions.
Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH.
Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCSK, AFCL, NY, USDFRC, SD.
Study was completed and manuscript is in preparation.


3.6 Tall Fescue. Selection for persistence in the Coastal Plain area.
Lead: Brummer, Noble.
Cooperating locations: KY, FRRL, Noble.
This project is in development.



Critical Midterm review of multistate research projects: Viands collected information from project participants to produce the report for the NIMSS web site.


Election of Officers and Meeting Place in 2012:Annie Claessens will be chair, and Acharya was elected Secretary for 2013. The 2013 meeting will be held in Québec, QC in early July. The 2014 meeting will be held when the NAAIC meeting occurs at Lethbridge.


Web sites for NE1010 and NIMSS will be sent to all participants

Accomplishments

Objective 1: <br /> <br /> <br /> (1) Alfalfa snout beetle resistant alfalfas have been produced and are currently being evaluated in the field; seed is currently being produced commercially on one alfalfa population that has potential to becoming the first resistant cultivar; <br /> <br /> <br /> (2) Potato leaf hopper resistant alfalfa populations are being developed with multiple mechanisms of resistance; <br /> <br /> <br /> (3) Seed of N-R-Gee, the first alfalfa cultivar bred for higher pectin concentration, was available for growers this spring. In a lamb-feeding trial, this cultivar had higher feed efficiency than the low quality check cultivar Vernal.<br /> <br /> <br /> (4) Alfalfa populations with increased aluminum tolerance have been developed; <br /> <br /> <br /> (5) Birdsfoot trefoil populations with higher rhizome production and vigor are being developed to enhance productivity and longevity of the crop;<br /> <br /> <br /> and (6) Birdsfoot trefoil cultivars are being evaluated for forage production and persistence.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 2:<br /> <br /> <br /> (1) Selection methods for increased yield in alfalfa are currently under multiple site evaluation;<br /> <br /> <br /> (2) Red clover populations with improved persistence are currently under evaluation at multiple sites, and a MAS (marker-assisted selection) strategy for red clover improvement is now in use;<br /> <br /> <br /> (3) Legume/grass mixture trials have been established and are being evaluated for use as feedstocks for biofuels and livestock feed;<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 3:<br /> <br /> <br /> (1) Selection of meadow and hybrid bromegrass are currently under multiple site evaluation;<br /> <br /> <br /> (2) Improved red clover populations for general adaptation are currently under multiple site evaluation;<br /> <br /> <br /> (3) The salt tolerant alfalfa cultivar Bridgeview was released for commercial use. <br />

Publications

Hansen, J.L., and D. Viands. 2011. Alfalfa variety comparison. University of Wisconsin Agriculture & Natural Resources. Editors Undersander, D., and K. Silveira. http://www.uwex.edu/ces/ag/alfalfa/index.cfm<br /> <br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L, D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Crawford, and J. Schiller. 2011. New York forage legume and grass variety yield trials summary for 2011 - season totals<br /> http://plbrgen.cals.cornell.edu/cals/pbg/programs/departmental/forage/foragetest.cfm<br /> <br /> <br /> Mayton, H., J. Hansen, R. Crawford, J. Crawford, and D. Viands. 2011. Field-scale yield of switchgrass under varying nitrogen management treatments in New York State. ASA Ann. Meeting, San Antonio, TX, 16-19 October 2011. http://a-c-s.confex.com/scisoc/2011am/webprogram/Paper64926.html<br /> <br /> <br /> Noviandi, C.T., R.E. Ward, D.R. Zodell, R.D. Stott, B.L. Waldron, M.D. Peel, and J.S. Eun. 2012. Fatty acid composition in adipose tissue of pasture and feedlot-finished beef steers. Professional Animal Scientist 28:184-193.<br /> <br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A., M.S. McElroy, S.A.E. Filmore, K.B. McRae, A.H. Fredeen and J. L. Duyinsveld. 2012. Sward complexity and grass species composition affects the performance of grass-white clover pasture mixtures. Can. J. Plant Sci (In press).<br /> <br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., K.B. Jensen, B.L. Waldron, and J.G. Robins. 2011. Forage yield of grass-legume and graa-forage kochia mixture on semi-arid rangelands. Forage and grazinglands doi: 10.1094/FG-2011-0516-01-RS.<br /> <br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., B.L. Waldron, K.B. Jensen, and J.G. Robins. 2012. Alfalfa and forage kochia improve nutritive value of semiarid rangelands. Forage and Grazinglands (Accepted 3-9-12).<br /> <br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., B.L. Waldron, I.W. Mott and S. Walker. 2011. A growth stage and heat unit model for Hedysarum boreale. Native Plant Journal 12:4-12.<br /> <br /> <br /> Robins, J.G., B.S. Bushman, and K.B. Jensen. 2012. Dry matter yield combining ability among nine sources of orchardgrass germplasm. Euphytica doi: 10.1007/s10681-012-0707-z.Second paper to be submitted this fall.<br /> <br /> <br /> Robins, J.G., B.S. Bushman, K.B. Jensen, and G. Blaser. 2012. Genetic variation for morphology and maturity among the half-sib progeny of nine orchardgrass germplasm populations. Crop Science doi: 10.2135/cropsci2012/02.0120.<br /> <br /> <br /> Robins, J.G., K.B. Jensen, T.A. Jones, B.L. Waldron, M.D. Peel, C.W. Rigby, K.P. Vogel, R. Mitchell, A.J. Palazzo, and T.J. Cary. 2012. Establishment and persistence of perennial cool-season grasses in the intermountain West and Central and Northern Great Plains. Rangeland Ecology and Management (In press).<br /> <br /> <br /> Thilakarathna, R. M. M. S., Papadopoulos, Y. A., Fillmore, S. A. E. and Prithiviraj, B. 2012. Genotypic differences in root hair deformation and subsequent nodulation for red clover under different additions of starter N fertilization. J Agron. Crop. Sci. 198: 295-303.<br /> <br /> <br /> Thilakarathna, M. M. S., Y. A. Papadopoulos, A. V. Rodd, A. N. Gunawardena,S. A. E. Fillmore, and B. Prithiviraj. 2012. Characterizing nitrogen transfer from red clover populations to companion bluegrass under field conditions. Can. J. Plant Sci (In press).<br /> <br /> <br /> Viands, D.R., J.L. Hansen, and J.L. Crawford. 2012. Registration of Ezra alfalfa. J. of Plant Registration 6(3):1-4.<br /> <br /> <br /> Xie, W., B.S. Bushman, and J.G. Robins. 2012. A genetic linkage map of tetraploid orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) and quantitative trait loci for heading date. Genome 55:360-369.<br />

Impact Statements

1. The impacts include enhanced livestock performance/health as well as economic advantages through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved forage yield and quality characteristics, along with and biotic and abiotic stress resistances/tolerances to enhance productivity and longevity of the crop. Cultivars with good agronomic and morphological traits might be more persistent, thus providing more economical feed production, especially on marginal soils.
2. Forages with higher energy capacity should increase utilization of plant protein, thus making milk production more economical. With alfalfa comprising 50% of the ration dry matter, N-R-Gee is predicted to increase milk production up to 3.3 pounds of milk per day compared to an industry standard cultivar. This translates to a potential income increase of $181 per cow, based on milk at $18/cwt and 305 days of lactation.
3. This project improves environmental quality through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved persistence, increased resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and enhanced soil-binding improvement capabilities (e.g., reduced soil erosion; improved nutrient cycling; less soil surface runoff; increased soil carbon sequestration; reduced atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters).
4. Acid soils are very extensive in North America. Alfalfa cultivars with tolerance to these soils will provide more economical forage by eliminating or reducing the need for lime applications. New cultivars will convert such problem soils, previously unsuitable for agriculture, into areas of stable high quality forage production. In addition, the release of Bridgeview alfalfa, which was bred for tolerance to salt conditions in the soil, should expand the use of alfalfa for forage production.
5. With improved forages and biomass crops, increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems can be achieved. Identification of breeding methods that will improve forage and biomass yield and quality is essential for improving the economics of these crops in production agriculture and in conservation and wildlife habitat systems. New cultivars of alfalfa from M. sativa ssp. falcata, will expand the area that alfalfa can be profitably grown to include semiarid and other dry marginal lands.
6. In the coming year, emphasis will be placed on: 1) publication of results of projects that were completed during 2012, 2) continued testing in multiple environments of promising synthetic populations and other germplasms developed over the last several years for potential cultivar development, and 3) development of new projects that reflect the national emphasis on the dual use of perennial grasses and legumes for forage and bioenergy production

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Report Information

Participants

Boe, Arvid (arvid.boe@sdstate.edu) - South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD;
Brummer, Charles (ecbrummer@noble.org) - Noble Foundation, Ardmore, OK;
Claessens, Annie (annie.claessens@agr.gc.ca) - AAFC, Quebec, QC;
Coulman, Bruce (bruce.coulman@usask.ca) - University of Saskatchewan, SK;
Ehlke, Nancy (nancy@umn.edu) - University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN;
Michaud, Réal  AAFC, Quebec, QC;
Papadopoulos, Yousef (papadopoulosy@agr.gc.ca) - AAFC, Charlottetown, NS;
Riday, Heathcliffe (heathcliffe.riday@ars.usda.gov) - ARS, Madison, WI;
Viands, Don (drv3@cornell.edu) - Cornell University, Ithaca, NY; (Administrative Advisor)

Brief Summary of Minutes

Accomplishments

Objective 1: <br /> <br /> <br /> (1) One alfalfa snout beetle cultivar with moderate levels of resistance has been developed and was made available to growers in northern NY to plant in ABS-infested fields; <br /> <br /> <br /> (2) Potato leaf hopper resistant alfalfa populations are being developed with multiple mechanisms of resistance; a new cultivar with a very high level of resistance (glandular trichome type) is in seed production for use in the Northeast USA.<br /> <br /> <br /> (3) Seed of N-R-Gee, the first alfalfa cultivar bred for higher pectin concentration, was available more widely available for growers in 2013.<br /> <br /> <br /> (4) An acid tolerant alfalfa cultivar was developed;<br /> <br /> <br /> (5) Birdsfoot trefoil populations with higher rhizome production and vigor are being developed to enhance productivity and longevity of the crop;<br /> <br /> <br /> (6) Birdsfoot trefoil cultivars are being evaluated for forage production and persistence;<br /> <br /> (7) Marker assisted selection methods are been developed to accelerate breeding programs.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 2:<br /> <br /> <br /> (1) Selection methods for increased yield in alfalfa are currently under multiple site evaluation;<br /> <br /> <br /> (2) Red clover populations with improved persistence continue to be under evaluation at multiple sites, and a MAS (marker-assisted selection) strategy for red clover improvement is now in use;<br /> <br /> <br /> (3) Legume/grass mixture trials are being evaluated for use as feedstocks for biofuels and livestock feed;<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 3:<br /> <br /> <br /> (1) Selection of meadow and hybrid bromegrass continue to be under multiple site evaluation;<br /> <br /> <br /> (2) Improved red clover populations for general adaptation continue to be under multiple site evaluation;<br /> <br /> <br /> (3) The salt tolerant alfalfa cultivar Bridgeview was made available for grower use. <br />

Publications

Anower, M.R., I.W. Mott, M.D. Peel, and Y. Wu. 2013. Characterization of physiological responses of two alfalfa half-sib families with superior salt-tolerance. Plant Physiology and Biochemistry. In Press.<br /> <br /> Belt, S., Rushing, B., Tangren, S., 2013. Plant Guide for southeastern wildrye (Elymus glabriflorus). USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, Norman A. Berg National Plant Materials Center. Beltsville, MD 20705. http://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_elgl3.pdf<br /> <br /> Blair L. Waldron, B.L., S.R. Larson, M.D. Peel, K.B. Jensen, T.C. Mukimov, A. Rabbimov, D.R. ZoBell, R.C. Wang, R.C. Smith, R.D. Harrison, and B.W. Davenport. 2013. Snowstorm, a New Forage Kochia Cultivar with Improved Stature, Productivity, and Nutritional Content for Enhanced Fall and Winter Grazing. J. Plant Reg. 7:140-150.<br /> <br /> Casler, M.D., Y.A. Papadopoulos, S. Bittman, R.D. Mathison, D.H. Min, J.G. Robins, J.H., Cherney, S.N. Acharya, D.P. Belesky, S.R. Bowley, B.E. Coulman, R. Drapeau, N.J. Ehlke, M.H. Hall, R.H. Leep, R. Michaud, J. Rowsell, G.E. Shewmaker, C.D. Teutsch, and W.K. Coblentz. 2013. Sparse-flowering Orchardgrass is Stable Across Temperate North America. Crop Sci. (in press).<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Crawford, J. Schiller, and R. Crawford. 2012. New York forage legume and grass variety yield trials summary for 2012. http://www.naaic.org/Resources/yields.html<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Crawford, J. Schiller, and R. Crawford. 2012. Alfalfa variety comparisons. University of Wisconsin Agriculture & Natural Resources. Editors Undersander, D., and K. Silveira. http://www.uwex.edu/ces/ag/alfalfa/index.cfm<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L, D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Crawford, J. Schiller, and R. Crawford. 2012. New York forage legume and grass variety yield trials summary for 2012 - season totals<br /> http://plbrgen.cals.cornell.edu/cals/pbg/programs/departmental/forage/foragetest.cfm<br /> and http://www.nnyagdev.org/index.php/2012/12/21/forage-variety-trial-data-now-online/<br /> <br /> Nelson, R.L., M.D. Peel, and C.V. Ransom. Submitted March 7, 2013. Small Burnet Response to Spring and Fall Postemergence Herbicide Applications. Weed Technology. In Review.<br /> <br /> Noviandi, C. T., J.-S. Eun, M. D. Peel, B. L. Waldron, B. R. Min, D. R. ZoBell, and R. L. Miller. Submitted Feb. 10, 2013. Effects of energy supplementation in pasture forages on in vitro ruminal fermentation characteristics in continuous cultures. Professional Animal Scientist. In review.<br /> <br /> Noviandi, C.T., K. Neal, J.-S. Eun, M. D. Peel, B. L. Waldron, D. R. ZoBell, and B. R. Min. Submitted June 6, 2013. Effects of grass-legume mixed pasture forages on microbial fermentation in continuous cultures with their different ratios. Professional Animal Scientist. In review.<br /> <br /> Papadopoulos, Y.A., M.S. McElroy, S.A.E. Filmore, K.B. McRae, J. L. Duyinsveld and A.H. Fredeen. 2012. Sward complexity and grass species composition affects the performance of grass-white clover pasture mixtures. Can. J. Plant Sci. 92: 1199-1205.<br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., C.V. Ransom, and I.W. Mott. 2013. Natural Glyphosate Tolerance<br /> in Sainfoin (Onybrychis viciifolia). Crop Sci. In Press. doi:10.2135/cropsci2012.10.0612.<br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., B.L. Waldron, K.B. Jensen, and J.G. Robins. 2013. Alfalfa and forage kochia improve nutritive value of semiarid rangelands. Forage and Grazinglands. doi:10.1094/FG-2013-121-01-RS.<br /> <br /> Rushing, J. B., B. S. Baldwin, A.G. Taylor, V.N. Owens, J.H. Fike, and K.J. Moore. 2013. Seed Safening for use in switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) establishment. Crop Science 53: doi: 10.2135/cropsci2013.01.0050.<br /> <br /> Thilakarathna, M. M. S., Y. A. Papadopoulos, A. V. Rodd, A. N. Gunawardena, S. A. E. Fillmore, and B. Prithiviraj. 2012. Characterizing nitrogen transfer from red clover populations to companion bluegrass under field conditions. Can. J. Plant Sci. 92: 1163-1172.<br /> <br /> Viands, D.R., E.J. Shields, J.L. Crawford, A. Testa, and J.L. Hansen. 2012. Breeding alfalfa varieties with resistance to alfalfa snout beetle. Northern New York Agricultural Development Program Annual Report.<br /> http://www.nnyagdev.org/index.php/welcome/nnyadp-research-reports-by-year/<br /> <br /> <br /> Dissertations:<br /> <br /> Cox, S. 2013. M.S. Thesis. Binary grass-legume mixtures of tall fescue, orchardgrass, meadow brome, alfalfa, birdsfoot trefoil and cicer milkvetch in three planting ratios to maximize yield and nutritive value. Completion August 2013.<br /> <br /> Rushing, J.B. 2012. Evaluation of wildrye (Elymus spp.) as a potential forage and conservation planting for the southeastern United States. Miss. St. Libraries, Miss. St., MS 39762.<br />

Impact Statements

1. 1. The development of new cultivars with improved forage yield and quality characteristics, along with and biotic and abiotic stress resistances/tolerances will provide a more reliable source of economical feed for dairy and other livestock industries. For example, the release of 9558 SBR, the first alfalfa cultivar with some resistance to alfalfa snout beetle, should provide some control against this devastating insect.
2. 2. The development of new breeding methods that will improve forage and biomass yield and quality is essential for improving the economics of these crops in production agriculture and in conservation and wildlife habitat systems.
3. 3. This project improves environmental quality through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved persistence, increased resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and enhanced soil-binding improvement capabilities (e.g., reduced soil erosion; improved nutrient cycling; less soil surface runoff; increased soil carbon sequestration; reduced atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters).
4. 4. Acid soils are very extensive in North America. Alfalfa cultivars with tolerance to these soils will provide more economical forage by eliminating or reducing the need for lime applications. New cultivars will convert such problem soils, previously unsuitable for agriculture, into areas of stable high quality forage production. In addition, the use of Bridgeview alfalfa, which was bred for tolerance to salt conditions in the soil, should expand the use of alfalfa for forage production.
5. 5. With improved forages and biomass crops, increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems can be achieved. Identification of breeding methods that will improve forage and biomass yield and quality is essential for improving the economics of these crops in production agriculture and in conservation and wildlife habitat systems.
6. 6. The evaluation of experimental populations is essential to ensure that all stakeholders have the agronomic information to make decisions on use of forage species and cultivars within species.

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Report Information

Participants

Acharya, Surya (surya.acharya@agr.gc.ca) – AAFC, Lethbridge, AB;
Baldwin, Brian (bsb2@msstate.edu) – Missisipi State University, MI;
Boe, Arvid (arvid.boe@sdstate.edu) - South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD;
Brummer, Charles (ecbrummer@ucdavis.edu) – University of California, Davis, CA;
Casler, Mike (mdcasler@wisc.edu) – University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI;
Claessens, Annie (annie.claessens@agr.gc.ca) - AAFC, Quebec, QC;
Coulman, Bruce (bruce.coulman@usask.ca) - University of Saskatchewan, SK;
Ehlke, Nancy (nancy@umn.edu) - University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN;
Monteros, Maria (mjmonteros@noble.org), Noble Foundation, Ardmore, OK;
Papadopoulos, Yousef (yousef.papadopoulos@agr.gc.ca) - AAFC, Truro, NS;
Peel, Michael (mike.peel@ars.usda.gov), - ARS, Utah;
Riday, Heathcliffe (heathcliffe.riday@ars.usda.gov) - ARS, Madison, WI;
Robins, Joe (joseph.robins@ars.usda.gov) – ARS, Idaho;
Viands, Don (drv3@cornell.edu) - Cornell University, Ithaca, NY; (Administrative Advisor);

Brief Summary of Minutes

The annual meeting was held 8 July 2014 at the Lethbridge Lodge Hotel, Lethbridge, AB. Surya Acharya was meeting chair, and Charles Brummer was acting secretary. Research reports were given by lead investigators and cooperators. Discussion focused on: 1) reviewing on-going projects, and 2) future collaborative research projects.

Participants
Surya Acharya (host and chair), Brian Baldwin, Charlie Brummer (secretary), Arvid Boe, Mike Casler, Annie Claessens, Bruce Coulman, Nancy Ehlke, Maria Monteros, Yousef Papadopolous, Michael Peel, Heathcliffe Riday, Joe Robins, Kevin Duse, Michael Trammell, Brent Barrett, Don Viands

Visitors
Bill Biligetu, Yves Castonguay, Zulfi Jahufer, Qing Chuan Yang, Daniel Gardner, Ivan Mott, Jeffery Herrmamn


9:00 am – Surya called the meeting to order

Location for next year – Davis, CA; Charlie Brummer will host. Meeting likely in Sept.

Review of on-going projects (further detail is available in the individual station reports)


Accomplishments:

Objective 1: Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources.

1.1 Alfalfa

1.1.3 Breeding alfalfa for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle.
Lead: Viands, NY.
Cooperating locations: MN, AFCCH, AFCL, AFCSF.
Problem is primarily in NY, but is spreading slowly. Progress has been made from 11 cycles of selection in several alfalfa populations. Both greenhouse and field evaluations show that the selection program is successful and can be used to find alfalfa seedlings that have some level of tolerance or resistance to ASB root feeding damage. Seed of a first cultivar (Seedway 9558 SBR, Cycle 7 population) with moderate levels of resistance is being produced commercially and was made available to a few growers in northern NY to plant in ASB-infested fields. Seed was also made available to other NE-1010 participants to evaluate this cultivar for yield and persistence at multiple field locations.

1.1.4 Developing alfalfa germplasm with potato leafhopper resistance from three diverse genetic sources.
Lead: Viands, NY.
Cooperating locations: Noble, SD.
The goal of this project is to develop germplasm with multiple mechanisms for more stable resistance to potato leafhopper (PLH). A population created from three sources of resistance (glandular trichome germplasm, Peruvian germplasm, and SD 201) was established in a field nursery for the fourth cycle of selection in NY in 2012 and selection was completed in 2013. A nursery was established to initiate the fifth cycle in 2014.


1.1.6 Aluminum tolerance in tetraploid alfalfa.
Lead: Acharya, AFCL.
Cooperating locations: NY, AFCCH, Noble.
From Phase I we completed selection in four parent synthetics. In Phase II we are evaluating the performance of offspring on acidic soils in Kentville, Lethbridge and Ithaca. Experiment 1 was initiated in 2010 to determine heritability of acid tolerance. Experiment 2 was initiated in 2012 (Kentville, Lethbridge, Ithaca and Athens) to evaluate alfalfa response to selection for acid tolerance in four diverse regions. This experiment will be maintained. An acid tolerant alfalfa cultivar (AAC Meadowview) was developed.


1.2 Birdsfoot Trefoil

1.2.1 Rhizomatous birdsfoot trefoil for yield improvement.
Lead: Viands, NY.
Cooperating locations: NY, SD, AFCCH, USDFRC.
Riday is evaluating half-sib families from a Czechoslovakian population. NY has been selecting birdsfoot trefoil for rhizomes and plant vigor in germplasm developed by crossing rhizomatous germplasm with adapted germplasm related to ‘Pardee’. In 2014 or 2015 progenies of the backcross to Pardee-type germplasm establish in a field nursery in 2013 will be selected for vigor and rhizomes.

1.2.2 Evaluation of birdsfoot trefoil for yield or vigor.
Lead: Peel, FRRL.
Cooperating locations: MN, NY, AFCCH, USDFRC.
This trial was established in 2010 with 17 birdsfoot trefoil populations. These populations were evaluated for vigor, plant stand, and yield in 2011 and 2012. Another trial was established in 2010 only at USDFRC to evaluate grazing tolerance and has been grazed with cattle in 2011 and 2012. Selections were made, and a breeder field was established in in 2013. Seed will be collected in 2014.



1.5 Multiple Species

1.5.1 Selection of fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin.
Lead: Viands, NY.
Cooperating locations: AFCSF, USDFRC.
In NY selection for higher pectin (neutral detergent soluble fiber) and lower NDF concentrations will continue on alfalfa populations. A lamb feeding trial showed that the new alfalfa cultivar N-R-Gee has higher feed efficiency than the check cultivar Vernal. Populations selected for increased pectin always seem to be lower yielding and so in future the focus will be for lower NDF, which doesn’t result in lower yield.

Annie at AFCSF is selecting alfalfa for sugar concentration, but hasn’t had much success. Now she is focusing on stem bases to increase sugars and improve cell wall degradability. No correlation exists between sugars (TNC) and degradability of cell wall. Cell wall characterization and selection for increased degradability will continue.


1.6 Marker assisted selection

1.6.1 Red clover marker assisted selection
Lead: Riday, USDFRC
Cooperating locations: AFCNS, GA, NY
Heathcliffe discussed his paternity marker work focused on QTL regions from the literature. He is interested in working with anyone else on red clover. It is not working on alfalfa too much yet.

1.6.2 Paternity testing in kura clover
Lead: Riday, USDFRC
Cooperating location: FRRL
Riday screened whiter clover markers on kura clover. He worked it out on a set of half sib families from Mike Peel. Publication in progress.

1.6.3 Alfalfa marker evaluation to track persistence in a sward
Project based on assessing parentage. JoAnn and Heathcliffe working on it.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC and Lamb, USDA-ARS
Riday wants to track persistence in swards. He has eight polycrosses in trials. He will collect tissue later this summer and genotype them during the winter.

1.7 White Clover: Marker-assisted selection.
Lead: Brummer, UC, Davis.
Cooperating locations: USDFRC.
Five hundred half-sib families were evaluated. The goal is association mapping.

1.8 Kura Clover: Vigor and spreadability.
Lead: Ehlke, MN.
Cooperating locations: FRRL, USDFRC.
Ehlke reported no action on this project and requested someone else to take over the project. Discussion on rhizobium – HR has “the” strain and is regenerating it each year. Selections were initiated in Minnesota but perhaps the IP is not protected.



Objective 2: Build on previous research to evaluate additional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.

2.1 Alfalfa

2.1.2. Replicated clonal selection from improving forage yield of alfalfa.
Lead: Viands, NY.
Cooperating locations: MN, AFCL, AFCCH, AFCSF.
Evaluating two cycles of selection at current time. A couple more years of evaluation to come. Zulfi Jahufer – visiting – suggested using BLUPs for selection. Brummer discussed his work conducting genomic selection in this population.

2.2 Orchardgrass

2.2.1. Clonal selection in orchardgrass for broad adaptation.
Lead: Phillips, KY.
Cooperators: AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, FRRL, MS, SD, Noble.
No report.

2.2.2 Non-heading orchardgrass research.
Lead: Casler, USDFRC.
Cooperating locations. AFCSK, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCNS, FRRL, ID, MN, KY, WV, NY, Newfoundland.
Project was completed in 2013, but it might be worth another phase. Two manuscripts were published.

2.3 Red Clover

2.3.1. Selection for general adaptation in red clover.
Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH.
Cooperating locations: NY, AFCL, AFCSF, AFCSK, SD, KY, USDFRC.
The trials died in Saskatoon and MN, but they look great in WI and NY. It was set back in NS. Every site sent data, and more harvesting is being done this year.

2.3.2. Selection for persistence in red clover using half-sib families.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC.
Cooperating locations: SD, NY, AFCCH.
Selections were made in WI and NS. Progeny testing started in 2014. After evaluations are complete, this project will not continue.

2.3.3. Red clover for biofuels.
Lead: Papadopoulos, AFCCH
Only in NS at this time. May want to develop a biofuel project with grasses in new proposal.

2.4. Reed canarygrass: Methods to improve reed canarygrass.
Lead: Casler, USDFRC
Cooperating locations: TBD
No report.

2.5 Legume/Grass Mixtures: Compatibility of legumes with various grasses. Lead: Peel, FRRL.
Cooperating locations: AFCCH, AFCL, GA, MN, NY, USDA-MN.
FRRL had extensive experiment and data summarized (see NAAIC poster). Legume mixtures with grass produced as well as fertilized plots; legumes improved distribution of forage throughout the growing season. Yousef suggested trying out new germplasm into a new mixture trial.

HR discussed the trefoil selection project published in Crop Sci. 54:2070–2076 (2014).
doi: 10.2135/cropsci2014.02.0147.



Objective 3: Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, seed and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.

3.1 Alfalfa

3.1.1. Evaluation of new M. sativa subsp. falcata populations.
Lead: Peel, FRRL.
Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCL, NGPRL, SD, USDFRC.
Mike Peel has 2x and 4x falcatas; will put together a new seeded evaluation in 2016. Arvid released SD201 as ‘Yellowjacket’ and is looking for seed producers. Various discussion on future falcata projects, including looking at falcata in the southern Plains.

HR discussed a PI evaluation he was doing with Mark Smith at Pioneer. That project could be expanded to other sites.

3.1.2. Hybrid alfalfa yield evaluation.
Lead: Riday, USDFRC.
Cooperating locations. USDA-MN, GA, NY, FRRL, SD.
This research is underway. Publications are planned for the future.

3.1.4. Evaluation of salt tolerant alfalfa.
Lead: Acharya, AFCL.
Cooperating locations: FRRL.
Acharya has one salt tolerant cultivar that was released (Bridgeview). He also has controlled environment facilities that could be used for the next round of studies with Peel. Peel also is doing selection in UT. Anyone may have their materials tested for a fee at the Swift Current salinity tanks.

3.3 Multiple Species

3.3.1. Biomass alfalfa/grass mixture evaluation.
Lead: Lamb USDA-ARS
Cooperating locations: SD, USDFRC.
The trial is complete. Lamb will analyze the data.

3.3.2 Establishment of warm season grasses for biofuels.
Lead: Baldwin, MS
Cooperating location: NY
Brian Baldwin discussed some projects he has on biofuel grasses. Brian is working on selection for establishment of warm season grasses. Releasing “Expresso” switchgrass that germinates very quickly. Gamagrass project (diploids) to improve germination (minimize dormancy).

3.4 Meadow and hybrid bromegrass: Evaluation of meadow and hybrid bromegrasses.
Lead: Coulman, AFCSK
Cooperating locations: AFCSF, AFCCH, SD, USDFRC.
Twelve years into the project – selections have been made at multiple locations– SK did seed increase. Sward trials have been harvested for 3 years at multiple locations. Some locations are harvesting this year.



Discussion on renewing project:
The current project runs through 2017, but we need to submit a request to write a new proposal by February 2015 (this could be done as early as September 2014). If the request to write is successful, someone needs to lead the writing team, especially to do the literature review.

Don circulated a list of proposed projects/topics from last year’s minutes (2013) and also from two years ago in NY. The general themes from those reports, viz. Molecular Breeding, Forage/Biomass Productivity, and Climate Change are necessary components of the program.

The group had considerable debate about how molecular breeding should be incorporated into the program, with some participants arguing that markers should be integrated with conventional breeding projects and others that they should remain split out as a separate goal. A possible middle ground might be to have a separate goal to develop marker or genomic tools but otherwise integrate markers into the individual research projects. We briefly discussed the incorporation of a data management or database development aspect to the proposal, which could be a component of a breeder’s toolbox under development at the Noble Foundation. In any case, everyone agreed that the genomics aspects need to be prominent throughout the proposal.

We also discussed how best to incorporate the general theme of “climate change” and debated the relative merits of using “sustainability” or “resilience” in the description of the program. The role of biofuels was brought up – we have had some biofuels projects proposed in the past, but never really got them off the ground. If we decided to include biofuels, we should be serious about doing it.

In regard to overall objectives, Heathcliffe made the comment that “A legitimate goal is to be breeding stuff.”

We will continue this discussion in Davis next year. At that time, we will need to have serious plans for projects lined out, or at least, be willing to do the hard work of getting them lined out at the meeting.


Future projects will be categorized in three general topics:
1. Molecular breeding of forage crops
2. Forage/Biomass productivity
a. Yield
b. Persistence
c. Nutritive value
3. Climate change
a. Abiotic stress
i. Drought/flooding tolerance
ii. Salinity tolerance
iii. Cold tolerance
b. Biotic stress

Meeting adjourned at 3 pm.

Accomplishments

Objective 1: <br /> <br /> <br /> (1) Seed of a new alfalfa snout beetle cultivar (Seedway 9558 SBR) with moderate levels of resistance is now being marketed to growers. <br /> <br /> <br /> (2) Potato leaf hopper resistant alfalfa populations are being developed with multiple mechanisms of resistance; a new cultivar (not yet named) with a very high level of resistance (glandular trichome type) is in seed production for use in the Northeast USA. Seed probably will be available to growers by spring 2015.<br /> <br /> <br /> (3) An acid tolerant alfalfa cultivar (AAC Meadowview) was developed and released for commercial production.<br /> <br /> <br /> (4) A salt tolerant alfalfa cultivar (AAC Bridgeview) was released.<br /> <br /> <br /> (5) A new sanfoin cultivar (AAC Mountainview) was released. This cultivar was bred for ability to survive when grown in alfalfa stands.<br /> <br /> <br /> (6) Birdsfoot trefoil populations with higher rhizome production and vigor are being developed to enhance productivity and longevity of the crop;<br /> <br /> <br /> (7) Birdsfoot trefoil cultivars are being evaluated for forage production and persistence;<br /> <br /> <br /> (8) Marker assisted selection methods are being developed to accelerate breeding programs.<br /> <br /> (9) Expresso switchgrass was released with higher seed germination.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 2:<br /> <br /> <br /> (1) Selection methods for increased yield in alfalfa are currently under multiple site evaluation.<br /> <br /> <br /> (2) Red clover populations with improved persistence, general adaptation, and biofuel use have been selected.<br /> <br /> <br /> (3) Legume/grass mixture trials are being evaluated for use as feedstocks for biofuels and livestock feed.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 3:<br /> <br /> <br /> (1) Evaluations of multiple species of cool and warm season perennial forages continue to be evaluated for forage yield, persistence, and other agronomic traits at multiple locations in North America.<br />

Publications

Casler, M.D., Y.A. Papadopoulos, S. Bittman, R.D. Mathison, D.H. Min, J.G. Robins, J.H., Cherney, S.N. Acharya, D.P. Belesky, S.R. Bowley, B.E. Coulman, R. Drapeau, N.J. Ehlke, M.H. Hall, R.H. Leep, R. Michaud, J. Rowsell, G.E. Shewmaker, C.D. Teutsch, and W.K. Coblentz. 2014. Sparse-flowering orchardgrass is stable across temperate North America. Crop Sci. 54:421–429.<br /> <br /> Cathelijne R. Stoof, Imtiaz Karim, Cedric Mason, Dhanya Tadipatri, Ian Cary, Ryan Crawford, Julie Hansen, Jamie Crawford, Hilary Mayton, Tammo Steenhuis, and Brian Richards. 2014. Effect of fertilization on N2O emissions from a marginal soil used for perennial grass bioenergy production. European Geosciences Union Meeting. Vienna, Austria. 15 January 2014.<br /> <br /> Crawford, J., J. Hansen, E. Shields, A. Testa, and D. Viands. 2014. Breeding for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle. North Amer. Alfalfa Improv. Conf. 7-11 July 2014. Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. http://www.naaic.org/<br /> <br /> Crawford, R. J. Hansen, A. Taylor, G. Bergstrom, P. Salon, J. Crawford, and D. Viands. 2014. Using seed technologies to improve establishment in switchgrass. North Amer. Alfalfa Improv. Conf. 7-11 July 2014. Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. http://www.naaic.org/<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Crawford, J. Schiller, and R. Crawford. 2013. Alfalfa variety comparisons. University of Wisconsin Agriculture & Natural Resources. Editors Undersander, D., and K. Silveira. http://www.uwex.edu/ces/ag/alfalfa/index.cfm<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L, D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Crawford, J. Schiller, and R. Crawford. 2013. New York forage legume and grass variety yield trials summary for 2013 - season totals<br /> http://plbrgen.cals.cornell.edu/cals/pbg/programs/departmental/forage/foragetest.cfm<br /> and http://www.nnyagdev.org/index.php/2012/12/21/forage-variety-trial-data-now-online/<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Crawford, J. Schiller, and R. Crawford. 2013. New York forage legume and grass variety yield trials summary for 2013. http://www.naaic.org/Resources/yields.html<br /> <br /> Hong, C.O., V.N. Owens, D. Bransby, R. Farris, J. Fike, E. Heaton, S. Kim, H. Mayton, R. Mitchell, and D. Viands. 2014. Switchgrass response to nitrogen fertilizer across diverse environments in the USA: a regional feedstock partnership report. Bioenerg. Res. http://download.springer.com/static/pdf/868/art%253A10.1007%252Fs12155-014-9484-y.pdf?auth66=1402591306_3434535c598d85d19883d0e46394a21e&ext=.pdf. 12 pg.<br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., B.L. Waldron, K.B. Jensen, and J.G. Robins. 2013. Alfalfa and forage kochia improve nutritive value of semiarid rangelands. Forage and Grazinglands. 11:1. doi:10.1094/FG-2013-121-01-RS<br /> <br /> Waldron, B.L., S.R. Larson, M.D. Peel, K.B. Jensen, T.C. Mukimov, A. Rabbimov, D.R. Zobell, R. Wang, R.C. Smith, R.D. Harrison, and B.W. Davenport. 2013. ‘Snowstorm’ a new forage kochia cultivar with improved stature, productivity, and nutritional content for enhanced fall and winter grazing. J. of Plant Registrations. 7:140-150. doi: 10.3198/jpr2012.08.0020crc.<br /> <br /> Anower, M.R., I.W. Mott, M.D. Peel, and Y. Wu. 2013. Characterization of physiological responses of two alfalfa half-sib families with superior salt-tolerance. Plant Physiology and Biochemistry. 71:103-111.<br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., C.V. Ransom, and I.W. Mott. 2013. Natural glyphosate tolerance in sainfoin (Onybrychis viciifolia). Crop Science. 53:2275-2282.<br /> <br /> Noviandi, C.T., J.-S. Eun, M.D. Peel, B.L. Waldron, B.R. Min, and D.R. ZoBell. 2014. Effects of energy supplementation in pasture forages on in vitro ruminal fermentation characteristics in continuous cultures. Professional Animal Scientist. 30:13-22.<br /> <br /> Nelson, R.L., M.D. Peel, and C.V. Ransom. 2014. Small burnet response to spring and fall postemergence herbicide applications. Weed Technology. 28:168-175.<br /> <br /> Peel, M.D., C.V. Ransom and I.W. Mott. Submitted May 2014. Natural glyphosate tolerance in sweetvetch Hedysarum boreale. Crop Science. In review.<br /> <br /> Richards, B. K., J. Cherney, L. Geohring, J. Hansen, H. Mayton, G. Ruestow, L. Smart, C. Stoof, P. Woodbury. Second generation bioenergy production on marginal lands of NY & the Northeast. Northeast Biomass Heating Expo. April 10, 2014. Portland, Maine.<br /> <br /> Viands, D.R., J. Hansen, J. Crawford, E.J. Shields, and A. Testa. 2014. Breeding alfalfa cultivars with resistance to alfalfa snout beetle. Northern NY Agric. Devel. Program Report. P.41-48.<br /> <br /> Wile, A., Burton, D.L., Sharifi, M. Lynch, D., Main, M., and Papadopoulos, Y. Effect of nitrogen fertilizer application rate on yield, methane and nitrous oxide emissions from switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) and reed canary grass (Phallaris arundinacea L.). Can. J. Soil Sci. 94: 129-137.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Dissertations:<br /> <br /> Thilakarathna, R. M. Malinda Sameera. 2013. Genotypic Variability among Diverse Red Clover Cultivars for Nitrogen Fixation and Transfer. Ph.D. Thesis, Dalhousie University.<br /> <br /> Peters, Emily. 2014. Comparing the bioenergy yield of switchgrass with other commonly grown forage grasses in Atlantic Canada for use as bioenergy crops. 4th Year Undergraduate Research Thesis, Dalhousie University.<br />

Impact Statements

1. The development of new cultivars will provide a more reliable source of economical feed for dairy and other livestock industries. For example, Seedway 9558 SBR, the first alfalfa cultivar with some resistance to alfalfa snout beetle, should provide some control against this devastating insect and make alfalfa more productive where this insect occurs. AAC sainfoin in mixture with alfalfa will provide forage with reduced bloat incidence in cattle.
2. This project improves environmental quality through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved persistence, increased resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and enhanced soil-binding improvement capabilities (e.g., reduced soil erosion; improved nutrient cycling; less soil surface runoff; increased soil carbon sequestration; reduced atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters).
3. Acid soils are very extensive in North America. Alfalfa cultivars with tolerance to these soils will provide more economical forage by eliminating or reducing the need for lime applications. New cultivars will convert such problem soils, previously unsuitable for agriculture, into areas of stable high quality forage production. In addition, the use of ?Bridgeview? alfalfa, which was bred for tolerance to salt conditions in the soil, should expand the use of alfalfa for forage production.
4. With improved forages and biomass crops, increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems can be achieved. Identification of breeding methods that will improve forage and biomass yield and quality is essential for improving the economics of these crops in production agriculture and in conservation and wildlife habitat systems.
5. The evaluation of experimental populations is essential to ensure that all stakeholders have the agronomic information to make decisions on use of forage species and cultivars within species.
6. Development of warm season grasses for biofuel use will contribute toward sustainability of energy production. The new switchgrass cultivar Expresso has higher seed germination, enabling improved stand establishment and subsequent production of biomass.

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Report Information

Participants

Acharya, Surya (surya.acharya@agr.gc.ca) – AAFC, Lethbridge, AB;
Baldwin, Brian (bsb2@msstate.edu) – Missisipi State University, MI;
Boe, Arvid (arvid.boe@sdstate.edu) - South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD;
Brummer, Charles (ecbrummer@ucdavis.edu) – University of California, Davis, CA;
Casler, Mike (mdcasler@wisc.edu) – University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI;
Claessens, Annie (annie.claessens@agr.gc.ca) - AAFC, Quebec, QC;
Coulman, Bruce (bruce.coulman@usask.ca) - University of Saskatchewan, SK;
Ehlke, Nancy (nancy@umn.edu) - University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN;
Monteros, Maria (mjmonteros@noble.org), Noble Foundation, Ardmore, OK;
Papadopoulos, Yousef (yousef.papadopoulos@agr.gc.ca) - AAFC, Truro, NS;
Peel, Michael (mike.peel@ars.usda.gov), - ARS, Utah;
Riday, Heathcliffe (heathcliffe.riday@ars.usda.gov) - ARS, Madison, WI;
Robins, Joe (joseph.robins@ars.usda.gov) – ARS, Idaho;
Viands, Don (drv3@cornell.edu) - Cornell University, Ithaca, NY; (Administrative Advisor);

Brief Summary of Minutes

Attendees: Charlie Brummer, Heathcliffe Riday, Joe Robins, Bill Biligetu, Ali Missaoui, Shawn Kenaley, Maria Monteros, Patricio Munoz, Nancy Elhke, Don Viands and Jose Gonzalez

Skype: Yousef Papadoupulus
Chair: Charlie Brummer
Secretary: Maria Monteros

NE1010 background
Don Viands: This is a multi-State cooperative research project. State experiment stations get funding for research (HATCH funds), but it is mainly spent for faculty salaries. Funding for travel and support staff is also available at most universities. Funding for NE1010 itself only goes to experiment stations in the US, but scientists not in the experiment stations have been involved in the project (USDA-ARS, Noble, and Ag and Agrifood Canada). With fewer breeders as time advances, cooperative research is the only way to do research and make an impact. Perennial species have the challenge to being economical because they are only planted every 3 or 4 years. It has been a benefit to have this project even though not everyone receives funding. The goal of the project is to encourage cooperative research among forage breeders and pathologists. The current project was written 15 years ago and consisted only of cooperative research in the proposal.

ECB: At some states, like CA, the PI does not receive funding directly for research, but needs to have an experiment station project. Therefore, ECB will lead the effort to writing this project.

DV: Multi state project associated with different regions. Next project number will be NE-XXXX. Need at least two experiment stations and Don Viands is the only one in the North East. Need someone else from the NE or shift to another region.

Need to decide on a region and work with that experiment station to do that. If need to go to another region, need to coordinate with the person in that region. Possibly go through the North Central because Nancy has more history with the project (vs. other regions).

Nancy will inquire about the experiment station deadlines since the projects are approved by summer. This project will last until 2017. Even though it is a 15-year project, Cornell requires a project every 5 years. It needs to get approved this year to avoid having a gap; target to have it ready for submission, need to have it ready by the fall.

Potential suggested reviewers include: Ken Vogel, Deb Samac, JoAnn Lamb, Arvid Boe, Ian Ray, Ken Quesenberry, John Forster.

The project is intended to be different from an information exchange program where everyone just reports what they are doing by focusing on discussion of collaborative research. A strength of this project is the development of collaborative projects between at least two or more researchers. Issue last time is that it had too many projects, different species, and different regions with different targets.

Main limitation to working together is the need for funds to do the work in the absence of Hatch discretionary funding. Some proposed projects may not get going, or may need to be changed over time depending on funding. Aim is to accomplish as much of what is proposed to do as possible with each member coming up with funds to do cooperative research.

Examples of successful research include:
1. Paper on Genomic Selection (Brummer, Viands and Annie).

2. Trefoil selection with grass vs. no grass (Brummer and Riday).

Proposed examples:
1. Alfalfa evaluation of germplasm would fit well with this project.

The objectives for the project have largely stayed the same for a few years:
Objective 1: Evaluate germplasm and selecting for various traits
Objective 2: Breeding forages more effectively
Objective 3: Evaluate in yield trials that would eventually lead to release

Project report is due in 60 days.

Goal: write two or three objectives as a complement to the titles described in the NE-1010 Multistate cooperative research project.

Marker research: Break out itself or integrated with the other objectives. Consensus feedback is that it should be a separate objective.

Jose indicated it should be together; address a need and a question to use tools from different angles or perspectives to address an issue.

Make sure the genomics component comes together with the other two sections.

YP: keep the genomics work separate and traits interested in and link them together. Waterlogging and drought tolerance, assess which genes are involved and so on. If keep it separate, need to have a mechanism to link it with the traits. If it is focused on new methodology, then need to keep it separate, but if focused on the trait, need to integrate it so that it makes sense.
Another possibility is to use a hybrid approach since have many different species (alfalfa and switchgrass). Some traits would be together across traits or species in different areas.

AM: Alfalfa, need standard resources, a set of markers, applicable to all the traits, each time you tackle a trait, need to generate genomic resources, GBS. Collaborative effort to tackle the subject (500-600 set of standard markers) to use for genomic scan. Breeding toolbox type of resource. Expressed the need for organized datasets and community efforts for every trait.

HR: grant opportunity to build collaborative infrastructure with breeders; need a collaborative infrastructure to help each other out, beyond the specific traits. Prominence of keeping it separate is to build an organized thing.

MM: provided information on the Initiative of the Alfalfa Breeder’s toolbox at Noble Foundation and how that could help advance collaborative efforts to benefit the community.

YP: Genomics for red clover but it never took off as part of NE1010 (Heathcliff would lead this). If there is a project for gene expression for red clover, are using M. truncatula. If keep it separately, need funding to get this initiative moving forward.

DV: Make sure the molecular technologies are part of this program.

NE1010: need to get approval, not competing with other projects. Similar criteria used for selection of funding as other proposals. Once the panel of 6, then it goes further to review of the whole process. Then to all the Crop Sci and Agronomy needs. History of the project will help us but need some tangible projects and significant accomplishments by the end of 5 years. Need milestones.

Outline of ideas

1. Adaptation to variable and changing environments

2. Forage and biomass productivity

3. Evaluate new molecular tools to facilitate breeding for improving various traits in perennial forage species

4. Evaluate experimental populations through a testing network; understand genotype x environment interaction in forages. Test materials across broad areas of adaptation. Issue is that many of the variety testing programs are with extension personnel, not with breeders. Breeders often run experimental evaluation trials, however. This is focused on breeding with implicit connections for each researcher and their local group. This thematic topic would demonstrate connection to farmers by testing products and potential products for the producer. Final consumer is the grower; people going directly or through extension, but for alfalfa, output may be useful for industry.

What is the goal of this project? Collaborate and/or develop new products? It would be great to get products out, but also the methods, upstream selection that may or may not lead to a product. Output can be a product that a farmer can use (nice to have it) but does not need to happen; can generate scientific knowledge (especially since not have funding), establish collaboration. Get group of folks together to be competitive based on what talked about here.

Alfalfa RFP; loose requirements of three locations, overhead for three different institutions, perhaps relax requirements for locations and increase the funding amount. Trend a different way with the three-state requirement that served as a handicap.

DV: Long-Xi (Washington) got an increase in his budget from what he requested.

Industry support: not ‘need’ it although it would be useful to have it. Need to have ‘stakeholder input’. Regarding stakeholder industry or a few prominent growers, it would be good to have a letter of support with at least a skeletal proposal.

Pitch the idea of developing markers for a range of insects or diseases. This could be similar to the work on Verticilium wilt done collaboratively with Long-xi, Debby, Maria and industry partners.

Species: Consider species in addition to alfalfa. Common interest in the group with alfalfa; red clover some interest from various researchers. Jose, has resources for cordgrass; develop markers for each species is expensive and time consuming; consider a hybrid approach; cordgrass using GBS and set of SNP markers (KASP) assays for the bulk of markers can be GBS and have known markers at known locations to tie different studies together.

Traits: salt tolerance is a common trait in many different species; methodologies across many different grasses are the same; transfer from one species to another. How to link across species without making it six different projects? If one methodology works for one species, then can leverage it to another species. Therefore consider developing standard tools within a species so that multiple people can use in their project. ‘Consensus resources’.

Grant: 15 page limit; need to be brief for each of the sections. Don Viands already has a three page justification of the proposal written. Need a literature review also for the grant, Charlie to take the lead for the lit review.

Goal: goals enumerated, methodology described and outputs.


Possible projects:

Alfalfa
- Flooding and drought: (Yousef lead) Ali to identify sources of flood tolerance in 900+ entries.
- Aluminum: screen 1700 accessions in the field; establish plants that do well in the field, work your way back to establish assays; GH assay with cones, almost are selecting for root elongation; in cones; the ones that succeed are the ones that get out of the cones; start in the field and those should do well in any test; five or six accessions do well in the field; try to look at as many accessions in the field as Ali can.
- Don, LongXi: funded project on drought tolerance and salinity. LongXi has established a drought tolerance assay.
- Define objectives, methodology and assign leads for each component.
- What is the best way to evaluate those traits?
- Include things that we can do collaboratively.
- Yousef asked Charlie to find someone to lead the drought tolerance study since it was split from the flooding tolerance. Dan has a deficit irrigation program.
- Drought lead: Mike Peel with LongXi, and Ian Ray already has a project on drought tolerance.
- Salinity: Jose will write up a brief description and solicit additional feedback.
- Acid tolerance and aluminum: new populations (Yousef) with Don and Surya. Genetic and selection gain; populations evaluated for productivity under sward conditions in acidic soils. Not sure if go to next phase of acid tolerance until analyze data and make their decision. They made good selection gain for seedling vigor under acid soil and calculated broad sense heritability (0.4 to 0.6 – Don’s location), so procedures used to select are working and have good selection gains. But not sure about getting the max yield potential or go for one more year of selection. Low pH – 5.0 and 5.5. Below pH 5 things get tough for alfalfa to grow.
- 2004 trial with Surya, one rep at pH 4.5 and all plants died in that area.
- Ali: tested 1780 and ended up with less than 12 that performed well at 4.8 pH.
- Yousef: had seedling vigor improvement from 5 – 5.5 even if lime subsurface of the soil (6.5) the subsoil impact will reduce it to below 6.
- Aluminum: Ali and Maria (develop new populations and understand Al tolerance mechanism).

Biotic
- Snout beetle: not much cooperative other than testing material (Don). Getting moderately resistance. Don has made progress from selection but it has been slow.
- Root knot nematodes: Ali for alfalfa looking at mapping the three nematodes. Move it to the genomic tools/mapping section of the proposal.
- PLH: have linkage drag from introgressing sources of tolerance; Don Viands making progress. Finding sources of resistance to be followed by looking at how it works in different backgrounds.
- Switchgrass smut does not infect through the flowers but rather through the roots; have it in the fields now. Good because can ask a lot of questions about smut but cannot get it out. Ali is looking for nematode resistance in switchgrass.
- Jose: consider symbiosis with rhizobia and mycorhyza. Don for his PhD work, the higher N fixation, the more fibrous the roots and thus more sites for nodules.
- Disease diagnostic: survive flood vs. associated diseases in that environment.
- Bergstrom lab has capacity for diagnostic testing of forage pathogens and diseases for at least a core set of them.

OBJECTIVE 2. Germplasm enhancement and pre-breeding

- Heathcliffe (Wisconsin – Northern germplasm): stakeholder desire for germplasm evaluation of alfalfa; started with landraces and cultivars = 4 pools to manage germplasm. In central Asia, had alfalfa (south of Siberia, greater Turkey, the Balkans and a eastern European pool: Ukraine and Baltics and Siberian north of China. 100 plants per pool for the initial pools. Some of these had disease problem. In Washington, S&W produced seed to generate over 100 half-sib families. Looking for people who will commit to put 1000 – 2000 plant nursery (small trial). Forage biomass productivity: general agronomics for their climate. Standard hay cutting as possible; at the end of evaluation, want to pick the best 5% of material out of each nursery. Companies are doing rapid selection cycles. Don Viands does this all the time. Year 1 establish, its not until Year 3 that can separate things out. Want to access NPGS for pre-breeding and generate material to breed for commercial varieties. Transplants that came in from the field went through GH screen for diseases (companies).
- Explore the use of industry to generate seed (Mark and S&W, ex-Pioneer); they can do a seed increase of up to five pools.
- USDA winterhardiness zones 7 or lower (5 or 6 was the target); everything they have survived in Wisconsin.
- Long-Xi generated 6 to 8 pools of plants for drought
- Southern climates (200 accessions in Davis and El Centro; Brian Motes at Noble and Patricio (FL) going in this year. Information on FD and select to develop populations similar to what Heathcliff did in the North. Look at it and then figure out how to composite populations. Look at G x E with multiple locations. Would like to get markers on that population.
- Study: validate pools that are in fact distinct and cluster away from commercially available material.
- Need strategy to phenotype and genotype the PI collection in alfalfa (how to address the heterozygosity of the populations).
- Ali: already has three years of data from NPGS collection.
- Shawn: relationship between the species diversity of the species and the pathogens associated with them.

2b Nutritive value
- Joe: project with Aberystwyth (Wales); Utah plants produced half the carbohydrates they did.
- Ali; evaluate the collection for stem sugar and lignin. In the South, alfalfa for haylage and therefore need to increase stem sugar (NIRS). Heathcliff suggest him to sequence the lignin genes and find variability in those genes. Don, working with forage quality in alfalfa for year. Ali would continue with potential interest from Don. Ali has mainly been looking for variation of the traits.

2c. Seed production
- Seed quality interest in gamagrass (Seed Technology by A. Taylor in Geneva Station near Cornell).
- Any correlation with seed production in your area and see how the production compares with other areas. Consistency of seed production could be an issue. Seed production will not shift from its current location. Move up to Canada for seed production or bring it down to Idaho depending on pricing and market.
- Ali, modified soybean combines to harvest clover seed.

Action: participants should describe what plan to do in a paragraph vs. solicit interest (working document). Describe what is the collaborative nature.

4. New molecular tools
a. Marker tool development – Maria and others
Nematodes (Ali), fall dormancy (Charlie), salinity/drought, (Mike P.), cold tolerance (Ali),
Discussed a low cost genotyping assay including a miniscule PCR machine for cheap assay for only a few markers (idea with only a few markers for disease resistance). Heathcliff: 40 microsatellite markers without DNA extraction ($1.50 per assay). SNP-based systems need more markers. Heathcliff will be pursuing anyway.

The regions of interest to him are always the same. He knows in red clover the regions in which variation is associated with quantitative traits. PCR-based systems have the advantage that you do not need a genotype number commitment, only the chip restricts you for the number. Only few species have markers on QTL narrowed down to finalize which ones to use. Pursue developing the assays (cheapest assay for about 50 markers); when people come out with markers of value, then they have the assay ready to go.

Patricio, target traits are complex and quantitative and thus may need lots of markers. In wild populations and breeding populations LD is nothing but in forage breeding program, may extend longer. Want to develop markers using a cheap assay, and companies would phenotype hundreds of plants.

Patricio, develop breeding population to test genomic selection using sequence capture (need more markers than what GBS can provide). To find out which ones to use, start with millions of markers and narrow it down.

Heathcliff: has 50,000 red clover entries with phenotypes and tissue in storage; waiting for cheap technology to go in there to pull the trigger and mine the genotyping information. Patricio is also already working in red clover.

Heathcliff: use SNPs to develop a SNP assay targeting GBS-based assay for ‘informative’ markers, jointly with Charlie Brummer (QTL). Use KASPr based technology and they do it themselves. Take sequence that validate as a SNP and use it in any other platform without any proprietary platform. Could attach any fluorescent label and now contracting the service. $3 per sample could get 50 markers (contract service). Have robot for DNA extraction.

Patricio: doing sequence capture in alfalfa as well as in red clover. People are working on methodologies for genotyping to make it less expensive.

Sequenome mass array: cost is $2,800 per run (384 samples per run). Cost per data point is cheaper if have the machine.

GBS, have 10 or so markers as an outcome. Breeding: dig up plants in October and need instant access for genotyping and make decisions for Jan 1 to figure out what to advance. Can’t do it with Cornell Univ. to take longer (bioinformatics piece also needed).

b. Genomics on grasses: Shawn was leading that (ryegrass as base genome to compare others too). Ryegrass info from the GenomeZipper (Torbin in Denmark vs. NZ, and Ag Victoria). Could develop collaborative projects here if interest. Patricio is doing genomic selection in ryegrass. Utah: association studies with GBS.

ACTION: describe which traits are looking at, develop markers, integrate with the breeder’s toolbox (coordination of efforts and project of what are doing).

Debby S. include aphanomyces work on markers but perhaps would have more value as a reviewer of the program.

Alfalfa breeder’s toolbox: Jose is generating information on forage grasses and would like for it to be part of a future toolbox. Examples of datasets include RNA sequencing data, microarray and others for cordgrass and switchgrass (Jose).

Patricio: working on methodologies for genomic selection in autotetraploids (alfalfa, blueberry and potato) considering double reduction, bulk genotyping for genomic selection strategies using data available for tress so now extend it to forages.

Toolbox: include genome sequence, transcriptome, mapping, markers associated with traits.

Lab work: need to coordinate for a contract-service system.

Would like to see more environments to test germplasm and evaluate them phenotypically at multiple locations. Do GWAS in the population, do selections in a population and the subset is what is evaluated at multiple locations.

Strategy: used breeding populations through cycles of selection (working jointly with breeders).

Fall dormancy: using markers to select for it more broadly (which marker alleles give you the target FD). Charlie mapped in several biparental, in GWAS and differential populations L. Teuber put together from very dormant to non-dormant looking at allele shifts and in a FGI breeding population. Develop additional recombined populations. Break up fall dormancy and other traits (grazing tolerance). To what extent is dormancy linked to other traits. FD is a key trait. FD is easy to phenotype the extremes but the middle is more difficult.

Ali: Take Bulldog805 and cross extremes to it (early and late); take 100 plants from each, clone and validate. Develop F2 so have another cycle of recombination to create 600 individuals for association population.

Jose: collection of four-way crosses in wheat; collection of small populations of 20 to 30 individuals connected because they share parents.

Need to inventory what is available. Patricio, use the evaluation of germplasm from North and South to start jointly rather than working on populations that people are committed or invested on. Patricio suggested starting with testing the joint germplasm as a common mapping resource.


Clonal evaluation: take two or three applications, intermate them and then evaluate progenies at other locations (similar to what Don and Charlie had previously done); do it within Northern vs. Southern US region.

NECS-141 (from the first cycle clonal selection) from the first evaluation of when had it in Iowa. Charlie selected it, possibly for high yield. Don, the population constructed was high yielding (dozen years ago).

GENOTYPING: proposed use of chips but not likely, consider sequence capture

4. Testing new experimental populations/germplasm to understand GxE

Trefoil: growth is not very good; most of the yield is the first harvest they have. Consider an evaluation trial under hay vs. simulated grazing (4 or 5 cuts vs. 3 cuts). Same project with Mike Peel (Yousef) for the 2017 proposal, put in new sets of the population. Propose to look at long-term persistence beyond the 3 years, for example 2 vs. 4 or 5 harvest to evaluate a genotype x management interaction.

Heathcliff requested a National Red Clover Variety Testing Committee: advertise that are cohesive group, these are all the places that could test. People come to HR for testing.

Shawn: single spore smut and cycling them through the greenhouse. These are now available to test for susceptibility instead of waiting for 3 years in the field. It is also possible to screen some pre-commercial or elite lines in switchgrass (place in section of smut inoculation of switchgrass).

Overall considerations
- Use North Central region due to the history if NE not viable.
- ECB: go through North Central
- 2016: meet in Madison before the NAAIC meeting on July 12-14, 2016.
- 2017: meet in Halifax (Yousef hosts)

Next project meeting in Madison, WI (2016) the day before the NAAIC meeting.

2016: Maria Chair of the NE1010 meeting (because Secretary).

2016 Secretary: Jose Gonzalez.

Secretary should email minutes to Don Viands and Charlie Brummer.

Requested a synopsis statement from meeting participants and about four sentences describing the approaches and plans.

Accomplishments

Objective 1: <br /> <br /> (1) Genomic selection model for biomass yield shown to be effective in alfalfa.<br /> <br /> (2) Potato leafhopper resistant alfalfa has been developed and will be commercialized.<br /> <br /> (3) N-R-Gee alfalfa selected for lower pectin is in commercial production.<br /> <br /> (4) Populations tolerant to Al based on field evaluations have been developed.<br /> <br /> (5) Snout beetle tolerant alfalfa cultivar released last year and in commercial production. Continued selection has improved resistance further.<br /> <br /> (6) New birdsfoot trefoil germplasm is being evaluated for potential release.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 2:<br /> <br /> <br /> (1) Comparison of selection methods for biomass yield is underway in multiple location trials.<br /> <br /> (2) Populations were selected using a genomic prediction model. These will be increased in 2016 and tested in field trials in 2017.<br /> <br /> (3) Red clover populations with improved persistence, general adaptation, and biofuel use are being increased for evaluation.<br /> <br /> (4) A model to identify desirable reed canarygrass cultivars for biofuel use was developed.<br /> <br /> (5) Mixture trials documented the value of including legumes with grasses.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Objective 3:<br /> <br /> <br /> (1) Evaluations of multiple species of cool and warm season perennial forages continue to be evaluated for forage yield, persistence, and other agronomic traits at multiple locations in North America.<br />

Publications

Annicchiarico, P., B. Barrett, E.C. Brummer, B. Julier, and A.H. Marshall. 2015. Achievements and challenges in improving temperate perennial forage legumes. Crit. Rev. Plant Sci. 34:327-380.<br /> <br /> Annicchiarico, P., E.C. Brummer, B. Boller, and D. Reheul. 2015. Improving focus of forage breeding research. In: J. Baert et al. (eds.) Breeding in a world of scarcity. Springer, Netherlands [in press].<br /> <br /> Annicchiarico, P., N. Nazzicari, X. Li, Y. Wei, L. Pecetti, and E.C. Brummer. 2015. Accuracy of genomic selection for alfalfa biomass yield in different reference populations. BMC Genomics [tentatively accepted pending revision].<br /> <br /> Brummer, E.C. and M.D. Casler. 2014. Cool-season forages. In S. Smith, B. Diers, J. Specht, and B. Carver (eds.). Genetic gain in major U.S. field crops. CSSA Spec. Publ. 33. ASA, CSSA, and SSSA. Madison, WI. doi:0.2135/cssaspecpub33.c3.<br /> Casler, M.D., J.H. Cherney, E.C. Brummer, and B.S. Dien. 2015. Designing selection criteria for use of reed canarygrass as a bioenergy feedstock. Crop Sci. 55:2130-2137.<br /> <br /> Han, Y. D.-M. Khu, X. Li, A. Farmer, J.M. Martinez, E.C. Brummer and M.J. Monteros. 2014. High density array for SNP genotyping and mapping in tetraploid alfalfa. In: D. Sokolovi?, C. Huyghe, and J. Radovi? (eds.) Quantitative Traits Breeding for Multifunctional Grasslands and Turf (pp. 255-259). Springer, Netherlands.<br /> <br /> Hansen, J. D. Viands, and J. Crawford. 2015. Testing alfalfa varieties and germplasm for winter survival in northern New York. Northern NY Agric. Devel. Program Report. P. 83-86.<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L, D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Crawford, J. Schiller, and R. Crawford. 2015. New York forage legume and grass variety yield trials summary for 2015 - season totals. http://plbrgen.cals.cornell.edu/cals/pbg/programs/departmental/forage/foragetest.cfm and http://www.nnyagdev.org/index.php/2012/12/21/forage-variety-trial-data-now-online/<br /> <br /> Hansen, J.L., D. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Crawford, J. Schiller, and R. Crawford. 2015. New York forage legume and grass variety yield trials summary for 2015. http://www.naaic.org/Resources/yields.html<br /> <br /> Huyghe, C. and E.C. Brummer. 2014. Forage and grasslands in a sustainable agriculture: New challenges for breeding. In: D. Sokolovi?, C. Huyghe, and J. Radovi? (eds.) Quantitative Traits Breeding for Multifunctional Grasslands and Turf (pp. 3-15). Springer, Netherlands.<br /> <br /> Li, X., Y. Han, Y. Wei, A. Acharya, A.D. Farmer, J. Ho, M.J. Monteros, and E.C. Brummer. 2014. Development of an alfalfa SNP array and its use to evaluate patterns of population structure and linkage disequilibrium. PLoS One 9:e84329. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084329.<br /> <br /> Li, X., Y. Han, Y. Wei, A. Acharya, A.D. Farmer, J. Ho, M.J. Monteros, and E.C. Brummer. 2014. Development of an alfalfa SNP array and its use to evaluate patterns of population structure and linkage disequilibrium. PLoS One 9:e84329. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084329.<br /> <br /> Li, X., Y. Wei, A. Acharya, J.L. Hansen, J.L. Crawford, D.R. Viands, R. Michaud, A. Claessens, and E.C. Brummer. 2015. Genomic prediction of biomass yield in two selection cycles of a tetraploid alfalfa breeding population. Plant Genome 8. doi:10.3835/plantgenome2014.12.0090.<br /> <br /> Li, X., Y. Wei, A. Acharya, Q. Jiang, J. Kang, and E.C. Brummer. 2014. A saturated genetic linkage map of autotetraploid alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) developed using genotyping-by-sequencing is highly syntenous with the M. truncatula genome. G3: Genes Genomes Genetics 4:1971-1979. doi: 10.1534/g3.114.012245.<br /> <br /> Li1, X., B. Alarcón-Zúñiga1, J. Kang, M.H.N. Tahir, Q. Jiang, Y. Wei, R. Reyno, J.G. Robins, and E.C. Brummer. 2015. Mapping fall dormancy and winter injury in tetraploid alfalfa. Crop Sci. 55:1995-2011. doi:10.2135/cropsci2014.12.0834. (1Co-first authors)<br /> <br /> McElroy, M.S., S.A.E. Fillmore, M.O. Johnston, Y.A. Papadopoulos. 2014. Mutualism and Competition between cultivars of Nitrogen-fixing legumes species (Trifolium pratense L., Medicago sativa L.) and grasses (Phleum pratense L., Lolium perenne L.) under contrasting nitrogen fertilization levels. I.n Proceedings of 2014 Joint Conference of the North American Alfalfa Improvement Conference, Trifolium Conference and Grass Breeders Conference, 8-10 July 2014, in Lethbridge, Alberta Canada.<br /> <br /> Reyno, R., D. Real, and E.C. Brummer. 2015. Comparison of two selection methods for tolerance to acidic, aluminum-rich soil in alfalfa. Crop Sci. 55:1891-1899. doi:10.2135/cropsci2014.08.0543.<br /> <br /> Riday, H. and E.C. Brummer. 2014. Vigor and persistence of birdsfoot trefoil populations selected with or without an orchardgrass companion evaluated in grass sod. Crop Sci. 54:1-7. doi: 10.2135/cropsci2014.02.0147.<br /> <br /> Serba, D.D., G. Daverdin, J.H. Bouton, K.M. Devos, E.C. Brummer, and M.C. Saha. 2014. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) underlying biomass yield and plant height in switchgrass. BioEnergy Res. 8:307-324. doi: 10.1007/s12155-014-9523-8.<br /> <br /> Thilakarathna, R.M.M.S., Y.A. Papadopoulos, A.V. Rodd, M. Grimmett, S.A.E. Fillmore, and B. Prithiviraj. 2014. The role of red clover genotype in improving nitrogen fixation and transfer efficiency in legume-grass forage based production systems. In Proceedings of 2014 Joint Conference of the North American Alfalfa Improvement Conference, Trifolium Conference and Grass Breeders Conference, 8-10 July 2014, in Lethbridge, Alberta Canada.<br /> <br /> Viands, D.R., J. Hansen, J. Crawford, E.J. Shields, and A. Testa. 2015. Breeding alfalfa cultivars with resistance to alfalfa snout beetle. Northern NY Agric. Devel. Program Report. P. 39-47.<br />

Impact Statements

1. 1. The development of new cultivars will provide a more reliable source of economical feed for dairy and other livestock industries.
2. 2. This project improves environmental quality through the development of new cultivars of grasses and legumes with improved persistence, increased resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and enhanced soil-binding improvement capabilities (e.g., reduced soil erosion; improved nutrient cycling; less soil surface runoff; increased soil carbon sequestration; reduced atmospheric CO2; reduced use of agricultural chemicals/fertilizers; reduced pollution/contamination of surface and ground waters).
3. 3. Acid soils are very extensive in North America and worldwide. Alfalfa cultivars with tolerance to these soils will provide more economical forage by eliminating or reducing the need for lime applications. New cultivars will convert such problem soils, previously unsuitable for agriculture, into areas of stable high quality forage production. In addition, the use of ?Bridgeview? alfalfa, which was bred for tolerance to salt conditions in the soil, should expand the use of alfalfa for forage production.
4. 4. With improved forages and biomass crops, increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems can be achieved. Identification of breeding methods that will improve forage and biomass yield and quality is essential for improving the economics of these crops in production agriculture and in conservation and wildlife habitat systems.
5. 4. With improved forages and biomass crops, increased diversification and sustainability in agricultural ecosystems can be achieved. Identification of breeding methods that will improve forage and biomass yield and quality is essential for improving the economics of these crops in production agriculture and in conservation and wildlife habitat systems. 5. The evaluation of experimental populations is essential to ensure that all stakeholders have the agronomic information to make decisions on use of forage species and cultivars within species.
6. 6. Development of warm season grasses for biofuel use will contribute toward sustainability of energy production. The new switchgrass cultivar Expresso has higher seed germination, enabling improved stand establishment and subsequent production of biomass.

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Report Information

Participants

Bill Biligetu (Bill.Biligetu@usask.ca) - Univ. of Saskatchewan, Canada;
Boe, Arvid (arvid.boe@sdstate.edu) - South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD;
Brummer, Charles (ecbrummer@ucdavis.edu) – University of California, Davis, CA;
Casler, Mike (mdcasler@wisc.edu) – University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI;
Claessens, Annie (annie.claessens@agr.gc.ca) - AAFC, Quebec, QC;
Ehlke, Nancy (nancy@umn.edu) - University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN;
Kenaley, Shawn (sck26@cornell.edu) - Cornell University, Ithaca, NY;
Monteros, Maria (mjmonteros@noble.org), Noble Foundation, Ardmore, OK;
Papadopoulos, Yousef (yousef.papadopoulos@agr.gc.ca) - AAFC, Truro, NS;
Peel, Michael (mike.peel@ars.usda.gov), - ARS, Logan, UT;
Riday, Heathcliffe (heathcliffe.riday@ars.usda.gov) - ARS, Madison, WI;
Robins, Joe (joseph.robins@ars.usda.gov) – ARS, Idaho;
Viands, Don (drv3@cornell.edu) - Cornell University, Ithaca, NY; (Administrative Advisor);

Brief Summary of Minutes

Accomplishments

<p>Objective 1:</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <ul><br /> <li>A new genotyping system is being developed for red clover and alfalfa.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <ul><br /> <li>Populations tolerant to Al based on field evaluations have been developed and continue to be evaluated.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <ul><br /> <li>The new alfalfa snout beetle cultivar, Seedway 9558 SBR, is being used in northern NY. Field experiments are indicating that this cultivar has less root damage and higher forage yield than susceptible cultivars.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <ul><br /> <li>New birdsfoot trefoil germplasm is being evaluated for potential release.<br /> </li><br /> <li>Research on paternity testing in kura clover has progressed to a publication.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Objective 2:</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <ul><br /> <li>Comparison of selection methods for biomass yield is continuing at multiple location trials. Data so far indicate that progress from replicated clonal selection for higher yield has resulted in some progress in yield, but only at the location where selection was conducted.<br /> </li><br /> <li>A non-heading orchardgrass population is close to release as a potential cultivar.<br /> </li><br /> <li>Selection in red clover for improved persistence and general adaptation has resulted in plant populations with better adaptation.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <ul><br /> <li>Mixture trials documented the value of including legumes with grasses. All grass-legume mixtures were equal or higher in forage yield than their respective grass monocultures that were fertilized.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Objective 3:</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>(1) Evaluations of multiple species of cool and warm season perennial forages continue to be evaluated for forage yield, persistence, and other agronomic traits at multiple locations in North America.</p>

Publications

<p><strong>Relevant Publications</strong>:</p><br /> <p>(2015 publications were in print after the 2015 NE1010 annual report)</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Anower, M.R., A. Boe, D. Auger, I. W. Mott, M. D. Peel, L. Xu, P. Kanchupati, and Y. Wu. 2016. Comparative Drought Response in Eleven Diverse Alfalfa Accessions. Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science. DOI: 10.1111/jac.12156.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Cox, S., M.D. Peel, J.E. Creech, B.L. Waldron, J-S. Eun, D.R. Zobell, R.L. Miller, and D.L. Snyder. Forage production of grass-legume binary mixtures on Intermountain Western USA irrigated pastures. Crop Sci. Tentatively accepted.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Crawford, R., P. Salon, J. Crawford, J. Hansen, S. Bonos, M. Hall, and D. Viands. Fall 2014 height, vigor, quality and yield data from Cornell University NEWBio Switchgrass Nurseries. Poster presented at Northeast Wood/Warm Season Biomass Consortium 2015 Annual Meeting, NEWBio CAP Project, Morgantown, WV. 3-5 August 2015.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Crawford, R., J. Crawford, J. Hansen, and D. Viands. Development of gall midge susceptible and resistant Cave-in-Rock switchgrass populations. Poster presented at: Switchgrass III Prairie &amp; Native Grass International Conference. Knoxville, TN 30 September &ndash; 2 October 2015.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Hansen, J., J. Crawford, C. Brummer, R. Michaud, A. Claessens, S. Acharya, Y. Papadopoulos, J. Lamb, C. Sheaffer, and D. Viands. 2016. Replicated clonal selection for improving forage yield of alfalfa &ndash; Preliminary Report. North Amer. Alfalfa Improv. Conf. 12-14 July 2016. Madison, WI. <a href="https://www.naaic.org/">https://www.naaic.org/</a></p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Hansen, J.L, D.R. Viands, R. Deubler, J. Crawford, J. Schiller, and R. Crawford. 2016. New York forage legume and grass variety yield trials summary for 2016 - season totals</p><br /> <p><a href="http://plbrgen.cals.cornell.edu/research-extension/forage-project/ny-forage-yield-results">http://plbrgen.cals.cornell.edu/research-extension/forage-project/ny-forage-yield-results</a></p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Hoffman, L., E. N. Weibel, J. L. Crawford, R.V. Crawford, J. L. Hansen, M. H. Hall, D. R. Viands, and S.A. Bonos. 2015. Selection of switchgrass for reclaimed mineland. ASA, CSSA and SSSA International Ann. Meeting, 16 November 2015. Minneapolis, MN.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Kenaley, S.C., J.A. Cummings, C.N. Layton, G.C. Bergstrom. <em>In prep</em>. Multi-year field evaluation of bioenergy switchgrass (<em>Panicum virgatum</em>) susceptibility to the smut fungus <em>Tilletia maclaganii. Bioenergy Research </em>(expected submission, September 2016).</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Kenaley, S.C. and G.C. Bergstrom. 2015. Poster: Switchgrass leaf rust in U.S. caused by two genetically and morphologically distinct, yet, closely-related fungi. Switchgrass III: Prairie and Native Grass International Conference. Sept. 30-Oct. 2, Knoxville, TN.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Kenaley, S.C., G.W. Hudler, G.C. Bergstrom. 2016. Detection and phylogenetic relationships of <em>Puccinia</em> <em>emaculata</em> and <em>Uromyces</em> <em>graminicola</em> (Pucciniales) on switchgrass in New York State using rDNA sequence information. <em>Fungal Biology</em> 120: 791-806.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Li, X., Y. Wei, A. Acharya, J.L. Hansen, J. L. Crawford, D. R. Viands, R. Michaud, A. Claessens, and E. C. Brummer.&nbsp; 2015. Genomic prediction of biomass in two selection cycles of a tetraploid alfalfa breeding populations. The Plant Genome. July Vol. 8 No. 2.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Richards, B. K., C. R. Stoof, C. Mason, R. Crawford, H. S. Mayton, S. Das, J. Hansen, J. Crawford, T. S. Steenhuis, M. T. Walter,&nbsp;and D. R. Viands. 2015. Sustainable Perennial Grass Bioenergy Production on Marginal Lands of the Northeast: Five Years and Counting. Invited presentation, USDA Sustainable Bioenergy Program Project Director Meeting, November 4, 2015. Denver, Colorado. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.1.2223.0486</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Richards, B. K., C. R. Stoof, C. Mason, R. Crawford, H. S. Mayton, S. Das, J. Hansen, J. Crawford, T. S. Steenhuis, M. T. Walter,&nbsp;and D. R. Viands. 2015.&nbsp; Research Poster: Carbon sequestration and gaseous emissions in perennial grass bioenergy cropping systems in the Northeastern US. USDA Sustainable Bioenergy Program Project Director Meeting, November 3, 2015. Denver, CO. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.1.3795.9121<br /> </p><br /> <p>Richards, B. K., C. R. Stoof, C. Mason, R. Crawford, H. S. Mayton, S. Das, J. Hansen, J. Crawford, T. S. Steenhuis, M. T. Walter, and D. R. Viands. 2015. Research Poster: Carbon sequestration and gaseous emissions in perennial grass bioenergy cropping systems in the Northeastern US. NEWBio Bioenergy Consortium Annual Meeting Poster Session, Tuesday August 4, 2015. West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.1.4799.4725</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Riday, H., M.A. Smith, M.D. Peel. 2015. A simple model for pollen-parent fecundity distribution in bee-pollinated forage legume polycrosses. J. of T.A.G. 128:1865-1879.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Songsomboon K., J. Crawford, J. Cummings, G. Bergstrom, and D. Viands. Heritability and genetic gain of resistances to diseases caused by Bipolaris oryzae in switchgrass. Poster session presented at:&nbsp;5th International Conference on Quantitative Genetics. 13 &ndash; 17 June 2016; Madison, WI.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Songsomboon K., J. Crawford, J. Cummings, G. Bergstrom, and D. Viands. Heritability and genetic gain from selection for resistance to Bipolaris leaf spot in switchgrass. Poster session presented at: Switchgrass III: Prairie &amp; Native Grass International Conference. 30 September&ndash; 2 Oct 2015; Knoxville, TN.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Songsomboon K., J. Crawford, J. Cummings, G. Bergstrom, and D. Viands. Techniques for screening switchgrass for resistance to diseases caused by<em>Bipolaris oryzae</em>. Poster session presented at: 2015 Northeast Woody/Warm-season Biomass Consortium Annual Meeting. 3-5 August 2015; Morgantown, WV.&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Stoof, C. R., B. K. Richards, P. B. Woodbury, E. S. Fabio, A. Brumbach, J. H. Cherney, S. Das, L. D. Geohring, J. L. Hansen, J. Hornesky, H. S. Mayton, C. Mason, G. Ruestow, L. Smart, T. A. Volk, T. S. Steenhuis. 2015. Untapped potential: Opportunities and challenges for sustainable bioenergy production from marginal lands in the Northeast USA. BioEnergy Research 8:482-501.</p><br /> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Viands, D.R., J. Hansen, J. Crawford, E.J. Shields, and A. Testa. 2015. Breeding alfalfa cultivars with resistance to alfalfa snout beetle. Northern NY Agric. Devel. Program Report. <a href="http://www.nnyagdev.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/NNYADP15ViandsASBReportWeb.pdf">http://www.nnyagdev.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/NNYADP15ViandsASBReportWeb.pdf</a></p><br /> <p>Viands, D.R., J. Hansen, J. Crawford, E.J. Shields, and A. Testa. 2015. Breeding alfalfa cultivars with resistance to alfalfa snout beetle. Northern NY Agric. Devel. Program Report. <a href="http://www.nnyagdev.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/NNYADP15ViandsASBReportWeb.pdf">http://www.nnyagdev.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/NNYADP15ViandsASBReportWeb.pdf</a></p>

Impact Statements

1. 6. Development of warm season grasses for biofuel use will contribute toward sustainability of energy production. Protecting switchgrass from diseases and insects will help to provide biomass more economically.

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Report Information

Participants

Don Viands – Cornell Univ. (New York, U.S.A)
Bill Biligetu – Univ. Saskatchewan (CAN)
Heathcliffe Riday – USDA-Diary Forage Research Center (Wisconsin, U.S.A)
Donn Vellkson – Univ. Minnesota (U.S.A)
Nancy Ehlke – Univ. Minnesota (U.S.A)
Michael Peel – USDA-Agricultural Research Service (Utah, U.S.A)
Tim Phillips – Univ. Kentucky (U.SA.)
Charlie Brummer – Univ. California – Davis (U.S.A.)
Shawn Kenaley – Cornell Univ. (New York, U.S.A)
Arvid Boe – South Dakota State Univ. (U.S.A.)
Rebecca Brown – Univ. Rhode Island (U.S.A.)
Jesse Morrison – Mississippi State Univ. (U.S.A.)
Ali Missaoui – Univ. Georgia (U.S.A.)
Solen Rocher – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Quebec, CAN)
Annie Claessens – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Quebec, CAN)
Surya Acharya – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Alberta, CAN)
Abdelali Hannoufa – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Ontario, CAN)
Kathleen Glover – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Nova Scotia, CAN)
Yousef Papadopoulos – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Nova Scotia, CAN)
Sherry Stillmore – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Nova Scotia, CAN)

Brief Summary of Minutes

Opening – Introductions

1. Call to order, 9:48 AM


2. Dale Hebb (Acting Assoc. Director): welcome and introduction to the Atlantic Food and Horticulture Research Centre.
   
   
   
   1. Mission
   
   
   2. Facilities
   
   
   3. Agriculture education
   
   
   4. Research activities
   
   
   5. Research support
   
   
   
   


3. Papadopoulo (Chair and host): welcome, introductions, and meeting agenda


4. Attendees: self-introductions

Open discussion on NE1010 projects by objectives and forage species

Objective 1: Evaluate new plant characters and develop germplasm and cultivars with these characters to improve perennial forage species as livestock feed and biofuel uses to enhance rural vitality and promote more secure energy sources

1.1 Alfalfa

1.1.3.  Breeding for resistance to alfalfa snout beetle in alfalfa

• Viands (Cornell): discussed breeding resistance to alfalfa snout beetle
  
  
  
  • Indicated that, after several cycles of selection, resistance appears to be quantitative
  
  
  • At present, effective snout beetle control can be achieved via a combination of entomopathogenic nematodes (e.g., Steinernema and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora) and resistant cultivar.
  
  
  • The new resistant cultivar, Seedway 9558 SBR, is being used in Northern NY.
  
  
  • The 14^th cycle of selection for resistance has been completed in six alfalfa populations.
  
  
  
  

1.1.4.  Developing alalfa germplasm with potato leafhopper resistance from three diverse genetic sources

• Viands (Cornell)
  
  
  
  • Discussed that effective breeding is capable of producing resistance gains to potato leafhopper.
  
  
  
  

1.1.6.  Aluminum tolerance in tetraploid alfalfa

• Missaoui (Univ. Georgia) and Y. Papadopoulos (AAFC): discussed the promise of breeding and selecting from aluminum tolerance in alfalfa.
  
  
  
  • In so doing, Papdopoulos noted that he will provide electronic copies of outputs for his related work.
  
  
  • Importantly they noted that a number of selections of tetraploid alfalfa with enhanced tolerance to aluminum.
    
    
    
    • Four selections performed by the program of Papadopoulos have demonstrated enhanced tolerance; thus, Y. Papadopoulos suggested regional trials should be conducted to validate yield potential and aluminum tolerance of these selections across latitudes and longitudes.
      
      
      
      • Produced four novel acid tolerant populations (TA08-1003, TA08-1004, TA08-1005 and TA08-1004).
      
      
      • A newly developed synthetic TA08-1003 was evaluated in the Atlantic Forage registration trial and was supported for registration in 2014.
      
      
      • Complete a second cycle of selection and produced an addition novel synthetic (TA13-1012) which included plants with enhanced vigor and heritage with NY9627 and NA60-1002.
      
      
      • TA13-1012 will be placed into registration trials in 2018.
      
      
      
      
    
    
    • Papadopoulos also noted that the latter (multisite regional testing) as well as the exchange of germplasm has been paramount to the success and coordination of NE1010 projects, and, hence, breeding products have value-added to the plant breeding community at large.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  
  

1.2 Birdsfoot trefoil

1.2.1.  Rhizomatous birdsfoot trefoil for yield improvement

• Viands (Cornell)
  
  
  
  • Slow trait to select from wild background
    
    
    
    • Noted that after four cycles of selection rhizomatous plants demonstrated poor vigor.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Recently backcrossed to enhance trait but remains a slow trait to select.
  
  
  • Plants will be selected for vigor and rhizome production in fall 2017.
  
  
  
  

1.2.2.  Plot evaluation of birdsfoot trefoil for vigor

• Peel (USDA-ARS, Utah)
  
  
  
  • Discussed plot evaluations on dryland sites with little to no summer precipitation.
  
  
  • Several promising selections with drought tolerance and high/sufficient vigor were identified, and, hence, warrant additional study.
  
  
  • These studies have concluded; successfully fulfilling deliverables.
  
  
  
  

1.5 Multiple Species

1.5.1.  Selection of fiber digestibility and cell wall pectin

• Viands (Cornell)
  
  
  
  • Discuss his previous selection studies to identify traits for forage quality
    
    
    
    • Selecting for pectin concentration after two years significantly reduced forage yield
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Presently, working to combine alfalfa forage quality with resistance to potato leafhopper
  
  
  
  


• Claessens
  
  
  
  • Sugar content and cell wall digestibility. Still working on lower digestibility of alfalfa.
  
  
  
  


• Brummer (UC-Davis)
  
  
  
  • Posed the question: “Is there a relationship between cell wall digestibility and fall dormancy?”
  
  
  • Noted that increasing dormancy (producing more dormant plants) likely will increase forage quality.
  
  
  
  

1.6 Marker-assisted selection

1.6.1.  Red Clover marker-assisted selection. To be developed.

• Riday (USDA-DFRC, Wisconsin)
  
  
  
  • Utilized 60 SSRs per PCR per genotype sequencing (Illumina)
  
  
  • Working with new RNAseq data
  
  
  • Improved assembly platforms and SSR marker discovery
    
    
    
    • For the discovery and assessment of cheaper markers, Riday and colleagues would like to move away from Illumina to Nano pore technology
    
    
    
    
  
  
  
  

1.6.2.  Kura clover: Paternity testing

• Riday (USDA-DFRC, Wisconsin) – finished work and have since published findings

1.6.3.  Alfalfa: Marker-assisted selection

• Riday (USDA-DFRC, Wisconsin)
  
  
  
  • Tracked selfing and paternity
  
  
  • SSRs not associated with a particular trait(s)
  
  
  • No confirmed loci; however, QTLs have been mapped.
  
  
  • Present SSR markers provide an improved basic set of tools; yet, do not lend themselves to pure marker-assisted selection.
  
  
  
  

1.7 Kura Clover: Vigor and spreadability

• Unrealized project, no significant deliverables


• Y. Papadopoulos (AAFC)
  
  
  
  • Stated that plant vigor in Kura clover is a significant challenge
  
  
  • Suggested that discussion among the NE1010 group should be held to determine who should lead this project.
  
  
  • Questioned whether the goal should be to focus on promising germplasm and their downstream release
  
  
  
  


• Riday (USDA-DFRC, Wisconsin)
  
  
  
  • In response to Y. Papadopoulos’ call for promising germplasm, H. Riday replied that he and his collaborators have 15 lines of Kura clover for possible vigor and spreadability testing
  
  
  
  


• Rebecca Brown (Univ. Rhode Island)
  
  
  
  • Responded to H. Riday comment about his 15 lines inquiring about the seed production and seed sources of Kura clover with demonstrated vigor and spreadability. She has several projects looking to utilize Kura Clover.
  
  
  
  

Objective 2: Build on previous research to evaluate additional breeding methods for improving yield and persistence of alfalfa, red clover, orchardgrass, and other forage species to make production agriculture more economical and sustainable.

2.1. Alfalfa

2.1.2.  Replicated clonal selection for improving forage yield of alfalfa

• Viands (Cornell)
  
  
  
  • Indicated that this study concluded and all outcomes were achieved.
  
  
  • Called for three-year data to be submitted to him for analysis
  
  
  • Discussed that genotype x environment interaction was a big issue and was reflected in multi-site data.
  
  
  • Three-year data to be analyzed shortly
  
  
  
  


• Brummer (UC-Davis)
  
  
  
  • Discussed clonal selection trial in CA including ten reps of promised germplasm across two sites
  
  
  • Lines were scored based on phenotype, resulting in yield gains
  
  
  
  

2.2. Orchardgrass

2.2.1.  Clonal selection in orchardgrass for broad adaptation

• Phillips (Univ. Kentucky)
  
  
  
  • Discussed four germplasm sources that were inter-mated and selected
  
  
  • Noted a thrips-transmitted virus ravaged these selections and, hence, no products (i.e., broadly adapted clones) were realized.
  
  
  
  

2.2.2.  Non-heading orchardgrass research

• Michael Casler (USDA-ARS, Wisconsin) – NOT PRESENT
  
  
  
  • General discussion among attendees, particularly the observation that flowering in orchardgrass is remarkably different by region.
  
  
  
  

2.3. Red clover

2.3.1.  Selection for general adaptation in red clover

• Y. Papadopoulos (AAFC)
  
  
  
  • Evaluated the theory of general adaptation (genotype x environment interactions) in red clover
  
  
  • Data were collected in 2013, 2014 and 2015 growing seasons and data analysis is currently underway.
  
  
  
  


• Y. Papadopoulos (AAFC) and Riday (USDA-DFRC, Wisconsin)
  
  
  
  • Noted:
    
    
    
    • Varieties in Quebec, NY State, and WI clustered together
    
    
    • No evidence of local adaptation
    
    
    • Varieties with high performance were the high performers across sites
    
    
    • Selecting populations with high performance across latitudes is possible
    
    
    • Publication of results in prep
    
    
    
    
  
  
  
  

2.3.2.  Selection for persistence in red clover using half-sib families

• Riday (USDA-DFRC, Wisconsin)
  
  
  
  • Data in place for the selection of persistence in red clover using half-sib families
  
  
  • Tried demonstrating selection and yield gain among half-sib and phenotypic selections
  
  
  • Selection for yield and vigor is most advantageous rather than for persistence
  
  
  
  

2.3.3.  Red clover biofuels

• Y. Papadopoulos (AAFC)
  
  
  
  • Co-seeded switchgrass and red clover
  
  
  • Switchgrass failed to establish
  
  
  
  

2.4. Reed canarygrass: Methods to improve reed canargrass

• Michael Casler (USDA-ARS, Wisconsin) – NOT PRESENT, no update

Objective 3: Evaluate new experimental populations and cultivars of perennial forage species for characteristics necessary for breeders, seed companies, see and forage producers, and crop consultants to make decisions on commercial use over large regions.

3.1 Alfalfa

3.1.1.  Evaluation of new M. sativa subsp. falcata populations

• Peel (USDA-ARS, Utah)
  
  
  
  • Populations have been evaluated.
  
  
  
  

3.1.2.  Hybrid alfalfa evaluation

• General discussion as to who will continue this work as the former lead (Lamb, USDA-MN) is no longer actively executing this study. Group indicated that Deborah Samac (USDA-ARS, Minnesota) is planning to continue the work of Lamb.

3.1.3.  Evaluation of salt tolerant alfalfa

• Acharya (AAFC)
  
  
  
  • Provided brief update, no significant products in 2016
  
  
  • Genomic selections will be challenged under controlled conditions.
  
  
  • Selections have been completed and will evaluate them. Mike has a huge effort in salt tolerance. Surya and Mike will exchange GP to evaluate. Annie volunteered to evaluate too. Mike will be ready for another evaluation trial in two to three years.
  
  
  
  


• Riday (USDA-DFRC, Wisconsin)
  
  
  
  • Noted that there is a pressing need for an improved salt germination test for high-throughput screening of genomic selections
  
  
  • At present, “our community also doesn’t have a very good salt tolerant check.”
  
  
  
  


• Y. Papadopoulos (AAFC)
  
  
  
  • Salt tolerance is a pressing issue – one that should be explored and, thus, emphasized in new NE1710
  
  
  
  
  
  

• Multiple species

3.3.1.  Biomass alfalfa/grass mixture evaluation

• General discussion as Lead Lamb – NOT PRESENT
  
  
  
  • Monoculture and mixture trials were conducted
  
  
  • Data for project possessed by Deborah Samac (USDA-ARS, Minnesota) should be procured and circulated among collaborators
  
  
  
  

3.3.2.  Meadow and hybrid bromegrass

• Coulman
  
  
  
  • Developed one population
  
  
  • Will send abstract indicating results.
  
  
  • Bruce will write a manuscript within the next two years.
  
  
  • One population yields 13% more than Fleet in 5-year trials.
  
  
  
  


• Bow (South Dakota State Univ.)
  
  
  
  • Hybrids were less vigorous and produced less biomass than when compared to non-hybrids .
  
  
  
  


• Y. Papadopoulos (AAFC)
  
  
  
  • Several bromegrass populations are flexible for early grazing
  
  
  
  

BREAK - LUNCH

Discussion regarding NE-1710

1. Regionally adapted resilient alfalfa germplasm pool development

• Riday (USDA-DFRC, Wisconsin)
  
  
  
  • Established four pools – central Asian, Baltic, northeastern European, and Siberia
    
    
    
    • Created seed increases for each pool and have since established nurseries
    
    
    • Submitted grant proposal to assist in funding project
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Pre-breeding will be part of effort
    
    
    
    • Diversity of selections compared to commercially available
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Movement of germplasm among collaborators will be done via seed
  
  
  • Retain tissue samples from the original pools’ members for DNA analysis
  
  
  
  


• Brummer (UC-Davis)
  
  
  
  • Established new germplasm for southern germ pools – South Africa
    
    
    
    • in CA
    
    
    • Need discussion on workflow and pre-breeding
    
    
    • Will do dormancy screening
      Crop Characteristics will do disease screening
    
    
    
    
  
  
  • Asked for multiple collaborators to submit plants/seeds to include in the initial pools
  
  
  
  


• Missaoui (Univ. Georgia)
  
  
  
  • Gardens include germplasm from Iran and North Africa
  
  
  
  

2. Resilient cool-season grasses adapted to variable climatic conditions

• Multiple collaborators to assess winter survival, yield, and influence of latitude on the former and latter.

3. Meadow bromegrass – low genetic diversity
   
   
   
   • Bow (South Dakota State Univ.) and D. Viands (Cornell) would be interested in developing trials for meadow bromegrass
     
     
     
     • Important grass for southern Canada
     
     
     
     
   
   
   
   

4. Assessing the varied profile and contents of isoflavoids in birdsfoot trefoil across diverse climatic conditions in the northern latitudes.
   
   
   
   • Y. Papadopoulos (AAFC)
   
   
   
   

• Already demonstrated genotype x environment differences of tannin content between outdoor and greenhouse cultivated plants


• Looking at tannic acid because of its demonstrated benefits to plants as well as possible suppression in intestinal, sheep nematodes


• Missaoui, Riday, D. Viands, R. Brown will cooperate.
  
  
  
  • Agreed to establish plot trials in 2018
  
  
  • 20-25 entries. Assess plots in 2019 and 2020 for development stage in first two harvests, and send frozen (freeze dried) forage to Yousef, who assay samples. Also take forage yield.
  
  
  
  

5. Understanding genotype by environmental interactions across multiple forage species

• Group discussion: will look for past and present data to determine factors contributing to combined GxE
  
  
  
  • Candidate plant species: red clover
  
  
  • Multi-location evaluations every few years. Multiple species. Lead for each species.
  
  
  • Sherry Stillmore discussed doing a meta-analysis of previous data to determine the level of G x E in various species. She would be willing to be involved in the analysis if we could get her the data. Maybe begin with one species. Yousef named Mike (lead), Yousef, Sherry, Heathcliffe and Don will identify a species and send data.
  
  
  • Red clover: what data are available? Maybe trefoil, too? Yousef to coordinate data. Mike and Yousef co-lead the meta-analysis.
  
  
  
  

 

Planning: 2018 Annual Meeting

Proposed host site: Logan, UT. Meet the day before the NAAIC meeting.
In 2019, meet in Athens, GA (Ali Mussaoui host)

Appointed chair: S. Kenaley (Cornell)

Secretary: Ali Mussaoui

Accomplishments

<p>Objective 1:</p><br /> <ul><br /> <li>Four novel acid tolerance alfalfa populations have been developed. One population is targeted to become a cultivar.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <ul><br /> <li>The new alfalfa snout beetle cultivar, Seedway 9558 SBR, is being used in northern NY. Field experiments continue to indicate that this cultivar has less root damage and higher forage yield than susceptible cultivars.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <ul><br /> <li>Forage quality has been improved in alfalfa and other species.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <ul><br /> <li>Research on paternity testing in kura clover has been published.</li><br /> <li>USDA-UTWH-102 orchardgrass germplasm was released with improved winter hardiness.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <p>Objective 2:</p><br /> <ul><br /> <li>Comparison of selection methods for biomass yield is continuing at multiple location trials. Data so far indicate that progress from replicated clonal selection for higher yield has resulted in some progress in yield, but only at the location where selection was conducted.</li><br /> <li>Research has shown that selection of red clover across latitudes is possible. A publication is being prepared.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <p>Objective 3:</p><br /> <ul><br /> <li>Evaluations of multiple species of cool and warm season perennial forages continue to be evaluated for forage yield, persistence, and other agronomic traits at multiple locations in North America.</li><br /> </ul>

Publications

<p>Anower, M.R<em>.</em>, A. Fennell, A. Boe, I.W. Mott, M.D. Peel, and Y. Wu. 2016. Physiological and molecular characterisation of lucerne (<em>Medicago sativa</em> L.) germplasm with improved seedling freezing tolerance. Crop and Pasture Science. 67:655-665.</p><br /> <p>Anower, M.R<em>.</em>, A. Boe, D. Auger, I. W. Mott, M.D. Peel, L. Xu, P. Kanchupati, and Y. Wu. 2016. Comparative Drought Response in Eleven Diverse Alfalfa Accessions. Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science. 203:1-13.</p><br /> <p>Anower, M.R., M.D. Peel, I.W. Mott, and Y.Wu. 2017. Physiological processes associated with salinity tolerance in an alfalfa half-sib family. Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science. DOI:10.1111/jac.12221 (<em>Accepted May 5, 2017</em>)</p><br /> <p>Cox, S., M.D. Peel, J.E. Creech, B.L. Waldron, J-S. Eun, D.R. Zobell, R.L. Miller, D.L. Snyder. 2017. Forage production of grass-legume binary mixtures on Intermountain Western USA irrigated pastures. Crop Science. 57:1742-1753.</p><br /> <p>Farris, R.L., J.H. Fike, J.L. Hansen, E.A. Heaton, H.S. Mayton, R.B. Mitchell, V.N. Owens, J.W. Pease, D.R. Viands. 2017. Switchgrass N-response and cost of production on diverse sites<strong>. </strong>GCB Bioenergy. doi:1111/gcbb.12444. <a href="http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcbb.12444/epdf">http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcbb.12444/epdf</a>)</p><br /> <p>Hansen, J.L., D.R. Viands, J.L. Crawford, E.J. Shields, and A. Testa. 2017. Breeding alfalfa cultivars with resistance to alfalfa snout beetle. Northern New York Agric. Devel. Program Report. <a href="http://www.nnyagdev.org/index.php/field-crops/research-projects/">http://www.nnyagdev.org/index.php/field-crops/research-projects/</a></p><br /> <p>Huang, W., Mayton, H. S., Amirkhani, M., Wang, D., &amp; Taylor, A. G. (2017). Seed dormancy, germination and fungal infestation of eastern gamagrass seed.&nbsp;<em>Industrial Crops and Products</em>,&nbsp;<em>99</em>, 109-116.</p><br /> <p>Huang, W., Wang, D., &amp; Taylor, A. G. (2016). Seed pressing to remove cupules and obtain caryopses in eastern gamagrass.&nbsp;<em>Seed Science and Technology</em>,&nbsp;<em>44</em>(1), 114-124.</p><br /> <p>Kenaley, S.C., G.W. Hudler, G.C. Bergstrom. 2016. Detection and phylogenetic relationships of <em>Puccinia</em> <em>emaculata</em> and <em>Uromyces</em> <em>graminicola</em> (Pucciniales) on switchgrass in New York State using rDNA sequence information. Fungal Biology 120: 791&ndash;806</p><br /> <p>Kenaley, S.C., J.A. Cummings, C.N. Layton, and G.C. Bergstrom. <em>In prep</em>. Natural development of head smut (<em>Tilletia maclaganii</em>) in switchgrass over five years. BioEnergy Research.</p><br /> <p>Kenaley, S.C., B. Richards, L. Rohr, A. Gonzalez, and G. G. Bergstrom. <em>In prep</em>. Influence of nitrogen loading on head smut incidence in switchgrass grown on marginal land in New York. BioEnergy Research</p><br /> <p>Kenaley, S.C., J.A. Cummings, C.N. Layton, and G.C. Bergstrom. 2016. Natural development of head smut (<em>Tilletia maclaganii</em>) in seven cultivars of switchgrass over five years. The American Phytopathological Society, Northeastern Division Meeting. October 19&ndash;21, Ithaca, NY.</p><br /> <p>Kenaley, S.C. and G.C. Bergstrom. 2016 (Poster). Switchgrass leaf rust in U.S. caused by two genetically and morphologically distinct, yet, closely-related fungi. American Phytopathological Society, Northeast Division Meeting. January 3&ndash;7, Philadelphia, PA.</p><br /> <p>Kenaley, S.C., M. Quan, and G.C. Bergstrom. 2017 (Poster). Species diversity and epidemiology of switchgrass rust fungi<em>: Puccinia emaculata</em> sensu lato and <em>Uromyces graminicola</em>.&nbsp; Switchgrass IV, Prairie and Native Grass International Conference: Genetics to Conversion. August 7-10, Lincoln, NE.</p><br /> <p>Kenaley, S.C., J.A. Cummings, C.N. Layton, and G.C. Bergstrom. 2017 (Poster). Natural development of head smut (<em>Tilletia maclaganii</em>) in switchgrass over five years. Switchgrass IV, Prairie and Native Grass International Conference: Genetics to Conversion. August 7-10, Lincoln, NE.</p><br /> <p>Lee, DoKyoung; Aberle, Ezra; Anderson, Eric; Anderson, William; Baldwin, Brian; Baltensperger, David; Barrett, Michael; Bonos, Stacy; Bouton, Joe; Brummer, Charlie; Burks, Payne; Chen, Chengci; Daly, christopher; Egenolf, Josh; Farris, Rodney; Fike, John; Gaussoin, Roch; Gill, John; Gravois, Kenneth; Halbleib, Michael; Hale , Anna; Hanna, Wayne; Harmoney, Keith; Heaton, Emily; Heiniger, Ron; Hoffman, Lindsey; Hong, Chang; Kakani, Vijaya Gopal; Kallenbach, Robert; Macoon, Bisoodat; Medly, James; Missaoui, Ali; Mitchell, Robert; Moore, Ken; Morrison, Jesse; Odvody, Gary; Ogoshi, Richard; Parrish, Jimmy; Quinn, Lauren; Richard, Ed; Rooney , Bill; Rushing, Brett; Schnell, Ronnie; Sousek, Matt; Staggenborg, Scott; Tew, Thomas; Uehara, Goro; Viands, Donald; Voigt, Thomas; Williams, David; Williams, Linda; Wilson, Lloyd; Wycislo, Andrew; Yang, Yubin; Owens, Vance. 2017. Biomass Production of Herbaceous Energy Crops in the United States: Field Trial Results and Yield Potential Maps from the Multiyear Regional Feedstock Partnership. GCB Bioenergy. Submitted for publication.</p><br /> <p>Mayton, H. S., Loos, M., Crawford, J., Crawford, R., Hansen, J., Viands, D. &amp; Taylor, A. T. <em>(2017)</em> Utilization of seed technology and plant breeding for efficient production of switchgrass in the Northeast USA. <em>(in preparation)</em></p><br /> <p>Mott, I.W., M.D. Peel, <em>M.R. Anower</em>, and Y. Wu. 2016. Alfalfa (<em>Medicago sativa</em> ssp. <em>falcata</em>) root gene expression polymorphisms (GEPs) induced by recurrent selection in saline conditions. Plant Genetic Resources (In review)</p><br /> <p>Peel, M.D., <em>S. Cox</em>, J.E. Creech, B.L. Waldron, J-S. Eun, R.L. Miller, and C.E. Israelsen. Forage nutritive value of grass-legume binary mixtures on Intermountain Western USA irrigated pastures. Crop Science. (Submitted March 2017)</p><br /> <p>Similien RM, Coulman B, Boe A. 2017. Forage Production and Mass Selection for Forage Yield in Meadow Bromegrass on Marginal Land in the Northern Great Plains.&nbsp; <strong>(final stages of preparation)</strong></p><br /> <p>Waldron, B.L., M.D. Peel, S.R. Larson, I.W. Mott, and J.E. Creech. 2017. Tall fescue forage mass in a grass-legume mixture: predicted efficiency of indirect selection. Euphytica. (<em>In Press</em>) 213:67 DOI: 10.1007/s10681-017-1856-x.</p>

Impact Statements

1. 6. Development of warm season grasses for biofuel use will contribute toward sustainability of energy production. Protecting switchgrass from diseases and insects will help to provide biomass more economically.

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