NC_OLD7: Conservation, Management, Enhancement and Utilization of Plant Genetic Resources

(Multistate Research Project)

Status: Inactive/Terminating

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SAES-422 Reports

Annual/Termination Reports:

[12/14/2009] [12/14/2009] [12/14/2009] [12/20/2011] [12/20/2011]

Date of Annual Report: 12/14/2009

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 06/19/2007 - 06/20/2007
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2006 - 09/01/2007

Participants

*Karban, Richard (rkarban@ucdavis.edu) - CA / UC Davis;
*Brand, Mark (mark.brand@uconn.edu) - CT / U of CT;
*Hawk, James (jhawk@udel.edu) - DE / U of DE;
*Kling, Gary (gkling@uiuc.edu) - IL / U of IL;
*Janick, Jules (janick@purdue.edu) - IN / Purdue;
*Hall, Richard (rbhall@iastate.edu) - IA / ISU;
Lamkey, Kendall (krlamkey@iastate.edu) - IA / ISU;
Fritz, Allan (akt@ksu.edu) - KS / KSU;
*Stamm, Michael (mjstamm@ksu.edu) - KS / KSU;
Hancock, J. (hancock@msu.edu) - MI / MSU;
*Iezzoni, Amy (iezzoni@msu.edu) - MI / MSU;
*Orf, James (orfxx001@umn.edu) MN / U of MN;
Beuselinck, Paul (beuselinckp@missouri.edu) - MO / UMC;
*Flint-Garcia, Sherry (sherry.flint-garcia@ars.usda.gov) - MO / U of MO;
Shannon, James (shannong@missouri.edu) - MO / U of MO;
*Santra, Dipak (dsantra2@unl.edu) - NE / U of NE;
Handel, Steven (handel@aesop.rutgers.edu) - NJ / Rutgers;
*Molnar, Thomas (molnar@aesop.rutgers.edu) - NJ / Rutgers;
*Johnson, Burton (Burton.Johnson@ndsu.edu) - ND / NDSU;
*Francis, David (francis.77@osu.edu) - OH / OSU;
*Glover, Karl (Karl.Glover@sdstate.edu) - SD / SDSU;
*Baltensperger, David (dbaltensperger@ag.tamu.edu) - TX / Texas AgriLife Research;
de Leon, Natalia (ndeleongatti@wisc.edu) - WI / U of WI;
Kaeppler, Shawn (smkaeppl@wisc.edu) - WI / U of WI;
*Tracy, Bill (wftracy@wisc.edu) - WI / U of WI;
Gardner, Candice (candice.gardner@ars.usda.gov) - IA / USDA-ARS, NC-7 Coordinator Ex-officio;
*Wintersteen, Wendy (agdean@iastate.edu) - IA / ISU, Administrative Advisor

* Indicates voting members.

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes Attachment:

Attachment

Accomplishments

Background: The plant genetic resource (PGR) needs of the North Central Region have been supported for over 58 years through a joint partnership, designated as Multi-State Research Project NC-7, between the USDA, ARS, Plant Introduction Research Unit, Iowa State University and the other members of the North Central States Agricultural Experiment Station. The NC-7 Project has served as a major component of the National Plant Germplasm System, and its activities have significantly contributed to improved crop technology in the North Central Region, the U.S., and abroad, by providing plant genetic resources and associated information to scientists and educators. NC-7 Project researchers' participation results in development of new plant genetic resources for agricultural production in the U.S., and new information that supports agricultural research and production. The Multi-State Research Project meetings serve as an important vehicle for information exchange and feedback between participants, Administrative Advisor and genebank personnel. Accomplishments for 2007: <ul><li>The collection totals 48,493 accessions of with 73% available for distribution and 78% backed up at Ft. Collins, CO. <li>In 2007, 450 new accessions were acquired, including Melilotus from Kyrgyztan, 124 maize lines including 63 from the Australian germplasm system, Helianthus from Spain, Australia and the southwestern U.S., Camelina sativa from Slovenia, Cucumis from China, Daucus from Tunisia, medicinal plants from the Republic of Georgia. Collection trips in the U.S. for Fraxinus, wild sunflower, wild Amaranthus sp. and spinach relatives all contributed to increasing the genetic variability of the U.S. collections for use in research. <li>Over 2,580 accessions were assigned permanent PI numbers in 2007, the highest number of assignments in the past 12 years. Taxonomic re-identification was completed for 187 accessions. Sixty seven were nominated for inactivation, 17 of these due to duplication. <li>Georeferencing of the wild Helianthus collection was completed. <li>Original seed samples of the accessions are stored at -18 C to extend seed longevity, while the working collection is stored at 4 C. <li>Viability tests were conducted on more than 2,600 accessions. Cryopreservation methods for willow were developed in collaboration with ARS investigators at the NCGRP in Ft. Collins, CO. <li>A total of 22,261 items representing 10,328 accessions were distributed in 1,138 orders to 813 users worldwide in 2007. Approximately 35% were distributed internationally, and 65% to domestic researchers. Demand for Aronia was high, reflecting interest in the fruit's high antioxidant concentrations and use for uices and food products. Maize distributions increased over 2006, reflecting research for biofuel applications and health and nutrition. Echinacea and Prunella plant materials were provided for NIH-funded research on botanical dietary supplements at ISU. The largest single Brassicaceae distribution was sent to Australia for disease resistance and aluminum tolerance evaluation. <li>Regeneration efforts in Ames and with collaborators resulted in 1,461 grown and 1,048 harvested. <li>Over 6,560 accessions were grown for observation, evaluation and characterization for a wide array of descriptor information. About 35,140 observations were entered in the GRIN database, http://www.ars.grin.gov/npgs/, and 1,785 images were added to GRIN. Of these, the Amaranth project loaded over 13,150 descriptor notes, including Coriandrum and Amaranthus data. <li>The Germplasm Enhancement of Maize Project released 21 S3 lines in 2007; for the period 2001-2007, 173 lines have been released. These lines have unique agronomic traits, pest resistance, or value-added grain characteristics and will be used to broaden the genetic diversity of temperate U.S. maize production. <li>Additional accomplishments will be reported in the NC-7 annual report and minutes (http://www.ars.usda.gov/Main/docs.htm?docid=9641).</ul> NC-7 Participant Accomplishments: <ul><li>University of California - Davis researchers found that when sagebrush plants were clipped to mimic damage from herbivores, that seed germination of neighboring plants was reduced. The mechanism by which this occurs is not well understood. <li>University of Connecticut researchers published a treatise on the role of transformation in development of varieties for the horticultural and ornamental industries. <li>University of Illinois researchers evaluated a variety of media for use as herbicide carriers for container-grown woody ornamentals, including rice hulls, leaf-waste pellets and pine bark. <li>Iowa State University researchers and USDA collaborators released new maize germplasm derived from exotic germplasm sources; evaluated wild Helianthus species for resistance to sclerotinia stalk rot, identifying sources with a high degree of resistance; characterized flowering time of the spring and winter Brassica napus L. collection; developed real-time PCR assay for quantitative detection of the pathogens that cause Stewart's wilt and Diplodia ear rot of maize; improved methods for use of alfalfa leafcutting bees in plant genetic resource conservation applications; determined a protocol for hydration of Cuphea seeds that had been stored in liquid N in order to preserve their viability; and published findings that Echinacea species and alkamides inhibit prostaglandin E2 production in mouse macrophage cells. <li>Kansas State researchers found that genome expansion in three hybrid sunflower species is associated with retrotransposon proliferation. <li>University of Minnesota researchers published methods on culturing and long-term storage of virulent races of the rose blackspot pathogen, and evaluated results of storage methods; they determined rose pollen viability over time under varying storage regimes. <li>University of Missouri researchers released a maize germplasm population CRW3(S1)C6 with resistance to western corn rootworm; released soybean germplasm lines with resistance to root knot nematodes, with resistance to soybean cyst nematode and with seed oil low in linolenic acid. <li>North Dakota State University researchers invested phenomenon associated with development, physiological maturation, and fatty acid composition of Cuphea and borage, two new crops, and evaluated seeding date and performance of a variety of specialty oilseeds and gluten-free crops in ND. <li>Texas A&M University researchers released new upland cotton cultivars with extra long staple length and improved fiber quality. <li>University of Wisconsin researchers determined that reaction of sweet corn hybrids to common rust is related to the change from the vegetative to reproductive growth phase.</ul> Financial Situation: Significant accomplishments continue to be achieved; financial resources for this project are becoming a major concern. Since 2004, NC-7 funded ISU positions have decreased from 12 to 10. The number of full-time equivalents of student labor declined from 20 in 2006 to 17 in 2007 due to resource constraints (ARS and Hatch funding). NC-7 Budget Request: Given the tough economic circumstances for all of the Agricultural Experiment Stations, a 10% increase in NC-7 Project funding was requested for FY2008, but was not possible; the budget remains at $522,980. Action Requested: Approval of NC-7 FY2008 Budget Request. Action Taken: Budget was approved at $522,980 level for FY2007, a decrease from $528,262 in FY2006 due to a rescission. In FY2008, the budget remainas at $522,980.

Publications

Publications Attachment:

Attachment

Impact Statements

NC-7 participants have used plant genetic resources obtained from the North Central Regional Plant Introduction Station (NCRPIS) and other elements of the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) to develop improved varieties with increased productivity and resistance to biotic and abiotic stress; new crops and new uses for existing crops; fruit, nut, or grain plant varieties with added crop value by contributing improved flavor or nutritional qualities; more sustainable cropping systems; feedstocks for biofuel and industrial uses; and have expanded our knowledge of genetics, genomics and the basis of diversity. All of these activities support sustainability of agricultural production, health, nutrition, and energy independence.

Date of Annual Report: 12/14/2009

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 08/06/2008 - 08/07/2008
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2007 - 09/01/2008

Participants

* Indicates voting members.

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes Attachment:

Attachment

Accomplishments

Background: The plant genetic resource (PGR) needs of the North Central Region have been supported for over 59 years through a joint partnership, designated as Multi-State Research Project NC-7, between the USDA, ARS, Plant Introduction Research Unit, Iowa State University and the other members of the North Central States Agricultural Experiment Station. The NC-7 Project has served as a major component of the National Plant Germplasm System, and its activities have significantly contributed to improved crop technology in the North Central Region, the U.S., and abroad, by providing plant genetic resources and associated information to scientists and educators. NC-7 Project researchers participation results in development of new plant genetic resources for agricultural production in the U.S., and new information that supports agricultural research and production. The Multi-State Research Project meetings serve as an important vehicle for information exchange and feedback between participants, Administrative Advisor and genebank personnel. Accomplishments for 2008: <ul><li>The collection totals 50,313 accessions of 1,666 species and 342 genera with 74% available for distribution and 79% backed up at Ft. Collins, CO. About 3,940 accessions were also backed up at the Svalbard Global Germplasm Vault.; Plant exploration in Turkmenistan provided new Cucumis melo accessions. Collection trips in the U.S. for ash, wild sunflower, wild Amaranthus sp. and spinach relatives all contributed to increasing the genetic variability of the U.S. collections for use in research. <li>Original seed samples of the accessions are stored at -18 C to extend seed longevity, while the working collection is stored at than 4 C. <li>Viability tests were conducted on 2,410 accessions. Methods to break dormancy in Actaea, Calendula, and Echinochloa were investigated. Cryopreservation methods for ash buds are being developed with ARS investigators at the NCGRP in Ft. Collins, CO. <li>A total of 24,726 items representing 12,709 accessions were distributed in 1,243 orders to 908 users worldwide in 2008. Internally, 12,450 accessions were distributed in house for viability testing, observation, pathology tests, and backup; 2,410 were tested for viability. <li>Regeneration efforts in Ames and with collaborators resulted in harvest of 1,113 accessions. Five different insect pollinators were used to assist in pollination of 809 accessions in 2008. Use of alfalfa leafcutter bees is now a significant part of the pollination services program, their use exceeding that of honeybees. <li>Genetic diversity characterization of the Helianthus pumilis collection was initiated. <li>Over 23,900 observations were entered in the GRIN database, extensive descriptor notes from a Coriandrum dissertation study, and large Daucus and Cichorium descriptor datasets. In addition, 963 digital images were loaded to GRIN. Over 4200 maize accessions were evaluated via NIRS for compositional data. <li>A TaqMan real-time PCR assay was developed in collaboration with ISU Seed Science Center researchers for detection of Stenocarpella (Diplodia) maydis from maize seed. Evaluations for resistance to Sclerotinia stalk rot in wild sunflowers identified resistant Helianthus accessions from multiple wild species. Acidovorax avenae subsp. citrulli, the causal agent of bacterial fruit blotch, was recovered from 40 year old seed lots of melon and watermelons, the longest reported survival time and seed transmission for any bacterial plant pathogen from seed. <li>The Germplasm Enhancement of Maize Project released 202 lines from 2001-2008 representing 25 maize races. These lines have unique agronomic traits, pest resistance, or value-added grain characteristics and will be used to broaden the genetic diversity of temperate U.S. maize production. <li>Additional accomplishments will be reported in the NC-7 annual report and minutes (http://www.ars.usda.gov/Main/docs.htm?docid=9641).</ul> NC-7 Participant Accomplishments: <ul><li>University of California - Davis researchers continue studies of herbivory defenses of Ceanothus velutinus and oaks to predation by a variety of herbivores, and traits or cues responsible for these defenses. <li>University of Connecticut researchers published results using AFLP markers to identify and discriminate between Berberis thunbergii cultivars, inter-specific hybrids, and their parental species. Detecting the influence of ornamental Berberis thunbergii var. atropurpurea in invasive Berberis populations is of value in understanding the relationships between various cultivars that differ for invasive potential. <li>University of Delaware researchers published results of comparisons of conventional, modified single seed descent, and double haploid breeding methods used in developing maize inbred lines from exotic germplasm used in GEM breeding crosses. <li>Iowa State University researchers and collaborators investigated maize resistant starch composition; this is of value in developing products that do not increase glycemic index in diabetic individuals, and in weight control. Investigations of the bioactive components of Echinacea indicate they do influence the progress of infection in cell cultures. Long-term survival and seed transmission of Acidovorax avenae subsp. citrulli in melon and watermelon seed was confirmed, an important factor in better understanding how to preclude transmission of bacterial fruit blotch via seed distribution. Cucumis zambianus (Cucurbitaceae), a new species from northwestern Zambia, was described. Efforts to describe the phenotypic, biochemical, and molecular diversity in coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) germplasm were completed and published. <li>Michigan State University researchers identified self-incompatibility (S) alleles in Latvian and Swedish sweet cherry genetic resources collections using PCR based typing. <li>University of Minnesota researchers together with ISU/USDA colleagues published a monograph of Rubus, blackberries and raspberries. <li>University of Missouri researchers completed genetic diversity assessment of wild soybean (Glycine soja Sieb. & Zucc) accessions from South Korea and other countries. Reaction of drought-tolerant soybean genotypes to Macrophomina phaseolina was evaluated. <li>New Jersey researchers at Rutgers University evaluated the response of hazelnut progenies from known resistant parents to Anisogramma anomala, and characterized variability in Anisogramma populations. <li>Ohio State University tomato researchers and collaborators presented results on studies of diversity of conserved genes in tomato, diversity of tomato from selected geographic regions, and digital phenotyping of color to assist in classification and selection for color. <li>Texas A&M University researchers released new upland cotton cultivars with extra long staple length and improved quality, and conducted research on development of safflower as an oilseed crop for Texas and more broadly in the world.</ul> Financial Situation: Significant accomplishments continue to be achieved; financial resources for this project are becoming a major concern. Since 2004, NC-7 funded ISU positions have decreased from 12 to 10; another reduction is necessary in FY2010. Reductions provided technical support for germplasm distribution, field activities, and oilseeds curation. On the USDA-ARS side, fewer students have been hired in order to maintain financial resources for operations. Regenerations have been reduced for major crops with extensive labor requirements, such as maize, oilseeds, and vegetables. NC-7 Budget Request: Given the tough economic circumstances for all of the Agricultural Experiment Stations, a 10% increase in NC-7 Project funding was requested for FY2009, but is not possible for practical economic reality reasons. The budget remains at $522,980. Action Requested: Approval of NC-7 FY2009 Budget Request. Action Taken: Budget was approved at $522,980 level.

Publications

Publications Attachment:

Attachment

Impact Statements

NC-7 participants have used plant genetic resources obtained from the North Central Regional Plant Introduction Station (NCRPIS) and other elements of the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) to develop improved varieties with increased productivity and resistance to biotic and abiotic stress; new crops and new uses for existing crops; fruit, nut, or grain plant varieties with added crop value by contributing improved flavor or nutritional qualities; more sustainable cropping systems; feedstocks for biofuel and industrial uses; and have expanded our knowledge of genetics, genomics and the basis of diversity. All of these activities support sustainability of agricultural production, health, nutrition, and energy independence.

Date of Annual Report: 12/14/2009

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 07/01/2009 - 07/02/2009
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2008 - 09/01/2009

Participants

* Indicates voting members.

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes Attachment:

Attachment

Accomplishments

Background: The plant genetic resource (PGR) needs of the North Central Region have been supported for over 60 years through a joint partnership, designated as Multi-State Research Project NC-7, between the USDA, ARS, Plant Introduction Research Unit, Iowa State University and the other members of the North Central States Agricultural Experiment Station. The NC-7 Project has served as a major component of the National Plant Germplasm System, and its activities have significantly contributed to improved crop technology in the North Central Region, the U.S., and abroad, by providing plant genetic resources and associated information to scientists and educators. The Multi-State Research Project meetings serve as an important vehicle for information exchange and feedback between participants, Administrative Advisor and genebank personnel. NCRPIS Accomplishments for 2009: <ul><li>The collection totals 50,654 accessions of 1,666 species and 342 genera with 75% available for distribution and 80% backed up at Ft. Collins, CO. About 3,940 accessions were also backed up at the Svalbard Global Germplasm Vault. <li>Plant exploration in Tunisia provided new Cucumis melo accessions. Collection trips in the U.S. for ash, wild sunflower, wild Amaranthus sp. and spinach relatives all contributed to increasing the genetic variability of the U.S. collections for use in research, with nearly 200 new accessions of ash in order to respond to the Emerald Ash Borer threat. The first accessions associated with the SMTA of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture were incorporated into the Ames collections. <li>Original seed samples of the accessions are stored at -18 C to extend seed longevity, while the working collection is stored at 4 C. <li>Viability tests were conducted on 1,786 accessions in the 2008-2009 reporting period, a substantial reduction due to resource constraints. Methods to break dormancy in Actaea, Calendula, and Echinochloa were investigated. Cryopreservation storage methods for ash buds were developed with Ft. Collins, CO ARS investigators (NCGRP). <li>A total of 25,985 items representing 12,279 accessions were distributed in 1,388 orders to 991 recipients worldwide. In 2009, these distributions increased by about 4% due to increased request volume. Approximately 2/3 of all distribution are domestic, and approximately 1/2 of these are to NC-7 Region researchers and educators. <li>Regeneration efforts in Ames and with collaborators resulted in harvest of 1,146 accessions. Five different insect pollinators were used to assist in pollination of 809 accessions. Use of alfalfa leafcutter bees is now a significant part of the pollination services program, their use comparable to that of honeybees. <li>Over 20,919 observations were entered in the GRIN database, including large Daucus and Cichorium descriptor datasets. In addition, 364 digital images were loaded to GRIN. Over 4200 maize accessions were evaluated via NIRS for compositional data. <li>A PhD student has started phenotypic evaluation and genetic characterization of the Camelina and Thlaspi (pennycress) accessions. These crops are of interest for biodiesel production. <li>The GRIN-Global Project efforts have been underway for 20 months; a Release Candidate for the curator tool will be distributed in December, 2009 for broader testing, and deployed internationally in 2010. The public interface is under development, with a release version anticipated in June, 2010. U.S. migration to the new system from GRIN will likely occur in late 2011 or early 2012. <li>The Germplasm Enhancement of Maize Project has released 202 lines from 2001-2008 representing introgression of 25 maize races into elite germplasm. These lines have unique agronomic traits, pest resistance, or value-added grain characteristics and will be used to broaden the genetic diversity of temperate U.S. maize production.</ul> NC-7 Project Participants Research Accomplishments: <ul><li>University of California - Davis researchers have found that plant relatedness (phylogenetic distance) to natives is important for predicting herbivory in sagebrush. Cues that plants use to 'up-regulate' induced responses were studied, and data suggest that these plants rely on volatile cues, although the precise nature of these cues is still unknown. Similarity of defenses was important for predicting herbivory by chewing insects, but not by mining insects. Traits matter without reference to native status - maturation, evergreen-ness, etc. Using oaks and Ceanothus velutinus, research suggests that a possible benefit of deciduousness is herbivory, as deciduous habit was associated with reduced losses to herbivores. The natural variation of the small grains collection has been used to analyze natural varion of candidate genes and determine associations between different haplotypes and observed phenotypes. This strategy has resulted in the successful positional cloning of several valuable agronomic genes, including the slow-rusting gene Yr36 cloned this year. <li>University of Connecticut researchers have investigated properties associated with invasive potential of barberry and winged euonymus. Aronia (red and black chokeberry) is a native plant that is easy to grow, requires minimal cultivation, and has high anti-oxidant and anti-cancer potential, as well as ornamental value. Aronia germplasm is being utilized in processed juice and other berry food products, and its breeding potential is being investigated. <li>University of Delaware researchers have studied the relative results from and relative benefits of using modified single seed descent, doubled haploid, or conventional breeding methods to introgress exotic maize germplasm with elite germplasm. <li>Iowa State University researchers are using diverse maize and other grass genetic resources for biomass investigations, development of double haploid lines from exotic germplasm, SNP discovery, and for testing hypotheses regarding the domestication of maize. ISU scientists representing the Center for Research on Botanical Dietary Supplements (CRBDS) and ARS genebank colleagues are screening 180 different germplasm accessions of St. John's wort for biologically active compounds. These compounds may be worth further clinical trial evaluation for combating viral infections, reducing inflammation or improving digestive health. Agronomy Department researchers are investigating the feasibility of intercropping Melilotus sp. with biofuel crops, which would reduce the need for nitrogen inputs and increase crop diversity, and investigating the genomics of wood formation and cellulose biomass traits in sunflower. <li>Kansas State University researchers evaluated the Brassica napus germplasm collection for potential for winter canola variety development for the southern Great Plains. Some cultivars are in the final stages of yield testing and are well-adapted to the environmental conditions of the southern Great Plains. Variety 'Kiowa', derived from a cross between 'Wichita' and PI470056 was released in 2008 and will be available to producers in 2010. Kiowa has higher winter survival over Wichita, one of the most widely grown winter canola cultivars in the U.S. Evaluations of winter-type B. napus identified 16-24 accessions that were more resistant than Wichita to the turnip aphid, Lipaphis erysimi, which causes significant economic damage to winter canola in the southern Great Plains. Ten different woody plant accessions are evaluated annually by the John C. Pair Horticultural Center. This program has greatly increased the diversity of woody plants evaluated for suitability to south-central Kansas, and is currently establishing a provenance evaluation of the native Kentucky Coffeetree. <li>Michigan State University sour cherry researchers have identified sources of germplasm with improved cold hardiness, tolerance to late season frosts which are very damaging to fruit set and yield, better growth or fruiting habits, improved rootstocks, fruit color and flavor, and resistance to cherry leaf spot. The collection, developed over 20 years of effort to acquire, evaluate and utilize wild species and cultivars, is being used to investigate meiotic irregularities, genetic self-incompatibility, and trait improvement. A self-compatible mutant allele has been identified from a Hungarian sour cherry cultivar. <li>University of Missouri researchers and collaborators have used plant genetic resources extensively for a very wide range of purposes. Maize-teosinte introgression libraries have been created and are being used to investigate aspects of genetic diversity and how levels of diversity affect our understanding of the genes that control agronomic traits, and were selected during domestication. Investigations of the underlying mechanisms of cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) and how fertility can be restored uses germplasm to provide an array of restoring alleles from several lines. A somatic karyotype for many maize accessions is being developed, including for maize relatives, in order to provide information about the diversity of chromosome structure and its evolution. Researchers are using macro-syntenic chromosomal block system using FISH techniques to allow Brassicaceae researchers to localize genes and visualize chromosomal events. Soybean geneticists have released improved maturity group IV and V soy lines derived from 25-100% of plant introductions as background with improved yield potential. A salt tolerance gene was named and reported from a wild soybean accession, of value for improved production in areas where salt stress occurs. Three accessions have been identified that recover better than other genotypes from severe soil waterlogging. <li>North Dakota State University and USDA-ARS researchers have evaluated pennycress (Thlaspi arvense), a winter annual, for suitability as a new crop for biodiesel production. This crop has a very short time to flowering and the plants are highly determinant. If sown in the fall, it may be feasible for double-cropping in portions of the Midwest. Research suggests that pennycress meal produced following crushing for oil extraction, may also be of value as a soil biofumigant. In addition, NDSU researchers are currently evaluating Camelina and peanut as well as winter Brassica oilseed species for new crop potential, evaluating weed germplasm for mutations that result in herbicide resistance, and evaluating B. napus and B. rapa for genes that will enhance black leg resistance. A new pulse breeding program is using field pea, chickpea and lentil accessions to identify genetic sources of resistance to Ascochyta and white mold for incorporation into new cultivars. <li>South Dakota State University researchers are evaluating alfalfa, sweetclover, red clover, and meadow foxtail accessions from the NPGS for general adaption, genetic various, and potential for development of cultivars for agronomic and conservation purposes. They are also using NPGS wheat accessions to increase genetic variation for various traits in the cultivar development programs. <li>Texas A&M and Texas Agri-Life researchers have acquired peanut germplasm to replace accessions lost from their wild peanut germplasm collection, and have release new peanut cultivars and five germplasm lines. Of 21 releases, 20 had parentage rooted in NPGS germplasm, and have had a large impact on peanut production in TX. Cotton researchers released eight germplasm lines with the extra long staple trait in 2009, a trait resulting from a unique combination of alleles for fiber quality derived by decades of breeding and contributions from several U.S. breeding programs. USDA-ARS researchers used accessions of Teramnus labialis, a wild relative of soybean, for analysis of mineral content. This wild relative is used as a food source by tribal populations in Asia. Values for several minerals, including P, IK, Na, Fe, Cu, Mn, and Zn fell in the range of published values for several cultivated grain legumes, including soybeans, while Ca and Mg were higher in the wild relative. Maize germplasm is being utilized to improve traits such as grain mold resistance (Aspergillus flavus) and increased biomass production. <li>University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers are using NPGS maize germplasm to exploid the natural genetic variation observed in corn for identification of important genomic regions related to the utilization of corn as a source of feedstock for biofuel production.</ul> Financial Situation: Significant accomplishments continue to be achieved at the NCRPIS; financial resources for this project are becoming a major concern. Since 2004, NC-7 funded ISU positions have decreased from 12 to 9; another position reduction was necessary in FY2009. Hatch funding has remained stable at $522,980 but its purchasing power has eroded somewhat over the past decade. ARS funding is essentially at the same level as 2003 funding at $2,066,297. Reductions provided technical support for germplasm distribution, field activities, and oilseeds curation. On the USDA-ARS side, fewer students have been hired in order to maintain financial resources for operations, and resources from complementary projects have been leveraged. Regenerations have been reduced for major crops with extensive labor requirements, such as maize, oilseeds, and vegetables. NC-7 Budget Request: Given the tough economic circumstances for all of the Agricultural Experiment Stations, no increase in NC-7 Project funding was requested for FY2010; the budget request remains at $522,980. Action Requested: Approval of NC-7 FY2010 Budget Request. Action Taken: Budget was recommended for approval at $522,980 level for FY2010.

Publications

Publications Attachment:

Attachment

Impact Statements

Plant genetic resources obtained from the North Central Regional Plant Introduction Station (NCRPIS) and other elements of the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) help researchers develop new crops and new uses for existing crops; fruit, nut, or grain plant varieties with improved disease and insect resistance; improved agronomic and horticultural production traits; added crop value by contributing improved flavor or nutritional qualities; more sustainable cropping systems; feedstocks for biofuel and industrial uses, and expand our knowledge of genetics, genomics and the basis of diversity.

Date of Annual Report: 12/20/2011

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 07/27/2010 - 07/28/2010
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2009 - 09/01/2010

Participants

Danforth, Harry - ARS; Gardner, Candice - ARS; Grover, Shannon - University of Missouri; Hall, Richard - Iowa State University; Iezzoni, Amy - Michigan State University; Isbell, Terry - USDA; Lamkey, Kendall - Iowa State University; Orf, James - University of Minnesota; Santra, Dipak - University of Nebraska; Stamm, Michael - Kansas State University; Thro, Ann Marie - USDFA; Widrlechner, Mark - ARS; Wintersteen, Wendy - Iowa State University

Brief Summary of Minutes

NC7 RTAC Agenda - July 27, 2010 - Ramada Geneva Lakefront, Geneva, NY

8:00 - 8:45 Wendy Wintersteen , Dean and Agr. Exp Station Director, Iowa
State University; Welcome, NC7 business, Hatch funding
8:45 9:15 Peter Bretting, Office of National Programs, USDA-ARS,
Beltsville, MD
9:15 9:30 Harry Danforth, USDA-ARS Midwest Area Assoc Director, Peoria, IL
9:30 10:00 Ann Marie Thro, USDA-NIFA ONP, Washington, DC

10:15 - 10:30 Candice Gardner, USDA-ARS, NCRPIS, Ames, IA: Update and
budget presentation
10:30 12:00 Gary Kinard, Marty Reisinger, Mark Bohning , USDA-ARS-DBMU,
Beltsville, MD:
GRIN Global Overview/Public Demonstration/Discussion (with the
CGC Chairs)

1:00 - 1:15 Gardner, continued
1:15 1:45 Curator Dave Ellis and Research Leader Dave Dierig, USDA-ARS-
NCGRP, Ft. Collins, CO
1:45 2:00 Terry Isbell, USDA-ARS-NCAUR, Peoria, IL: Oilseed Research
Update
2:00 4:15 RTAC Attending Member State Reports & Discussion:
Attending members: Amy Iezzoni, Rick Hall, Kendall Lamkey,
Grover Shannon, Mike Stamm, Dipak Santra, Jim Orf, Bill
Tracy
4:15 4:30 Mark Widrlechner, USDA-ARS-NCRPIS, Ames, IA: Update on Ash and
EAB status
4:30 5:00 Open discussion: NCRPIS budget, RTAC expectations, new action
items, adjourn

8:00 9:00 Special Speaker: Susan Dworkin - The Metaphor in the Seed Bank:
Helping the Public to Understand Agriculture

Accomplishments

NCRPIS Accomplishments for 2010: The collection totals 51,393 accessions with 74% available for distribution and 79% backed up at Ft. Collins, CO. About 1,936 accessions were also backed up at the Svalbard Global Germplasm Vault. Over 516 new accessions were acquired, approximately equal to 1% of prior holdings. Of these, 332 were received from within the NPGS through exploration and transfer. New germplasm included ash, collected in order to respond to the Emerald Ash Borer threat; 115 oilseeds, primarily wild and cultivated Helianthus; two species of Amaranthus not previously held; wild populations of Aronia and Gymnocladus (Kentucky coffeetree); 178 maize lines, including 16 inbreds derived from teosinte donated by J. Doebley of the University of Wisconsin; 45 Daucus collected in AZ, CA, NM, OR, and WA. Original seed samples of the accessions are stored at -18 C to extend seed longevity, while the working collection is stored at is improved by storage in -18 C rather than 4 C. Viability tests were conducted on 2,570 accessions (5% of the NCRPIS collections). After-ripening progress in Calendula was documented in order to better understand loss of seed dormancy in cold storage over time. Alternative treatments to six week cold-stratification treatments were explored for breaking seed dormancy of wild Helianthus. Optimum germination conditions were experimentally determined for portions of the Thlaspi and Camelina collections, using a thermal gradient table. Cryopreservation storage methods for ash buds were developed with ARS investigators in Ft. Collins, CO (NCGRP). A total of 26,651 items representing 13,226 accessions were distributed to fulfill 1,279 orders to 943 recipients worldwide. 2010 distributions were approximately equal to 2009 distributions. Approximately 72% of all distributions were domestic, and approximately ½ of these are to NC-7 Region researchers and educators. Some large requests included all of the available maize inbreds for a collaborative genotyping and multi-location phenotyping study which will contribute to understanding of collection diversity, Brassica and vegetables for disease resistance screening, and Helianthus for biomass/bioenergy evaluation and association mapping studies. Regeneration efforts in Ames and with collaborators resulted in harvest of 1,170 accessions. Five different insect pollinators were used to assist in pollination of 626 accessions. Honeybees were utilized for approximately ½ of the accessions, alfalfa leaf cutter bees for approximately ¼, and the remainder used bumblebees, Osmia bees, or flies. Multiple pollinators are needed for effective pollination of some accessions. Over 17,720 observations were entered in the GRIN database, as well as over 1,480 digital images. About 7,400 accessions were used for internal observation, evaluation and characterization for a wide array of descriptor information, viability testing, etc. Phenotypic evaluation and genetic characterization of the Camelina and Thlaspi (pennycress) accessions progressed as part of a Ph.D. study. These crops are of interest for biodiesel production. Year three of the GRIN-Global development project was completed. Multiple Release Candidates were distributed for broader testing by international cooperators, and two training sessions were held for international systems administrators and curators. U.S. migration to the new system from GRIN will likely occur in 2012. The Ames and Raleigh Germplasm Enhancement of Maize Projects released 19 lines representing introgression of an additional 12 maize races into elite germplasm. These lines have unique agronomic traits, pest resistance, or value-added grain characteristics and will be used to broaden the genetic diversity of temperate U.S. maize production. About 200 DH lines were developed from previously un-sampled races, but have not yet been released. Financial Situation: Significant accomplishments continue to be achieved at the NCRPIS; financial resources for this project are becoming a major concern. Since 2004, NC-7 funded ISU positions have decreased from 12 to 9. Hatch funding has remained stable at $522,980 but its purchasing power has eroded somewhat over the past decade. Reductions provided technical support for germplasm distribution, field activities, and oilseeds curation. On the USDA-ARS side, funding is approximately the same level as 2003 funding at $2,066,297. Fewer students have been hired (compared to 2003-2005 levels) in order to maintain financial resources for operations, and resources from complementary projects have been leveraged. Regenerations have been reduced for major crops with extensive labor requirements, such as maize, oilseeds, and vegetables. NC-7 Project Participants Research Accomplishments: University of California Davis researchers have found that plant relatedness (phylogenetic distance) to natives is important for predicting herbivory in sagebrush. Cues that plants use to up-regulate induced responses were studied, and data suggest that these plants rely on airborne volatile cues to communicate, such as low molecular weight terpenes and green leaf volatiles, although the precise nature of these cues is still unknown. Transfer of air containing volatiles emitted by clipped sagebrush plants (captured from their headspace) to non-clipped, non-neighbor plants resulted in less herbivory to the recipients of the transferred air that to recipients of headspace air from non-clipped sagebrush plants. University of Connecticut researchers investigated properties associated with invasive potential of barberry. Barberry is a highly invasive species; the invasive form is associated with green leaf phenotype, while cultivated barberry forms typically have a purple leaf phenotype. Development of sterile clones is necessary for horticultural use that can ensure elimination of invasive risk potential. While at times the purple leaf phenotype may be indistinguishable from the green-leaf phenotype (invasive form), researchers determined that genetically they are distinguishable. University of Delaware researchers have studied the relative results from and relative benefits of using modified single seed descent, doubled haploid, or conventional breeding methods to introgress exotic maize germplasm with elite germplasm. Purdue University, Indiana researcher Jules Janick pursues the history of germplasm utilization through discovery of imagery used in various art forms, among other activities. Completed in 1652, the Taj Mahals floral imagery reflects the extent of floriculture knowledge during the Mughal period. Most of the plants included in the imagery are indigenous to Indian and the Mideast. Iowa State University and/or NCRPIS and ARS researchers are using diverse maize and other grass genetic resources for biomass investigations, development of double haploid lines from exotic germplasm, SNP discovery, and for testing hypotheses regarding the domestication of maize. Extensive investigations of maize kernel starch structure focused on the characterization of amylose-extender (ae) mutant starches and their formation, important for development of food products with specific attribute requirements. Relationships between diverse maize starch properties and ethanol production were also investigated. Wild Helianthus from the desert Southwestern U.S. was incorporated into the collections for potential contribution of drought tolerance traits to cultivated sunflower. Kansas State University researchers continued innovative work on wheat, sorghum, canola, and other crops to enhance basic knowledge on loci and traits associated with productivity, disease and abiotic stress resistance, and to improve crop production. The Brassica napus germplasm collection was evaluated for potential for winter canola variety development for the southern Great Plains with canola cultivars in the final stages of yield testing and are well-adapted to the environmental conditions of the southern Great Plains. Variety Kiowa, derived from a cross between Wichita and PI470056 was released was made available to producers in 2010. Kiowa has higher winter survival over Wichita, a widely grown winter canola cultivar in the U.S. Ten different woody plant accessions are evaluated annually by the John C. Pair Horticultural Center. This program has greatly increased the diversity of woody plants evaluated for suitability to south-central Kansas, and is currently establishing a provenance evaluation of the native Kentucky Coffeetree. Michigan State University researchers completed transcriptional profiling and transcriptomic analysis of cucumber fruit development in order to better understand gene expression related to fruit growth and expansion. Investigations of the gametophytic self-incompatibility (GSI) system in Prunus species determined that the S-RNAse based system exhibits distinct genetic and molecular aspects. In the pollination event, a self-incompatibility (SI) reaction is triggered when the same S allele specificity is expressed in both the pollen and the pistil. Identification of the S determinants led to development of PCR-based S geneotyping, enabling marker assisted selection for self-compatible (SC) individuals. University of Minnesota researchers identified genes differentially expressed between developing seeds of different soybean varieties. University of Missouri researchers and collaborators used plant genetic resources extensively for a very wide range of purposes. Notably, genetic diversity analyses of wild soybean accessions were completed, and an early Group V soybean variety released in 2006 (Stoddard) was registered. University of Nebraska researchers and collaborators compared performance of hard winter wheat cultivar blends with pure cultivars across a wide range of environments. The yield of the cultivar blends was more stable over different environments, with little or no reduction in grain yield; this offers producers an option to limit production risk. Proso millet was genetically characterized, and genomic resources enhanced. The performance of chickpea and dry bean germplasm was evaluated in western Nebraska, and breeding efforts to develop new varieties of these crops with disease resistance progressed. Rutgers University, New Jersey researchers seeking sources of resistance hazelnut germplasm to eastern filbert blight (EFB) inoculated 12 hazelnut genotypes that had exhibited complete resistance in Oregon with pathogen isolates collected from across its native range. EFB causes serious economic losses. An older cultivar, Gasaway, used as a pollinator and currently known to be completely disease free in OR, was reported to be infected at the Rutgers University research farms. Four genotypes were identified that remained free of disease, and others were infected by various isolates or combinations thereof. The Ohio State University researchers evaluated and modified calibration models methods for measurement of tomato carotenoids by infrared spectroscopy, profiled nutritionally important carotenoids from genetically-diverse tomatoes, and their stability in storage (juice product) using infrared spectroscopy. Genetic investigations revealed intron polymorphisms in cultivated tomato via use of both tomato and Arabidopsis genomic information, Grafted and non-grafted tomato transplant production systems in the U.S. were compared and direct and indirect cost sources analyzed. Grafting of herbaceous vegetables is desirable to enable utilization of rootstocks with disease resistance and that support nutrient uptake in combination with scions that offer yield, fruit quality. Use of grafting can reduce economic loss from soilborne diseases with appropriate management strategies, and producers must take economic considerations into account. South Dakota State University researchers and collaborators registered a new spring wheat variety, Brick, with excellent baking and milling qualities, high test weight, early heading, and good Fusarium head blight resistance. Findings from investigations designed to identify dormancy genes from the D genome donor of wheat, potentially useful to improve resistance of cultivars to pre-harvest sprouting, indicate that seeds were more dormant than kernels, suggesting the presence of germination inhibitors in the covereing tissues. Available Aegilops tauschii-derived synthetic hexaploid wheat lines could be an alternative source of dormancy genes for enhancing resistance to pre-harvest sprouting. Texas A&M and Texas Agri-Life researcher reported accomplishments for this period were in collaboration with the institions in Nebraska, Kansas and South Dakota and are already are ported above.

Publications

California: Arimura, G., Shiojiri, K. and Karban, R. 2010. Acquired immunity to herbivory and allelopathy caused by airborne plant emissions. Phytochemistry. 71:1642-1649. Heil, M. and Karban, R. 2010. Explaining the evolution of plant communication by airborne signals. Trends in Ecology and Evolution. 25:137-144. Karban, R. 2010. Neighbors affect resistance to herbivory - a new mechanism. New Phytologist. 186:564-566. Karban, R., and Shiojiri, K. 2010. Identity recognition and plant behavior. Plant Signaling and Behavior. 5:854-855. Karban, R., Shiojiri, K. and Ishizaki, S. 2010. An air-transfer experiment confirms the role of volatile cues in communication between plants. American Naturalist. 176:381-384. Connecticut: Lehrer, J. M. and Brand, M.H. 2010. Purple-leaved Japanese barberry (var. atropurpurea) genotypes become visually indistinguishable from green-leaved genotypes (Berberis thunbergii DC.) at low light levels. J. Environmental Horticulture. 28(3):187-189. Indiana: Janick, J. (editor). 2010. Plant Breeding Reviews. 33:386. Janick, J. (editor). 2010. Horticultural Reviews. 36:371. Janick, J. (editor). 2010. Horticultural Reviews. 37:2010. Janick, J. 2010. Plant iconography and art: Source of information on horticultural technology. Bulletin USAVM Horticulture. 67(1):11-23. Janick, J., Kamenetsky, R., and Puttaswamy, S. 2010. Horticulture of the Taj Mahal: Gardens of the imagination. Chronica Horticulturae. 50(3):31-33. Kansas: Djanaguiraman, M., and Prasad, P.V.V. 2010. Ethylene production under high temperature stress causes premature leaf senescence in soybean. Functional Plant Biology. 37:1071-1084. Djanaguiraman, M., Prasad, P.V.V., and Seppanen, M. 2010. Selenium protects sorghum leaves from oxidative damage under high temperature stress by enhancing antioxidant defense system. Plant Physiology and Biochemistry. 48:999-1007. Gholipoor, M., Prasad, P.V.V., Mutava, R.N., and Sinclair, T.R. 2010. Genetic variability of transpiration response to vapor pressure deficit among sorghum genotypes. Field Crops Research. 119:85-90. Kolluru, V., Fritz, A.K.,Paulsen, G.M., Bai, G., Pandravada, S. and Gill, B.S. 2010. Modeling and mapping QTL for senescence-related traits in winter wheat under high temperature. Molecular Breeding. doi:10.1007/s11032-009-9366-8. Stamm, M. 2010. Kiowa Canola. Kans. Ag. Exp. St. and Coop. Ext. Ser., Manhattan, KS. L-928. Michigan: Ando, K., and Grumet, R. 2010. Transcriptional profiling of rapidly growing cucumber fruit by 454-pyrosequencing analysis. J Amer Soc Hortic Sci. 135:291-302. Ando, K., and Grumet, R. 2010. Transcriptomic analysis of cucumber fruit development. Cucurbitaceae 2010 Proceedings. Thies JA, Kousik S, Levi A (Editors). JASHS press. p. 155-158. Bradford, E., Hancock, J.F., and Warner, R.W. 2010. Interactions of temperature and photoperiod determine expression of repeat flowering in strawberry. J. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci. 135:1-6. Evans, K., Iezzoni, A., Peace, C., Luby, J., Brown, S., van de Weg, E., Main, D., Bassil, N., Fazio, G., Yue, C., Weebadde, C., and McFerson, J. 2010. RosBREED Enabling marker-assisted breeding in the WSU apple breeding program. Journal of Fruit Science. 27 Suppl:43-47. Haldar, S., Haendiges, S., Edge-Garza, D.A.,Oraguzie, N., Olmstead, J.W., Iezzoni, A., and Peace, C. 2010. Applying genetic markers for self-compatibility in the WSU Sweet Cherry Breeding Program. Acta Horticulturae. 859:375-380. Hancock, J.F. Finn, C.E., Luby, J.J., Dale, A., Callow, P.W., and Serce, S. 2010. Reconstruction of the strawberry, Fragaria ´ananassa, using native genotypes of F. virginiana and F. chiloensis. HortScience. 45:1006-1013. Hummer, K.E. and Hancock, J.F. 2010. Strawberry genomics: Botanical history, cultivation, traditional breeding and new technologies. In: Genetics and Genomics of Rosaceae. Springer, New York. Iezzoni, A., Luby, J., Yue, C., McFerson, J., van de Weg, E., Fazio, G., Main, D., Bassil, N., Peace, C., and Weebadde, C. 2010. RosBREED Project Brochure. Iezzoni, A., Luby, J., Yue, C., van de Weg, E., Fazio, G., Main, D., Bassil, N., Weebadde, C., McFerson, J., and Peace, C. 2010. RosBREED: Enabling marker-assisted breeding in Rosaceae. Acta Horticulturae. 859:389-394. Olmstead, J.W., Whiting, M.D., Lang, G., Ophardt, D., and Oraguzie, N. 2010. PC7146-8 (Benton) Sweet Cherry. HortScience. 46(1):121-122. Olmstead, J.W., Whiting, M.D., Lang, G., Ophardt, D., and Oraguzie, N. 2010. PC7064(Selah) Sweet Cherry. HortScience. 46(1):123-124. Oraguzie, N., Ophardt, D., Long, L., Lang, G., and Whiting, M.D. 2010. KionaTM Sweet Cherry. HortScience. 45(12):1906-1907. Peace, C., Fazio, F., Evans, K., Weebadde, C., and Iezzoni, A. 2010. Marker-Assisted Breeding (MAB) Pipeline Team goals and activities: Channeling socio-economic and DNA information into routine breeding operations. RosBREED Project Brochure. Siddiq, M., Iezzoni, A., Khan, A., Breen, P., Sebolt, A., Dolan, K., and Ravi, R. 2010. Characterization of new tart cherry (Prunus cerasus L.) selections based on fruit quality, total anthocyanins, and antioxidant capacity. Intl. J. Food Properties. doi: 10.1080/10942910903277697. Song, G.Q., Loescher, W.H., Sink, K.C., Ma, Y., Herlache, T., and Hancock, J.F. 2010. A novel mannose-based selection system for plant transformation using celery mannose-6-phosphate reductase gene (M6PR). Plant Cell Reports. 29:163-172. Stegmeir, T.L., Finn, C.E., Warner, R., and Hancock, J.F. 2010. Performance of an elite strawberry population derived from wild germplasm of Fragaria chiloensis and F. virginiana. HortScience. 45:1140-1145. Tao, R., and Iezzoni, A.F. 2010. The S-RNase-based gametophytic self-incompatibility system in Prunus exhibits distinct genetic and molecular features. Scientia Horticulturae. 124:423-433. Tsukamoto, T., Hauck, N.R., Tao, R., Jiang, J., and Iezzoni, A.F. 2010. Molecular and genetic analysis of four nonfunctional S haplotype variants derived from a common ancestral S haplotype identified in sour cherry (Prunus cerasus L.). Genetics. 184:411-427. Weebadde, C., Sebolt, A., Iezzoni, A., and Peace, C. 2010. RosBREED: Enabling marker-assisted breeding. In: Rosaceae Newsletter. 1(4). Minnesota: Lin, R., Glazebrook, J., Katugari, F., Orf, J.H., and Gibson, S.L. 2010. Identification of genes differentially expressed between developing seeds of different soybean varieties. BMC Plant Biology. 10:278. Non-Peer Reviewed: Bolen, Y-T., Haun, W., Muehlbauer, G., Orf, J., Naeve, S., Stupar, R., and Vance, C. 2010. Fast neutron mutagenesis of soybean: A resource for the community. 13th Biennial Molecular and Cellular Biology of the Soybean Conference 2010. Chen, S., Potter, B., and Orf, J.H. 2010. Virulence of the soybean cyst nematode has increased over years in Minnesota. Proc. Soc. of Nematologists. Naeve, S.L., Orf, J.H., and Miller-Garvin, J. 2010. Analysis of the U.S. Non-GMO Food Soybean Variety Pipeline. Proc. Second Soyfood Alliance Conference, Tokyo, Japan. 07/01/2010. Naeve, S.L., Orf, J.H., Miller-Garvin, J., and O'Neill, T. 2010. Quality of the United States Food Soybean Crop 2010. USSEC Conferences Korea and Japan. Naeve, S.L., Orf, J.H., and Miller-Garvin, J. 2010. Quality of the United States soybean crop 2010. USSEC Conferences China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. Orf, J.H. 2010. Soybean Breeding in the Northern U.S. Proc. 6th Annual National Center for Soybean Biotechnology Symposium. Orf, J.H., Naeve, S.L., Schaus, P.J., and Killam, A. 2010. Minnesota Certified Seed Guide 2010. p. 50-69. Orf, J.H., Naeve, S.L., Schaus, P.J., and Killam, A. 2010. MP116-2010. p. 48-68. Missouri: Shannon, J.G., Nelson, R.L., and Wrather, J.A. 2010. Registration of LG04-6863 soybean germplasm line with diverse pedigree. J. of Plant Registrations. 4:70-72. Vuong, T., Sleper, D., Shannon, J., and Nguyen, H. 2010. Novel quantitative trait loci for broad-based resistance to soybean cyst nematode (Heterodera glycines Ichinohe) in soybean PI 567516C. TAG. doi: 10.1007/s00122-010-1385-7. Nebraska: Glover, K.D., Rudd, J.C., Devkota, R.N., Hall, R.G., Jin, Y., Osborne, L.E., Ingemansen, J.A., Rickertsen, J.R., Baltensperger, D.D., and Hareland, G.A. 2010. Registration of "Brick" Wheat. Journal of Plant Registrations. 4(1):22-27. Mengistu, N., Baenziger, P.S., Nelson, L.A., Eskridge, K.M., Klein, R.N., Baltensperger, D.D., and Elmore, R.W. 2010. Grain Yield Performance and Stability of Cultivar Blends vs. Component Cultivars of Hard Winter Wheat in Nebraska. Crop Science. 50(March-April). Pavlista, A.D., Isbell, T.A., Baltensperger, D.D., and Hergert, C.W. 2010. Planting date and development of spring-seeded irrigated canola, brown mustard and camelina. Industrial Crops and Products. 33:451-456 Santra D. K., Plyler-Harveson, R., Harvey, S., Reddy, S., and Frickel, G. 2010. Characterization of proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) germplasm. Isbell, T.A. and Dierig, D.A. Eds. (2010). In: 22nd Annual AAIC Meeting 2010 New Crops: Exploring Diversity and Preserving Our Future: Program and Abstracts. Hilton Hotel, Fort Collins, CO. p. 48. Santra D. K., Plyler-Harveson, R., Harvey, S., Reddy, S., and Frickel, G. 2010. Genetic characterization of proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) germplasm. Proceedings of ASA-CSSA-SSSA 2010 International Annual Meeting. Long Beach, CA. 10/31-11/04/2010. p. 118. Urrea, C.A., Harveson, R.M., Koehler, A.E., Burgener, P., and Baltensperger, D.D. 2010. Evaluating the Agronomic Potential of Chickpea Germplasm for Western Nebraska. Agronomy Journal. 102(4):1179-1185. New Jersey: Molnar, T.J., Capik, J., Zhao, S., and Zhang, N. 2010. First report of Eastern Filbert Blight on Corylus avellana Gasaway and VR20-11 caused by Anisogramma anomala (Peck) E. Muller in New Jersey. Plant Disease. 94:1265. Molnar, T.J., Goffreda, J.C., and Funk, C.R. 2010. Survey of Corylus Resistance to Anisogramma anomala from Different Geographic Locations. HortScience. 45:832-836. Ohio: Gupta, R., Balasubramaniam, V.M., Schwartz, S.J., and Francis, D.M. 2010. Storage stability of lycopene in tomato juice subjected to combined pressure-heat treatments. J Agric Food Chem. 58(14):8305-8313. Hutton S.F., Scott J.W., Yang W., Sim S.C., Francis D.M., and Jones J.B. 2010. Identification of QTL associated with resistance to bacterial spot race T4 in tomato. Theor Appl Genet. 121(7):1275-1287 [Epub ahead of print]. http://www.springerlink.com/content/04p1205n44176p40/. Robbins, M.D., Masud, M.A.T., Panthee, D.P., Gardner, R.G., Francis, D.M., and Stevens, M.R. 2010. Marker-assisted Selection for Coupling Phase Resistance to Tomato spotted wilt virus and Phytophthora infestans (Late Blight) in Tomato. Hortscience. 45(10):1424-1428. Robbins, M.D., Sim, S-C., Yang, W., Van Deynze, A., van der Knaap, E., Joobeur, T., and Francis, D.M. 2010. Mapping and linkage disequilibrium analysis with a genome-wide collection of SNPs that detect polymorphism in cultivated tomato. Journal of Experimental Botany. http://jxb.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2010/12/30/jxb.erq367. Rodriguez, G.R., Moyseenko, J.B., Robbins, M.D., Huarachi Morejon, N., Francis, D.M., and van der Knaap, E. 2010. Tomato Analyzer: A Useful Software Application to Collect Accurate and Detailed Morphological and Colorimetric Data from Two-dimensional Objects. J. Vis. Exp. (JoVE). 37. http://www.jove.com/index/details.stpid=1856, doi: 10.3791/1856. Rubio-Diaz, D.E., Santos, A., Francis, D.M., and Rodriguez-Saona, L.E. 2010. Carotenoid stability during production and storage of tomato juice made from tomatoes with diverse pigment profiles measured by infrared spectroscopy. J Agric Food Chem. 58(15):8692-8698. Rubio-Diaz, D.E., De Nardo, T., Santos, A., de Jesus, S., Francis, D., and Rodriguez-Saona, L.E. 2009. Profiling of nutritionally important carotenoids from genetically-diverse tomatoes by infrared spectroscopy. Food Chem. 120:282-289. Rubio-Diaz, D.E, Francis, D.M., and Rodriguez-Saona, L.E. 2010. External calibration models for the measurement of tomato carotenoids by infrared spectroscopy. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis 24(1):121-126. doi: 10.1016/j.jfca.2010.06.006. Rubio-Diaz, D.E., Santos, A., Francis, D.M., and Rodriguez-Saona, L.E. 2010. Carotenoid Stability during Production and Storage of Tomato Juice Made from Tomatoes with Diverse Pigment Profiles Measured by Infrared Spectroscopy. J. Agric. Food Chem. 58, 8692-8698 Rivard, C.L., Sydorovych, O., OConnell, S., Peet, M.M., and Louws, F.L. 2010. An Economic Analysis of Two Grafted Tomato Transplant Production Systems in the United States. Hort. Technology. 20:794-803. Sammons, J. D. and Struve, D. K. 2010. The effects of near-zero leachate irrigation on growth and water use efficiency and nutrient uptake of container grown baldcypress (Taxodium distichum (L.) Rich.) plants. J. Environ. Hort. 28:27-34. Struve, D., Ferrini, F., Chandra, B., and Fini, A. 2010. Propagation of Quercus cerris, Q. petraea, and Q/ pubescens seedlings by stem cuttings. HortScience. 45:172901733. Sim, S-C., Robbins, M.D., Van Deynze, A., Michel, A.P., and Francis, D.M. 2010. Population structure and genetic differentiation associated with breeding history and selection in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Heredity 106:927-935. doi:10.1038/hdy.2010.139 Wang, Y., Chen, J., Francis, D.M., Shen, H., Wu, T., and Yang, W. 2010. Discovery of intron polymorphisms in cultivated tomato using both tomato and Arabidopsis genomic information. Theor Appl Genet. 121(7):1199-1207. http://www.springerlink.com/content/t67t760578v35130/. Not Peer-Reviewed: Francis, D., Schealeppi, J., Pisarski , V. and Huarachi, N. 2010. Grafting with Glue, 06/24/2010. Youtube: http://www.youtube.co/watchv=5Fd6tBQTTAg . South Dakota: Caffe-Treml, M., Glover, K.D., Krishnan, P., and Hareland, G.A. 2010. Variability and Relationships Among Mixolab, Mixograph, and Baking Parameters Based on Multi-Environment Spring Wheat Trials. Cereal Chemistry. 67:574-580. Glover K. D., Rudd, J. C., Devkota, R. N., Hall, R.G., Jin, Y., Osborne, L.E., Ingemansen, J.A., Rickertsen, J.R., Baltensperger, D. D. and Hareland, G. A. 2010. Registration of Brick Wheat. Journal of Plant Registrations. 4:22-27. Gu, X.-Y., Zhang, L., Glover, K.D., Chu, C., Xu, S.S., Faris, J.D., Friesen, T.L., and Ibrahim, A. 2010. Genetic variation of seed dormancy in synthetic hexaploid wheat-derived populations. Crop Science. 50:1318-1324. Malla, S., Ibrahim, A.M.H., Glover, K.D., and Berzonsky, W.A. 2010. Combining Ability of Fusarium head blight resistance in wheat. Commun. Biometry Crop Sci. 5:116-126. Malla, S., Ibrahim, A.M.H., Little, R., Kalsbeck, S., Glover, K.D., Ren, C. 2010. Comparison of shifted multiplicative model, rank correlation, and biplot analysis for clustering winter wheat production environments. Euphytica. 174:157-170. Malla, S., Ibrahim, A.M.H., Yen, Y., Berzonsky, W., Glover, K.D., and Stein, J. 2010. Analysis of a Putative Novel Source of Resistance to Fusarium Head Blight in Hard Winter Wheat. International Journal of Plant Breeding. 4:47-54. Malla, S., Ibrahim, A.M.H., Yen, Y., Berzonsky, W., Glover, K.D., and Stein, J. 2010. Quantitative Trait Loci Analysis of Novel Fusarium Head Blight Resistance in Tokai 66. Am. J. of Ag. Bio. Sci. 5:62-69. Mergoum, M., Glover, K.D., Anderson, J.A., Gigax, D., Berg, J., Singh, P.K., Ransom, J.K., and Isakson, P.J. 2010. Development and Agronomic Performance of Transgenic Roundup Ready Spring Wheat in the North Central Plains of the United States. Agronomy Journal. 102:1462-1467 NCRPIS: Jiang, H., Campbell, M., Blanco, M., and Jane, J. 2010. Characterization of maize amylose-extender (ae) mutant starches: Part II. Structures and properties of starch residues remaining after enzymatic hydrolysis at boiling-water temperature. Carbohydrate Polymers. 80(1):1-12. Jiang, H., Horner, H., Pepper, T., Blanco, M., Campbell, M., and J. Jane. 2010. Formation of elongated starch granules in high-amylose maize. Carbohydrate Polymers. 80(2):534-539. Kovach, D.A., Widrlechner, M.P., and Brenner, D.M. 2010. Variation in seed dormancy in Echinochloa and the development of a standard protocol for germination testing. Seed Sci. and Technol. 38:559-571. Qu, L., Widrlechner, M.P., and Rigby, SM. 2010. Analysis of breeding systems, ploidy, and the role of hexaploids in three Hypericum perforatum L. populations. Industrial Crops and Products. 32:1-6. Srichuwong, S., Gutsea, J., Blanco, M.H., Duvick, S.A., Gardner, C.A., and Jane, J. 2010. Characterization of Corn Grains for Ethanol Production. Journal of ASTM International. 7(2):1-10. NCRPIS Non-Peer Reviewed: Ayala-Diaz, I.M., Gardner, C.A., Isbell, T., Marek, L., and Westgate, M. 2010. Effect of temperature gradients on germination of pennycress germplasm. (abstract) 2010 Association for the Advancement of Industrial Crops Annual Meeting, 09/18-22/2010, Ft. Collins, CO. Ayala-Diaz, I.M., Gardner, C.A., Isbell, T., Marek, L., and Westgate, M. 2010. Variations in fatty acid composition and oil content in camelina germplasm. (abstract) 2010 ASA-CSSA-SSSA International Annual Meeting, Longbeach, California, 10/30-11/04/2010. Cyr, P.D. , Weaver, B.E. , Millard, M.J., Gardner, C.A., Bohning, M.A., Emberland, G., Sinnott, Q.P., Kinard, G.P., Franco, T., Mackay, M., Guarino, L., and Bretting, P.K. 2010. GRIN-Global: An international project to develop a global plant genebank and information management system. (Abstract P800). Plant and Animal Genome XVII Conference Abstracts, San Diego, CA, 01/10-14/2010. Gulya, T., Marek, L.F., and Gavrilova, V. 2010. Disease resistance in cultivated sunflower derived from public germplasm collections. Plenary talk/Proceedings of the International Symposium Sunflower Breeding on Resistance to Diseases, Krasnodar, Russia, June 23-24, 2010, sponsored by the All-Russia Research Institute of Oil Crops (VNIIMK) and the International Sunflower Association. Marek, L.F. 2010. Plant Exploration Final Report: 2009 Plant Exploration in the South Central United States to collect Sunflower Germplasm for Crop Improvement. Plant Exchange Office, National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, USDA-ARS, Beltsville, MD. Medic, J., Abendroth, L., Elmore, R., Blanco, M.H., and Jane, J. 2010. Effect of planting date on cornstarch structures and properties. (abstract) American Assocation of Cereal Chemists Annual Meeting, Savannah, GA, O10/24-27/2010. Sandhu, S., Barb, J., Gracom, K. Sykes, R., Moyers, B., Davis, M., Rieseberg, L., Marek, L., Burke, J., and Knapp, S. 2010. Genomic analysis of wood production in sunflower. (abstract 208-2). 2010 ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting, Long Beach, CA, 10/31-11/04/2010. Smelser, A.D., Brenner, E., Vanous, A., Blanco, M.H., Lubberstedt, T., Frei, U., and Gardner, C.A. 2010. Maize haploid induction and doubling, recent experience with exotic and elite maize populations. (abstract 89-10). 2010 ASA-CSSA-SSSA International Annual Meeting, Longbeach, CA. 10/30-11/04/2010. Widrlechner, M.P. 2010. Building a comprehensive collection of ash germplasm. (abstract) 4th Global Botanic Gardens Congress, Dublin, Ireland, 05/13-18/2010. Conference Program and Book of Abstracts. P. 114-115.

Impact Statements

Impact : Plant genetic resources obtained from the North Central Regional Plant Introduction Station (NCRPIS) and other elements of the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) help researchers develop new crops and new uses for existing crops; fruit, nut, or grain plant varieties with improved disease and insect resistance; improved agronomic and horticultural production traits; added crop value by contributing improved flavor or nutritional qualities; more sustainable cropping systems; feedstocks for biofuel and industrial uses, and expand our knowledge of genetics, genomics and the basis of diversity.

Date of Annual Report: 12/20/2011

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 08/09/2011 - 08/10/2011
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2010 - 09/01/2011

Participants

Present: Wintersteen, Wendy - Iowa State University; Stamm, Michael - Kansas State University; Janick, Jules - Purdue University; Hall, Richard - Iowa State University; Iezzoni, Amy Iezzoni - Michigan State University; Santra, Dipac - University of Nebraska; Johnson, Burton - North Dakota State University; Isbell, Terry - USDA; Widrlechner, Mark - ARS; Lubberstedt, Thomas - Iowa State University; Bretting, Peter - ARS; Jourdan, Pablo - Ohio State University; Bohning, Mark - ARS; Ellis, Dave - ARS; Dierig, Dave - National Center for Genetic Research Preservation

Brief Summary of Minutes

Opening remarks by Dr. Bill Schapaugh (Interim Head, Soybean Breeder, Dept of Agronomy) and Dr. Ernie Minton (Associate Director of Research and Technology Transfer for the Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station)
Introductions: Mark Widrlechner represented Candice Gardner who is on assignment in China.
Minutes: Not submitted, Wendy and Candice will get the minutes for review and approval.
Report from Wendy Wintersteen: NC7 is required to submit an annual report. In addition, every five years a new project is submitted for external review and approval. These documents require the submission of accomplishments and impacts related to the work of NC7. The NC7 project is an exemplary partnership between ARS and the Agricultural Experiment Stations. For more information about the NC7 project or other multistate projects go to the North Central Regional Association of State Agricultural Experiment Station Directors at http://ncra.info/.
Report from Peter Bretting representing the ARS-NIFA National Program Staff: There was a $700,000 cut across the Germplasm System for the last fiscal year. The Germplasm System remains a high priority for germplasm security; however, the future is unclear. The FAO Treaty for Plant Genetic Resources is before the Senate.
Mark Bohning - Germplasm Resources Laboratory update:
" Exploration office -5 explorations were supported in 2011 (four domestic and one international, Georgia).
" Crop Germplasm Committees: There are now 42 Crop Germplasm Committees. The two most recently established are Specialty Nuts and Medicinal &Essential Oils.
" GRIN Global: Version 0.9 has been released and can be used to start testing. This initial version will be especially useful for international collaborators who want to use GRIN Global to manage their germplasm. The web site of this beta version is http://test.grin-global.org/gringlobal/search.aspx . The GRIN Global group hopes to have version 1.0 by Sept 2011. GRIN Global runs with free public domain software. Conversion within the US will begin in September 2012 (led by the ARS Plant Introduction Research Unit, Ames, Iowa). GRIN Public software is being improved. Feedback on GRIN Global can be send to: feedback-grin.global@ars.grin.gov
Dave Ellis & Dave Dierig (National Center for Genetic Resource Preservation - Ft. Collins): Presented overview of seed storage, including clonal crops in cryopreservation and germination tests. 63 teosinte accessions were collected in Mexico in 2009, increased and relayed to Ames.
Mark Widrlechner NC7 Station 2010 Report and Budget: Extra funding was received for silver leaf sunflower (e.g. biomass) and Sclerotinia research.The appointment of the medicinal plants curator could not be extended as the grants renewal was not successful. Broken aging irrigation lines require attention. Mark Widrelechner announced that he will retire on Sept 31, 2011.
Budget footnote correction- Footnote #3, the 3% salary increase for FY11 did not occur. The EXTERNAL FUNDING SOURCES budget line is negative, but it represents budget supplements from external funding.
The NC7 Committee Members recommended that all postal costs be paid by germplasm recipients.
PVP activity is increasing. Once PVPs expire, there are a large number ofrequests for these accessions.
The NC7 Committee Members recommended that the Plant Introduction Station leadership investigate the possibility of establishing cooperative agreements with key industry partners to support the on-going costs associated with the PVPs.
Motion: The NC7 Committee Members recommended the budget as submitted. If there is a major reduction in Hatch funding the Committee also recommended that there not be a disproportionate reduction in the NC7 budget. Motion made by Michael Stamm, seconded by Richard Hall. Passed with a unanimous vote.
New NC7 State members: Bill Berzonsky (South Dakota) and Pablo Jourdan (Ohio State University) joined as new members. Wendy Wintersteen will work closely with Candice Gardner to review the NC7 membership.
Preparation for NC7 five year report: Accomplishments and impacts of PI Station within the NC region are needed for this report. Information was requested by the state members that would help themmembers gather these outcomes. Mark Widrlechner will send to Committee members: 1) spreadsheet by state of all orders from the PI Station in Ames to members state, 2) total number of orders that went to each members state in last 5 years, 3) spreadsheet that includes all germplasm that went to the members University from all NPGS sites.
With this information it was suggested that various approaches could be used to gather accomplishments and impacts. These include: (1) NC7 rep call/visit with major users to ask about outcomes/impacts, (2) inquire from recipients whether any recent releases have material from the PI station in the pedigree, and (3) have the crop curators make a series of pilot phone calls to major recipients.
Consideration should be given to increase internal (within each state) outreach for the Plant Introduction Station. This could include inviting Candice Gardner to give invited seminars, use of on-line content and newsletter articles. Amy Iezzoni suggested the possibility of a Jewel in the Germplasm series analogous to the USDA-SCRI RosBREED Project Newsletter feature article series titled Jewel in the Genome. RosBREED Newsletters are available at www.rosbreed.org/resources/newsletters
Tours: Dr. Bikram Gill and his associated Duane Wilson gave the group a tour of the Wheat Genetics and Genomics Resource Center. Dr. Eva Horne gave the group a tour of the Konza Prairie Biological Station.
Resolutions were drafted by Jules Janick and Rick Hall: Upon minor editing they were unanimously accepted.
Be it resolved that:

" The Committee thanks Mike Stamm and Kansas State University for hosting a very well-organized and productive 2011 NC-7 RTAC meeting in Manhattan, KS.

" The Committee thanks Dr. Bill Schapaugh, Interim Head, Department of Agronomy, who welcomed us to KSU and the Department. Thanks are also extended to Dr. Ernie Minton, Associate Director of Research and Technology Transfer for the Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station who extended a welcome from the College and provided us with some interesting information about the college and Kansas agriculture.

" The Committee appreciated the outstanding tour and explanation of the Wheat Genetics and Genomics Resource Center. We extend our thanks to Dr. Bikram Gill, Plant Pathology Distinguished Professor and Center Director and Mr. Duane Wilson for sharing their many accomplishments and a view of the Center facilities in operation. The Committee expresses its concern for long-term funding for this Center which has worldwide impact on food security through the development of unique wheat germplasm (see attached editorial by Dr. Gill: A wheat called Norman just might feed a hungry world Kansas City Star, 26 Apr 2011). We encourage closer linkage between the NGPC and this Center.

" Special thanks are due to Dr. Eva Horne, Assistant Director, Konza Prairie Biological Station, for the enjoyable and educational tour she provided of the landscape and explanations of the bison and prescribed fire management research of the Station.

" The Committee pays special tribute to Dr. Mark Widrlechner who is retiring from the ARS and his position at the Ames Plant Introduction Station after 28 years of distinguished service. Mark has been an especially able scientist as Horticulture Curator. He has been a special friend and participant of the Committee. We know Mark will continue to make important contributions through his new appointment in the Horticulture Department at Iowa State University. We hope Mark will continue to attend NC-7 meetings whenever he can.

Nomination Committee (Terry Isbell and Burton Johnson): Dipak Santra was nominated to serve as secretary in 2012. This nomination was accepted with a unanimous vote. Amy Iezzoni will serve as Chair in 2012.
2012 Meeting: After some discussion the Committee recommended that next years meeting be in Ames, as it is useful to meet in Ames every third year. The second week of August was suggested as a possible meeting time.

Poem: Mark Widrlechner shared with the group the following poem he wrote, inspired by the groups visit to the Konza Prairie Biological Station.
Konza
Yesterday, before the thunder,
A gang of bachelors stared at us
From their side of the fence
While calmly chewing their cud.
Our guide then mentioned the herd of elk
That grazes the high ground far to the west.
Turning around&
The view to the west,
With its endless hills
Quilted with prairie meeting a changing sky
Seemed to go on forever.
Participant reports were presented by: Rick Hall, Terry Isbell, Dipak Santra, Tomas Lubberstëdt, Mike Stamm, and Burton Johnson.

Minutes submitted by:
Amy Iezzoni

Accomplishments

NCRPIS Accomplishments for 2011: The collection totals 51,701 accessions with 74% available for distribution and 79% backed up at Ft. Collins, CO. About 760 accessions were backed up to date. Four hundred forty five new accessions were acquired, most from within the NPGS through exploration and transfer. New germplasm includes ash, collected in order to respond to the Emerald Ash Borer threat; oilseeds, primarily wild and cultivated Helianthus; Amaranthus not previously held; wild populations of Aronia and Gymnocladus (Kentucky coffee tree, maize; and Daucus. Original seed samples of the accessions are stored at -18 C to extend seed longevity, while the working collection is stored at is improved by storage in -18 C rather than 4 C. Viability tests were conducted on 1,631 accessions, substantially less than in 2010 due to resource constraints. After-ripening progress in Calendula was documented in order to better understand loss of seed dormancy in cold storage over time. Alternative treatments to six week cold-stratification treatments were explored for breaking seed dormancy of wild Helianthus. Optimum germination conditions were experimentally determined for portions of the Thlaspi and Camelina collections, using a thermal gradient table. As of December 6, 2011 over 36,400 items accessions were distributed to recipients worldwide, a 33% increase over previous records. Approximately 72% of all distributions are domestic, and approximately ½ of these are to NC-7 Region researchers and educators. Some large requests included all of the available maize inbreds for a second year of a collaborative genotyping and multi-location phenotyping study, large numbers of ex-PVP lines, and large phenotypic screening and genotyping studies for a number of other crops. Many large requests await fulfillment, including one for a significant portion of the collections requested by an Asian genebank. More than 1,200 accessions were grown for regeneration in Ames and with collaborators, with harvest results not yet finalized. Five different insect pollinators were used to assist in pollination of those crops requiring them; multiple pollinators are needed for effective pollination of some accessions. Monsanto grew multiple nurseries of tropical, photoperiod maize accessions in their Hawaii nurseries for the maize curation project. Over 35,930 observations of 7,249 accessions were entered in the GRIN database. Phenotypic evaluation and genetic characterization of the Camelina and Thlaspi (pennycress) accessions progressed as part of a Ph.D. study, including analyses of oil content and composition. These crops are of interest for biodiesel production. The Project to develop the GRIN-Global System for international genebank management use was completed after four years and released internationally. A training session was held in Tetalticiplan, Mexico in November for Mexican and other international systems administrators and curators. U.S. migration to the new system from GRIN will likely occur in late 2012. The Ames Germplasm Enhancement of Maize Project developed about 200 new DH lines wfrom previously unsampled races, but have not yet released them. Financial Situation: Significant accomplishments continue to be achieved at the NCRPIS; financial resources for this project are becoming a major concern. Since 2004, NC-7 funded ISU positions have decreased from 12 to 9. Hatch funding has remained stable at $522,980 but its purchasing power has eroded somewhat over the past decade. ARS funding is essentially at the same level as 2003 funding at $2,066,297; potential rescissions may occur in FY 2012. Fewer students have been hired (compared to 2003-2005 levels) in order to maintain financial resources for operations, and resources from complementary projects have been leveraged. Regenerations have been reduced for major crops with extensive labor requirements, such as maize, oilseeds, and vegetables. NC-7 Project Participants Research Accomplishments: University of Delaware researchers have studied the relative results from and relative benefits of using modified single seed descent, doubled haploid, or conventional breeding methods to introgress exotic maize germplasm with elite germplasm. They have also explored the fitness benefits conferred by a previously discovered locus, Rcg1, which confers resistance to Colletotrichum graminicola Iowa State University and/or NCRPIS researchers are using diverse maize and other grass genetic resources for biomass investigations, development of double haploid lines from exotic germplasm, SNP discovery, and for testing hypotheses regarding the domestication of maize. Via international collaboration, new sources of wild Lactuca spp. germplasm variability were evaluated and described for us in lettuce improvement programs. Research findings related to the floral morphology of Prunella accessions and self-incompatibility phenomenon were identified that will be useful in basic research related to genetic control of reproductive biology as well as breeding programs. The first large-scale evaluation of extensive, diverse germplasm for resistance to the bacterial fruit blotch pathogen was completed. Using Cucumis seed vaccuum infliltration, 16 lines were identified as resistant to this seed-borne disease; they may be useful as sources of resistance in Cucumis breeding programs. Kansas State University researchers evaluated the Brassica napus germplasm collection for potential for winter canola variety development for the southern Great Plains. Participation in the National Winter Canola Variety Trial (NWCVT), the largest winter canola testing network in the United States and coordinated by Kansas State University, increased. The effects of five planting dates (between 15 August and 15 October) and two tillage methods (conventional tillage and no tillage) on winter canola fall plant density, fall crown height, fall vigor, winter survival, spring plant density, spring vigor, and yield were evaluated in western KS. Planting date affected every measurement with tillage only affecting yield. Findings support earlier planting of canola than previously indicated to ensure sufficient winter survival and yield. Comparisons of tillage regimens and residue on stand establishment indicated that residue removal favored stand establishment, and that varietal response differences exist. Ten different woody plant accessions are evaluated annually by the John C. Pair Horticultural Center. This program has greatly increased the diversity of woody plants evaluated for suitability to south-central Kansas, and is currently establishing a provenance evaluation of the native Kentucky Coffeetree. Michigan State University sour cherry researchers have identified sources of germplasm with improved cold hardiness, tolerance to late season frosts which are very damaging to fruit set and yield, better growth or fruiting habits, improved rootstocks, fruit color and flavor, and resistance to cherry leaf spot. The collection developed over 20 years of effort to acquire, evaluate and utilize wild species and cultivars is being used to investigate meiotic irregularities, genetic self-incompatibility, and trait improvement. A self-compatible mutant allele has been identified from a Hungarian sour cherry cultivar. The Rosaceae genetics community (apple, peach, strawberry, sweet and tart cherry) utilized the RosBREED newsletter forum to demonstrate phenotyping protocols and tools, use of Pedimap software, and to communicate discoveries of genetic marker information useful for marker assisted breeding, MAB, or trait improvement via the Jewels in the Genome series. In 2011, quantitative trait loci and flanking markers were described for sweet cherry fruit size, cherry self-incompatibility, apple quality and storage traits, and peach fruit texture and flavor. University of Missouri researchers and collaborators have used plant genetic resources extensively for a very wide range of purposes. Maize-teosinte introgression libraries were used to investigate aspects of genetic diversity and how levels of diversity affect our understanding of the genes that control agronomic and kernel quality traits, as well as though selected during domestication. Areas of the maize or teosinte genome present/absent in the germplasm libraries were characterized. A somatic karyotype for many maize accessions is being developed, including for maize relatives, in order to provide information about the diversity of chromosome structure and its evolution. University of Nebraska researchers and collaborators evaluated four spring planted canola varieties in five geographic regions across the High Plains in order to determine if this valuable crop for oil production and livestock feed could fit into the crop rotations used by High Plains producers and benefit them. They found seed oil content to be highest in the northern High Plains locations while yields were highest in the southern and central High Plains, and concluded the US High Plains would be excellent for growing spring canola. University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers are using NPGS maize germplasm to exploit the natural genetic variation observed in corn for identification of important genomic regions related to the utilization of corn as a source of feedstock for biofuel production. Testing of hybrids with one of two mutants, gt (grassy tillers) which increases the number of primary lateral branches from below ground nodes, or corngrass (Cg1) which increases the vegetative phase of corn plants and therefore their secondary cell wall composition, indicates that these native genes can be used to increase ethanol yield per acre, by increasing biomass and digestibility and energy yield.

Publications

Delaware: Frey, T.J., Weldekidan, T., Colbert, T., Wolters, P.J.C.C., and Hawk, J.A. 2011. Fitness Evaluation of Rcg1, a Locus which Confers Resistance to Colletotrichum graminicola (Ces.) G.W.Wils., using Near-Isogenic Maize (Zea mays L.) Hybrids. Crop Sci. 51: advance online copy at doi: 10.2135/cropsci2010.10.0613. Jumbo, M.B., Weldekidan, T., Holland, J.B., and Hawk, J.A. 2011. Comparison of Conventional, Modified Single Seed Descent and Doubled Haploid Breeding Methods for Maize Inbred Lines Development using GEM Breeding Crosses. Crop Sci. 51:1534-1543. Kansas: Holman, J., Maxwell, S., Stamm, M., and Martin, K. 2011. Effects of planting date and tillage on winter canola. Crop Management. doi: 10.1094/CM-2011-0324-01-RS. Michigan: Hamilton, J.P., Hansey, C.N., Whitty, B.R., Stoffel, K., Massa, A.N., Van Deynze, A., De Jong, W.S., Douches, D.S., and Buell, C.R. 2011. Single nucleotide polymorphism discovery in elite North American potato germplasm. BMC Genomics. 12:302. doi: 10.1186/1471-2164-12-302. Illa, E., Sargent, D.J., Girona, E.L., Bushakra, J., Cestaro, A., Crowhurst, R., Pindo, M., Cabrera, A., van der Knapp, E., Iezzoni, A., Gardiner, S., Velasco, R., Arus, P., Chagne, D., and Troggio, M., 2011. Comparative analysis of rosaceous genomes and the reconstruction of a putative ancestral genome for the family. BMC Evolutionary Biology. 11:9. Weebadde, C., Sebolt, A., Iezzoni, A., Peace, C., and Bassil, N. 2011. RosBREED: Enabling marker-assisted breeding. In: Rosaceae Newsletter. 2(1). Weebadde, C., Sebolt, A., Iezzoni, A., Peace, C., Yue, C., McCracken, V., and Gallardo, K. 2011. RosBREED: Enabling marker-assisted breeding in Rosaceae Newsletter. 2(2). Nebraska: Dwivedi, S. H., Upadhyaya, H., Senthilvel, S., Hash, C., Fukunaga, K., Diao, X., Santra, D.K., Baltensperger, D., and Prasad, M. 2011. Millets: Genetic and Genomic Resources. Plant Breeding Review. (accepted). Pavlista, A.D., Santra, D.K., Isbell, T.A., Baltensperger, D.D., Hergert, G.W., Krall, J., Mesbach, A., Johnson, J., O'Neill, M., Aiken, R., and Berrada, A. 2011. Adaptability of Irrigated Spring Canola to the US High Plains. Industrial Crops and Products. 33(1):165-169. Wisconsin: Hansey, C.N and de Leon, N. 2011. Biomass yield and cell wall composition of corn (Zea mays L.) with alternative morphologies planted at variable densities. Crop Sci. 50:1005-1015. NCRPIS: Daly, C., Widrlechner, M.P., Halbleib, M.D., and Smith, J.I. 2011. In press. Development of a new USDA plant hardiness zone map for the United States. Journal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology. Gardner, C.A., Blanco, M.H., Krakowsky, M.D., Goodman, M., Marshall, D.S., Smelser, A.D., Engstrom, F., Shen, N. 2011. GEM - Meeting the Challenge of Maize Diversification by Capturing Useful Alleles and Traits from Exotic Germplasm [abstract]. Maize Genetics Conference Abstracts. Abstract P221. Bretting, P.K., Stoner, A.K., Widrlechner, M.P., and Williams, K.A. (Compilers). 2011. Country Report on the State of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture United States of America. FAO, 44 pp. Lebeda, A., Dole~alová,I., Kitner, M., Novotná, A., `machová, P., and Widrlechner, M.P. 2011. In press. North American continent a new source of wild Lactuca spp. germplasm variability for future lettuce breeding. Presented by senior author to the International Horticultural Congress, Lisbon, Portugal, 22-27 August 2010. Acta Horticulturae. Mandel, J.R., Dechaine, J.M., Marek, L.F., and Burke, J.M. 2011. Genetic diversity and population structure in cultivated sunflower and a comparison to its wild progenitor, Helianthus annuus L. Theor Appl Genet (2011). 123:693704. doi: 10.1007/s00122-011-1619-3. Oh, C., Price, J., Brindley, M., Widrlechner, M.P., Qu, L., McCoy, J., Murphy, P., Hauck, C., and Maury, W. 2011. Inhibition of HIV-1 infection by aqueous extracts of Prunella vulgaris. L. Virology Journal 8:188 (10 pages) doi:10.1186/1743-422X-8-188. Available online at http://www.virologyj.com/content/8/1/188. Qu, L., and Widrlechner, M.P. 2011. Variation in the breeding system of Prunella vulgaris L. HortScience 46: 688-692. Ramasahayam, S., Baraka, H.N., Abdel Bar, F.M., Widrlechner, M.P., El Sayed, K.A., and Meyer, S.A. 2011. In press. Effects of chemically characterized fractions from aerial parts of Echinacea purpurea and angustifolia on myelopoiesis in rats. Planta Medica 77(17): 1883-1889. Wechter, W.P., Levi, A., Ling, K-S., Kousik, C., and Block, C. 2011. Identification of Resistance to Acidovorax avenae subsp. citrulli among Melon (Cucumis spp.) Plant Introductions. Hort Science. 46(2):207-212. Widrlechner, M.P. 2011. Personal note at end of: Biographical notice Professor Alea Lebeda at sixty. Plant Protection Science 47: 79-82. Widrlechner, Mark P., Christopher Daly, Markus Keller, and Kim Kaplan. 2011. In press. Horticultural applications of a newly revised USDA plant hardiness zone map. HortTechnology. Qiang, Z., Ye, Z., Hauck, C., Murphy, P.A., McCoy, J., Widrlechner, M.P., Reddy, M.B., and Hendrich, S. Submitted 2011. Permeability of rosmarinic acid from Prunella vulgaris and ursolic acid from Salvia officinalis extracts across Caco-2 cell monolayers. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 137(3): 1107-1112. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2011.07.037

Impact Statements

Impact : Plant genetic resources obtained from the North Central Regional Plant Introduction Station (NCRPIS) and other elements of the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) help researchers develop new crops and new uses for existing crops; fruit, nut, or grain plant varieties with improved disease and insect resistance; improved agronomic and horticultural production traits; added crop value by contributing improved flavor or nutritional qualities; more sustainable cropping systems; feedstocks for biofuel and industrial uses, and expand our knowledge of genetics, genomics and the basis of diversity.