FY 2010 GRASS SEED CROPPING SYSTEM FOR SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE, ID, OR, WA

• Sponsoring Institution: National Institute of Food and Agriculture
• Project Status: COMPLETE
• Funding Source: SPECIAL GRANT
• Reporting Frequency: Annual
• Accession No.: 0222792
• Grant No.: 2010-34321-21364
• Proposal No.: 2010-02953
• Project Start Date: Aug 1, 2010
• Project End Date: Jul 31, 2013
• Grant Year: 2010
• Program Code: [JH]- Grass Seed Crop Systems for Sustainable Ag., ID, OR, WA

Project Director
Cavalieri, R. P.

Recipient Organization
WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY
240 FRENCH ADMINISTRATION BLDG
PULLMAN,WA 99164-0001

Performing Department
Ag Research Center

Non Technical Summary
Over 90% of the United States' cool-season forage and turfgrass seed is produced in the Pacific Northwest. Currently, the grass seed industry faces some critical environmental and economic challenges, including public pressure to phase out open-field burning; alleviation of smoke, dust, and chemical trespass from crop-production areas; lack of integrated cropping systems; protection of genetic diversity and identification of germplasm resources for alternate production strategies; and better utilization of post seed harvest residues. These challenges can best be addressed through the development of sustainable production systems. A coordinated approach among the three state universities and the USDA-ARS is essential for assembling effective interdisciplinary research and technology expertise. Funds are being used to supplement fundamental and problem-solving research and technology-transfer efforts conducted by individuals and teams of scientists. Three committees provide advisory counsel to the Washington, Idaho, and Oregon Agricultural Experiment Station Directors for operation of this program. The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and the Industry Advisory Committee (IAC), chaired separately, provide input to the Administrative Advisory Committee (AAC). The AAC includes the chairpersons of the TAC and IAC along with the Oregon, Idaho, and Washington research and extension administrators, and two ARS representatives.

Animal Health Component

41%

Research Effort Categories

Basic

31%

Applied

41%

Developmental

28%

Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
204	1621	1080	14%
212	1621	1160	10%
213	1621	1140	26%
214	1621	1150	10%
216	1621	1140	10%
216	1621	1130	11%
216	1621	1060	19%

Knowledge Area
212 - Pathogens and Nematodes Affecting Plants; 204 - Plant Product Quality and Utility (Preharvest); 214 - Vertebrates, Mollusks, and Other Pests Affecting Plants; 216 - Integrated Pest Management Systems; 213 - Weeds Affecting Plants;

Subject Of Investigation
1621 - Cool season perennial grasses;

Field Of Science
1130 - Entomology and acarology; 1060 - Biology (whole systems); 1160 - Pathology; 1080 - Genetics; 1140 - Weed science; 1150 - Toxicology;

Keywords

grass seed cropping systems

naturally occurring herbicide

nematodes

soilborne fungal pathogens

kentucky bluegrass germplasm

hole baiting voles

zinc phosphide

weed management practices

choke disease

orchardgrass

columbia basin

integrated management

Goals / Objectives
The specific priority areas and program objectives follow. They are not listed in order of importance.

Develop sustainable grass seed cropping systems that optimize economic seed production with maximum energy and resource conservation and maintain or improve environmental quality.
A) Crop management, e.g., planting practices/stand establishment, crop rotation, seed certification.
B) Weed, insect, disease, slug, and mice control with special emphasis on effects of diuron on weed control/crop management and on slug control (biological and chemical).
C) Plant nutrition, e.g., fertilizer management and nutrient cycling.
D) Straw and stubble residue removal systems.
E) Air quality and dust control.
F) Methods to determine annual ryegrass contamination.

Develop economic utilization of grass seed production by-products in agriculture.
A) Low-input composting for on-farm utilization of compost mulch.
B) Economic analysis of residue handling methods on- and off-farm.
C) Harvest methods to reduce residue.
D) Residue utilization and disposal
opportunities such as animal feed, fermentation processes, paper, insulation, electricity generation, etc.
E) Endophyte relationships to alternative residue management.

Develop maximum genetic and biological potential.
A) Cultivar variation in morphology, anatomy, specific plant developmental pathways, and floral processes in response to mechanical residue removal; identification of specific morphological-anatomical, biochemical, and genetic features associated with floral induction; and plant-growth models.
B) Germplasm from specific genetic bases that can be used to optimize seed production efficiency and minimize environmental impact of the cropping system.
C) Methods to determine germplasm diversity and determine cause of genetic drift.
D) Varietal "fingerprinting" and genetic stability.

Collaborative, multidisciplinary research projects that include technology transfer were emphasized in the program. Objectives and procedures for the research as well as the technology-transfer components of the proposed project were requested for each proposal. Team-building and increased communication among scientists involved in GSCSSA research are goals of the GSCSSA program. The proposed and continuing research was directed toward solving important regional problems affecting the Pacific Northwest grass seed industry.

A Request for Proposals (RFP) was distributed to researchers at Washington State University, Oregon State University, and the University of Idaho requesting proposals to fulfill the purpose of this initiative. Seven of the eight proposals submitted met the objectives for the GSCSSA program, each was of sufficient scientific quality to warrant funding, and there was sufficient money to fund them. Three of the proposals were found to have complementary objectives, so the PI was asked to contact the authors of the three proposals to ascertain if they could work together on aspects of fertilization, which they were able to do. This three state collaboration is reflected in the submitted projects.

Project Methods
One team of scientists from OSU and WSU will examine a series of questions about optimum fertilization practices for PNW grass seed production in a coordinated project with plots in all three states. These same scientists will continue to conduct trials in the predominately sandy soils of the Columbia Basin region where grass seed is grown in rotation with other irrigated crops and, therefore, needs different pest management strategies and nutritional needs than those developed for more traditional, dryland production areas. From WSU, one scientist will continue to test selections for turf quality factors for seed produced in non-burning production systems at several locations. The PI will continue to lead the GSCSSA special research grant program. The next annual meeting will be held in Spokane, OR in November 2010. At OSU, three scientists have identified a novel, naturally occurring compound that blocks germination of the seeds of a number of grassy weeds in a highly specific and effective manner. They have filed a provisional patent application and will continue to develop this herbicide. Two scientists will attempt to integrate cultural crop management practices and chemical weed management practices to optimize control of annual bluegrass (Poa annua), which is a weed showing herbicide resistance when growing in tall-fescue and perennial-ryegrass seed fields. A conservative estimate of the cost of managing the herbicide-resistant bluegrass suggests that it can result in approximately a 30% reduction in returns for some grass seed growers. One scientist has been alerted to a choke disease which reduces grass seed yield caused by the pathogen Epichoe typhina, which was accidentally introduced from Europe, was first detected in 1996, and is now spreading throughout the Willamette Valley in Oregon. This study will evaluate the impact of plant nutrients, growth regulators, and biological control agents on suppression of choke disease, while it determines if endophytes that are safe for cattle can suppress choke disease.

Progress 08/01/10 to 07/31/13

Outputs
Target Audience: The potential users of the product are the grass seed producers of Washington State and the Pacific Northwest, grass seed industry representatives, professional research communities,professionals within the university community who have responsibility for technical-transfer and commercialization activities, and governmental professionals involved in crop production throughout the United States. Currently, due to restrictions on open-field burning of post-harvest residue, growers are utilizing two to three-year rotations to maximize seed yields. Longer rotations will have a positive economic impact on the grass seed industry, will mitigate soil erosion and water pollution, and reduce pesticide inputs in grass seed production. The seed industry and the general public will both benefit if the new bluegrass germplasm resulting from this project is successful in field-scale production. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Three post-doctoral associates are currently associated with the project and have been with the project for varying periods of time during the current reporting period. These associates have been mentored by the senior scientists associated with the project. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? WSU Project research was presented at the turfgrass field days at the WSU Turfgrass and Agronomy Research Facility at Pullman, WA and the R.L. Goss Research Farm at Puyallup, WA. Several research presentations were made to the Washington Turfgrass Seed Commission and the Washington Dept. of Ecology. Results were disseminated at professional meetings of the Western Crop Science Society and ASA-CSSA-SSSA. Results were also shared with growers and seed production research personnel in the Dept. of Crop and Soil Sciences Field Day Abstracts. OSU Results of the project have been communicated to academic peers and industry representatives and growers in appropriate venues as cited, the larger research community by the publications listed in this report and by discussion and collaborative planning with professional colleagues.A PNW Extension bulletin is being created to share these and other results with Pacific Northwest wheat growers. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? WSU 1) major activities completed; Germplasm selections were evaluated for seed yield. Turfgrass quality of these selections was evaluated at Pullman andPuyallup, WA and Auburn, AL. Seed increase plots were harvest and seed was obtained for possible future on-farm testing. 2) specific objectives met; Objective met was “to determine the selection response for seed yield and yield components by testing the resulting selections for seed production under a residue removed (baled) management system in diverse environments (dryland and irrigated) over several years. In addition, test the selections for turfgrass quality factors at several locations over years”. 3) significant results achieved, including major findings, developments, or conclusions (both positive and negative); Germplasm was identified that could maintain seed production over several harvests without the need to open-field burn the post-harvest residue. This germplasm also possessed good turfgrass quality. Initial seed increase was successful and seed is now available for large scale field evaluation. 4) key outcomes or other accomplishments realized. Traditionally, seed production management practices have included open- field burning following harvest to remove residue and stimulate seed production the following year. A ban on burning has been implemented in Washington State, and restrictions on the timing and/or amount of burning are in place in Idaho and Oregon, causing economic stress for grass seed producers. Without burning, growers have been forced to use shorter rotations to maintain good bluegrass seed yields. Short rotations not only are an economic hardship to growers, but constant land preparation is a detriment to soil and water quality. To sustain Kentucky bluegrass seed production at economically viable levels in the Pacific Northwest, new bluegrass germplasm that maximizes yield potential for several years in non-burn management systems needs to be identified, selection made, germplasm enhancement carried out, and ultimately high yielding bluegrass germplasm capable of multiple harvests with good turfgrass quality be made available to growers. Our research has accomplished this goal. OSU: 1. Major Activities Completed. The herbicidal Germination-Arrest Factor (GAF) produced by Pseudomonas fluorescens WH6, which selectively arrests germination of the seeds of grassy weeds, was previously identified in these investigations as 4-formylaminooxyglycine. In addition to its herbicidal properties, GAF was shown to have selective antimicrobial activity against Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of the disease of orchard crops known as fireblight. During the current reporting period, identification of the genetic basis of the GAF biosynthetic pathway and the key genetic elements that regulate the pathway has constituted a major focus of these investigations. Other unusual amino acid analogs synthesized by other strains of pseudomonads have been examined to determine if they might have herbicidal or antimicrobial properties of practical utility. 2. Specific Objectives Met. A potential alternative to Diuron for the control of grassy weeds in grass seed cropping systems has been characterized. 3. Significant Results Achieved. Our genetic studies of GAF production in P. fluorescens WH6 have identified a cluster of 13 genes that appear to be essential for GAF production. It is not yet clear whether this cluster is sufficient for GAF biosynthesis or whether other genes are required for the pathway. This cluster includes 3 genes that appear to have regulatory functions and 3 genes that appear to code for transport proteins as well as genes that code for enzymatic activities. Site-specific mutation has been used to confirm the essentiality of a number of these individual genes for GAF biosynthesis. In addition, GAF production has been shown to be regulated by a two component regulatory system that is located outside the gene cluster (work yet to be published). One of the components of this system appears to function as a negative controlling element in GAF biosynthesis. Our investigations have included an examination of ninhydrin-reactive compounds produced by other strains of pseudomonads. We have found that P. fluorescens strain SBW25, which has a genome similar to WH6, produces another amino acid analog, furanomycin. This is the first report of the production of this compound by a pseudomonad. Furanomycin has no obvious herbicidal activity, but it does exhibit selective antimicrobial properties. The biological properties of a vinylglycine, 4-methoxyvinylglycine, produced by another strain of pseudomonad, has been investigated in collaborative work with Dr. Cornelia Reimmann in Switzerland. Methoxyvinylglycine proved to have only very weak herbicidal activity in our assay for grassy weed germination, but it had very strong antimicrobial activity against Erwinia amylovora. A number of other pseudomonads have been shown to produce amino acid analogs that have yet to be identified, pointing to a more ubiquitous role of these compounds in pseudomonad metabolism than has been previously recognized. 4. Key Outcomes. In summary, GAF has been shown to be effective in suppressing the germination of grassy weeds and to have the potential to be an effective agent for the control of grassy weeds if it can be produced in a cost effective manner. Chemical synthesis of the GAF molecule has proven to be impractical, but the molecular genetic information established in these studies has laid a foundation for the production of GAF by genetically engineered fermentation processes. A more immediate opportunity exists for the use of GAF-producing strains of pseudomonads themselves as biocontrol agents for the control of grassy weeds in turf settings. A study to test the feasibility of this approach to the control of grassy weeds is underway in collaboration with Dr. Alec Kowalewski of the Department of Horticulture at Oregon State University.

Publications

• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, and C.T. Golob. 2012. Kentucky bluegrass for non-burn seed production. WSU Turfgrass Field Day. Pullman, WA.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, and C.T. Golob. 2012. Kentucky bluegrass germplasm evaluation for seed production without open-field burning. ASA-CSSA-SSSA abstracts. ASA-CSSA-SSSA annual meeting, Cincinnati, OH.
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Johnston, W.J., C.T. Golob, and R.C. Johnson. 2012. Development of Kentucky bluegrass cultivar for non-burn seed production. Washington Turfgrass Seed Commission Report.
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, C.T. Golob, K.L. Dodson, and G.K. Stahnke. 2013. Kentucky bluegrass evaluation for turf and seed production without field burning. Washington State Turfgrass Seed Commission Research Report. .
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, C.T. Golob, K.L. Dodson, and G.K. Stahnke. 2013. Kentucky bluegrass for sustainable seed production without field burning. Washington State Dept. of Ecology Research Report.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, C.T. Golob, K.L. Dodson, and G.K. Stahnke. 2013. Sustainable Kentucky bluegrass seed production without burning. Western Soc. Crop Sci. annual meeting abstract. Pendleton, OR.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, C.T. Golob, K.L. Dodson, and G.K. Stahnke. 2013. Kentucky bluegrass evaluation for turf and seed production without field burning. Dept. Crop and Soil Sciences Dryland Field Day Abstracts.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, C.T. Golob, K.L. Dodson, and G.K. Stahnke. 2013. Sustainable Kentucky bluegrass seed production without field burning. WSU-Puyallup Turfgrass Field Day. July 9, Puyallup, WA.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Halgren, A., Maselko, M., Azevedo, M., Mills, D., Armstrong, D., and Banowetz, G., 2013. Genetics of germination-arrest factor (GAF) production by Pseudomonas fluorescens WH6: Identification of a gene cluster essential for GAF biosynthesis. Microbiology 159: 36-45.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Lee, X., Azevedo, M. D., Armstrong, D. J., Banowetz, G. M., and Reimmann, C., 2013. The Pseudomonas aeruginosa antimetabolite L-2-amino-4-methoxy-trans-3-butenoic acid inhibits growth of Erwinia amylovora and acts as a seed germination-arrest factor. Environmental Microbiology Reports 5: 83-89.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Trippe, K., McPhail, K., Armstrong, D., Azevedo, M., and Banowetz, G., 2013. Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25 produces furanomycin, a non-proteinogenic amino acid with selective antimicrobial properties. BMC Microbiology 13: 111.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Tran, N., Zielke, R. A., Vining, O. B., Azevedo, M. D., Armstrong, D. J., Banowetz, G. M., McPhail, K. L., and Sikora, A. E., 2013. Development of a quantitative assay amenable to high-throughput screening to target the Type II secretion system for new treatments against plant-pathogenic bacteria. Journal of Biomolecular Screening, http://jbx.sagepub.com/content /early/2013/04/10/1087057113485426
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2012 Citation: Butler, M.D. and R.B. Simmons. 2012. Ammonia Volatilization from Urea and Alternative N Sources in Central Oregon. Online Proceedings. American Society of Agronomy.
• Type: Websites Status: Other Year Published: 2011 Citation: Butler, M., R. Simmons, R. Koenig and D. Horneck. Influence of Nitrogen Source on Kentucky Bluegrass Seed Yield in Central Oregon, Hermiston and Eastern Washington, 2011. Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center 2012 Annual Reports. pp. 1-2.
• Type: Websites Status: Other Year Published: 2012 Citation: Butler, M. and R. Simmons. Influence of Nitrogen Source on Kentucky Bluegrass Seed Yield in Central Oregon, 2012. Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center 2012 Annual Reports. pp. 3-4.

Progress 08/01/11 to 07/31/12

Outputs
OUTPUTS: WSU 1:
New Kentucky bluegrass germplasm selected for seed increase in 2012 will be available for on-farm evaluation in 2013. The germplasm will be made available to seed companies and growers in the Pacific Northwest. Kentucky bluegrass germplasm that can sustain good seed yield over several harvests without open-field burning of post-harvest residue will have a positive impact on the grass seed industry.

OSU/WSU 2:
Protocol for the project has been followed, with the final samples collected prior to harvest the second season in July, 2012. Samples from 2011 were processed on campus at Oregon State University, with data being evaluated by WSU. 2012 samples are being prepared for analysis.

OSU 3:
The genetic basis of the biosynthetic pathway of the Germination-Arrest Factor (GAF), a naturally occurring herbicide and selective antimicrobial agent produced by Pseudomonas fluorescens WH6, is under investigation. Identification of the genes that encode the GAF biosynthetic is directed toward the goal of creating a genetically engineered strain of WH6 capable of enhanced GAF production. Additional antimicrobial agents, selectively active against plant pathogens, are also being examined. New screens for microbial natural products are being developed.

OSU 4:
Annual bluegrass remains one of the most problematic weed species to manage. Experiments were continued in 2011-2012 to quantify the impact of perennial ryegrass row spacing, nitrogen fertilizer timing and glufosinate herbicide timing on annual bluegrass, density and perennial ryegrass seed production. Recommendations were used to develop a program related to cultural and chemical annual bluegrass management for the grass seed target audience.

OSU 5:
Factors affecting the expression of the choke pathogen in grass seed production fields, fertilization of the fungus, and non-insecticidal management of the pathogen were studied in greenhouse and field-based experiments

OSU 6:
Studies were conducted on seed production fields in OR and WA on Kentucky Bluegrass, tall and fine fescues, and perennial ryegrass grown for seed. A number of fungicides were evaluated. Trials evaluated susceptibility to ergot and control of powdery mildew and stripe rust. Looking at the relationship between spore production, weather parameters, and grass flowering, models for ergot infection will provide better timing of fungicides and/or indicate fungicides are not needed. Nitrogen fertility trials and a survey of insect and other arthropod pests in seed grass crops was conducted. Insect parasitoids and predators were identified and their effectiveness as biological control agents was investigated. Some trials were published: (http://cropandsoil.oregonstate.edu/seed-ext/publications/research-re ports/2009, and http://oregonstate.edu/weeds).

PATENT APPLICATIONS:
U.S. Patent Application No. 12/567.590 for "Control of grassy weeds with vinylglycines and vinylglycine-producing organisms. Filed September 25, 2009. In review.
U.S. Patent Application No. 12/695,977 for "Control of Erwinia amylovora with vinylglycines and bacteria that produce vinylglycines". Filed January 28, 2010. In review PARTICIPANTS: INDIVIDUALS
Donald J. Armstrong (Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Oregon State University (OSU)).
Kerry McPhail (College of Pharmacy, OSU).
Dallice I. Mills (Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, OSU).
Anne Halgren (Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, OSU).
Rachel Okrent (Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, OSU). Post-doctoral associate.
Barbara Hinds-Cook, Kyle Roerig and Dan Curtis, Weed Science Faculty Research Assistants, Department of Crop and Soil Science, OSU
John Allan, Graduate Research Assistant, Department of Crop and Soil Science, OSU
Bill Brewster, Senior Instructor Weed Science (Retired 2012), Department of Crop and Soil Science, OSU.
Sujaya Rao, OSU
George Hoffman, OSU
Steve Alderman USDA-ARS National Forage Seed Production Research Center, Corvallis OR 97331
Richard P Affeldt, Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, OSU
Don A. Horneck, Hermiston Agricultural Research and Extension Center, OSU
Richard T. Koenig, Washington State University (WSU)
Marvin D. Butler, Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center, OSU
Silvia I. Rondon, Extension Entomologist Specialist & Assistant Professor, OSU, Hermiston Agricultural Research & Extension Center (HAREC), Dept of Crop & Soil Science;
Philip B. Hamm, Extension Plant Pathologist & Professor, OSU, HAREC, Dept of Botany & Plant Pathology
John Hart, OSU Extension Soil Scientist
Bill Young, OSU Extension Seed Production Specialist
Darrin Walenta, OSU Extension Service, Union County

W. J. Johnston (PI, WSU), R. C. Johnson (USDA)
G. Stahnke (WSU-Puyallup)
E. Guretal (Auburn Univ.)

PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS
Washington Turfgrass Seed Commission
Washington State Department of Ecology
National Forage Seed Production Research Center (NFSPRC), USDA/ARS, Corvallis, OR.
Phil & Mike Hawman, Riverview Seed Co. Hermiston, OR
Don Obrist, Barenbrug Inc. Boardman, OR
Dave Johnson, Jacklin Seed Co., Kennewick, WA

COLLABORATORS AND CONTACTS
Gary Banowetz (NFSPRC, USDA/ARS, Corvallis, OR). Project leader at USDA facility.
Mark Azevedo (NFSPRC, USDA/ARS, Corvallis, OR). Microbiologist in Banowetz group.
Kristen Trippe & Maciej Maselko (NFSPRC, USDA/ARS, Corvallis, OR). Post-doctoral associates in Banowetz group.
Orchardgrass growers in the Willamette Valley in Oregon

TRAINING OR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Post-doctoral associates at OSU and NFSPRC as listed.
Graduate students: K. Dodson, D. Silbernagel, C. Proctor, and T. Streeter
Undergraduates as time-slip labor TARGET AUDIENCES: This work is of interest to growers in the grass seed production industry, to corporations involved in the production of agricultural chemicals and biocontrol agents, orchard grass seed growers, and to organizations interested in the control of weeds or plant pathogens with agents that have minimal environmental impacts.

The potential users of the product are the grass seed producers of Washington State and the Pacific Northwest. Currently, due to restrictions on open-field burning of post-harvest residue, growers are utilizing two to three-year rotations to maximize seed yields. Longer rotations will have a positive economic impact on the grass seed industry, will mitigate soil erosion and water pollution, and reduce pesticide inputs in grass seed production. The seed industry and the general public will both benefit if the new bluegrass germplasm resulting from this project is successful in field-scale production.

Grass seed growers and agricultural industry agronomists in western Oregon have been reached through a variety of Extension programming efforts including written reports, local Extension meetings focused on grass seed production methods and research updates, and traditional field day activities including the annual OSU Hyslop Farm Field Day held in May 2012.
Pacific Northwest grass seed industry. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: OSU and WSU#4: The project was initiated with 5 commercial field locations - 2 in central Oregon, 2 in Hermiston, OR and 1 in eastern Washington. Unfortunately 4 of the commercial fields were removed from production following the 2011 season, with one location north of Madras remaining for data collection the second season.

Impacts
WSU 1:Research generated new knowledge on the effects of re-selection for seed yield parameters in Kentucky (Poa pratensis) germplasm on grass seed production and turfgrass quality.

OSU/WSU 2:
No outcome or impacts are available, as samples were being generated through July, 2012, processing of samples is still in process, and data analysis has not been completed.

OSU #3:
The herbicidal compound (GAF) produced by P. fluorescens WH6, has been identified as 4-formylaminooxyvinylglycine. This has been shown to have antimicrobial activity against Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of the disease crops known as fireblight. The genomic sequence of WH6 has been established. Based on this, a pathway for GAF biosynthesis has been proposed. An additional antimicrobial agent produced by P. fluorescens SBW25 has been identified and shown to inhibit a strain of Dickeya dadantii that causes a soft-rot in maize. The identification of GAF has contributed to our understanding of rhizosphere bacteria and framed a new approach to the control of grassy weed species. GAF-producing bacteria themselves offer potential utility as new biocontrol agents for both the control of grassy weeds and fireblight.

OSU 4:
Nitrogen fertilizer rates and glufosinate timings were applied in 2010 and 2011. Perennial ryegrass seed yield did not vary between treatments in 2011. Experiments were maintained in 2010-2011 to continue to assess the impact of row spacing and herbicide treatments on annual bluegrass populations in 2012. Annual bluegrass density was quantified during the winter months of 2012. Annual bluegrass density in the wide row spacing treatments (30 cm) was approximately double (165 plants m-2) that in narrow treatments (15cm). Within treatments, fertilizer or glufosinate timings did not impact annual bluegrass densities suggesting that row spacing plays an important role.

OSU 5:
Early ascospores, slugs and even water splash facilitated fertilization of the fungus besides the choke fly. High nitrogen applied early, growth regulator applications, and a biological control agent reduced expression of the choke pathogen. Three cultivars with potential for development of orchardgrass resistant varieties were identified.

OSU 6:
In 2009 powdery mildew levels were high but stripe rust disease levels were low. Powdery mildew levels provided an opportunity compare the combination of DMI and Qol fungicides with new fungicide formulations from Syngenta. While the Qol fungicides reduce powdery mildew, they did not reduce the levels as well as the DMI's and are not recommended for the control of this disease. Low levels of ergot were found in 2009, but information related to ascospore incidence explained the reduced infection levels. Apparently atypical weather caused a delay in ascospore production or earlier maturity of the grass. Further studies are warranted, particularly looking at opportunities for disease control or through proper timed/use of fungicides through real time ascospore monitoring. Planting date may be a beneficial method to reduce powdery mildew in KBG fields intended to be grown for only one year or first year PRG plantings.

Publications

• Halgren, A., Azevedo, M., Mills, D., Armstrong, D., Thimmaiah, M., McPhail, K., and Banowetz, G. (2011). Selective inhibition of Erwinia amylovora by the herbicidally-active Germination-Arrest Factor (GAF) produced by Pseudomonas bacteria. Journal of Applied Microbiology 111: 949-959.
• Rao, S., Alderman, S.C, Kaser, J. M. and Hoffman, G. D. 2012. Fertilization of Epichloe typhina in cultivated Dactylisglomerata by factors besides Botanophila flies. In:Young CA, Aiken G, McCulley, R, Strickland, and Schardl CL, (eds). Epichloae,endophytes of cool season grasses: Implications, utilization and biology. pp: 122-126.
• Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, and C.T. Golob. 2012. Kentucky bluegrass for non-burn seed production. 2012 Dryland Field Day abstracts., Wash. State Univ., Dep. Crop and Soil Sci., Tech. Rep. 12-1.
• Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, and C.T. Golob. 2012. Kentucky bluegrass germplasm evaluation for seed production without open-field burning. ASA-CSSA-SSSA abstracts, Madison, WI.
• Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, and C.T. Golob. 2012. Kentucky bluegrass for seed production without open-field burning. Western Soc. Crop Sci. annual meeting, Pullman, WA.
• Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, C.T. Golob, K.L. Dodson, D.A. Silbernagel, and G.K. Stahnke. 2012. Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) germplasm for non-burn seed production. 4th Int. Cong. on Agriculture abstracts. Athens, Greece.
• Johnston, W.J., K. Dodson, D. Silbernagel, R.C. Johnson, and C.T. Golob. 2011. Bluegrass seed production without field burning. ASA-CSSA-SSSA abstracts, Madison, WI.
• Johnson, R.C., W.J. Johnston, F.B. Bertoli, and C.T. Golob. 2010. Seed yield, development, and variation in diverse Poa pratensis accessions. Crop Sci. 50:337-344.
• Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, C.T. Golob, K. Dodson, and G.K. Stahnke. 2010. Kentucky bluegrass germplasm for non-burn seed production. In G.R. Smith, G.W. Evans, and L.R. Nelson (eds.), Int. Herbage Seed Res., pp. 184-187. Int. Herbage Seed Conf., Dallas, TX.
• Hamm, P.B. N.L. David and D. A. Horneck. 2008. Controlling ergot with foliar applied fungicides in seedling perennial ryegrass var. Americus grown for seed in the southern Columbia Basin. In: Seed Production Research Ext/CrS 127. Pages 52-53.
• Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, C.T. Golob, K.L. Dodson, D.A. Silbernagel, and G.K. Stahnke. 2012. Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) germplasm for non-burn seed production. Athens: ATINER'S Conf. Paper Ser., No. AGR2012-0181.
• Rao, S., Hoffman, G. D., Kaser J. M., and Alderman, S. C. 2011. Fertilization of the choke pathogen in orchardgrass seed production fields in the Willamette Valley. In Young, W.C., Ed., Seed Production Research, OSU Publication 130: 11-14.
• Alderman, S. C., Rao, S., and Martin, R. 2010. First report of Dicyma pulvinata on Epichloe typhina and its potential for E. typhina control. Online. Plant Health Progress doi:10.1094/PHP-2010-0216-01-RS.
• Holcom II JC & D.A. Horneck. 2009. Effect of agrotain urea on ammonia volatilization in Kentucky bluegrass in the Columbia Basin Oregon. In 2009 Seed Production Research. Oregon State University, USDA-ARS Cooperating. Ed. W.C. Young III. http://cropandsoil.oregonstate.edu/seed-ext/sites/default/files/Pub/2 009/CompletedBook3-18-10.pdf
• Rondon, S.I. and D. Walenta. 2009. Studying billbugs in grass seed in eastern Oregon. In Proc. 68th annual Pacific Northwest Insect Management Conference. Portland, OR. Section V.
• Rondon, S.I. 2008. Quest for billbugs management tools in grass seed in eastern Oregon: preliminary findings. In 2008 Seed Production Research Report. Oregon State University. Crop and Soil Science. Ext/Crs.
• Rondon, S.I. 2008. Insects found in grass seed fields in the lower Columbia Basin. In 2008 Seed Production Research Report. Oregon State University. Crop and Soil Science. Ext/Crs.
• Ball, D. A., S. M. Frost, L. Fandrich, C. Tarasoff, and C. Mallory-Smith. 2008. Biological attributes of rattail fescue (Vulpia myuros). Weed Sci. 56:26-31.
• David, N.L. and P.B. Hamm. 2008. Effect of water volume when applying systemic fungicides for ergot control in seedling perennial ryegrass var. Americus in the southern Columbia Basin. In: Seed Production Research Ext/CrS 127. Pages 49-51.

Progress 08/01/10 to 07/31/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Seven projects were funded with FY10 GSCSSA funds:

(Oregon) D. Armstrong, K. McPhail, D. Mills. "Germination-Arrest Factor(GAF): Chemical and Genetic Approaches to teh Synthesis of a Naturally Occurring Herbicide and Related Analogs for the Control of Grassy Weeds."

(Washington) W. Johnston. "Field Evaluation of Kentucky Bluegrass Germplasm for Non-Burn Seed Production."

(Oregon) S. Rao. "Phase II: Investigations on Choke Disease in Orchardgrass Seed Production."

(Oregon) A. Hulting, C. Mallory-Smith. "Integration of Cultural Crop Management Practices and Chemical Week Management Practices to Optimize Control of Herbicide Resistant Poa annua (annual bluegrass) in Grass Grown for Seed."

(Oregon) R. Affeldt, R. Koenig, D. Horneck. "Nitrogen Fertilizer Retention in Kentucky Bluegrass Seed Production Systems."

(Oregon) M. Butler, D. Horneck. "Quantifying Ammonia Volatilization from Surface Applied Fertilizers in Kentucky Bluegrass Grown for Seed."

(Oregon) S. Rondon, P. Hamm, D. Horneck, D. Ball, "Integrated Disease, Fertilizer, Weed and Insect Management for Columbia Basin Grass Seed Production."

Progress and termination reports can be found at the following website: http://gscssa.wsu.edu/ in the progress reports section. Each fiscal year section lists progress and termination reports for that year, not necessarily for the fiscal year the proposal was awarded. Many of the researchers have developed web pages, which are listed in their progress reports at the GSCSSA website. Also noted in the individual progress reports are the field days and extension bulletins which help disseminate the research results to growers and industry representatives.

A portion of the GSCSSA funds are also used to (a) distribute the Request for Proposals to scientists at the University of Idaho, Oregon State University, and Washington State University; (b) cover allowable annual meeting expenses; (c) print and distribute the progress reports; (d) update the GSCSSA website; and (e) cover the expenses of the Scientific Review Panel (SRP). This year, one of the members of the Scientific Review committee was able to attend the meeting while the other three critically read and submitted review forms for each of the proposals submitted for FY11 GSCSSA funding. Approximately 58 scientists, growers, industry representatives, and administration staff attended the meeting which was held in Spokane, WA on Nov. 10, 2010. PARTICIPANTS: Oregon State University scientisits include: A. Affeldt, D. Armstrong, D. Ball, D. Bohnert, M. Butler, T. Chastain, R. Cooke, J. Felix, J. Gervais, G. Hoffman, A. Hulting, C. Mallory-Smith, K. McPhail, D. Mills, P. Hamm, D. Horneck, M. Penner, S. Rondon, S. Rao, D. Wallenta, B. Wu, and W. Young.

Washington State University scientists include: Ralph Cavalieri, L. Carris, A. Elling, C. Golob, R. Johnson, W. Johnston, R. Koenig, E. Miltner, T. Paulitz, K. Schroeder, and C.R. Shumway.

University of Idaho scientists include: D. Thill, J. Holman, J. Johnson-Maynard, J. McCaffrey, L. VanTassell, J.D. Wulfhorst, and J. Holman. TARGET AUDIENCES: Grass-seed growers in the Palouse, Columbia Basin, and I-5 corridor. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
The states of Idaho and Oregon allow some field burning after harvest under special and approved conditions. The state of Washington has completely banned field burning. This project seeks to maintain an economically viable turf and forage grass seed industry throughout the Pacific Northwest. Growers, commodity groups, and agricultural-support industries actively participate to identify and prioritize the most effective solutions to environmental and economic problems facing seed producers in the Pacific Northwest. Industry members who attend the annual meetings state that this project has helped them determine successful strategies to grow grass seed.

Publications

• Rauch, T., J. Reed, and D. Thill. 2011. Grass weed control in timothy. West. Soc. Weed Sci. Res. Prog. Rep. (in press).
• Saltzman, I.A., Carris, L.M. 2010. Smut fungi as contaminants in grass seed produced in the pacific Northwest. Inoculum 61 (4): 73 (abstract)
• Alderman, S. C., Rao, S. and Martin, R. C. 2010. Potential Control of Choke in Orchardgrass with the Fungus Dicyma pulvinata. In Young, W.C., Ed., Seed Production Research, Oregon State University Publication 129: 6-8.
• Johnston, W.J., R.C. Johnson, C.T. Golob, K.L. Dodson, and G.K. Stahnke. 2010. Kentucky bluegrass for non-burn seed production. Proc. 7th Int. Herbage Seed Conf. p. 184-187. Dallas, TX.
• Kimbrel, J., Givan, S.., Halgren, A., Creason, A., Mills, D., Banowetz, G., Armstrong, D., and Chang, J., 2010. An improved high-quality genome sequence of the Germination-Arrest-Factor-producing Pseudomonas fluorescens WH6. BMC Genomics, In press.
• McPhail, K., Armstrong, D., Azevedo, M., Banowetz, G., and Mills, D., 2010. 4-Formylaminooxyvinylglycine, an herbicidal Germination-Arrest Factor (GAF) from Pseudomonas rhizosphere bacteria. Journal of Natural Products, In Press.
• Proctor, C., R. Koenig and W. Johnston. 2010. Potential for ammonia volatilization from urea in dryland Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) seed production systems. Comm. Soil Sci. Plant Analysis 41:320-331.