RSD CONTROL IN THE NSW SUGAR INDUSTRY

IN THE 1990s, ratoon stunting disease (RSD) infection levels ranged from 21% to as high as 60% of commercial fields across the three mill areas of New South Wales. Lost production from RSD at that time is estimated at more than 42 000 tonnes of cane per year. Since that time, approved seed plots (ASPs) have been expanded and reorganised. An extension campaign has also been undertaken. As a result, sales of approved seed have increased and RSD levels in the field have dropped greatly. This paper reports on the changes made to ASPs and extension work undertaken to improve the uptake of clean seed and to ensure best management practice for on-farm propagation of that seed.