The Quaker Team comprised of R. V. Trombetta, J. Souza, Luiz Federizzi, Deon Stuthman and me met with Carlos Sieber in Sao Paulo to discuss the details of the new Integrated Oat Research Program for South America. The emphasis of the new program is mainly in Brazil where the majority of Quaker’s oats are purchased and milled. This research is designed to maintain research and production interest in oats in the Southern Cone and provide for the continued availability of good, milling quality varieties in Argentina and Chile as insurance against a severe natural disaster in Brazil. The concept is to spead the geographic risk, while emphasizing grain production in Brazil. Sieber agreed with and approved the plan. A copy of the program which was prepared by Trombetta and Federizzi is attached for your review.

The Third South American Oat Congress was held in Colonia, Uruguay with about 65 researchers, administrators and interested parties in attendance. Technical presentations were made to inform the congress of current research in progress and results of progress since the last meeting in 1994. Additionally, the Quaker Team held several meetings with the principal investigators from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Uruguay to present the new Integrated Oat Research Progam and identify the next steps to move the program forward and to insure that the emphasis is on development of varieties suitable for Brazil. The major problem to be addressed is the development of durable crown rust resistance. This disease is the major limiting production factor in Brazil. In the past, host resistance genes have not been durable and have succumbed to the rust in two to three years after variety release resulting in the subsequent reduction in grain yield and lower milling quality. Consequently, the plan is to make large numbers of crosses between spring and winter type oats from over the world that have some degree of rust resistance. If partial resistance, instead of immunity, can be found in these parents and their progeny, there will be less selection pressure on the pathogen population. The partial, but durable resistance will allow the rust to coexist with the oats and reduce the chances of catastrophic losses. The principal investigators from each location are in agreement with the plan and will do what is required to insure positive results.

During the first Quarter of C-98, Trombetta will develop appropriate Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) for the new program. He will do this in collaboration with the appropriate scientists and Quaker personnel.

If you have any questions or comments, please let me know at your earliest convenience.

Sam

S. H. Weaver
Principal Scientist
Grain Research