This is the final report for project DAN168C. This project ceased after 1 year of operation. Mark Hickman was the , however Mark moved into the position of IPM training coordinator with the department of primary industries, based at Toowoomba. Hence why this final report outlines some objectives being achieved.

While Mark was the IDO for the Upper Namoi it provided a mechanism for the Upper Namoi Cotton Grower Association to identify research and extension needs at both a local and national level. The IDO, is responsible for conducting farm demonstrations to improve the adoption new technology and management practices by local cotton growers.

The IDO position had a continued focus on the area of integrated pest management (IPM) and area wide insect management (AWM). Growers groups improve the level of communication between neighbours and consultants and this has facilitated a reduction in the use of pesticides by growers in a regional by providing increased confidence.

Mark was able to document a significant level of trigagramma activity in the sorghum crops of the Upper Namoi. He was able to foster and further develop the confidence in IPM through his involvement with the local area wide Harparay group.

In addition to the local Upper Namoi commitments Mark was the CRC Extension Team Leader for the Farming System focus group. While in that capacity Mark help develop and deliver a series of information workshops on limited water strategies in irrigated cotton. This was a successful; the workshop that featured in seven production valleys and a total of 150 attending growers.

Special project: Nitrogen Management and minimum tillage

This project aimed at clarifying the degree to which nitrogen is lost in cotton production due to leaching of nitrate beyond the root zone. This involved assessing losses under different soil types and stubble management practices. Recent research has highlighted a disturbing picture with significant nitrate leaching occurring the minimal tillage systems. Leaching associated with conventionally and minimal tillage (standing stubble) systems were compared. In addition, an assessment of nitrogen loss under a ‘once off’ or ‘split application’ was also assessed.