2010 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) To test and develop new higher-yielding disease-resistant sugarcane varieties. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) The parties will exchange experimental sugarcane clones and/or new varieties (hereinafter “MATERIAL”). ARS will evaluate the MATERIAL for reaction to sugarcane smut, mosaic, leaf scald, brown rust, and orange rust. Cooperator will evaluate MATERIAL for reaction to smut, mosaic, brown rust, and orange rust. Established protocols will be used for such evaluations. MATERIAL that demonstrate adequate resistance may be evaluated in replicated trials (at least 3 replications at 2 locations against 2 standard check varieties) to determine yield (tons cane and tons sugar per hectare). MATERIAL demonstrating resistance and yield characteristics may be use as parental MATERIAL in breeding efforts. 3.Progress Report This research related to inhouse objective 1. Develop more efficient breeding and selection methodologies for cultivar development and to produce seed of selected sugarcane germplasm for use in Florida, Louisiana, and Texas. Two clones developed by BSES Limited have been established for crossing in the 2010-11 crossing season. Another clone from BSES Limited was received from the USDA-APHIS Sugarcane Quarantine in June for evaluation and crossing in future years. If crosses can be made with these clones the genetic base in the CP program will be broadened. Progress was monitored via site visits, emails and phone calls.