2011 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) The primary objective of this proposal is to develop improved lentil varieties. Sub-objectives include making crosses between elite lentil breeding lines and screening breeding materials for disease resistance, seed protein content and seed mineral concentration. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) Cross will be made in the greenhouse and the field between elite lentil lines and varieties. Parental lines will be selected based on performance in preliminary and advanced yield trials for a range of agronomic traits including seed size, yield, plant height and tolerance to lodging. Hybrids are increased in the greenhouse and subjected to multiple cycles of self pollination to produce segregating bulk populations. Segregating bulk populations (F3-F6) will be grown in the field and selected for seed type (size, shape and color), height and lodging tolerance, and early maturity. Preliminary selections will be evaluated in the field at a single location. Advanced selections will be evaluated in yield trials conducted at multiple locations. Breeder seed will be produced from several elite breeding lines for subsequent varietal releases. Preliminary and advanced breeding lines will be screened for resistance to Aphanomyces root rot, seed protein content, and seed mineral concentration. 3.Progress Report Crosses were made between elite breeding liens of pea, lentil and chickpea. Generations of progenies were increased in the greenhouse and field. Select pea lines were also increased in an alternate season nursery grown in New Zealand. Preliminary breeding lines were evaluated in WA. Advanced breeding lines of pea, lentil, and chickpea were evaluated in yield trials conducted at multiple locations in WA, ID, MT and ND. Pre-breeder seed lots were produced of several chickpea, lentil, and pea lines that are being considered for imminent release as new varieties. The lead scientist monitors the Cooperator’s performance through regular phone conversations and email correspondence, visits to field locations and participation in field tours during the growing season, and meetings held after the field season is completed.