2011 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) Improve sugarcane production efficiency by enlarging the genetic base and developing cultural and chemical management strategies that insure optimum yields while reducing the threats of yield reduction associated with diseases, insects, and weeds. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) Employ traditional and molecular breeding approaches that combine traits to overcome productivity barriers with genetic resistance to stresses associated with cold temperatures and disease and insect pests. Utilize an interdisciplinary research approach in a production system that does not include burning as a harvesting tool to develop environmentally friendly management strategies incorporating biological control, host-plant resistance, high unit activity pesticides, ripeners, and cultural practices to sustain soil health and insure profitability while reducing soil, nutrient, and pesticide loss and keeping pest populations below identified economic threshold levels. 3.Progress Report The overall objective of this project is to improve the production efficiency of sugarcane by enlarging its genetic base and developing management strategies that insure optimum yields while reducing the threats of yield reduction associated with diseases, insects, weeds, and the adoption of green-cane harvesting. Funds provided by the ASCL provides partial support for the labor needs of the SRU’s varietal development program, as well as support for 10 projects designed by SRU scientists to expand research addressing the various objectives of the in-house projects in which these scientists are involved. Monitoring of progress is primarily done through weekly updates between the Authorized Departmental Officer’s Designated Representative (ADODR) and the ASCL’s authorized representative via site visits, and phone and e-mail exchanges. In addition, yearly progress in the funded research is summarized by the various SRU scientists, reviewed by the ADODR, and published in the Sugar Bulletin which serves as the monthly newsletter of the ASCL.