",
UN -'
0
ADMINISTRATIVE 
OFFICERS
James E. Martin, President
Paul F. Parks, Vice President 
for Research
Lowell T. Frobish, Director
David H. Teem, Associate 
Director
Dale L. Huffman, Interim 
Associate Director
Charles W. Bruce, Assistant 
Director
COVER STORY: Tienrserirhiotry isone
of A labarna's little k noon 'big businesses
Th roughoiut the douad of the I -80sthe in-
dustry~ showed slow. but steady growth.
Research at theAlahamaAgriiultuua/Experi-
mnint Station has playeod a ke'isro/e 
in the
developmnen t and growthi of the nuisrsery 
in-
dus tiy in the State. Mucnhi of the Experi ment
Station nu rscery research is cdidscted at 
the
Ornaniental Horticui/ture Subustation 
in
Mobhi/e, site of an annuual N is rserc 
Field Dai.
The corer photo shows Aidiurni researc hers
at the /989 Fieldi Daisexp/ainiug tests design-
ed to determn e the ty~pe and amniot of
darnage done to nursery crops by various
insects.
0 
0
Foreword
Introduction
Food Animals
Plant Production and 
Protection
Forestry
Food Technology and Nutrition
Environmental Concerns
Rural Life
Alternative Crops and Resource Use
Director's Research 
Awards
Financial Report
91
The information contaie hel mrein is a-ui l o a lprsn
regardless of race, color, sex, or national origin.
This report was produced by the Department of
Research Information
R.E. Stevenson, Editor and Head
J.R. Roberson, Associate Editor
C.L. Smith, Assistant Editor
T.E. Rodriguez, Art Designer
3
LA
9
Lowell T. Frobish, Director AAES
World agricultural and forestry
problems are linked so closely that
an upset in one locality may be felt
on the other side of the globe. The
hazards of drought, flood, cold, in-
sects, diseases, and other elements
of nature impact global production
of food and fiber. Global concerns
in turn impact the agricultural and
forest economy of Alabama.
In the past, farmers and farm
families may have been culturally
distinctive, but improvements in
communication and transportation
have broken down many of our
cultural barriers. Distinctions be-
tween the farm and non-farm
segments of the community are
becoming nonexistent. Food and
fiber production are influenced by
a multiplicity of factors that were
not present a few years past. This
has caused a decrease in "full-time"
farmers and resulted in more part-
time farmers. Irrespective, one
factor that has remained constant is
the need for profitability.
Today, producers of food and
fiber are confronted with rules and
regulations from all levels of
government and with a society that
demands an inexpensive, 
yet safe,
food supply. Some public action
groups already advocate the use of
agricultural chemicals, synthetic
fertilizers, growth promotants, to
name few, not be reduced, but
cease. The push for a return to the
use of draft horses, organic ferti-
lizers, and natural pest control is
gaining momentum. Most people
have heard such terms as LISA (Low
Input Sustainable Agriculture),
AlternativeAgriculture, Regenetive
Agriculture, and other programs
mentioned as substitutes for in-
tensive production practices that
require the use of pesticides and
other valuable farm chemicals.
While few would argue that
reduced use of chemicals would be
beneficial to man and the environ-
ment, there must be a balance.
Without farm chemicals, we could
not produce the plentiful, safe food
supply that Americans demand -
not with the current distribution of
farm and non-farm labor. Finding
practical uses of biological, or
naturally occurring compounds to
fight pests and combat 
drought,
freezes, and myriad production
restraints that farmers face every-
day is an ongoing challenge for
Experiment Station research.
The Alabama Agricultural Ex-
periment Station is concerned about
the environment and the conserva-
tion and preservation of the State's
natural resources. Our scientists are
environmentalists. Their research
emphasizes finding alternatives to
many of today's production prac-
tices. A balance between natural
and chemical control of production
pests is of major concern. This
report summarizes our research ef-
fort that is of benefit to all Ala-
bamians. Greater emphasis is given
to defining alternative production
systems. Your input and interest in
our programs are appreciated. You,
the consumer, are an important part
of our team. Our research programs
are not designed for either large or
small producers, but are size
neutral. They benefit us all!
; L
I
NTRDUCiO
Much of the research conducted
by the Alabama Agricultural Ex-
periment Station is highly visible
and provides immediate techno-
logical benefit to producers. Other
work, known in the scientific com-
munity as basic research, is more
behind the scenes. While this work
may not be immediately beneficial
to producers, it may provide the
stepping stone for the next genera-
tion of new technology and benefit
future generations of Alabamians.
Biotechnology and Genetics are
"hot" areas of research at universities
nationwide. Last year the Experi-
ment Station made giant strides in
developing biotechnology pro-
grams. Experiment Station research
with transgenic fish, which contain
genes from other fish, brought jour-
nalists from as far away as Germany
and Finland to report
on this new tech-
nology. Develop-
ment of this techno-
logy opens the way
for inserting genes to
improve resistance to
disease and reduce
susceptibility to a
multitude of stress-
related production
problems.
In related work,
poultry researchers
recently found that a
specific gene func-
tions differently
in different genetic
backgrounds. Large
differential effects of
genes designated B1
and B2 on Marek's
disease (MD) in
Leghorns were
absent in broilers. B1
genes were resistant
to MD and B2 genes
were susceptible to it.
In Leghorn-broiler
crosses, the Bi pro-
geny had one-half of
the mortality from the 7
disease and twice the
reproductive efficiency
of their B2 siblings, indi-
cating the effects ofagene
are highly dependent
upon the other genes pre-
sent. In the Auburn test,
the regulation of the ex-
pression of an individual
gene was as important as
its individual structure. A
Genetics research by d
plant scientists 
is under- 
p
way to identify and
replicate DNA clones
from soybean mitochon-
dria. Results of these
studies will provide a
basic understanding of
DNA replication pro-
cesses in plant mitochon-
dria, and may
I ielp research-
ers provide a
basis for de-
veloping don-
ing vectors
capable of in-
I roducing foreign traits
nto plants.
In a multi-disciplinary
study, researchers have
completed the first step in
genetically improving a
o mycorrhizal fungus that
benefits root systems of
trees. These mychor-
Ihizal fungi help plants
.bsorb water and
* utrients and to resist
damage from root
diseases, pollution, and
other stress factors.
Researchers intend to
construct strains of the
fungus with an improved
ability to relieve plant
stress. Improvements in
the efficiency of these
fungi to help produce
healthier seedlings could
provide an economic
nimal research is geared to pro-
ucing a safer food supply for
onsumers and greater profit for
roducers
w ": .'p a .
'ildlife researchers are helping
evelop both the recreational and
usiness aspects of hunting and
shing in the State.
boost to the $63
billion a year forest
industry in the
Southeast.
Much of the
genetics research con-
ducted by the Experi-
ment Station will
benefit from the
opening of the
Auburn University
Cell Science Center. It
is comprised of
laboratory units for
research on
nonoclonal an-
ibodies, fermenta-
tion, and plant tissue
culture. Specifically,
research underway
on hormone-induced
gene expression and
protein secretion in
animal cells may have
broad application in
animal husbandry
and human health
and nutrition.
Another project
underway at the Center deals with
molecular biology of nitrogen fixa-
tion, which has direct application to
plant biology and agricultural
crops. The new tissue culture
laboratories at the Center support
work to develop a cold-hardy
eucalyptus tree for use by the
Southern pulp and paper industry.
While some of these high tech
results will be of immediate benefit
to producers, others are likely to be
more fully utilized in the future.
However, the bulk of Experiment
Station research is geared to help to-
day and tomorrow. With such a
diverse research program, it is im-
possible to report on each endeavor.
The following pages are dedicated
to the highlights of some of the
research results by the Alabama
Agricultural Experiment Station
in 1989.
., '
nei catfish with growth hormon
genes from coldwater species int
a specially protected pond near
the Auburn campus
I
~'
Biotechnlology and genetics
research have dramatic promise
for future generations of
Alabamians.
de
b
fi
eel A IM L
labama is fortunate to
have important beef cat-
tle, dairy, 
swine,
poultry, and catfish pro-
duction centers scattered
throughout the State. However, this
diversity of food animal production
requires a diverse research program
to provide the technological base for
continued growth. Not only must
Experiment Station researchers
work with a diversity 
of animals,
they must likewise work in a
number of production areas.
Much of the animal research in-
volves reproduction, nutrition, and
physiology that provides the
technology for producers to
advance to the next level of pro-
duction. For example, researchers
recently developed an assay method
that, when combined with chemical
separation technology already
available, will allow them to more
closely determine the biochemical
nature of reproductive tissue of
heifers. Data from the tests indicate
that factors produced by the uterus
and placenta may influence the
length of time of postpartum
anestrous in beef cattle.
Researchers are currently study-
ing the role of 3-ribosyluric acid in
protecting beef cattle from nitrite
poisoning. Indications are that
oxidation occurs in two phases and
the addition of 3-ribosyluric acid in-
creases oxidation time from about
10 minutes to about 3 hours. By
understanding the mechanisms by
which 3-ribosyluric 
acid works,
researchers are hoping to develop
more potent anti-oxidants.
Catfish production continues to
grow in Alabama, but disease
remains a production obstacle.
Edwardsiella ictaluri (ESC) is a
serious disease problem of catfish
that producers overcome by adding
antibiotics to fish feed. Auburn
researchers are currently working
on getting Sarafloxacin, a new
quinoline compound, approved for
use on farmed fish. It has several
advantages over other antibiotics
for fish. It can be incorporated into
Beet cattle and sheep usually don 
t mix,
but recent research indicates the
"woollies" may become a good cash crop
for Alabama livestock producers.
floating pellets because of its heat
stability, it presents no palatability
problems, it is highly effective
against ESC, and it has a low ten-
dency to cause antibiotic resistance
in bacteria.
Poultry remains a dominant food
animal industry in the State, with
new production pushing Alabama
into second place, behind Arkansas,
in broiler production. The con-
tinued growth and technological
advance in the industry provide
many research challenges. Similar
challenges are being met by dairy
and swine researchers in the Experi-
ment Station.
Licorice-like Spray
Improves Dairy Production
Cows placed in new manage-
ment groups based on nutritional
considerations usually go through
a period of 1-2 days of increased
aggression during which a new
social order is established. Masking
individual odors by spraying anise
oil, an olfactory nerve stimulant
that smells like licorice, on all cows
in a group resulted in decreased
fighting in cows placed in new
management groups. Masking
odors with anise oil also eliminated
the drop in milk production often
observed in cows placed in new
groups.
New Drug More Effective on
Coccidiosis-Caused Scours
Coccidiosis is one cause of scours
in newborn baby pigs. It has been
previously reported by Experiment
Station researchers that the drug
Amprolium is beneficial in con-
trolling scours caused by this
organism. However, a new drug,
Toltrazuril, was more effective than
Amprolin in tests last year.
Treatment of coccidiosis-infected
pigs with toltrazuril at the dosage
of 5 or 10 mg per kg of body
weight resulted in these pigs gain-
ing weight comparable to or better
than the noninfected controls.
Toltrazuril-treated pigs excreted
few or no oocysts in the feces, reduc-
ing the possibility of reinfection. If
approved by the Federal Drug
Administration for use in swine, the
drug should provide a better control
for one cause of scours in baby pigs.
Reduced Light Improves
Rooster Reproductivity
Light plays an important role in
regulation of reproduction in birds,
including chickens. Most commer-
cial light schedules are designed to
stimulate egg production at an
appropriate age. In natural mating
systems, roosters are considered a
necessary evil required for fertility
of the egg and are exposed to long
photoschedules used for hens.
Flock fertility generally declines
after roosters reach 48 weeks of
age, and this reduction has 
been
associated with excessive body
weight or fat, leg problems, de-
creased shell strength, diminished
mating activity, or poor semen
quality. Experiment Station
research has shown that long light
schedules may reduce semen pro-
duction, spermatozoa quality, and
possibly contribute to reduced
fertility.
Age at sexual maturity (ejacula-
tion of first spermatozoa) was
earliest for males given 8 hours of
light. Body weight of the 8 hour
group was lower than the other
treatments, suggesting increased
physical activity in this group.
Testes weights, percent males pro-
ducing semen, semen weight per
ejaculate, and percent live sperma-
tozoa were greater from roosters
maintained on 8 or fewer hours of
light compared to the groups on 16
or 24 hours of light.
Phosphorus Source Affects
Poultry Processing Problems
Leg problems continue to be a
concern for poultry producers in
Alabama and across the country.
Chickens that are fed nutritionally
balanced diets and raised under op-
timum management conditions,
and which appear normal, often
end up with broken legs and wings
in the processing plants. The end
result is condemnation or down-
grading of poultry meat, which
costs poultrymen and ultimately
consumers.
Experiment Station research in-
dicates that the source of
phosphorus in the diet of chickens
may be the cause of some leg prob-
lems. In poultry diets, calcium and
phosphorus can be supplied from
either organic or inorganic sources.
Bone meal is an organic source, and
its phosphorus has been considered
to be 100 percent available to
chickens. However, there are
reports of variations ranging from
5 percent to 30 percent 
in,
phosphorus availa-
bility from bone meal.
Because of these varia-
tions, errors may be
made when bone meal
is included in diets for
meat type chickens.
In the Auburn
research, source and
particle size of bone
meal were evaluated a,
factors influencing
phosphorus availabili-
ty. Data were com-
pared with those obtained using
dicalcium phosphate, an inorganic
phosphorus supplement of excellent
phosphorus availability that is com-
monly used in poultry diets, as the
standard.
Results indicated that there was
no difference in phosphorus
availability among bone meal
sources. However, phosphorus
from the different bone meal sources
was 6-12 percent less available than
that from dicalcium phosphate.
This means that chickens fed
organic phosphorus supplements
might be receiving marginal levels
of phosphorus, if availability values
of 100 percent are used. The degree
of deficiency would be dependent
upon the percent of total dietary
phosphorus supplied by the or-
ganic sources.
This research indicates that
phosphorus availability values of
90-95 percent, instead of 100
percent, may be used in diets
containing organic phosphorus
sources to reduce otherwise unex-
plained leg problems in chickens.
Ip
studies continue to l
the continued growth
poultry industry in th
Portable X-Ray Valuable in
Poultry Disease Diagnosis
Tibial dyschondroplasia (TD) is
a skeletal abnormality in poultry
that costs the industry millions of
dollars annually. While the exact
source of TD is unknown, Experi-
ment Station researchers have
developed a non-lethal technique
for diagnosis.
A major obstacle in the past has
been diagnostics, because the
diagnosis either required killing
suspect birds or employing im-
mobile X-ray equipment. The new
t . . developed at Auburn
S- University employs a
hand-held gun (Lix-
iscope), that can easily
and accurately diag-
nose the condition,
thereby allowing more
precise genetic, nutri-
tion, and management
studies as they relate to
TD. This technique has
been used to success-
, fully diagnose 
the oc-
ay ii role lf 
TD
of the currence of TD in
e State. several thousand 3- to
r
7-week-old broiler-type 
chicks in
experiments at Auburn.
New Vitamin C Source 
for
Fish Feeds
While most animals don't require
vitamin C in their diet, 
fish are
extremely sensitive to a deficiency.
Without vitamin C, 
fish show
reduced growth rate, physical
deformities (crooked 
backs, etc.),
slow wound healing, and reduced
resistance to infections, 
environ-
mental contaminants, 
and other
stresses.
L-ascorbic acid is the vitamin C
source used in commercial 
fish
feeds. It is 
sensitive to 
oxidation,
and heat and moisture associated
with feed processing destroy 
40
to 60 percent of the amount 
put
into the feed. Also, its half-life
(time required for 50 percent 
to
be lost) in fish feeds during 
storage
is less than 90 days. Because 
of
the large losses of ascorbic acid
during processing 
and storage,
new sources of vitamin 
C are
needed for use in 
aquaculture
feeds.
Phosphate and sulfate 
deriva-
tives of ascorbic acid, which 
are
relatively stable against 
oxidative
deterioration, were examined in
Experiment Station research 
as
potential sources of vitamin C for
fish feeds. Ascorbic acid phosphate
(L-ascorbyl-phosphate Mg), and
ascorbic acid sulfate (L-ascorbyl-
2- sulfate) were compared with 
L-
ascorbic acid for vitamin C 
activity
for channel catfish. Each 
source
of vitamin C was fed at four
levels in purified diets under con-
trolled laboratory con.d
Fish fed no ascorbic
acid (control) grew
poorly. Those fed
ascorbic acid sulfate
also grew poorly and ,
although growth im-
proved as the dietary
level increased, it never
reached the growth rate '
of the fish fed L-
ascorbic acid. Growth
rate of fish fed ascorbic
acid phosphate was P
equal to that of the fish 
n ill
fed L-ascorbic acid. 
eeds of catfi
This was true even at the lowest 
level
fed, which is near the lower 
limit of
the channel catfish's vitamin 
C
requirements.
There were no deformities 
in the
fish fed any of the dietary levels of
L-ascorbic acid or ascorbic acid
phosphate. However, there was
over 50 percent 
deformed fish,
mainly crooked backs, among 
fish
fed the control diet. Only the highest
dose of ascorbic 
acid sulfate (31
mg per kg) prevented deformities
in the fish.
The results show that ascorbic
acid phosphate is equal 
to L-
ascorbic acid in meeting the 
vitamin
C requirements of channel 
catfish,
but that ascorbic acid sulfate 
has
less vitamin 
C activity.
During extrusion 
processing of
catfish feed, only 10 to 20 percent 
of
ascorbic acid phosphate 
was lost,
while 50 to 60 percent of L-ascorbic
acid was lost. Because of 
increased
stability during 
processing and
high vitamin C activity, ascorbic
acid phosphate will likely 
be a
major source of vitamin C in
aquaculture feeds in the future.
This will allow 
more precise sup-
plementation of fish feeds with
vitamin C, providing a cost
savings and increased assurance
that the feed is sufficient 
in
vitamin C.
Infected Fescue Reduces
Heifer Pregnancy Rate
Previous Experiment Station
research conducted at the Black 
Belt
and Tennessee Valley 
substations
showed that pregnancy rates 
in
heifers grazing fungus-infected 
tall
educed60percent com-
pared to heifers grazing
S noninfected fescue.
T Fhe differences were
even more dramatic
when the heifers were
rebred following calv-
ing. Only33 percent of
'he heifers 
grazing
Snfected fescue became
pregnant again, com-
pared to 93 percent of
those grazing non-
nei n, ' infected fescue.
Current research at
the E.V. Smith Re-
search Center is being conducted
with an overall objective to learn
why heifers did not become preg-
nant. A study in which changes in
blood hormone patterns 
were
measured showed that heifers
grazing infected fescue had normal
reproductive cycles.
An embryo 
transfer study 
was
conducted in which embryos flush-
ed from cows not grazing fescue
were transferred 
to heifers grazing
either infected or noninfected
fescue. Only 31 percent 
of the re-
cipient heifers grazing infected
fescue had successful pregnancies
compared to 73 percent of those
grazing noninfected fescue.
These results indicate that toxins
in the fescue are altering the 
uterine
environment so a successful
pregnancy cannot be maintained.
Catfish Models Provide
Marketing 
Support
Two new computer models 
were
developed by Auburn researchers
to benefit the 
State's growing 
cat-
fish industry. A bioeconomic
model was 
developed 
to help
producers predict fish growth.
The model 
uses water 
tempera-
ture, body weight 
of the fish,
feeding rates, 
and diet 
comp-
osition as parameters 
for fish
growth. Output from the fish
growth model was used to generate
a production function for five de-
cision variables: 
stocking date,
stocking weight, dietary protein
percent, feeding rate, 
and crop
length. Economic tradeoffs are
demonstrated by the model.
An econometric model 
for cat-
fish was developed that 
takes into
account several unique features 
of
this successful, 
rapidly growing
industry. These include: an 
im-
perfectly competitive 
processing
sector, rapid industry 
growth,
a marketing problem 
known as
off-flavor, and industry 
funded
marketing efforts. The model 
con-
tains three structural equations:
a farm-level supply 
equation, a
processor price-markup equation,
and a wholesale-level 
demand
equation and a farm level
equation.
rintinc
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LAN PRDCTO AN 
PROTETIN
_ ,. .. .-
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. - -'
.M . t ar
acterial ilsel-o ,ir a
major vield-robbing
problem for many crops
grown in Alabama. Not
only does this group of diseases
reduce productivity, but growers
spend millions of dollars annually
to protect their crop from them. Last
year Experiment Station research
made a major breakthrough in
understanding bacterial diseases of
plants. Researchers used a
sophisticated cloning procedure to
produce bioluminescent bacteria
that can be observed using light sen-
sitive cameras. This allows scientists
to record kinetics and patterns of
plant colonization by bacteria.
Biotechnological efforts are also
well underway to provide alter-
native methods to control insects.
One such study involves 
feeding
high levels of copper, cobalt,
manganese, lead, magnesium, and
cacium to a species of insectsknown
to teed on vegetable crops. Some
vegetables are known to be
hyperaccumulators of heavy
metals, and by adding the metals at
levels toxic to insects, researchers
sought to kill the insects without
harming the plants. Though re-
sults are preliminary, cobalt
appears to have the highest toxicity
and calcium, magnesium, and
manganese the lowest toxicity.
Spiroplasms are spiral-shaped,
wall-less bacteria that cause corn
stunt, citrus stubborn disease, and
spiroplasmosis of honeybees.
Researchers have developed a cell
culture system for one of the
primary host plants of the bac-
teria, allowing them to maintain
cultures, whole cell suspensions,
and protoplasts of the virus. Using
spiroplasma strains representing in-
sect and plant pathogens and
I'Pdutin of upiumnic crops, like
peauuts, will bofit in the future 
from
bioteciloogy being de-,eboped currently
by A uburn reser chers
saprophtes, researchers are cur-
rently studying growth and
physiological responses of plant
cells during spiroplasma infections
and similar responses of
spiroplasmas interacting with plant
cells,
Rhodobacter sphaeroides, a
bacterium essential to photosyn-
thesis, and atrazine, a popular her-
bicide used on a wide range of crops,
do not mix, according to AAES
studies. Though it has been known
for many years that atrazine kills
weeds by inhibiting photosynthesis,
the exact mode of action has only
recently been determined. Auburn
researchers recently found that
certain polvpeptides exist in strains
of R. sphaerloides resistant to atra-
zine. Further exploration 
of these
relationships could 
unlock the
secret of resistance to 
pesticides
by various plants and make pos-
sible a whole new era of biological
control.
Contamination of food 
and feeds
by toxin-producing molds 
leads to
substantial crop losses, especially 
in
corn and peanuts. Auburn resear-
chers recently developed an assay
using ultraviolet light to measure
fluorescence of the aflatoxin pro-
duced by the fungus grown 
on
coconut-based medium. 
While the
assay is not practical for field detec-
tion of aflatoxin, it has potential as
an assay in the study of the genetic
basis for aflatoxin synthesis 
and in
the screening of enzymes 
that
selectively degrade the toxin. 
Such
studies may lead to biocontrol 
in the
field for the toxin.
Utilizing waste products is an
ongoing research objective in
several Experiment Station research
projects. Researchers recently 
pro-
duced small 
amounts of ethanol,
which can be 
used for fuel 
alcohol,
from glucosamine, a product 
of
chitin found in waste shell fish. The
microorganisms Pachysolen 
tan-
nophilus, a yeast, and Zyrnoomonas
mobilis, a bacterium, were grown
on the chitin-containing shellfish
to produce the alcohol. Using
microorganisms to process or-
ganic waste into protein and fuel
alcohol could be of direct eco-
nomic value while also contribut-
ing materially to environmental
quality via recycling organic 
waste
into valuable products.
While laboratory work promises
great things for the future, 
a
vigorous field research program 
at
the Experiment Station is geared to
more immediately benefit growers
and producers.
New Viral Disease Found in
Alabama Wheat
Soil-borne wheat mosaic virus
(WSBMV) was found in Autauga
County in the spring 
of 1989,
representing the first known record
of this disease in the State. This
disease is common in the Midwest
and is controlled by growing resist-
ant soft red winter wheat varieties.
Yield of susceptible varieties can be
reduced by up to 30 percent. Identi-
fication of this disease suggests 
that
selection of WSBMV resistant 
varie-
ties may be important in Alabama.
The disease symptoms appear as
green to prominent-yellow mosaic
leaf symptoms on stunted 
plants.
Diseased wheat plants are typical-
ly in lower or poorly drained areas
of production.
Soil-borne wheat mosaic virus 
is
an interesting disease in that the
causal virus is one of onlyafew that
are spread in nature by a 
soil-
inhabiting fungus that has 
a water
mobile zoospore. Future research
will focus on determining 
the
distribution and importance of soil-
borne wheat mosaic virus in 
the
wheat crop in Alabama.
New Peanut Fungicides
Improve Quality, Profit
The effect of fungicides applied
to foliage for peanut leafspot and
white mold control on fungi in-
fecting seeds and on aflatoxin
content has been investigated for
the past two crop seasons. A
single application of the sterol
biosynthesis inhibiting 
fungicides,
diniconazole, terbutrazole, 
and
flutolanil, resulted in reduced
fungal seed infection, reduced
aflatoxin content, and increased
quality. Quality increases real-
ized through a reduction 
in seed
infection by fungi have resulted 
in
a calculated 5700 per acre net
increase. Aflatoxin levels 
were
reduced 11-33 percent.
Accent Herbicide Effective
For Corn Weed Controti
Rhizome johnson-
grass is a competitive
and persistent weed
species for corn produ-
cers. It also serves as a
host for maize chlorotic
dwarf and maize dwart
mosaic viruses that
cause substantial yield
losses annually in Ala-
bama. Effective means
of controlling this weed
pest with herbicides i pr, n';
would improve the 
applic i e
flexibility and effi- zironatelt as
'. lti, II
t and ben
weLll.
ciency of corn production 
in
Alabama.
Experiments were initiated at
four sites in 1988 and 
1989 to
evaluate rhizome 
johnsongrass
control in corn with Accent 
her-
bicide. Control of broadleaf
signalgrass and Texas panicum
was also evaluated.
Summary of data shows good 
to
excellent control of 
rhizome
johnsongrass, broadleaf signal-
grass, and Texas panicum with
single and double postemergence
applications of Accent herbicide.
Controlling a heavy infestation 
of
rhizome johnsongrass and 
broad-
leaf signalgrass population in north-
west Alabama in 1989 
increased
corn yield 60 bushels per 
acre over
the untreated control.
Accent also suppressed growth
of pigweed and morningglory
species. In an experiment at the
Plant Breeding Unit 
at Tallassee,
where pigweed, 
annual morning-
glory, large crabgrass, and goose-
grass predominated, a double
application of Accent combined
with a single cultivation increased
corn yield 61 bushels per acre
over the untreated control.
Good to excellent control 
of
Texas panicum was achieved at 
the
Wiregrass Substation in Headland
in 1989 with a single application of
Accent applied when the grass had
four to six leaves. Corn yield was
improved 36 bushels per acre over
the untreated control.
Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus A
Threat to 
Alabama Crops
Tomato spotted wilt virus
V) is vectored by several
f s speciesofthripsandhas
Scaused losses of over50
percent in peanut and
tomato production in
other states. Since its
first identification in
Alabama in 
1986, an-
S nual surveys have
found the disease to be
widespread, but minor
in severity, in peanut
, producing counties.
mg axd The incidence 
and
rowuers he
efit the' n- severitybyTSWVwas
higher in 1989 than any
previous year and yield losses in 
in-
dividual plantings were 10 percent
or more, but yield losses generally
have been less than 1 percent in
individual fields.
Control of the thrips vector 
with
recommended insecticide regimes
has not resulted in a significant
reduction in TSWV spread or inci-
dence in peanuts. In 1989 the
incidence of TSWV in the varieties
Southern Runner and GK-7 
was
lower than in Florunner, the most
commonly grown variety in
Alabama.
Soil Solarization Effective 
in
Controlling Weeds
Soil solarization is the process 
of
using clear polyethylene plastic film
during summer fallow periods to
capture solar energy and produce
soil temperatures high enough to
control many annual weeds and
kill some disease-causing organ-
isms. Research at the Experiment
Station indicates that soil solariza-
tion in combination with 
chicken
manure effectively controlled
morningglory and sicklepod.
The solarized chicken manure-
soil mix provided 99 percent control
of both weed species after a 4-week
solarization period. These results
were comparable to those where
weeds were grown in the absence
of chicken manure, but under the
same solarization treatments. Un-
solarized chicken manure-soil 
mix
provided 41 percent and 49 per-
cent control of morningglory 
and
sicklepod, respectively.
Temperatures recorded at 6-
inch soil depths in solarized 
and
unsolarized plots with chicken
manure averaged 25 F and 10 F
higher, respectively, than in plots
with no chicken manure or solar-
ization exposure. Researchers
reported that high temperatures
are probably responsible for 
weed
control.
This method should not be
regarded as a universal method of
weed control but rather an addi-
tional method that, used correctly,
has many advantages. It is safe,
non-chemical, inexpensive, leaves
no phytotoxic (plant injuring)
residues, and is simple to apply.
Frost-Protecting Sprays
Increase Peach Yield
Damage or complete loss of
Alabama's peach crop due 
to late
spring frost in recent years 
has
been a major problem for growers.
Research using growth regulators to
delay bloom past the danger of
spring frost and enhance cold 
bud
hardiness has produced 
promising
results. The research was 
initiated
in the fall to determine the effect of
fall application of gibberellic acid
(GA) on delaying bloom 
of peach
trees in the spring as a means 
of frost
protection.
In the spring of 1987, trees were
in full bloom by March 31 and 
a
frost with temperatures below 
25
degrees F occurred on April 
1 and
April 4 with considerable flower
and young fruit damage 
evident
after each frost. No frost injury
occurred in the spring of 1989.
In the spring of 1987 and 1989,
GA treatments of 50 and 
100
p.p.m. delayed bloom, whereas the
10 p.p.m. GA treatment bloomed
at the same time as the nontreated
trees. GA treatments resulted in 
a
greaterpercent of the flowers 
setting
fruit and required more 
hand
thinning. Yield was increased 
about
30 percent in 1987 and
about 40 percent in
1989 by the 10 p.p.m.
GA treatment. Yield
was increased each
year by the 50 and 100
p.p.m. treatment, but
not asmuch aswith the
10 p.p.m. treatment.
Fruit from the non-
treated and the 10
p.p.m. treated trees
ripened at the same
time, however fruit
ripening was delayed
by the 50-100 p.p.m.
GA treatments. Fruit
size was not affected by
the different GA
treatments.
Irrigation Studies Improve
Efficiency of Water Use
Researchers evaluated several
design aspects of small acreage hard
hose traveler (SAT's) irrigation
systems. One study related 
to the
method of testing travelers 
for water
application uniformity. 
Two water
supply methods, (constant 
inlet
pressureand constant inlet flowrate)
had been proposed as part 
of an
ASAE standard. The field study 
and
analysis identified differences 
that
would result from the two 
test
methods. Flowrate, pressure, 
and
resulting depth of application were
shown to be different, however,
these differences had little effect on
measures of application uniformity.
In another study, variations 
in
energy requirements were 
deter-
mined for a traveler as its hose was
coiled onto the reel. Hosecoiling had
the effect of increasing pressure
lossesinthehoseand, thus, increas-
ing energy requirements for 
the
machine. The major result 
of this
study was the determination of 
a
bend factor which could be 
used to
predict the additional energy losses.
During 1989, instrumented run-
off plants were established to study
the effects of soil compaction and
,eath' r is, an ongolig goal of F
periment Station research.
reservoir tillage on
water utilization. Both
natural rainfall and ir-
rigation were evalu-
ated in replicated plots
ot cotton. Irrigation
consisted of a LEPA
system (Low Energy,
IPrecision Application)
mounted on a boom
traveler. The reservoir
tillage concept includes
ripping in the furrow (1
foot) and then adding
below-surface reser-
voirs into the ripped
zone. Preliminary re-
sults have shown a
significant reduction in
surface runoff with the
utilization of reser-
voirs and reduced soil
compaction.
Wise use of water resources will
be even more essential for farners
of the future.
7_ RET-
I. rhe 
Southeast has a long
."r " '' 
tradition of leadership in
14 
theforest industry, butre
f- ~;cent trends indicate the
* 'region will 
play an even more
' significant role in the 
next century.
Some forecasters are predicting
over 60 percent of the nation's
forest products will 
come from
/Q < ,, 
the Southeast by 
the year 2000.
To help meet this demand, 
forestry
y t iresearchers are 
conducting tests
that run the gamut from seed 
pro-
duction to finished products.
Forestry research, which includes
x
/ 1 many 
multi-disciplinary projects, 
is
a classic example of the 
high tech
r 
new working well 
with the more
down to earth 
"old.' Computer
models are bringing computers
c) ithe planning of timber 
harvest
d forest product manufacturing.
a " n the other hand, 
herbicide
search to improve 
seedling
. )duction and studies 
of site
'1luation for improving 
the
IL
4  
Its of planting provide land-
.' ~ners and commercial 
foresters
~ ! r :-!!! t vital production technology.
Herbicide Application 
Improves
r + iSeedling 
Survival and Growth
Kecentstudies indicate erly 
pine
,edling growth is markedly 
in-
'L ased when competing grasses
~ a- J herbaceous vegetation 
are
4 led. Consequently, many forest
I indowners are applying herbicides
t fr herbaceous weed control 
soon
after planting pine 
seedlings.
Though it is generally 
assumed that
soil moisture is the 
mechanism
which relates reduced herbaceous
E 1competition to 
increased pine
:e 
edling growth, 
only limited
information 
is available to 
doc-
a ii s iment relationships 
among
0.".1 " +;f 
? 
heicide 
applications, 
nonpine
ntagu of the cowiru s timpbeLr ninthe
.:t n t rlt century. and 
researchUICI is gearedi to
" ~ ilei~lihelping landowners meeiet tis iresed
12
vegetation, soil moisture, and pine
seedling growth.
In an Experiment Station test,
Oust herbicide was applied to an old
abandoned pasture at varied rates
in order to obtain a range of her-
baceous/grass cover in established
study plots. Loblolly pine seedlings
were planted and soil moisture
levels were monitored for two
growing seasons.
Lower levels of competing herba-
ceous vegetation achieved by
herbicide application resulted in
increased 2-year pine seedling
survival, height growth, and
diameter growth. The relationship
between nonpine live cover and
pine growth was inverse and linear
within the range of herbaceous
cover achieved. This relationship
was clearest and strongest for seed-
ling diameter.
Broadcast applications of Oust at
4 ounces per acre achieved optimum
results from competition cover
reduction and pine seedling survival
and growth on this site. An 8-ounce
rate did not produce improvement
over the 4-ounce level. However,
the remaining live cover on plots
treated with 4 ounces averaged
about 35 percent. This suggests that
a more effective herbicide applica-
tion might have improved pine
survival and growth.
Soil moisture levels were clearly
different between high and low
cover levels for the growing season
immediately after cover was
reduced. The inverse quantitative
relationship between the amount of
live cover and measured soil
moisture was weak.
Significant correlations were
found between soil moisture and
2-year seedling survival and 1-year
seedling diameter growth. It ap-
peared that soil moisture utilization
by the pine seedlings themselves
weakened the measured relation-
ships.
I oung Pines Can Produce
High Quality Timber
It has been documented that
within a few years, 50 percent of the
softwood forests in the South will
consist of plantation trees, and by
the year 2000, pine plantations will
supply more than half of the soft-
wood timber. Southern pine plan-
tations, particularly loblolly and
slash, of ages between 20 and 30
years contain from 30 percent to
60 percent juvenile wood. It is
weaker and less stiff, with greater
longitudinal shrinkage than mature
wood. Plantation trees of these ages
also have numerous branches that
become knots when logs are sawn,
producing lumber of lower grades.
An earlier study compared the
lumber yield recovery from 20- and
50- year-old slash pine plantations
with approximately the same
diameter breast height (dbh). Initial
spacing of the 20-year-old planta-
tion was 12 feet x 12 feet and that of
the 50-year-old was 6 feet x 6 feet.
The site index for both stands was
105 feet at 50 years. The results
indicated that the total lumber
volume recovery of the 20-year-old
trees was 39 percent of the lumber
recovered from the 50-year-old
trees.
The same study found that the
strength properties of lumber from
the 20- year-old plantation was only
54 percent the strength of lumber
from the 50-year-old trees. All tested
lumber from the 50-year-old trees
met the required structure standards
for the grade. A significant percent-
age of the lumber from the 20-year-
old trees did not meet the required
standards for the grade.
A similar Experiment Station
study concerned lumber yield
recovery and lumber grade
recovery from a 27-year-old plan-
tation of slash pine in southwest
Alabama. The plantation was
established on a 6 foot x 6 foot
spacing in a location with a site
index 90 feet at 50 years.
Lumber from the 27-year-old
slash plantation was of high
quality with exceptional high
lumber grade distribution, higher
than that of the 50-year-old trees.
The grades of all lumber from the
27-year-old stand were 43 percent
Number 1, 49 percent Number 2,
and 8 percent Number 3. All ob-
tained lumber met the required
standards for the grade.
Results of the Auburn study
indicate that relatively young
(27-year-old) slash pine plantations
with original spacing 6 feet by 6 feet
in a good site can produce excep-
tionally high quality and valuable
lumber. Additional studies are
underway by the AAES to investi-
gate lumber yield and properties of
loblolly plantations of different in-
itial spacings, thinnings, site
indexes, and ages.
New Fungicides, Site Keys to
Seedling Disease Control
Pine seedling mortality is a major
problem on many sites being
converted from agronomic crops to
forest plantations under the Conser-
vation Reserve Program.
Agricultural Experiment Station
research has demonstrated that
mortality on these sites often is
associated with decortication of
roots and stems by insects, followed
by invasion by fungi. Researchers
found mortality in such cases is
more severe on sites where a
plowpan has been developed, and
current recommendations call for
the plowpan to be broken by a
ripper blade prior to planting tree
seedlings.
One of the disease problems of
nursery bed pine seedlings is caused
by a binucleate Rhizoctonia sp.
Experiment Station research has
shown that SN 84364, an experi-
mental fungicide, controls the
disease. Studies currently are being
conducted to define most effective
rates and spray schedules. An
important observation made during
the course of these studies is that
seedlings in fall-sown nursery beds
are less likely to become diseased
than those in spring-sown beds.
Nitrogen Nutrition Level
Important to Seedling Growth
Improving the growth potential
of artificially regenerated lands in
Alabama is the goal of nursery
culture and stand establishment
research. Analysis of tree growth
and development demonstrates that
small increases in seedling size at the
time of planting can have a signifi-
cant impact on plantation yield.
Responses from a number of
experiments show that average
survival can be increased by 2 to 10
percent and average yields 
by 1.5 to
5 cords per acre for 
each millimeter
increase in seedling diameter 
at the
time of planting.
Current research has 
focused
upon the mechanisms 
regulating
these responses. 
Experiments at
Auburn have demonstrated 
how
the total quantity of 
needles per
seedling, the photosynthetic 
effi-
ciency as affected 
by nitrogen
nutrition, and the development 
of
branches can account 
for the
observed responses. 
The amount of
new root growth, 
which is essential
for initial survival, was 
shown to be
closely related to 
current photo-
synthetic capacity 
of the seedlings,
particularly 
the amount 
of foliage,
and not the quantity 
of carbo-
hydrate reserves in the 
tissue as
previously thought.
Studies also show that the 
ob-
served increases 
in growth
associated with larger 
diameter
seedlings are closely 
associated
with differences in 
initial foliage
biomass and subsequent 
branch
formation, which permits 
greater
light interception. 
Experiments
focusing upon the 
effects of ni-
trogen nutrition on 
plantation
development indicate 
that im-
provements in growth 
and photo-
synthetic efficiency 
occur even
at nutritional levels 
which are
supra-optimal for 
growth in the
nursery. This effect may 
arise from
increased amino acid and 
protein
synthesis and from 
increased
retranslocation of 
nitrogen from
older needles to current 
growth.
Forest Growth Studied 
From
NASA Satellite
Auburn researchers working 
in
cooperation with scientists 
from
NASA's Stennis Space 
Center in
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, 
used a
visible and infrared 
scanning
radiometer to quantify 
changes in
light reflected from 
the foliage of
plants. Both the 
quantity and
quality of light reflected 
by foliage
is thought to be 
strongly con-
trolled by foliar anatomy 
and the
chemical constituents 
of the foli-
age. In the past, scientists 
have
suggested that since 
various
stresses may cause unique 
changes
to the anatomy 
and chemistry 
of
foliage, reflectance measurements
(if precise enough to reveal suffi-
cient detail) may 
be used to
monitor the health of our 
forests
from satellites, or to identify 
specific
stresses that are harming 
the forest.
Researchers studied the influence
of competition stress on the 
spectral
reflectance of 
loblolly pine, and
found that the degree 
of competition
and the age 
of the needle 
strongly
influenced the spectral 
properties.
They found strong 
relationships
between several chemical 
consti-
tuents and specific 
spectral
responses for trees grown in the
field, but were unable 
to conclude
whether the 
spectral changes
observed were similar 
to those
caused by other stresses, 
such as air
pollutants.
Wood Composite I-Beams
Affected 
by Humidity
As the cost effectiveness 
of
engineered building products
improves, wood composite I-beams
are becoming more frequently 
used
in medium- and light- 
frame wood
structural systems. For use 
as a
structural member, such products
must be strong enough 
to take
service loads and stiff 
enough to
satisfy the serviceability 
require-
ments during its lifetime.
A substantial amount of research
has been reported 
concerning 
the
short-term engineering perform-
ance of wood composite I-beams
under ambient or dry 
environ-
ments. However, for 
a better
understanding 
of the engineering
performances of wood composite
beams under service environments
and to improve 
the efficiency 
of
structural design, information 
it
regard totime-depend- 
; i'
entflexuralbehavioras ,
affected by the 
change 
I
of relative humidity
moisture content 
i
needed. To collect thi-
information a multi
phasewood composit
beam research 
pr
gram was launched at
the Experiment Station
Resultsindicatethat , ,,
a significant amount til-0 
o,1, total orest
(up to 30 percent) of 
the total creep
deflection was attributable 
to shear
deformation in the webs. 
RFB I-
beams performed the best consider-
ing shear, while the change in RH af-
fectedOSB I-beam performance 
the
greatest. Slip occurred 
in the flange
web joint over a long period of time
and was adversely 
affected by 
the
increase in 
RH. However, 
the mag-
nitude of the slip was 
quite small and
can probably be neglected. The
greatest slip occurred in the OSB I-
beams, and the least slip was observ-
ed in PLY groups. This information
will be useful for the improvement
of structural design 
and methods
used to manufacture wood 
com-
posite beams.
Surveys Show Research
Valuable to 
Forest Industry
A recent Experiment 
Station
study demonstrated the importance
of forestry research 
to the com-
petitive economic position of the
U.S. industry. The study utilized
separate surveys of (1) research
institutions (reporting 
their costs
and research success rates), 
(2) land
managers (reporting historical and
planned herbicide application rates
as well as their stand management
strategiesfor the 
next 40years), and
(3) herbicide 
applicators 
(reporting
what they normally charge 
for
herbicide treatments). 
Data from
these surveys were combined 
with
data describing 
the impact 
on pine
growth, which can be attributed to
herbaceous weed control and
forecasts of future stumpage val-
ues. These were incorporated 
into
a research evaluation model 
to fore-
cast the future benefits 
of cur-
rent and proposed research 
and the
S rbaceousweedcontrol.
Research results in-
Sdicated that past and
SAS fut ure herbaceous
w.ed control research
will produce substan-
h, t i ai economic benefits.
wo different eco-
!omic models were
u,,d to estimate the
alueoftheimpactson
pinegrowth. Both were
, based on standard for-
resourc, est economics 
method-
ologies but differed in theirassump-
tions regarding post-treatment
management (one assumed stand
rotations would be shortened, the
other assumed they would remain
the same). These methods estimated
benefits from research to be between
5111 million and $143 million,
depending upon the discount rate
assumed. Internal rates of return
also were calculated for the ag-
gregate research program and were
estimated at 14.4 percent and 12.3
percent, respectively, for the two
evaluation methods.
Lumber Model, SELECT, To
Help Furniture Makers
Lumber costs make up about 50
percent of the total cost of produc-
ing hardwood furniture, and
incorrect lumber allocation is a
major reason for the relatively high
cost. Forestry researchers at Au-
burn recently developed 
SELECT,
a computer program that evalu-
ates the efficiency of sorting
lumber according to grades and
sizes. Widespread use of the pro-
gram, which can be used on per-
sonal computers, could save hard-
wood furniture manufacturers
25-30 percent in production cost.
Ozone, Acid Rain Effects
Begin to Show on Pines
An ongoing concern of the forest
industry is a much-disputed reduc-
tion in growth rate of pine trees in
the Southeast. As part of a region-
wide test, Auburn researchers are
testing the effect of ozone and acid
precipitation - two proposed
reasons for reduced growth-on
loblolly pines.
One year results (1988) indicate
that low levels of neither ozone nor
acid rain had a detrimental effect on
tree growth. Trees fumigated at the
higher concentrations, 
however,
exhibited a significant loss of needles
(early senescence) and had visible
symptoms of ozone injury. Symp-
toms varied by family, indicating
response was under some genetic
control.
Trees exposed to elevated con-
centrations of ozone in 1988 appear
to be more sensitive to winter injury
in 1989, than those exposed to am-
bient or filtered air. These findings
are under further investigation.
Results from the second growing
season (1989) do indicate that trees
exposed to the most severe ozone
treatment are beginning to exhibit
declines in growth, but the analyses
are not completed at this time. Trees
will be exposed for one more grow-
ing season (1990) and then all trees
will be harvested.
Weed-Free Plots Produce
Fastest Growing Trees
Controlling weeds early may get
trees to harvestable size early, ac-
cording to a recent study. These
studies, one of 5 years and one 7
years, demonstrate that herbaceous
weed control following planting of
pine seedlings enhances tree growth
more than any other silvicultural
treatment. The growth trends from
these studies indicate that the forest
stands will be of harvestable size
2-3 years before stands without
herbaceous weed control.
At 5 years of age, two her-
baceous weed control growth
response studies indicate a posi-
tive response in tree
height, diameter, and
basal area per acre in 5 ....
year-old-pines. The
Auburn location in-
volvedcomparisonsof " ,
band versus spot .
treatments, and the
pine response was
proportional to the
amount of area treated.
Basal area increased ,
over the check by 58
percent and 101 percent
for the spot and band
treatments, respective- 
n,tang
ly. Complete herba-
ceous weed control for
2 years in another loca-
tion increased basal
area over the check by
144 percent. Density
(trees per acre) was im-
proved by weed con-
trol only at the Auburn
location. Rust infection
was higherfor theweed
control treatments on-
Atmlospheri
ly at the second 
loca- threaten for
tion, with most of the =tudied by
increase due to branch rather than
stem infections.
After trees reached 7 years old, re
sults of three herbaceous weed con-
trol studies indicate a positive re-
sponse in pine tree height, 
diameter,
basal area per acre, and volume per
acre from weed control. The Chesa-
peakelocation compared 2 years of
broadcast or banded treatments to
an untreated check. Loblolly pine
volume per acre at age 7 differed be-
tween the two weed control treat-
ments and was 305 cubic feet per
acre (87 percent) and 198 cubic feet
per acre (56 percent) greater than the
check for the broadcast and band-
ed treatments, respectively.
A Packaging Corporation loca-
tion compared banded and broad-
cast weed control applied in the
first year, and banded and broad-
cast weed control applied in both
the first and second years, to an
untreated check in slash pines. Vol-
ume per acre did not differ by meth-
od (band versus broadcast), but in-
creased with duration (1 year versus
2 years). First-year weed control in-
creased volume per acre at age seven
by 130 cubic feet per
=:. acre (38 percent),
whereas first-year and
second-year weed con-
trol increased volume
.. by 208 cubic feet per
acre (62 percent). Two
Syears of broadcast
S . vegetation control at
f t he Champion location
. resulted in a slash pine
.c -;volume responseof 283
,: ubicfeet per acre (127
percent) at age seven.
S. . Rust incidence in-
creased with volume
fsponseat the Packag-
i Corporation and
hampion sites. Stem
ust for loblolly pine
4, inged from 
3 percent
r the check to 11 per-
ent forthe2-yearweed
~ntrol treatments.
item rust for slash pine
ranged from 11 percent
for the check to 19 per-
cent for the 2-year
c piolIutants that
est growth are being 
vegetation control
Aubumr researchers treatment.
OOD TEHOLG AN NUTRTIO
The relationship 
between
the human body and the
food we eat has never
been so closely scrutin-
ized as today. Not only is the safety
of our food and fiber supply being
closely watched, but so are the pos-
sible negative impacts on nutrition.
Though not new to the research pro-
gram of the Alabama Agricultural
Experiment Station, research into
the many aspects of this food-body
relationship is certain to reach new
heights as we push into the 21st
century.
One of the most pressing food-
related problems of the current
generation has been the so called
"microwave diseases"- the most
prominent one being salmonella
poisoning. The increase in incidence
of these diseases, or reporting of
these diseases, has created much
concern, especially in the poultry
studied by scveral inter-disciplinary
industry. Experiment Station
research is well along in developing
a technique, using a naturally oc-
curring, safe compound to combat
these disease-causing microbes.
Though in initial stages, the research
offers high potential for reducing,
if not eliminating, surface con-
tamination of poultry products by
salmonella.
The Experiment Station has a
broad program of research in the
area of human health and nutrition.
Still, the most visible and certainly
most closely scrutinized program is
a wide range of projects, each with
one common denominator food.
Fish Oils May Reduce
Respiratory Diseases
Fish oils contain omega-3 fatty
acids which have been linked to
reduced incidence and severity of
heart disease. Consumption of this
type of fat may be helpful because
it results in a decreased production
in the body of compounds called
eicosanoids. Certain eicosanoids are
known to be increased in diseases
such as cardiovascular disease, as
well as in asthma, allergies, and cer-
tain inflammatory responses.
The role of omega-3 fatty acids in
respiratory diseases has not been as
well-studied as it has in the cardio-
vascular system. Scientists in the
Agricultural Experiment Station are
thus investigating the effects of
dietary fish oils on the pulmonary
system in the hope that omega-3
fatty acids will be beneficial in
treating or preventing diseases of
the lung in much the same way
that this type of fatty acid reduces
cardiovascular disease.
Lungs of newborns are par-
ticularly vulnerable to disease, thus
the researchers used neonatal piglets
as a model for the human infant to
show that eicosanoids produced by
lung tissue are lower in animals fed
fish oil than in animals fed either
corn oil or coconut oil. Results from
these studies have implications for
the type that is best for infant
formula fed to normal infants as
well as those who are undergoing a
stress to their lungs. In addition,
this research may provide insight
into more effective means of treat-
ing lung disease, such as 
asthma,
in both children and adults.
Fungi Produce Beneficial
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
World-wide interest in health
aspects of fat nutrition has been
stimulated in part by the apparent
human health benefits of dietary
long-chain polyunsaturated fatty
acids (PUFA) of the 
omega-3 type,
such as eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and
docosahexanenoic (DHA) acids
found in the oil of many marine fish
species. Research at Auburn has
shown that certain primitive fungi
produce relatively high amounts
of EPA, as well as another PUFA
called arachidonic acid (AA),
which also has biological activity
in mammals. The fungus being
used produces about 30 percent
fat which contains up to 10 per-
cent AA and 12 
percent EPA,
which is comparable to production
by other fungi being developed
for such purposes in Japan. The
fungus is amenable to scale up bio-
mass production using fermenta-
tion techniques, and therefore
represents a potential commercial
source of these fatty acids.
Fried Chicken a Good Source
of Vitamin B6
Why eat fast food? One Auburn
researcher found at least one good
reason. Fast food fried chicken is an
excellent source of vitamin B and
the vitamin is not destroyed during
the cooking process. Vitamin Bo is
one of the B complex vitamins
which is stated in many research
reports as being low or limited
in the diets of certain populations
in the United States. The fact
is that many of the foods con-
sumed by American consumers
have not been evaluated for
their content of vitamin B . This
lack of information has prompted
Auburn researchers to evaluate
foods for their content
of this vitamin. Meats
tend to be the best
source of vitamin B
which is used in manx
different ways in the
body.
The first step was tio
determine a method
that would have the
sensitivity to detect
even the smallest levels
of the different forms
of vitamin B. The me-
od developed used
high performance li-
quid chromatography (HPLC),
which could detect for the six dif-
ferent vitamers of B. This method
was used to evaluate chicken
samples. Fast food fried chicken
samples were first evaluated for
their Bo content, knowing that if a
fried sample of food could be
analyzed, the problems associated
with other less complex foods
would follow.
Samples were collected from fast
food fried chicken establishments.
The chicken pieces were obtained
halved, with half remaining raw and
the other half prepared according to
the individual restaurant standards.
The analysis of the matched samples
revealed that little of the vitamin
was lost during the frying process.
This led researchers to conclude that
vitamin B is stable at high
temperatures for periods up to 20
minutes in a fat media. The breading
and batter on the fried chicken may
assist in the retention of the vitamin,
trapping the juices in the meat and
resulting in small losses of the
vitamin in processing.
Technology Produces New
New Beef Products
A primary goal of the meat
industry, as with any industry, is the
production of products with maxi-
mal returns. This economic con-
cern motivates processors to seek
new and innovative technologies
for use in the development of new
products of higher quality and
value, at the lowest cost. Tra-
ditionally, beef chucks (27 percent
of the beef carcass) have been
- rchandised as low-priced roasts
and steaks due to the
imount of connective
issue and the widely
.arying palatabil-
ty among muscles.
Chucks are inexpensive
and are attractive as a
raw material source for
'he production of
value-added'products.
Recently, many
technological advances
have been used in an
attempt to develop
restructured products
which more closely re-
d 
b
. t . t
be'ef produc ts arecntinoul
de-ueloped aid ecauated 13Y
Auburn re'searchers.
semble intact cuts of meat. One
drawback in manufacturing re-
structured products with a texture
similar to intact muscle is that larger
pieces of meat must be used. With
the use of larger meat pieces from
lower value cuts, there is greater
potential for problems with detec-
tion of connective tissue.
An Experiment Station study was
conducted to determine the ef-
fectiveness of the trimming of
connective tissue from chuck
muscles and the reincorporation of
the connective tissue after particle
size reduction to restructured roast
beef. In this study, the trimming of
connective tissue from the chuck
muscles resulted in a loss of approx-
imately 20 percent. Results suggest
that the particle size of this connec-
tive tissue can be reduced and the
connective tissue reincorporated
into restructured roast beef pro-
ducts without detrimental effects
to product sensory quality, thus
producing quality products at a
reduced cost.
Lean Ground Beef Lowers
Fat, Calories
Over 3 billion pounds of ground
beef, which is 44 percent of total
fresh beef cuts available, is con-
sumed annually in the United States.
This ground beef generally con-
tains 20-30 percent fat. A large
segment of today's consumer
population is health conscious
and is concerned about dietary
fat. These consumers avoid meat
products, such as ground 
beef,
with high fat and caloric content.
As today's consumers continue to
become more health conscious,
their demand for lower fat, ground
beef will rapidly expand.
It is important that low-fat,
ground beef is developed and
tailored to meet the needs of today's
diet conscious consumers. Simple
reduction of the fat to 5-10 percent
would be the most efficient meth-
od of developing low-fat ground
beet. However, ground beef with
a fat content in this range is gen-
erally considered less palatable
than ground beef with 20-30 per-
cent fat. Therefore, an Experiment
Station project was initiated to
develop lean ground beef that will
be as acceptable to the consumer
as current ground beef.
Through changes in manufactur-
ing processes and addition of food
additives, lower fat (10 percent)
ground beef products have been
developed that possess sensory
characteristics that do not differ
from the control (20 percent fat).
These products contain approxi-
mately 40 percent less fat than the
control on an "as eaten" basis.
Caloric savings obtained from the
consumption of these products
compared to the control product are
between 55 and 60 kcal per
3.5-ounce serving (22-23 
percent),
with a decrease of 70 calories from
fat and an increase of 10 calories
from protein.
Use of Plant Fat Lowers
Cholesterol in Ground Beef
Popularity of red meat has
decreased over the past several years
due to negative publicity about the
content of dietary 
cholesterol,
calories, and saturated fats in red
meat products. Simple reduction of
the fat level in ground beef pro-
ducts will not eliminate the
problem, since even when the fat
level is reduced in ground 
beef,
there is no change in the choles-
terol level of the cooked product.
Generally, animal fats have been
associated with high amounts of
cholesterol and saturated fatty
acids, whereas plant fats are
associated with unsaturated fatty
acids. Plant fats are also a good
source of saturated fatty acids,
however they do not cont v
lesterol. Therefore, a
study was initiated to
evaluate quality attri-
butes and overall con-
sumer acceptability of
ground beef (10 per-
cent) produced with
beef fat or various
sources of hydrogen-
ated vegetable fat.
Sensory panelists _
overall acceptability
ratings forgroundbeef ,
containing hydrogen- e,'clopr en
atedcornfatorpalmfat pa r o
did not differ from Alabama-rai
t of na.
f these prc
nwlre conel
sed bieef.
ground beef containing beef fat.
These results indicate that the re-
placement of beef fat with hydro-
genated plant fat in the manufacture
of ground beef is feasible and thus
may be an effective method of low-
ering the cholesterol content of
ground beef.
Packaging Problems Remain
For Pre-Cooked Roast Beef
Currently, the safety of ourfood
supply is being questioned. As the
market for ready-to-eat food items
continues to grow, it is essential that
the safety of each of these products is
evaluated. One such product is pre-
cooked roast beef. The process of
slicing and packaging pre-cooked
roast beef provides an opportunity
for contamination of the product
with spoilage and pathogenic
organisms.
The presence of pathogens in
these ready-to-eat items is of great
concern. Staphylococcus aureus
has been identified as one of the
primary causative agents in food-
borne disease outbreaks. Experi-
ments were designed by food scien-
tists to investigate the antimicrobial
effects of potassium sorbate, secon-
dary heat treatment, and reduced
pH of vacuum packaged roast beef
slices on the persistence of S. aureus
in products stored under
refrigerated conditions.
Results indicate that secondary
heat treatment of vacuum pack-
aged, sliced, precooked roast beef
lowered S. aureus counts in the
roast beef. However, this treat-
ment was detrimental to product
-nearance The treatment of the
-,ast beef with potas-
um sorbate or the
,wering of the pH of
he roast beef with an
icidic solution did not
tfectively lower S.
Silreus counts. The re-
ruction of S. aureus in
h nese products is not
ifficient, so other
post-processing techni-
ues must be devel-
,ped to eliminate the
p'-athogenfrom thepro-
oducts will
pIete use of duct while maintaining
product quality.
resources is an
ongoing research
emphasis in the Ex-
periment Station. Depletion of these
resources or depredation from soil,
air, or water pollution is a threat to
both agricultural and nonagricul-
tural areas of the State.
Alabama, forexample, ranks se-
cond nationally in broiler chicken
production, but this production
, n , :; ,-archers must also
bie eni,ronmetalists, thus the impact of
production practices on our water, soil,
and air are constantly monitored.
level also produces about 2 million
tons of chicken litter annually. The
poultry industry has played a
leadership role in developing alter-
native uses of this waste byproduct.
Experiment Station research has
explored uses of litter ranging from
fertilizer for vegetable crops, to pot-
ting soil for ornamentals, to feed for
livestock. Arecent Experiment Sta-
tion survey indicated that litter of
average composition has a value of
$29 per ton based on its use as a fer-
tilizer and $105 per ton if the crude
protein, fiber, and mineral content
is considered for use as a feed ingre-
dient for ruminant animals. Similar
studies demonstrated that 35 to 40
percent of the carbohydrates in cer-
tain crop residues can be converted
to ethanol, lactic acid, and citric
acid. Remaining residues are protein
enriched by the spent fermentation
microorganisms, and these residues
have economic value as a source of
high quality protein animal feed.
Wastewater generated by agri-
business is a potential source of
environmental pollutant that
requires treatment prior to disposal.
Auburn researchers are exploring
the use of microorganisms to treat
wastewater and to convert the
nutrients in wastewater to microbial
protein which can be recovered and
used as feed for animals. Equally
innovative work is being done in-
volving soil, water, and air factors
effecting plant production, plus the
effects of the environment on man.
Hydrilla Control Possible with
Sterile Grass Carp
A new exotic plant, called
hydrilla, has become a threat to
fishing and recreation on Lake
Guntersville -Alabama's largest
lake. Experiment Station resear-
chers recently found that sterile
grass carp can help reduce hydrilla,
but precautions must be taken.
The method of producing sterile
grass carp, or white amur, was
developed in 1983, making it possi-
ble to test these voracious feeders in
open waterwithout fear of ongoing
environmental damage. As a result,
Auburn researchers, working in
cooperation with the Tennessee
Valley Authority, released 25
juvenile and 10 adult grass carp in-
to Guntersville Reservoir.
NVIRONMENTAL CONC'E'RNS
The juvenile grass carp moved an
average of 1.4 miles during summer
and reduced movement when water
temperatures declined in the fall.
These fish tended to move upstream
and typically remained in hydrilla-
dominated areas. Surprisingly, the
adult grass carp moved an average
of 20 miles soon after stocking and
did not reduce movement when
water temperatures began to cool.
There is clear evidence that grass
carp can adversely affect waterfowl
populations by destroying the
hydrilla that is preferred nesting and
feeding habitat for ducks. By using
high stocking rates 
of juveniles,
researchers expect to control the ex-
pansion of hydrilla, without
significantly destroying areas of the
grass used by waterfowl.
Cattle Egrets Provide
Environmental Insights
Cattle egrets provide more than
a scenic touch to the pastures they
visit. Experiment Station research
has shown that they can help con-
trol insect populations and also are
valuable indicators of environmen-
tal pressures.
Egrets are colonial 
waterbirds,
birds which nest in or near water in
large colonies. By studying egrets
and their kin (herons, 
ibises, gulls,
and other birds), scientists have
learned more about their lifecycles
and have gained insight into the
delicate ecosystems of the wetland
and shore areas they inhabit.
Recent studies of egrets during
drought years have shown that the
birds are more likely to endure dry
weather if abundant pastures are
available for feeding. Human har-
rassment of egrets severely im-
pacted nesting habits and eventu-
ally dispersed colonies.
These data indicate that egrets are
highly susceptible to environmen-
tal pressures and suggest that
Alabama can keep 
an attractive,
helpful member of its wildlife com-
munity by protecting their environ-
ment and their privacy.
Alabamians Aware of
Dangers of Hazardous Materials
An Experiment 
Station study,
based on results from three separate
mail surveys conducted during the
summer and fall of 1988, clearly
shows that Alabamians see hazard-
ous waste management as a major
national problem which presents
serious threats to their own
communities.
A total of 1,200 questionnaires
were sent to a random sample of
Alabama residents, of which 399
were returned. A further 200 were
sent (and 69 returned) to residents
of Sumter County, location of the
nation's largest hazardous waste
landfill. The third group surveyed
(200 questionnaires, 127 returned)
was the membership of the Ala-
bama chapter of the Sierra Club.
The surveys show that Alaba-
mians are unwilling to trade
environmental quality for
economic development. All three
groups surveyed expressed a strong
desire to create more jobs. Most
Alabamians said they were willing
to pay more for products if this was
necessary to promote recycling and
waste reduction processes.
The surveys also show that
Alabamians have considerable faith
and confidence in the Environ-
mental Protection Agency and the
Alabama Department of Environ-
mental Management as key
agencies in managing hazardous
wastes. Alabamians do not believe
the private sector should be in-
volved in making decisions on
where to locate hazardous waste
management facilities, although
under the present regu-
latory structure the ini-
tiative in siting new
facilities generally is
with private firms. Ala-
bamians strongly feel
that only scientific ex-
perts in the field should
make decisions regard-
ing hazardous waste .
management.
New Termite a Threat
in Parts of Alabama
The Formosan sub-
terranean termite is one
of the most destructive 
tound only ne
termite species world- city of 
Mobile
wide. This termite is an ounu and rec
important pest in trop- to homeowner
ar Ala
, haye
;earch
s.d p
rS.
ical and subtropical areas such as
Guam, Taiwan, the Philippines,
and Hawaii. In Hawaii, it is
estimated that over $60 million is
spent annually to control this ter-
mite. In the continental United
States, the Formosan subterranean
termite has been reported 
primarily
in coastal cities from Houston to
central Florida, which 
have ports
that service shipping from the Far
East and Hawaii. There are no
estimates of Formosan termite
damage in Alabama, although the
termite has been reported in Mobile
and Baldwin counties and as far in-
land as Auburn.
All reports of Formosan sub-
terranean termite infestations in the
United States, except the one in
Auburn, have been near ports or
inland waterways. This termite was
probably introduced into the
Southeast with infested marine
cargo in ships returning from the
Pacific theater at the end of World
War II and the Korean conflict.
Subsequent infestations have
been caused by transportation of in-
fested wood.
Because of the economic 
import-
ance of the Formosan subterranean
termite, research was undertaken
by the Experiment Station to deter-
mine the distribution of this pest in
Alabama. In addition, 
physio-
logical factors that may reflect the
behavior and distribution of this
pest were contrasted with those of
native eastern subterranean
termites.
Because the For-
mosan subterranean
termite is distributed in
warm, usually humid
regions and frequently
: near water, aspects of
'heir temperature rela-
I ions were investigated
rl and compared to the
native eastern subter-
ranean termite. Ter-
'nites were heated or
)oled at a constant
,te(3.4 Fperminute)
determine the
bamas port temperatures at which
been found they 
lost the ability 
to
ers is Lee
ose a threat move (knockdown).
Formosan subterra-
mean termites were knocked down
at about 3.4
? 
hotter than native
eastern subterranean termites. This
result indicates that Formosan ter-
mites can withstand higher
temperatures than native termites.
Eastern subterranean termites
tolerated slightly lower tempera-
tures than Formosan termites.
Millet Removes Excess N
From Poultry Litter Fertilizer
One of the biggest problems with
using poultry litter as a N source is
applying a sufficient quantity of lit-
ter to supply the recommended
adequate amount of N without
applying excessive N that can end
up as an environmental pollutant.
It is easy to determine the total
amount of N in litter, but it is
extremely difficult to determine
how much of the N will release
during the growing season, and
how much will be released to
the environment.
Tests were conducted in the
spring of 1989 to determine the
amount of N used by millet and
wheat. As a result of wet conditions,
the wheat was harvested later than
normal and the following millet
crop was planted approximately 3
weeks later than normal. Despite the
late planting date, millet growth was
excellent. Millet dry weights on the
first cutting (August 30) averaged
2,600, 6,000, and 7,600pounds per
acre when inorganic N fertilizer, 4
tons per acre litter, and 8 tons per
acre litter, respectively, were
applied to the previous wheat crop
(the millet was not fertilized). The
I aoo ro N remo(ved in the whpat
grain plus millet tissue averaged 44 
electric constant, nonflammability,
and 38 percent of the N applied in and low corrosiveness are also im-
the 4- and 8-ton per acre litter portant characteristics for wasp
treatments, respectively. The 44 sprays used in and around electrical
percent N recovery from the low equipment.
rate of litter is as good as can In the Auburn test, 
1-minute
be expected from inorganic N knockdown ranged from 27 to 100
fertilizer. percent and could be categorized
Theresultsof the firstyearof this into three groups: more than 98
test strongly indicate that when percent, 89 to 98 percent, and less
poultry litter is the sole N source for than 89 percent. Except for Wasp
wheat, total N in the wheat will Killer II, all formulations that had
have to exceed three times the N 100 percent knockdown also
fertilizer requirements for wheat, damaged some type of plastic. All
and that 80 percent of this N formulations having one minute
will be left in the environmental knockdown between 98 and 81 per-
system after wheatgrain harvest, cent also damaged at least one type
However, if a crop such as millet, of plastic. The two formulations
that uses large amounts of N, with the lowest knockdown (Black-
follows the wheat, a reasonable flag and SCS) did not damage
percentage of the excess N can plastics. All formulations gave
be removed from the environ- 100 percent kill 5 minutes after
mental system. spraying.
In further studies, there was no
Environmentally Safe Sprays correlation between 1-minute
Effective for Stinging Insects knockdown and any of the active
Wasps, hornets, and other ingredients in the wasp and hornet
stinging insects are a constant pest sprays. There was, however, a
and potential health hazard to significant correlation between
highly allergic individuals. Though knockdown and the chilling effects
most sprays are used by home- of the sprays. The body temperature
owners, many service industries, of honey bees used in the test was
especially utilities, also must use continuously recorded and sprays
sprays to protect their workers, applied. Formulations giving the
Finding sprays that are effective, but best knockdown lowered body
not damaging to materials in the temperature the most. These
environment was the focus of a re- 
formulations contained Freons,
cent Experiment Station study. methelene chloride, and other
Electronic and telecommunica- volatile solvents.
tions industries must use wasp spray Rapid knockdown of stinging 
in-
formulations that do not damage sects is the most important char-
plastic, which is used to form tele- acteristic of wasp and hornet sprays
phones, splice cases, and most im- used in electrical and telecommuni-
nortantil insulate wires. Hich di- cation industries. 
Technicians are
often faced with wasps infesting
suspended aerial equipment. Con-
trol also must be immediate since
wasp stings might severely affect
worker safety, especially 
when
workers are 20-30 feet above the
ground. Wasp sprays also must not
damage equipment. These studies
indicate that rapid knockdown is
Mdue to body temperature depression
rather than the active ingredients per
se and can be accomplished without
- .damaging plastics.
Auburn researchers monitor land, soil,
and air for pollution from a variety of
sources.
hough Alabamas met ro
politan areas are increas-
ing in population, a large
segment of the State's
people stil live in rural areas. Typical
of rural families are husbands and
wives with both on and off-farm
jobs. Many opportunities exist for
rural residents.
A recent survey, for example, in-
dicated that greater flexibility in
work schedules among family
members is essential for most rural
families with both on-farm and off-
farm employment. Education was
also listed as essential in both ob-
taining and enjoying off-farm
employment by rural residents.
Surveys ot farm families indi-
cate that farm crime and financial
recovery remain problems for
Alabama's farmers. For those seek-
ing to develop rural industries, one
study indicates that finding a
suitable labor force is a problem.
Recreation Use Model
Developed for State Forests
A model of the recreational use
of Bankhead National Forest in
Alabama was completed. It ac-
curately estimates the number of
visitors to the forest in a given year.
The model also estimates the alloca-
metropolitan iaf l , i <,g studied by
Aubum rescarchers.
tion of visitors among various areas
of the forest based on the Recreation
Opportunity Spectrum (ROS). In
addition, ROS classes of the forest
were modified following a newly
developed classification system
which shows promise for all Eastern
national forests.
Implications of adoption of the
new system and the estimation
model are significant. First, the new
ROS system will mean more diver-
sity of forest use in the East in
accordance with the multiple use
saw
directives of the federal govern-
ment. Second, the ability to
accurately estimate visitor numbers
and their choice of recreational
activities will mean better manage-
ment of forest resources for timber
production as well as recreational
use.
Money is Main Source of
Farm Family Stress
The severe financial crisis facing
many rural farm families in
Alabama has served to focus atten-
tion on how families successfully ad-
just to both expected and un-
expected changes in their lives.
Researchers at Auburn have begun
to identify sources of stress and
types of coping strategies common
to these families by conducting
research with couples who live on
a farm or in a rural area.
The life stressors most frequent-
ly reported by these couples were
those associated with increased
strain on the family's money supply
and strains arising from a family-
owned business or investment.
These changes were followed in
frequency by strains within the
family, including reports of in-
creased tension and conflict
between family members and
increased difficulties associated
with being a parent. The third most
likely type of stressor experienced
by these couples was change asso-
ciated with work, including
changing jobs, being fired, re-
tirement, and job promotions.
Couples were least likely to report
stressors due to changes in the
marriage, death of a family mem-
ber or friend, family members
moving in or out of the 
home,
illness, or legal problems.
With regard to coping strategies,
the descriptive data revealed that
couples used a variety of coping
strategies to deal with difficulties
in their lives. Both husbands and
wives reported that they typically
coped with change by seeking
spiritual support and by facing
problems head-on with confidence
in their ability to handle prob-
lems. They reported somewhat
less frequently that they relied
on relatives, friends, neighbors,
and extended family in times of
need. They were least likely
to seek professional counseling,
assistance from community
agencies, and information and
advice from the family doctor
when faced with problems.
Alabama Farmers Concerned
Over Rural Crime Increase
A statewide survey of Alabama
farm operators sought to determine
opinions about and experiences
with crime and vandalism to farms.
Questionnaires were completely by
428 farmers who provided informa-
tion neverbefore obtained about the
extent and impact of farm crime in
the agricultural sector. For the first
time, data are available on a wide
variety of crimes against farm
property, including crimes both
reported and unreported to law
enforcement authorities. Also, uni-
que information now exists about
perceptions of changes in the
number of farm crimes and the
seriousness of various types of farm
crime in local rural communities.
A key finding is the extent to
which Alabama farm operators
view current trends in farm crime
as increasing. Two separate ques-
tions asked independently pro-
vided highly similar results. About
35 percent believed farm crime had
increased in their local
community within the
past 2 years. Similarly,
40 percent believed that
the theft of farm pro-
perty in their local com-
munity had increased
in this same time
period. The consisten-
cy of these two
responses indicates that
crimes committed
against farm property
is a growing concern to
Alabama farmers.
Additional ques-
tions focused on
specific aspects of farm
crime. About 65 per-
cent were worried
about the safety of farm
property such as
machinery, livestock,
crops, and supplies.
Also, 27percent reported being fear-
ful about going to certain areas of
their farm after dark.
The offenses most frequently
considered serious problems were:
(1) poaching of fish and wildlife - 42
percent; (2) trespassing on
farmland-40 percent; (3) van-
dalism by dumping trash on
farmland - 36 percent; (4) outsiders
planting marijuana on farmland -
30 percent; (5) arson of woods, fields
or buildings -29 percent; and (6)
burglary of farm buildings - 28 per-
cent. Five other types of crime or
vandalism offenses were noted as
serious by 17 percent or more of
these farmers.
Lake Weiss a Big Part
of County Economy
Lake Weiss is known to fisher-
men throughout the Southeast
as "The Crappie Capital of the
World." A recent Experiment Sta-
tion survey indicates the lake in
northeast Alabama plays a key
role in the economy of Cherokee
County.
A survey was conducted in
Cherokee County, Alabama, of the
Lake Weiss business community.
From a total of nearly 500
businesses, a subsample of 150
businesses was randomly chosen
which represented six strata
fishery-related
isinesses. Of these
usinesses, a 50
Stuhze, oub, ate that fishries-
related businesses on Lake Weise
have a major impact on the
economies of the county and
area.
percent sample of
business owners was
interviewed.
The mean percen-
tage of gross business
income contributed by
tishery activities for
the entire community
was 21 percent, or
S1.3 million dollars.
i ;usinesses that earned
.,t least 15 percent of
their income from
t i hery-related activity
considered that portion
,t income to be vital to
their success. Ninety
percent of business
owners felt that the
fishery would expand
in the future.
1$-I~
/p 
.u
-mRLE''TV 
RP N EOREUS
C otton, peanuts,
poultry, cattle, and
timber remain tradi-
tional crops for Alabama
producers. However, many new
crops have been worked into tra-
ditional agriculture in recent years
and many others are being tested
by Experiment Station researchers
for future use.
Farm-raised catfish is the most
obvious new crop success 
story,
having started asan industry in west
Alabama in the mid-1960's. In more
recent years blueberries have
become significant income pro-
ducers in Clay and Escambia
counties and production is
widespread throughout the State.
Experiment Station researchers are
constantly evaluating crops and
services to find the next one to im- Strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi 
are
pact on the State's 
economy. 
among several alternative 
crops being
tested for possible commercial produc-
tion in Alabama.
Lack of Quality Labor
Restricts Apparel Industry
Apparel manufacturing is an
important component of the rural
revitalization potential of Alabama.
Alabama's apparel industry with
56,000 workers accounts for
approximately 15 percent of the
manufacturing employment in the
State. The industry's 1988 payroll
was over $500 million. Alabama
and California are the only states in
the United States to show an
increase in apparel industry
employment between 1978 and
1988. In fact, Alabama had a 24
percent increase in the number of
textile and apparel plants.
Experiment Station research
efforts have concentrated on iden-
tifying the factors that can make
companies more competitive and
obstacles that reduce their
competitiveness. The increased
emphasis on quick response as a
means to meet consumer demands
is the primary competitive edge
available to American manu-
facturers as they strive to compete
with imports from low wage level
countries. However, quick response
requires a flexible work environ-
ment in terms of workers, equip-
ment, and manufacturing
approaches.
The primary concern identified
in interviews with industry per-
sonnel around the State was the
unavailability of qualified labor.
The need exists for people with
apparel-related college degrees to
move into mid-level management
positions. They are needed to help
meet the challenges of change in
technology, distribution 
channels,
sources of raw materials, and con-
sumer demand. In addition, entry-
level operators are needed who
have a good work ethic and a
willingness to learn and adapt.
A number of plant managers
indicated that they had enough
potential orders to expand pro-
duction by as much 
as 100 percent,
but they could not get the workers.
Such expansions would not only
create jobs for Alabamians, but the
wages earned and the products
made would generate tax revenues
which would benefit all of
Alabama's citizens.
Tourism Potential Explored
in North Alabama Counties
A recent Experiment Station
study has determined that there are
reasonable gains to be made by the
residents of both Lawrence and
Winston counties in Alabama
through the development of a
tourism industry. Abundant
natural resources in both counties
provide a significant base upon
which to begin building a tourism
program. However, several infra-
structural problems in both public
and private sectors of each 
county,
as well as a general lack of tourism
support facilities, create barriers
which must be addressed if any
tourism program is to attain its full
economic potential.
Estimates of tourist-related
spending in Lawrence County cur-
rently approach approximately
$288,500 annually. However, this
figure could likely be increased one
and a half to two times with the
proper development and adquate
food and lodging facilities.
Likewise, Winston County could
realise up to $1,000,000 annually in
tourist-related spending when a full-
tourism industry with support
facilities is in place.
Potential economic gains from
the development of a coordinated
county-wide tourism industry exist
in both Lawrence and Winston
counties. Whether these gains war-
rant the use of implementation and
development will depend heavily on
the support of the entire county
populace, as well as the strength
and commitment of the local
government.
New Plant to Boost Interior
Foliage Business
Nurserymen, tissue culture 
labs,
and retailers will benefit from
increased production of Harbour
Dwarf nandina, an easy to grow and
maintain foliage plant. Auburn
research indicates Harbour Dwarf
may lead the way in revitalizing
Alabama's interior foliage plant
industry.
The market for interior foliage
plants has declined in terms of the
number of producers, production
area, and wholesale value since the
foliage plant boom of the 1970's.
When market demand levels, pro-
fits decline dramatically and the
market is considered to be mature.
In order to rejuvenate 
this market,
new crops must be introduced to
stimulate demand. Harbour Dwarf
is traditionally used as an exterior
landscape plant, however, its
delicate looking foliage spreads in
a unique horizontal manner, and
the plant is quite attractive when
grown in a 5-inch pot.
Preliminary research indicates
that the leaves remain
intact and retain their
rich green color even
after plants have beer
in a low light interior
environment for sex
eral weeks. The attrac
tiveness of Harbour
Dwarf nandinas, their
economical production
costs, and their good
postproduction lift
indicate excellent
potentialasaninterior
potted plant.
The market poten- 
constantly se
tial of Harbour Dwarf crop product
nandinas 
was evalu- 
fruit shown
and profit to
ated in four Birming- 
operations.
res
eking to
s, such as
here, to a
Alabama
ham supermarkets. Consumers
purchased the plants at a price
and a rate similar to foliage plants
of the same size, indicating that
Harbour Dwarf nandinas are as
acceptable as many other tradi-
tional foliage plants for use in
interior environments.
State's First Kiwi Harvest
Offers a Few Surprises
The first kiwi research work con-
ducted in Alabama was begun in
1986. The research was initiated
after considerable interest in kiwi
production by Alabama growers
was evident and many commercial
plantings had been or were being
established. The kiwi (Actinidia
chinenses Planch) has the potential
of a high value crop for Alabama
and other Southeastern states. The
weather and other environmental
consideration in the Southeast are
favorable for kiwi production,
however, certain cultural and pro-
duction practices that are currently
utilized must be modified for op-
timum plant performance.
Current data collected indicate
Hayward female variety (the
leading female variety in world fruit
production) has problems with bud
break and initiation and develop-
ment of female flowers under the
environmental conditions of the
Southeast. It has not produced the
plant vigor, shoot growth, or fruit
yield of Fitzgerald or another seed-
ling under evaluation.
The male variety Matura bloom
period adequately
overlapped the first
half of the female
bloom period as de-
sired. However, the
1 Tomuri male variety
bloomed after the fe-
male varieties and did
, not overlap at the last
y half of the female
bloom period as de-
sired and reported in
the literature.
Fruit of the Fitzgerald
has the same 
quality,
earchers are
develop new butisnotaslargeasthe
the kiwi Hayward. However, it
dd flexibility 
should be 
of acceptable
farm
commercial size.
-V. R- - A RD
F NANCIAL REPORT
Alabama
Agricultural
Experiment Station
Report of Revenue
For The
Fiscal Year Ending
September 30, 1989
APPROPRIATED
FUNDS
$15,694,805 51.0%
S 1,691,151 5.5%
S 3,993,691 13.0%
State
State Paid
Employee
Benefits
Federal
CONTRACTS
AND GRANTS
Federal
State
Private
lot
:-b~
4~r
en Hajek (top), professor
of agronomy and soils,
was recently presented
the annual Director's
Senior Research Award. The
510,000 award is sponsored by the
Experiment Station and can be
used by the researcher to enhance
his/her research efforts.
Ray Henry (above), associate
professor of zoology and wildlife
sciences, was presented the Direc-
'I
tor's Research Award for Associate
and Assistant Professor rank. it is
also a $10,000 award.
The Director's Research Award
has become one of the most coveted
and competitive awards for Experi-
ment Station scientists. Initiated in
1981 to recognize special lifetime
achievements, researchers are
nominated for the award by their
peers and winners are selected by a
committee of their peers.
AUXILIARY
REVENUES
Sale of
Research
Products
Diagnostic
Services
& Fees
Interest and
Royalties
Indirect and
Other Cost
Recovery
S 1,856,035
645,781
2,409,561
$ 4,911,377 16.0%
S 3,471,971
251,583
288,837
465,861
$ 4,478,252 14.6%
TOTAL
REVENUES $30,769,276 100.0%
a

v