Together with NSW Agriculture it was shown that the gene fully protected peas against weevil development in the field in 1996-97. The research is supported by the Grains Research and Development Corporation. This advance warning provided the grains industry and State Government departments with sufficient time to develop registration of a rodenticide for use in fields. These studies led to implementation of recommendations for strategic use of one of the rodenticides, zinc phosphide, in grain-growing regions in eastern Australia. The Grains Research and Development Corporation is funding aspects of the research.
Control systems are now an integral part of the grain storage and handling system.
Results have confirmed that using this system, it is possible to reduce reliance on pesticides and fumigants in well-controlled and managed existing aeration facilities. This laboratory proof paves the way for an eventual humane way to control mice and other pests. The Grains Research and Development Corporation is funding aspects of the research. The cause is a lack of water-soluble carbohydrates as crop production increases in response to mineral nitrogen or nitrogen fertiliser. Until a long term solution is found, to avoid haying-off farmers should calculate a nitrogen budget based on their realistic yield and protein targets.