RSD was identified on 28.4% of 658 faws surveyed in the Herbert district of
Queensland during the period 1990-1993. On each farm, four fields of. different crop
classes were surveyed and 11.3% of fields were found to have RSD infected cane.
Disease incidence was 9% in plant crops, 10% in first ratoon, 11 % in second ratoon
and 15% in older ratoon crops. Of varieties grown in the district, Orpheus (1.5%)
and H56-752 (3,9%) had the lowest disease incidence. The major varieties Q115
(14.7%) and Cassius (16.3%) had higher than average disease incidence, whereas
Q117 (7.2%), Q119 (7.7%) and Q124 (9.1%) had lower than average disease incidence. From the survey it was calculated that RSD is causirig losses to the sugar
industry in the Herbert district of over $3M1annum. The use of approved seed in the
district declined during the period of the survey. Increased supplies of approved seed
have been planted and extension programs are being developed to promote the use
of approved seed to control RSD and other diseases.