  | Advanced Search | |
| ||
| | |
| |||||||
| | |||||||||
| |
| |
| | Former GM Canola Trial Sites Audit ReportsThe most recent former GM Canola Trial Sites Audit was conducted in November 2012. The results of this audit are published below: |
 | GM Canola Former Trial Sites Audit Report November 2012 (PDF: 111 KB / 4 pages) |
Summary of the November 2012 Audit Report
The most recent audit occurred mid November 2012. This was undertaken by DPIPWE staff and a representative from Bayer CropScience. All 53 remaining sites were inspected.
A pleasing aspect of this audit was that there continues to be only a low number of sites where volunteer canola plants are found, there being 4 former trial sites where plants at various stages of development were found.
However about half of the sites were still under pasture or a situation which had not involved recent soil disturbance. These can be expected to have dormant canola seed in the soil that will not germinate until soil disturbance takes place.
All sites had a good level of soil moisture.
Of the sites where canola plants were found, three of them have been regularly cropped and continue to present the occasional canola plant.
The other site was disturbed for the first time in several years and had no canola seen since 2004, now with a number of plants appearing.
One pleasing aspect was that three sites that were disturbed for the first time in several years have had no canola show up so far, though these and any other site that has had some form of recent soil disturbance either through cultivation or the sowing of crops have potential for more plants to germinate in coming weeks and will continue to be closely monitored.
All plants germinating are either killed by herbicide or removed by roguing.
During audits, the DPIPWE routinely surveys nearby roadsides and other areas to ensure containment is being achieved. During this audit, no canola plants were found on roadsides.
The most recent audit occurred during late May 2012. This was undertaken by DPIPWE staff. All 53 remaining sites were inspected.
Volunteer canola plants at various stages of development were found at 4 former trial sites.
During the period of this audit about half of the sites were still under pasture or a situation which had not involved recent soil disturbance. These can be expected to have dormant canola seed in the soil that will not germinate until soil disturbance takes place. All sites had a good level of moisture.
There were two sites where a moderate number of canola plants occurred. Both of these sites have had a history of canola appearing but both sites have been sown to crops where the plants should be controlled with grazing and herbicides.
Most of the sites that were going to be cropped have had some form of recent soil disturbance either through cultivation or the sowing of crops. Amongst these were two sites that had not been disturbed for some time and were recently ripped up. All these sites have potential for more plants to germinate in coming weeks and will continue to be closely monitored.
During audits, the DPIPWE routinely surveys nearby roadsides and other areas to ensure containment is being achieved. During this audit, no canola plants were found on roadsides.
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. GM Canola Former Trial Sites Audit Report May 2012
(PDF: 92 KB / 4 pages)
Summary of the March 2012 Audit Report
The most recent audit occurred during March 2012. This was undertaken by DPIPWE staff. All 53 remaining sites were inspected.
Volunteer canola plants at various stages of development were found at 9 former trial sites.
Soil moisture varied from dry to reasonable across sites. However there appeared to be enough at most sites for the germination of plants. This meant that anywhere that there had been recent soil disturbance there was a high likelihood that canola plants would germinate. However, over half of the sites are still under pasture or in other situations not involving disturbance. These can be expected to have dormant canola seed that will not germinate until soil disturbance takes place.
There were two sites where a moderate number of canola plants occurred and several sites where there is still potential for many more plants to germinate in coming weeks. These sites will continue to be closely monitored. All plants detected were rogued and removed from the site.
During audits, the DPIPWE routinely surveys nearby roadsides and other areas to ensure containment is being achieved. During this audit, no canola plants were found on roadsides.
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. GM Canola Former Trial Sites Audit Report March 2012
(PDF: 91 KB / 3 Pages)
Summary of the November 2011 Audit Report
The most recent audit occurred during November 2011. This was undertaken by DPIPWE staff and staff from Bayer CropScience. All 53 remaining sites were inspected.
Volunteer canola plants at various stages of development were found at 7 former trial sites.
Good soil moisture was observed at all sites. This meant that anywhere that there had been recent soil disturbance there was a high likelihood that canola plants would germinate. However, over half of the sites are still under pasture or in other situations not involving disturbance. These can be expected to have dormant canola seed that will not germinate until soil disturbance takes place.
There were two sites where a large number of canola plants occurred and one site where there is still potential for many more plants to germinate in coming weeks. These sites were all recently sown to crops. Volunteer plants are likely to be killed by herbicide programs specified in site management plans, but will be closely monitored in any case. All plants detected in unsprayed paddocks were rogued and removed from the site.
During audits, the DPIPWE routinely surveys nearby roadsides and other areas to ensure containment is being achieved. During this audit, no canola plants were found on roadsides.
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. GM Canola Former Trial Sites Audit Report November 2011
(PDF: 92 KB / 3 pages)
Summary of the May 2011 Audit Report
The most recent audit occurred during May 2011. This was undertaken by DPIPWE staff. All 53 remaining sites were inspected.
Volunteer canola plants at various stages of development were found at 7 former trial sites.
Good soil moisture was recorded at all sites. This meant that anywhere that there had been recent soil disturbance there was a high likelihood that canola plants would germinate. Even so, over half of the sites are still under pasture or in other situations which had not involved soil disturbance. These can be expected to have dormant canola seed in the soil that will not germinate until soil disturbance takes place. One site (SW98-3) had not been disturbed for six years with no canola plants detected, but at this audit a large number of seedlings appeared after the ground was worked.
There were a few sites where large numbers of canola plants occurred. These were sites where crops had recently been harvested and soil disturbance had occurred both during harvest and the subsequent planting of the next crop. These should be controlled by herbicide programs and grazing but will be closely monitored.
These sites have since been revisited and all canola plants have been controlled either by grazing or herbicides.
All plants sighted in unsprayed paddocks were rogued and removed from the site.
During audits, the DPIPWE routinely surveys roadsides and other areas proximal to the former trial sites to ensure containment is being achieved. During this audit, no canola plants were found on roadsides.
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. GM Canola Former Trial Sites Audit Report May 2011
(PDF: 94 KB / 4 Pages)
Summary of the February 2011 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience). In 2001 the Tasmanian Government decided to pursue a GMO-free path for agriculture. This decision, combined with the persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and stakeholders. The audit process aimed to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to guide eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced, permits under the Act were issued requiring each site to be managed under a specific site management plan. The aim of these plans is to eradicate GM canola, and to prevent the spread of GM canola. The audit process became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and guiding the process for releasing sites from management under permit. This occurs when Government is satisfied GM canola has been eradicated from a site.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits have generally occurred three times a year.
The number of sites has been reduced by four. There was sufficient monitoring evidence to suggest that each could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006 and November 2007. However, the DPIPWE still conducts periodic verification checks on these sites.
The most recent audit occurred 21 February to 24 February 2011. Volunteer canola plants were found at 6 of the former trial sites.
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. GM Canola Former Trial Sites Audit Report February 2011
(PDF: 33 KB)
Summary of the November 2010 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. In 2001 the Tasmanian Government decided to pursue a GMO-free path for agriculture. This decision, combined with the persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and stakeholders. The audit process aimed to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to guide eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced, permits under the Act were issued requiring each site to be managed in accordance with a specific site management plan. The aim of these plans is to eradicate GM canola, and to prevent the spread of GM canola. The audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and guiding the process for releasing sites from management under permit. This occurs when Government is satisfied GM canola has been eradicated from a site.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits have generally occurred three times a year.
The number of sites has been reduced by four. There was sufficient monitoring evidence to suggest that each could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006 and November 2007. However, the DPIPWE still conducts periodic verification checks on these.
The most recent audit occurred 8 November to 12 November 2010. Three of the four signed off sites were inspected as well as the 53 remaining sites. Volunteer canola plants were found at 9 former trial sites and along a roadside near a former trial site. There were no canola plants at the signed off sites.
| Former GM Canola Audit Reports November 2010 (PDF: 39 KB / 4 pages) |
Summary of the May 2010 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. In 2001 the Tasmanian Government decided to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture. This policy decision, combined with the persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the former trial sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and industry stakeholders. The purpose of the audit process at that time was to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to inform GM canola eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced permits under the Act were issued requiring each former trial site to be managed in accordance with a specific site management plan. The aim of these plans was to eradicate GM canola on the site, and to prevent the spread of GM canola. At that point, the audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and informing the process for releasing sites from management under permit. A decision to end management under permit is only made when Government is satisfied with a high degree of confidence that GM canola has been eradicated from that site.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits have generally occurred three times a year.
The total number of sites inspected has been reduced by four from the original 57. There was sufficient monitoring evidence for these four sites to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006 and November 2007.
The most recent audit occurred during 10 May to 21 May 2010. Volunteer canola plants were found at nineteen sites.
At the May 2010 audit several sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. GM Canola Former Trial Sites Audit Report May 2010
(PDF: 40 KB / 4 pages)
Summary of the March 2010 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. In 2001 the Tasmanian Government decided to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture. This policy decision, combined with the persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the former trial sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and industry stakeholders. The purpose of the audit process at that time was to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to inform GM canola eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced permits under the Act were issued requiring each former trial site to be managed in accordance with a specific site management plan. The aim of these plans was to eradicate GM canola on the site, and to prevent the spread of GM canola. At that point, the audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and informing the process for releasing sites from management under permit. A decision to end management under permit is only made when Government is satisfied with a high degree of confidence that GM canola has been eradicated from that site.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits have generally occurred three times a year.
The total number of sites inspected has been reduced by four from the original 57. There was sufficient monitoring evidence for these four sites to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006 and November 2007.
The most recent audit occurred during 3 March to 15 March 2010. Volunteer canola plants were found at nine sites.
At the March 2010 audit several sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. GM Canola Trial Sites Audit Report March 2010
(PDF: 39 KB / 4 pages)
Summary of the November 2009 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. In 2001 the Tasmanian Government decided to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture. This policy decision, combined with the persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the former trial sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and industry stakeholders. The purpose of the audit process at that time was to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to inform GM canola eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced, permits under the Act were issued requiring each former trial site to be managed in accordance with a specific site management plan. The aim of these plans was to eradicate GM canola on the site, and to prevent the spread of GM canola. At that point, the audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and informing the process for releasing sites from management under permit. A decision to end management under permit is only made when Government is satisfied with a high degree of confidence that GM canola has been eradicated from that site.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits have generally occurred three times a year.
The total number of sites inspected has been reduced by four from the original 57. There was sufficient monitoring evidence for these four sites to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006 and November 2007.
The most recent audit occurred during 30 November to 12 December 2009. Volunteer canola plants were found at thirteen sites.
At the November / December 2009 audit several sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
| GM Canola Trial Sites Audit Report November 2009 (PDF: 39 KB / 4 pages) |
Summary of the May 2009 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. In 2001 the Tasmanian Government decided to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture. This policy decision, combined with the persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the former trial sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and industry stakeholders. The purpose of the audit process at that time was to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to inform GM canola eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced permits under the Act were issued requiring each former trial site to be managed in accordance with a specific site management plan. The aim of these plans was to eradicate GM canola on the site, and to prevent the spread of GM canola. At that point, the audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and informing the process for releasing sites from management under permit. A decision to end management under permit is only made when Government is satisfied with a high degree of confidence that GM canola has been eradicated from that site.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits have generally occurred three times a year.
The most recent audit occurred during 13-14 May, 18 May and 20-21 May 2009. Volunteer canola plants were found at eight sites.
The total number of sites inspected has been reduced from the original 57 by four as there was sufficient monitoring evidence to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006 and November 2007.
At the May 2009 audit several sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance, largely due to the ongoing drought. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. GM Canola Trial Sites Audit Report May 2009
(PDF: 98 KB / 4 pages)
Summary of the February/March 2009 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. In 2001 the Tasmanian Government decided to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture. This policy decision, combined with the persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the former trial sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and industry stakeholders. The purpose of the audit process at that time was to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to inform GM canola eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced, permits under the Act were issued requiring each former trial site to be managed in accordance with a specific site management plan. The aim of these plans was to eradicate GM canola on the site, and to prevent the spread of GM canola. At that point, the audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and informing the process for releasing sites from management under permit. A decision to end management under permit is only made when Government is satisfied with a high degree of confidence that GM canola has been eradicated from a site.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits have generally occurred three times a year.
The most recent audit occurred during 11-12 February 2009, 3-4 March and 31 March 2009. Volunteer canola plants were found at ten sites.
The total number of sites inspected has been reduced from the original 57 by four as there was sufficient monitoring evidence to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006 and November 2007.
At the February/March 2009 audit several sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance, largely due to drought. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
| GM Canola Trial Sites Audit Report February/March 2009 (PDF: 93 KB / 4 pages) |
Summary of the November/December 2008 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. In 2001 the Tasmanian Government decided to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture. This policy decision, combined with the persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the former trial sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and industry stakeholders. The purpose of the audit process at that time was to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to inform GM canola eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced, permits under the Act were issued requiring each former trial site to be managed in accordance with a specific site management plan. The aim of these plans was to eradicate GM canola on the site, and to prevent the spread of GM canola. At that point, the audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and informing the process for releasing sites from management under permit. A decision to end management under permit is only made when Government is satisfied with a high degree of confidence that GM canola has been eradicated from that site.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits generally occur three times a year.
The most recent audit occurred during 10-13 November and 18-19 December 2008. Volunteer canola plants were found at twelve sites.
The total number of sites inspected has been reduced from the original 57 by four as there was sufficient monitoring evidence to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006 and November 2007.
At the November/December 2008 audit several sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance, largely due to the ongoing drought. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. Former GM Canola Trial Site Audit Report November 08
(PDF: 39 KB / 4 pages)
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. In 2001 the Tasmanian Government decided to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture. This policy decision, combined with the persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the former trial sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and industry stakeholders. The purpose of the audit process at that time was to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to inform GM canola eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced permits under the Act were issued requiring each former trial site to be managed in accordance with a specific site management plan. The aim of these plans was to eradicate GM canola on the site, and to prevent the spread of GM canola. At that point, the audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and informing the process for releasing sites from management under permit. A decision to end management under permit is only made when Government is satisfied with a high degree of confidence that GM canola has been eradicated from that site.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits generally occur three times a year.
The most recent audit occurred in 5-12 May 2008. Volunteer canola plants were found at ten sites.
The total number of sites inspected has been reduced from the original 57 by four as there was sufficient monitoring evidence to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006 and November 2007.
At the May 2008 audit several sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance, largely due to drought. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
| Former GM Canola Trial Site Audit Report May 08 (PDF: 39 KB / 4 pages) |
Summary of the February 2008 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. The Tasmanian Government’s decision in 2001 to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture, combined with persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the former trial sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and industry stakeholders. The purpose of the audit process at that time was to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to inform GM canola eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced permits under the Act were issued requiring each former trial site to be managed in accordance with a specific site management plan. The aim of these plans was to eradicate GM canola on the site, and to prevent the spread of GM canola. At that point, the audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and informing the process for releasing sites from management under permit. A decision to end management under permit is only made when Government is satisfied with a high degree of confidence that GM canola has been eradicated from that site.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits generally occur three times a year.
The most recent audit occurred in February 2008. Volunteer canola plants were found at eight sites. The total number of sites inspected has been reduced from the original 57 by three as there was sufficient monitoring evidence to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006. Another, larger site was released from permit in November 2007. This site was re-checked in the February 2008 audit, but will not form part of subsequent audits. At the February 2008 audit several sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance, largely due to drought. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
Print Friendly Version of the February 08 audit report
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. Former GM Canola Audit Report February 08
(PDF: 84 KB / 4)
Summary of the October 2007 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. The Tasmanian Government’s decision in 2001 to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture, combined with persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the former trial sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and industry stakeholders. The purpose of the audit process at that time was to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to inform GM canola eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced permits under the Act were issued requiring each former trial site to be managed in accordance with a specific site management plan. The aim of these plans was to eradicate GM canola on the site, and to prevent the spread of GM canola. At that point, the audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and informing the process for releasing sites from management under permit. A decision to end management under permit is only made when Government is satisfied with a high degree of confidence that GM canola has been eradicated from that site.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits generally occur three times a year.
The most recent audit occurred in October 2007. Volunteer canola plants were found at thirteen sites. The total number of sites inspected has been reduced from the original 57 by three as there was sufficient monitoring evidence to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006. At the October 2007, audit several sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance, largely due to drought. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
Print Friendly Version of the October 2007 audit report
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. Former GM Canola Audit Reports Oct 07
(PDF: 83 KB / 4)
Summary of the May 2007 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. The Tasmanian Government’s decision in 2001 to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture, combined with persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the former trial sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and industry stakeholders. The purpose of the audit process at that time was to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to inform GM canola eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced Government issued permits requiring each former trial site to be managed for GM canola eradication, in accordance with a specific site management plan. At that point, the audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and informing the process for releasing sites from management under permit. A decision to end site management under permit is only made when Government is satisfied evidence, including audit results, indicates with reasonable confidence eradication of GM canola has been achieved.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits have occurred three times a year on average. The most recent audit occurred in May 2007. Volunteer canola plants were found at twelve sites. The total number of sites inspected was reduced from the original 57 by three as there was sufficient monitoring evidence to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006. At the May 2007 audit several sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance, largely due to drought. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
Print-friendly Version of the May 07 Audit report
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. Audit Report May 2007
(PDF: 133 KB / 5 pages)
Summary of the February 2007 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place at 57 sites in Tasmania in the late 1990s and in 2000. The trials were conducted by Monsanto Australia and Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) under contractual arrangements with land owners. The Tasmanian Government’s decision in 2001 to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture, combined with persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the former trial sites, created a management challenge.
In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed by Government and industry stakeholders. The purpose of the audit process at that time was to collect information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants to inform GM canola eradication, consistent with the new Government policy.
When the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004 commenced Government issued permits requiring each former trial site to be managed for GM canola eradication, in accordance with a specific site management plan. At that point, the audit process also became important for checking compliance with site management plans, and informing the process for releasing sites from management under permit. A decision to end site management under permit is only made when Government is satisfied evidence, including audit results, indicates with reasonable confidence eradication of GM canola has been achieved.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits have occurred three times a year on average. The most recent audit occurred in January and February 2007. Volunteer canola plants were found at twelve sites. The total number of sites inspected was reduced from the original 57 by three as there was sufficient monitoring evidence to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites were signed off in September 2006. At the January/February 2007 audit several sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance, largely due to drought. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
Print-friendly version of the February 07 audit report
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. Audit Report February 2007
(PDF: 127 KB / 5 pages)
Summary of the October 2006 Audit Report |
The most recent audit occurred October 2006. Volunteer canola plants were found at nine sites. For the first time, the total number of sites inspected was reduced by three as there was sufficient monitoring evidence to suggest these could be considered clear of canola. These sites have been signed off.
Sites are classified into three groups that describe the level of management (high, medium and low) required to achieve GM canola eradication. The classifications are used to inform site management plans that progress each site to a state where canola volunteers are no longer detected and the site is considered clear.
At last full audit (ie. May 2006) 50 sites were classified Priority Class 1 (low), 8 were Priority Class 2 (medium) Note some sites have been split into two or more smaller scale sites for which classification was found to differ hence the total number of sites exceeds 54. Although all sites fell into the low and medium priority classifications, because volunteer plants have not been observed for some time, this is probably a function of limited opportunity for germination rather than a reflection of actual seed stored in the soil.
Many sites were still under pasture or in other situations that had not involved soil disturbance. These sites can be expected to have a dormant canola seed reserve that will not germinate until soil disturbance occurs at a time when temperature and soil moisture conditions are suitable.
Print-Friendly Version of the October 2006 Audit Report
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. Audit Report October 06
(PDF: 60 KB / 5 pages)
Summary of the May 2006 Audit Report
| Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place in Tasmania in the late 1990s and 2000. Tasmanian Government’s decision to pursue a GMO-free path for commercial agriculture combined with persistence of GM canola seed in soil at the trial sites created a management challenge. In 2001, arrangements for auditing former trial sites were agreed to by Government and industry stakeholders. Information about occurrence of volunteer canola plants over time is required to inform GM canola eradication plans. The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits have occurred three times a year on average. The most recent audit occurred May 2006. 56 of the 57 former trial sites were inspected. Volunteer canola plants were found at 15 sites. Sites are classified into three groups that describe the level of management (high, medium and low) required to achieve GM canola eradication. The classifications are used to inform site management plans that progress each site to a state where canola volunteers are no longer detected and the site is considered clear. At last full audit (ie. May 2005) 20 sites were classified Priority Class 1 (low), 24 were Priority Class 2 (medium) and 13 were Priority Class 3 (high). The audit records for 1 site indicated it could be considered clear of GM canola material. In May 2006, most sites fell into the low and medium Priority classifications because volunteer plants have not been observed for some time. However, for many sites this is probably a function of limited opportunity for germination rather than a reflection of actual seed stored in the soil. |
| Former GM Canola Trial Sites - Audit Report May 2006 (PDF: 46 KB / 5 pages) |
Summary of the October/November 2005 Audit Report
Field trials of genetically modified (GM) canola took place in Tasmania in the late 1990s and 2000. Changes to the national regulatory framework for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) along with the Tasmanian Government’s decision to pursue a GMO-free path for agriculture, raised issues for management of former GM canola trial sites, particularly in terms of seed bank persistence.
In 2001, Government and industry stakeholders met to discuss auditing arrangements for former GM canola trial sites in Tasmania. Information about the occurrence of volunteer canola plants over time is required to develop and monitor management strategies for GM canola eradication.
The first audit of former GM canola sites occurred in spring 2001. Since then audits have occurred three times a year on average, scheduled to coincide with periods during which volunteer canola plants are most likely to be detected, ie. after cultivation that stimulates seed germination. The audit schedule may be affected by seasonal conditions if these reduce potential for germination.
The most recent audit occurred from late October to mid-November 2005. Weather influenced the extent of this audit. Nineteen former trial sites were inspected. Potential for canola seed germination was much reduced at remaining sites due to very wet conditions that prevented cultivation.
Sites are classified on a priority basis into three groups that describe the level of management (high, medium and low) required to achieve GM canola eradication. The priority classifications are used to inform site-specific management plans designed to progress each site through to a state where canola volunteers are no longer detected. At this point the site is considered clear. Compliance with these plans is required under Tasmania’s Genetically Modified Organisms Control Act 2004.
At last full audit (ie. May 2005) 20 sites were classified as Priority Class 1 (low), 24 sites were Priority Class 2 (medium) and 13 sites were Priority Class 3 (high).
During the October/November 2005 audit, inspections occurred at 9 of the 20 Priority Class 1 sites, 5 of the 24 Priority Class 2 sites and 5 of the 13 Priority Class 3 sites. There was no change to the priority classification of any of the 19 sites visited.
Inspection of all sites that have undergone soil disturbance over summer 2005/2006 is planned for February 2006. Sites that have not been cultivated over that period will not be audited because any canola seeds present will not have been stimulated sufficiently to germinate. All 57 remaining former trial sites will be audited in May 2006.
Print-Friendly Version of the October/November 2005 Audit Report
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. Former GM Canola Trial Sites - Audit Report, October/November 2005
(PDF: 42 KB / 6 pages)
Summary of the June 2005 Audit Report
On 3 September 2001 representatives from the Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (DPIWE), the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR), Monsanto Australia, Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) and Serve-Ag convened in Launceston to discuss the future auditing of former genetically modified (GM) canola trial sites in Tasmania.
The first such combined auditing teams inspected all former GM canola sites between 8 October 2001 and 26 October 2001. Since that time, nine audits have been conducted at regular intervals in late January/February, May and October each year. A planned audit was delayed in January/February 2005 due to unfavourably dry weather conditions minimising potential of germination.
The most recent audit was conducted between 9 May 2005 and 13 May 2005. Of a total of 57 former trial sites, the results of the current audit showed no canola plants detected at 28 of the former trial sites. Plants in a mixture of growth stages were detected at 29 sites. In classifying the management priority of all of the sites, 20 sites were classed as Priority Class 1 (low management site), 24 sites as Priority Class 2 (medium management site), and 13 sites as Priority Class 3 (high management site).
The primary objective of site specific management for higher priority sites will be to progress them down to low management sites and eventual clearance. During this process, management activities will aim to prevent viable GM material leaving the sites or their environs consistent with the requirements of the current GM moratorium in Tasmania. The ultimate aim of such management is the eradication of all GM canola plants from each of the sites.
Site specific guidelines have been drafted and will form the basis of future active management of the sites to progress them through to a state of clearance of GM canola plants. Site specific management plans are currently being finalised by DPIWE in cooperation with biotechnology companies and affected farmers.
It is intended that all priority class 3 and 2 sites will be inspected in September/October 2005. Priority Class 1 sites will be inspected in February 2006. The decision in relation to inspection times will be influenced by site use plans in the near to mid-term future, and will also be influenced by climatic factors.
Print-Friendly Version of the June 2005 Audit Report
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. Former GM Canola Trial Sites - Audit Report, June 2005
(PDF: 9 KB / 2 pages)
Summary of the October 2004 Audit Report
On 3 September 2001 representatives from the then Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (DPIWE), the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR), Monsanto Australia, Aventis (now Bayer CropScience) and Serve-Ag convened in Launceston to discuss the future auditing of former genetically modified (GM) canola trial sites in Tasmania. At this meeting all parties agreed that auditing should be conducted jointly in order to minimise anxiety to farmers, to ensure consistency of reporting and improve communication between the parties involved.
The first such combined auditing teams inspected all former GM canola sites between 8 October 2001 and 26 October 2001. Since that time, eight audits have been conducted at regular intervals in late January/February, May and October each year.
The most recent audit was conducted between 18 October 2004 and 22 October 2004. Of a total of 57 former trial sites, the results of the current audit showed no canola plants detected at 33 of the former trial sites. Plants in a mixture of growth stages were detected at 24 sites. In classifying the management priority of all of the sites, 27 sites were classed as Priority Class 1 (low management site), 11 sites as Priority Class 2 (medium management site), and 19 sites as Priority Class 3 (high management site).
The primary objective of site specific management for higher priority sites will be to progress them down to low management sites and eventual clearance. During this process, management activities will aim to prevent viable GM material leaving the sites or their environs consistent with the requirements of the current GM moratorium in Tasmania. The ultimate aim of such management is the eradication of all GM canola plants from each of the sites.
During the 2003/04 cropping season special attention was paid to some crops that were at risk of destruction due to high densities of GM canola. Each of the sites was considered on a case by case basis with management processes implemented to gain some benefit from the crop without having to destroy it and yet contain any viable GM material at the site. No crops needed to be destroyed during the 2003/04 season.
Site specific guidelines have been drafted and will form the basis of future active management of the sites to progress them through to a state of clearance of GM canola plants. Discussions are currently being undertaken with the relevant biotechnology companies and TFGA with respect management guideline implementation.
Following the adoption of a system of priority classification, all priority class 3 and 2 sites will be inspected in January/February 2005. Priority Class 1 sites will be inspected in May 2005. This decision in relation to inspection times will be influenced by site use plans in the near to mid-term future.
Print-Friendly Version of the October 2004 Audit Report
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. Former GM Canola Trial Sites - Audit Report, October 2004
(PDF: 35 KB / 5 pages)
Summary of the February 2004 Audit Report
The February 2004 audit shows no canola plants detected at 28 of the former trial sites. Plants in a mixture of growth stages were detected at 29 sites.
In classifying the management priority of the sites, 28 sites were classed as Priority Class 1 (low management site), 10 sites as Priority Class 2 (medium management site), and 19 sites as Priority Class 3 (high management site). Of the 28 Priority Class 1 sites, three have been recommended as being clear of GM canola.
The primary objective of site specific management for the other sites will be to progress them down to low management sites and eventual clearance. During this process management activities will aim to prevent viable GM material leaving the sites or their environs consistent with the requirements of the current GM moratorium in Tasmania.
The report highlights issues with the future management of previous GMO canola sites in Tasmania. Many of the issues have emerged due to the recent issuance of a general release licence by the Australian Government Regulator that has lifted the requirement for officers of the Australian Government to legislatively oversight the management at many of the previous sites.
Whilst in itself that outcome has not compromised the Tasmania moratorium, it has caused the legislative management at the majority of the previous sites to default exclusively to the State's responsibility. That responsibility is currently discharged under the provisions of the Plant Quarantine Act 1997.
The limitations of the Plant Quarantine Act 1997 to administer the moratorium on a long-term basis have been apparent for some time. It was signalled in the announcement of the extension of the moratorium in February 2003 that specific legislation would need to be developed to support the moratorium for the purpose of preserving the identity of non-genetically modified crops and animals for marketing purposes.
The new legislation, the Genetically Modified Organisms Control Bill 2004, currently being considered by the Tasmanian Parliament, contains provisions that will allow the Secretary of DPIW to issue permits to persons who held or hold licenses issued by the Australian Government Regulator requiring them to be responsible for the management of previous trial sites. This provision of the new legislation will provide a framework to address the management issues contained in the audit report. Importantly, it is anticipated that the conditions attached to individual permits requiring active management of the sites will result in a process of the sites eventually being cleared of GM canola plants.
Print-Friendly Version of the February 2004 Audit Report
This is a Portable Document Format (PDF) file and requires the use of Adobe Acrobat Reader. The Reader is easy to download and is free of charge. Former GM Canola Trial Sites - Audit Report, February 2004
(PDF: 168 KB / 7 pages)
Further Information
Contact: Agricultural Policy Branch
Policy Division
Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment
PO Box 46
KINGS MEADOWS TAS 7249
Phone: 1300 368 550
Email: Agriculturalpolicy.Administration@dpipwe.tas.gov.au
| | |
 |  Tasmania Online | Service Tasmania This page - http://www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/inter.nsf/WebPages/CART-6795X9?open - was last published on 17 May 2013 by the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment. Questions concerning its content can be sent to Internet Coordinator by using the feedback form, by mail to GPO Box 44, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia 7001, or by telephone. Please read our disclaimer and copyright statements governing the information we provide on this site. A text version of this page is also available. | |
| |