Riverina grain growers will be confronted by old and new challenges in 2014, and local Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) Southern Regional Panel deputy chair, Associate Professor Chris Blanchard from Charles Sturt University (CSU), wants to ensure the region's cropping issues are being addressed. The GRDC Southern Regional Panel identifies cropping constraints and opportunities and directs research priorities to benefit grain growers. With seven years on the panel, Professor Blanchard is with the University's School of Biomedical Sciences and is Director of the new Australian Research Council Training Centre for Functional Grains at CSU in Wagga Wagga He said he wants to address known issues hampering productivity and profitability in the area, and shed light on emerging problems. "My involvement with the GRDC Southern Regional Panel is an opportunity for me to have an input into the direction of research in Australia," he said. As part of his role in identifying potential issues for GRDC attention, Riverina grain growers are encouraged to contact Professor Blanchard directly to discuss  current cropping issues on mobile 0438 662 992, or by email. See more about Associate Professor Blanchard here.