The Annual Report 2009 highlights IRRI’s research activities such as an “assault” on salt in the Institute’s breeding program; making the most of Bangladesh’s rice-maize system; increasing the food supply and stabilizing prices in South Asia’s grain basket through the new CSISA, taking an eco-smart stand against the persistent and destructive rice planthopper; and bringing agriculture in East and Southern Africa up to speed with the rest of the world. These and other IRRI research thrusts, major events and activities in 2009 are covered in detail.