TOP STORIES
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The Environmental Turfgrass Outreach Project
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Coming Events Summary
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Look Who's Joined The WCTA
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Sports Turf Manager Of The Year
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Vancouver Has A Beetle Problem
President's Message
WCTA RELEASES ROPS POWERPOINT
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CONNECT WITH THE WCTA ON SOCIAL MEDIA Connect with the Western Canada Turfgrass Association on social media. We?re active, engaged, and excited to provide our members valuable information and updates through social media! Connect with us for up-to-date news and information relating to the professional golf and sportsturf management industry.
Follow @W CTA_social on Twitter and Like our Facebook Page
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On t h e cover : Students learning about different grass species at the turf display garden at the GTI. Image credit: Guelph Turfgrass Institute
Cover St or y 12 The Environmental Turfgrass
Outreach Project Feat u r e St or y
14 WCTA Releases ROPS Powerpoint 18
Large US Industry Association Joins ROPS Discussion
32 Letter Sent to BC Tourism Minister Over
Golf Cart ROPS Issue Triggers Media Flurry Regu lar Colu m n s 05 Connect With The WCTA
On Social Media
10 Image Of The Month 26 Look Who's Joined the WCTA 36 Membership Is For Everyone 46 Board Of Directors
Con f er en ce New s 16 First 2020 Conference Planning
Meeting Takes Place Edu cat ion New s 22 Coming Events Summary 44 Program for BC Sports Field Training
Day Finalized ? Demo Stations Amped Up This Year! Cam pu s New s 24 OC Turf Club News
Associat ion New s 28 Sports Turf Manager of the Year
Tu r f Resear ch New s 38 Ontario Turfgrass Research
Foundation Update
40 Comparing Iron Sulfate Versus Chelated
Iron for Suppression of Microdochium Patch
41 Economic Analysis of Natural and
Synthetic Sports Fields Final Report 50 2020 Allied Turfgrass Research Funding
Call for Proposals
52 WCTA 2019 Turfgrass Summary Report
In Th e M edia 34 Growing the Game
In du st r y Br ief 42 Vancouver Has A Beetle Problem
Th e M em ber New s 54 Al Feenstra Obituary
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President's Message If you?re reading this message, you did it; you made it through the dog days of summer! Fall is my favorite time of year; shorter days, cooler nights, but still relatively warm temperatures during the day. Many of the summer conditions that cause stress to our turf have been reduced in this cooler weather and as things wind down we get to spend more time with our friends and colleagues, sharing good times and experiences from the season. We also have time to plan ahead to the winter season and look forward to the annual WCTA Conference and Trade Show! This is the time of year we have to switch gears. From dealing with summer stress, to trying to keep up with the optimal growing conditions. This shift is made even tougher due to the fact that PG 08 | OCT 2019
many of our staff are returning to school, while TRAVISOLSON others will be PRESIDENT victim to Kamloops G& CC seasonal trav_olson@hotmail.com layoffs. There seems to be too many tasks to complete and not enough bodies to get the job done. We may often find ourselves pitching in where we can, or doing multiple things at once to try and keep ahead. Soon we will have frost days and cooler temperatures. The grass will slow its growth as it begins to store carbohydrates for its winter hibernation. I often find myself doing the same thing? well it?s hard not to with NFL football in full swing! There are more opportunities for beer, pizza and CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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spending more time with your friends, and I for one, definitely enjoy the carb heavy diet in the winters. Friends and colleagues are often one and the same in our industry and we have been known to share a few stories over a few good brews. Through the summer we are often too busy, but once fall rolls around there is much more opportunity to gather and reconnect. One of my favorite things about our industry is the people. I think it?s what keeps many of us around. We have so much in common with each other and conversations always come easily. The openness to share experiences and help one another through a difficult time are something you don?t find everywhere. There is a noticeable fellowship among turf managers, which is certainly evident when we all get together. We don?t see each other as competition, rather as comrades. A great opportunity to get everyone together is the annual WCTA Conference and Trade Show. It?s something I really look PG JUL 2019 PG 44 09 || OCT 2019
forward to each year. Getting everyone together, seeing your old friends, and making some new ones; it?s a great networking opportunity for everyone. Networking is especially helpful in our industry. The more people you get to meet, the more connections you make, the bigger your support network becomes. You never know when you?ll run into a problem that someone else has experienced and dealt with successfully. Or maybe you will be the person with the experience and ability to help someone else. The conference provides a great venue for these exchanges of information as well as the influx of new information and technology. Our industry is constantly changing, and the conference and trade show aims to keep up to date on all the latest. Conference planning is well underway, and we think we have a really great program in store for you this year. We hope to see you again in February 2020 at the River Rock Resort in Richmond!
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Aerial view of Soft ball Cit y at Sout h Surrey At hlet ic Park, venue for t he 2019 BC Sport s Field Training Day. PG 10 | OCT 2019
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The Environmental Turfgrass Outreach Project
The goal of the Environmental Turfgrass Outreach Project was to address the negative perception of turfgrass in society and promote careers in turfgrass industry. The ETOP is the beginning of a PG 12 | OCT 2019
long-term outreach initiative that aims to be self-sustaining through support of industry partners, school programs, and University outreach. The first year of these activities was a tremendous success. The original project was created as CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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Rob Heggie and Cam Shaw discussing the different career optionsin the field of turf management
a two-year project that in turn was funded for one year. Significant movement was made toward all objectives. In the absence of administrative stability around the first green program we engaged in a number of high school outreach programs. Beyond the activities listed under the specific objectives the ETOP project was crucial in showing industry support for outreach activities. It also allowed the pursuit of relationships that will further the relationship between university researchers, educators and the general public. Activities are described under each objective of the project. If PG 13 | OCT 2019
an article outlining the activities is desired we can create one for a trade publications with the appropriate word count and visual aids. If any further clarification is necessary for the board please contact Dr. Eric Lyons and he will do his best to provide the information and meet with the board at their request.
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WCTA Releases ROPSPowerpoint In an effort to increase golf industry awareness and in support of previous articles, the Western Canada Turfgrass Association has released a powerpoint presentation on the subject of proposed amendments by WorkSafeBC that would require roll-over
protection on golf carts. Previous art icle: Estimated $15-20m Hit To BC Golf Industry If WorkSafe Implements Proposed New Golf Cart Rules Powerpoint presentation made to Kootenay Superintendentson July 18
Edit or?s not e: Proposed amendments to WorkSafe rulesare fairly complex. This presentation helpshighlight potential impact to the golf industry but is only a starting point. In addition, without the verbal component, readers may not fully grasp the intended perspective. Email me if you have any questions! exec.direct or@wct at urf.com PG 14 | OCT 2019
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First 2020 Conference Planning Meeting Takes Place
First 2020 Conference Planning Meeting Takes Place. Production work for the 57th Annual WCTA Conference and Trade Show, taking place February 11-13, 2020 at the River Rock Casino Resort for the 3rd year in a row, is well underway however the first organizing committee meeting just took place on September 4th. ?That may not seem to make sense but a lot of logistic work starts almost directly after the previous conference,?stated WCTA Executive Director Jerry Rousseau. ?Once we have a framework in place, the organizing committee is put together to start its work.?
activities, trade show format and even daily scheduling to help ensure a well-received and smoothly run event.?
According to WCTA President and Organizing Committee Chair, Travis Olson, ?The primary role of the committee is to put together the conference education program. There is also committee input into social
Several speaker suggestions are already on the table and various education themes are being considered. If you have any thoughts, please contact Jerry Rousseau at exec.director@wctaturf.com.
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Large USIndustry Association Joins
ROPSDiscussion Representatives of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), the US trade association representing 100+ domestic and international equipment manufacturers, recently contacted the Western Canada Turfgrass Association office looking for a powerpoint presentation made by Executive Director, Jerry Rousseau, to Kootenay area golf superintendents on the subject of rollover protection (ROPS) on golf carts. The presentation had been circulated just a few days prior; OPEI was asking for permission to share it with their members including John Deere, Toro, Textron, Club Car, Kubota and others, in hopes of gaining further insight into the proposed WorkSafeBC amendments to Part 16 of the Mobile Equipment Regulation that would require ROPS and seat belts installed on golf carts used by workers. Greg Knot t , VP Standards and Regulatory Affairs stated via email, ?The presentation was very informative especially considering we
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have had no direct reply from focussed on technical standards WorkSafeBC in response to our for rollbars and seatbelts such as May comments.? He added, ANSI, ISO, SAE. For example, ?Based on your presentation, SAE J2258 determines when golf cars and low speed UTVs ROPS and seatbelts are required will continue to be a big concern. and when they are optional, as in US voluntary standards (OPEI the case for light utility vehicles Z130.1 & Z135, SAE J2235 and in the US. Similarly, ISO 3471 B56.7) do not require ROPS for summarizes ROPS requirements low speed vehicles. We are for light chassis vehicles and concerned about harmonizes that "We are concerned the safety and cost 3-point harnesses about the safety impacts of are not necessary and cost impacts of for utility vehicles installing ROPS and seat belts into installing ROPS under 400kg. these categories of and seat belts into Rousseau?s vehicles.? meeting
these categories of vehicles.?
Rousseau stated, ?I was happy to oblige and am encouraged with OPEI?s interest in this issue. I was also invited to attend a strategy meeting intended to better understand details within WorkSafe?s proposed amendments and their rationale behind those changes. Moreover, OPEI members wanted to talk about next steps and discuss collaborative potential.? A good part of that meeting PG 19 | OCT 2019
contribution was in providing a brief - Greg Knot t historical perspective and detailing WCTA?s involvement on its own and through AGA-BC. He explained, ?I was given an opportunity to outline the steps we followed, from our initial written submission to participating in the public hearing process to sharing our in person meeting results with WorkSafeBC policy people.?He added, ?They were very CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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interested in our entire experience. Burning questions from OPEI members were ?Where do we go from here??and ?Is AGA-BC planning additional lobbying??? AGA-BC President Trevor Smith indicated, ?At this point there are still more questions than answers. We need to consider everything from engineering concerns to enforcement and of course the considerable cost of ROPS and seatbelt installation that arguably would not result in a reduction in golf cart incidents.? He concluded by saying, ?As with other golf industry challenges, our best successes have come through our hired lobbyist and the AGA Board needs to immediately consider engaging a paid professional to approach government on this important issue.? PG 20 | OCT 2019
THE
EDUCATION
NEWS
BY W CTA STA FF
Coming Events Summary With so much happening in the worlds of golf and sport turf management, it's tough to keep track but we'll do our best to provide a current list of events, meetings and field days. More information will be added as it's received including times, dates, locations and CEC point availability. 2019 Sep 25
BCGSA Northern Chapter ? Williams Lake GC
Sep 26
BCGSA Lower Mainland Windup ? Whistler
Sep 25-26 CanWest Hort Show, Abbotsford Tradex Oct 2
BC Sports Field Training Day, Softball City, Surrey
Oct 27-29 NTA Conference, Bandon Dunes Nov 14-15 Green Industry Show & Conference, Calgary Nov 17-19 BCGSA Prof. Development Days, Victoria Nov 17-19 Golf Business Canada (NGCOA), Niagara Falls Nov 19-20 IIABC Conference, Harrison Hot Springs Nov 24-26 Alberta Property Managers, Canmore PG 22 | OCT 2019
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2020 Jan 14-16 OGSA Conference, Niagara Falls Jan 14-17 STMA Conference, West Palm Beach, FL Jan 25-30 GIS, Orlando Feb 11-13 WCTA 57th Conference and Trade Show, River Rock Casino Resort Feb 12
WCTA AGM
*Thisdefinitely isnot a complete list. We will make updatesand add detailsasfurther information becomesavailable. If you have an event to add, please contact Jerry Rousseau at exec.director@wctaturf.com
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OC Turf Club News The summer consists of twelve learning goals for 1st and 2nd year students, required to submit assignments every two weeks. As it has for the last 5 yrs, our program continues with full enrollment and with a healthy 19 person waitlist into year one. With modest attrition into year two, the cream rise to the challenge and ladder strongly into our degree program. Also increasing enrollments each year, our BASc class is within one seat of its cap.
Jason Clouston, Golf Course Superintendent at the OldsGolf Club IMAGES COURTESY: OLD COLLEGE
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We were very happy to welcome back Golf Course Superintendent Jason Cloust on to the instructional fold in 2019. Jason has taught on and off for 20 years at Olds College, being involved in the Turfgrass Management short courses, old diploma/degree programs and last year in the new program. A decorated and dedicated professional, Alberta Golf Superintendents Association past president and in our own backyard. Students have benefited CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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2019 Students year 1-3 visiting Michelson National Golf Club, a Windmill Group PGA Facility.
greatly from his experience, despite him being a Fairview Grad, (chuckle). Jason has been at the Olds Golf Club for nearly 20 years and previously was a superintendent in Saskatchewan for 5 years. It has been 5 yrs since our program changed its format, and still going strong. As customary, we perform a comprehensive program review currently underway. We evaluate our courses, competencies, and outcomes in light of an ever changing and diverse industry. If you are interested, get your application in! The next offering of the 100% online Turf Science Certificate, will begin PG 25 | OCT 2019
again in October. The 3 levels of education offering a specialization in Golf, Parks and Sportsturf, with thirty four students enrolled. If you are working full time, this accessible training program has been designed to meet your busy schedule. To learn more: Turf Science Certificate Turfgrass Management Diploma Golf Course Management Applied Degree For more information about our Turfgrass diploma, and degree programs at Olds College, call 403-556-8243, or email jpick@oldscollege.ca
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Look Who's Joined the WCTA - 2019 Recap As a unified voice for the professional golf and sportsturf management industry in western Canada, the WCTA is now 672 members strong; in our 2019 fiscal year we welcomed 95 new members, wow! Welcome and thank you for your support and confidence in our association! We also communicate with nearly 1500 non-WCTA members and would like to thank everyone on our mailing list for your interest in WCTA activities. If you know someone who would benefit from a WCTA membership, ie Turf Line News, annual conference, membership roster, job postings, CEC program, etc, have them visit PG 26 | OCT 2019
our online sign-up page Here. HERE'S A RECAP OF OUR NEW AND RETURNED MEMBERS FROM OCT 1, 2018 TO SEP 30, 2019: Lyall Adams, Wood Bay Turf Technologies Shawn Bailey, Tobiano Golf Course James Baquial, Aberdeen Glen Golf Course Jonat han Baquial, Aberdeen Glen Golf Course Ross Baron, Nat Bailey Stadium - Vancouver Canadians Cryst al Bazar, City of Castlegar Ron Bet hueser, Tsawwassen Springs CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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Travis Brill, Vancouver Parks Board Langara Golf Course Kevin Brown, Shaughnessy G&CC Keit h Brownlee, Royal Colwood Golf Club Neil Bull, The Falls Golf Club Greg Burnside, Tsawwassen Springs Rodney Burrows, Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club Dale Carlin, Swan-e-set Bay Resort Marc Chalifoux, Municipality of Jasper Nik Christ ensen, Kings Links by the Sea Sean Collins, Belmont Golf Course
Roly Denhill, Island Tractor & Supply Ltd. Grady Diamon, Point Grey G&CC Josh Edgar, Highland Pacific GC John Edwards, Surrey Parks & Rec Randy Evans, City of Pitt Meadows Kaleb Fisher, Kwantlen University Jeff Fleming, City of Nanaimo Parks Sean Flynn, The Redwoods Golf Club Bruce Folk, SD#33 (Chilliwack) Fran Forrest , Carnoustie Golf Course
John Cope, Royal Colwood Golf Club Michael Crot eau, SD#61 Greater Victoria Brooke Dait l, City of Victoria Parks Laurie Davis, Town of Sidney PG 27 | OCT 2019
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Int r oducing Your 2019 Spor t s Tur f Manager of t heYear
Dav eBoehmer Cit y of Guel ph (Ont ar io) Sitting down and chatting with Dave at Hastings Stadium in Guelph was very encouraging for our industry. He is a motivated, enthusiastic and confident sports turf professional who has a passion PG 28 | OCT 2019
for development within the industry and the sports turf profession. His submission for Sports Turf Manager of the Year award included the following statements about Dave. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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- A champion for the industry - Holds high professional standards - Very dedicated to his team and motivational - Is enthusiastic with high energy - Proficient in handling both the hands-on role as well as the administrative aspects - Highly regarded by his team and others in the industry - Drives innovation in all aspects of his role and responsibilities - Exceptional at applying health and safety importance Excellent at building relationships - A vital member of our team Dave was humbled when I shared the boastful words of his management team and colleagues. I then took the opportunity to ask him a few questions: Tell us a lit t le about yourself Dave says he got a late start in the sports turf industry, working with Craig McCutcheon (currently of Target Specialty Products) in the golf industry initially. He was searching for a PG 30 | OCT 2019
?Dave never ceases to amaze you? ? Ian Ferguson City of Guelph
role as superintendent at a golf course when he came across a position for sports field management and he?s loved his job ever since. Dave says the difference between the golf industry and the sports turf industry is golf is more labour oriented where sports turf is more equipment oriented. With golf you?re more in control of your property, whereas with sports fields are accessible to the public at all times.
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Letter Sent to BC Tourism Minister Over Golf Cart ROPSIssue Triggers Media Flurry A flurry of media coverage has ensued after release of a letter sent to BC Tourism Minister Lisa Beare by opposition MLA?s supporting golf industry concerns over WorkSafeBC?s proposed amendments to Part 16 of the worker safety regulation, 'Mobile Equipment' that would make roll-over protection and seat belts mandatory on golf carts. The first mainstream print article appeared end of August, written by Black Press?s political columnist, Tom Fletcher and PG 32 | OCT 2019
titled 'Seat belt requirement a double bogey, B.C. golf industry says'. The piece was run by a wide variety of syndicated community news outlets across the province including The Abbotsford News ? Click Here Picked up by Global News several days later, videojournalist Kylie Stanton presented a piece called, 'A very stupid idea?: Industry slams proposed golf cart seat belt rules', run as a live segment on September 4th and 5th. Click Here CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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The letter of support, signed by Doug Clovechok, MLA Columbia River-Revelstoke and Michelle Stilwell, MLA Parksville Qualicum, reflected many components of the WCTA?s submission to WorkSafeBC last October and the recent ly released powerpoint presented to Kootenay superintendents in July by WCTA Executive Director, Jerry Rousseau. Rousseau stated, ?While there?s a lot more lobbying to do, opposition party support is helpful and I?m glad the WCTA?s work on this issue was put to good use.? He added, ?Media coverage is a mixed blessing in that it generates awareness but the ?stupid idea?segment capitalizes on a certain tone of disbelief that may not bode well for our continued discussions with WorkSafe.? Initial media coverage implied WorkSafeBC would rescind its proposal to make rollover protection mandatory on golf carts while the Global segment quotes WorkSafeBC spokesperson Ralph Eastman PG 33 | OCT 2019
saying, ?Based on stakeholder feedback, WorkSafeBC intends to limit the proposed changes to golf-course workers only, and workers in other industries where golf carts may be used. The proposed changes would not affect the public or golfers.? It goes on to say ?There are indications that WorkSafeBC is backing down from proposed new regulations B.C.?s golf courses say would have been disastrous,? however neither the WCTA nor the Allied Golf Association of BC has received confirmation from WorkSafe that the issue is dead. Rather, the two groups were told that feedback would be considered and if there was "more than a tweak to the proposed amendments," another round of industry and public consultation would be required before going to the WorkSafe Board of Directors for a final decision.
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Growing the Game Maintaining golf courses is a difficult job, but one made easier thanks to the important work and research being done at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. What strikes you first is how out-of-place it appears. A beautifully landscaped sod farm is not something you expect to see on a university campus, even if it is the University of Guelph, reputed globally for its food and agricultural programming. Such a large buffer of ruralness amid an expanse of urban sprawl sticks out like a sore, no, green thumb against the surrounding PG 34 | OCT 2019
Royal City landscape. It can leave an odd first impression. More puzzling is to find out that sod for your lawn isn?t even for sale here. Neither are fruit, vegetables or plants of any kind. What this University of Guelph ?farm?produces is data. What it cultivates is information specific to turfgrass science and management with a high priority on environmental sustainability and future enhancement. Specific to the golf industry, what the Guelph Turfgrass Institute (GTI) harvests is research. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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?Every day we play golf on plants, living organisms that must be cared for,?said Dr. Eric Lyons, associate professor and director of GTI. ?Courses need to grow in a way golfers find aesthetically pleasing so they?re willing to pay a fee to play the end product. They also have to grow in a sustainable way. GTI is a conduit to striking that balance.? Supported by the University of Guelph, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and the Canadian turfgrass industry, the Guelph Turfgrass Institute is internationally renowned. Not only is it widely respected as a world-class hub for turfgrass and sports field PG 35 | OCT 2019
research, it exists to provide the educational platform necessary to graduate future generations of golf course superintendents and turfgrass specialists. It serves the golf industry specifically as a science-based conduit for biological and cultural control of diseases and weeds, pesticide protocols, grass species evaluations and seeding methods. It accomplishes all of this while staying true to the
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news BY OTRF
Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation Update The Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation (OTRF) is a charitable foundation dedicated to helping fund research projects that will assist the turf management industry.
issues, as well as have the most significant impact to the OTRF?s primary focus. Over the past 15 years, the OTRF has provided over two million dollars in research grants to turfgrass research projects. In 2019, OTRF The primary focus of these is excited to have awarded research projects is to provide improved products, practices and funding to five promising projects, at a total value of understandings of turfgrass manager?s challenges to increase $75,000. Two of these projects have also been co-funded by the efficiency, limit environmental Quebec Turfgrass Research impact and ensure economic sustainability of turf management operations in Ontario. OTRF works closely with key industry stakeholders annually to review research proposals and evaluate which proposals would provide the most value to turf managers?most current PG 38 | OCT 2019
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r epor t BY O REGO N STATE UN IV ERSITY
Comparing Iron Sulfate Versus Chelated Iron for Suppression of Microdochium Patch
Previous research focusing on using iron sulfate to suppress Microdochium patch on annual bluegrass putting greens has yielded positive results although often turfgrass thinning or blackening of the turfgrass sward is not considered acceptable. Clint Mattox, Alec Kowalewski, Brian McDonald, Emily Braithwaite, and Alyssa Cain
still result in turfgrass thinning.
Laboratory trials have suggested that chelated iron suppresses the Oregon St at e Universit y growth of Microdochium nivale, the pathogen responsible for Field trials have shown that applying high rates of iron sulfate Microdochium patch. in larger carrier volumes or lower rates of iron sulfate in combination with phosphorous acid suppress Microdochium D O UBLE CLICK patch while minimizing H ERE TO detrimental effects to the turfgrass. In spite of this previous research, the iron sulfate rates necessary to control Microdochium patch
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PG 40 | OCT 2019
TURF
RESEARCH
REPORT BY ERIC LYO N S
Economic Analysis of Natural and Synthetic Sports Fields Final Report The purpose of this project was to compare the 30-year costs of building and maintaining synthetic and natural fields in Western Canada.
maintenance practices of synthetic fields. In order to collect reliable data, interviews with installers, contract maintenance and a round table discussion with municipal and Met hods: school board turfgrass managers The project began with a simple was hosted by the WCTA. A costing model that was sent to more complex costing model was different municipalities for input. then developed and populated The numbers received from this with more realistic numbers for process were highly variable. each of the parameters. The survey results led to a number of obstacles that had to CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL be overcome, not the least of REPORT which was education on the PG 41 | OCT 2019
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INDUSTRY
BRIEF BY W CTA STA FF
Vancouver Has A
Beetle Problem Weather Network Public Service Announcement Video on the Japanese beetle infestation at Here:
PG 42 | OCT 2019
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news BY W CTA STA FF
Program for BC Sports Field Training Day Finalized ? Demo Stations Amped Up This Year! Hosted by the City of Surrey on Wednesday, October 2nd and co-produced by Sports Turf Canada and the Western Canada Turfgrass Association, the BC Sports Field Training Day education and activity program is bigger and better than originally anticipated!
classroom education, an extra supplier demonstration station has been added to the afternoon rotation along with an ?all delegate?presentation by Surrey staff on the topic of laser field levelling.
?Support from industry suppliers has provided the opportunity to build on previous years,? explained WCTA Executive Director, Jerry Rousseau, adding, ?not to mention the enthusiasm of the Surrey Parks Department lead by Hugh Norris and Jamey Serediuk.?
All sportsturf management, golf and parks staff are welcome to attend! WCTA/STC members receive a discount with the rate extended to anyone from your facility.
Taking place at the Softball City venue within South Surrey Athletic Park, as it now stands and supplementing the morning PG 44 | OCT 2019
CLICK HERE for more info and online registration.
Sponsors and Exhibit ors as of Sep 6t h AR Mower & Supply BrettYoung Celtic Distributors ? Premiere Sponsor CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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Eagle Lake Professional Landscape Supply
Program (may be subject t o minor t weaks):
Harco Fittings
Wednesday, Oct 2, 2019
Husqvarna Canada - Premiere Sponsor
Softball City - Canada's Premier Softball Park
Iconix Waterworks - Premiere Sponsor
2201 148 Street, Surrey, BC
Interior Turf Equipment JCL AG ServicesInc. / Maredo / Wood Bay
MORNING SESSIONS @ SOFTBALL CITY CLUBHOUSE & ROTARY FIELD HOUSE
Nutrien SolutionsEvergo ? Prominent Sponsor
7:30-8:30 Registration & Refreshments
Oakcreek Golf and Turf
8:40-9:00 Opening Remarks ? Welcome from STC Past President, Tab Buckner and WCTA Vice President, Cam Watt. Introduce our hosts, Hugh Norris and Jamey Serediuk, City of Surrey Parks. Greetings from Premiere sponsors: Iconix, EcoTea, Turf
Overton Environmental - Premiere Sponsor Prairie Coast - Prominent Sponsor Premier Pacific Seeds Rain Bird Corporation - Prominent Sponsor RollinsMachinery
Surrey, BC
Terralink Horticulture - Coffee Sponsor Toro Irrigation Turf Tank Intelligent Marking - Premiere Sponsor Waterkind Consulting Services Ltd. PG 45 | OCT 2019
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YOUR2019 BOARDOF DIRECTORS Just click on their email addressto contact any board member directly
TRAVIS OLSON PRESIDENT KAM LOOPS G&CC
(250) 319-4669 - t rav_olson@hot mail.com
CAM WATT VICE PRESIDENT UBC ATHLETICS
(778) 840-8161 - camfwat t @gmail.com
ANDREDIONNE FINANCE DIRECTOR CITY OF COQUITLAM
(604) 927-6246 - adionne@coquit lam.ca PG 46 | OCT 2019
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YOUR2019 BOARDOF DIRECTORS Just click on their email addressto contact any board member directly
PETERSOROKOVSKY PAST PRESIDENT CITY OF BURNABY, PARKS, REC, CULTURAL SERVICES
(604) 297-4494 - pet er.sorokovsky@burnaby.ca
DAVINMARR TW O YEAR DIRECTOR HILLVIEW GC
(250) 549-4653 - davint marr@hot mail.com
STUCARMICHAEL TW O YEAR DIRECTOR CITY OF COURTENAY
(250) 338-1766 - scarmichael@court enay.ca PG 48 | OCT 2019
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YOUR2019 BOARDOF DIRECTORS Just click on their email addressto contact any board member directly
GARYBARTLEY ONE YEAR DIRECTOR UBC ATHLETICS
(604) 970-1417 - gary.bart ley@ubc.ca
JEDMCGEACHIE ONE YEAR DIRECTOR OVERTON ENVIRONM ENTAL
(604) 807-6768 - jed@overt onee.ca
NIKWALL ONE YEAR DIRECTOR PREM IER PACIFIC SEEDS
(604) 881-1323 - nik@premierpacificseeds.com PG 49 | OCT 2019
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2020 Allied Turfgrass Research Funding Call for Proposals September 6, 2019
Foundation
Dear Turf Researchers,
Manitoba Golf Superintendents Association
This year?s allied turfgrass research funding application process, formerly known as ?CATR?or Canadian Allied Turf Research, is being administered by the Canadian Turfgrass Research Foundation. You are invited to apply for research project funding consideration by the following expanded group of allied turfgrass research funding organizations with a single submission:
Northwest Turfgrass Association
Alberta Turfgrass Research Foundation Atlantic Golf Superintendents Association Canadian Turfgrass Research PG 50 | OCT 2019
Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation Ottawa Valley Turfgrass Research Foundation Quebec Turfgrass Research Foundation Saskatchewan Turfgrass Association
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news BY W CTA STA FF
WCTA 2019 Turfgrass Summary Report
One of the primary mandates of the Western Canada Turfgrass Association, along with many of our allied groups, is to foster turfgrass research for the betterment of the entire sports turf and golf course management industry. The scientific process has been a critical component in the evolution of our industry and continues to drive us forward, operating in the background, advancing the field and providing solutions to everyday challenges. As the industry finds itself increasingly engaged in advocacy efforts, there is great PG 52 | OCT 2019
need to detail and quantify all the good things that turf does for us. In the past decade, the WCTA has invested nearly $175,000 into turf research projects. Within that period, the highest dollar figure in any one year was $32,762. Project funding dollars come from 10% of all member dues, 30% of any net operating profit at year end, but mostly, from the contributions made by those in the industry and the hard work of many individuals over the years directed at fund-raising initiatives. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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At t he t ime of writ ing, $31,326 has been raised in 2019! It's another improvement over $29,988 in 2018 and $23,433 in 2017, thank you for helping us achieve our goals! Money raised in 2019 will be put toward 2020 projects. Note that many research projects are jointly funded which helps reduce the overall burden on one particular group. For example, the Canadian Turf Research Foundation (CTRF) collects funds from several provincial groups like the WCTA, rolls it all together and distributes it on a national scale.
Current priorities for WCTA turfgrass research funding: - A systems approach to sustainable turfgrass management. - Turf management best practices. - Effects of climate change on turfgrass and pests. - Improved turfgrass species and varieties. - Societal benefits of turfgrass. PG 53 | OCT 2019
- Economic impact of turf management decisions. - New instrumentation, robotics and software technologies. - Basic research (economics, environment, playability) of synthetic turf & comparison to natural turf. - Development and evaluation of effective alternatives to conventional pesticides. - Nutrient management and nutrient sources. - Water conservation and water quality. - Emerging Pests ? Improved diagnostics for new pests and turf diseases in northern climates. - Wear tolerance, management and recovery.
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Al Feenstra Obituary After a spirited and courageous battle against cancer, Al Feenst ra passed away Sunday, August 18. Born in Holland, Al?s family made their way west to Canada finally settling in the Okanagan. An avid soccer player and golfer, he attended Washington State University to pursue a career in the golf industry becoming superintendent of several golf courses throughout the [Okanagan] valley. His winters were spent abroad in Asia and Mexico. Brother Al was always quick to laugh and enjoyed time with family and his many friends at ?Baxters?. One of his favourite lines was ?I?ll decide?and he did. He leaves to keep his memory his brothers, sisters, nieces and PG 54 | OCT 2019
nephews. That is all she wrote, for ?Uppie Cuppie Cusy Brot?. Feel free to join us in raising a toast to Al at Baxters Bar and Grill on Sunday, September 29th starting at 1:00 pm. 1745 Spall Rd. Kelowna.
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Object ive 1: Public field day Public Field Day was hosted at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute in conjunction with the GTI trial garden on August 17th and 18th 2018. The day included the City of Guelph Healthy Landscapes, Master Gardeners, pollinator education and turfgrass outreach. The turfgrass outreach portion will be expanded in future years. In addition, garden writers and Landscape Ontario were hosted on August 16th where over 70
Landscape Ontario members and very vocal garden writers toured the plots and learned about turfgrass research. Feedback from the group about the importance of turfgrasses in their gardens and landscapes was very positive. The days were well attended and were promoted through print, web and radio resources. Another Landscape field day followed by public field day are scheduled for August 15-17 2019. Improvements will include turf specific activities and
Dr. Eric Lyonsof Guelph Turfgrass Institute comparing differencesin natural and synthetic turf surfaces. | OCT 2019
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reaching out specifically to cater to families. Finally local press will be informed further in advance to cover all aspects of the day rather than just focusing on the city initiatives. Object ive 2: The First Green program The goal of the First Green Program is to promote turfgrass and careers in the green industry to young people and educate society about the importance of turf. The relationship with the OGSA and GCSAA was fostered by GTI Communications Coordinator and we are hopeful that in 2019 or early 2020 we would be able to formally be offering the program in Canada in conjunction with the OGSA and GCSAA and other groups. The importance of outreach to young people about the green industry and turfgrass management as a career is also a mandate of the GTI and of the ETOP. To satisfy the mandate the GTI Communication Coordinator proactively engaged in high school outreach. | OCT 2019
STEM Workshops for High School Outreach: Interaction with high school students (50-60) and teachers (4) to introduce careers and education in turf through creative workshops and lessons plans. Materials included a short presentation on soils and drainage principles with a discussion about environmental benefits of turf. A hands on workshop about infiltration and drainage of various soils including a demonstration drainage technology and infrastructure such as weeping tile and drainage design and install. Hands on Horticulture - Student Outreach Program: High School students (50+) and teachers (5) with green industry interests were brought to the Guelph Turfgrass Institute to learn about turfgrass identification, pathology, and weeds. Event was held to engage students in careers and educational pathways. Inspirational talks were also given to students from industry CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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Dr. Eric Lyonsdiscussing a turf research project at the GTI's USGA green plot.
professionals (Rob Heggie from BMO Field) in order to help them understand pathways and potential opportunities in the industry. Students were also exposed to horticultural principles and cultivar ID at the GTI trial gardens with our Master Gardener. Workshops on measuring green speeds with a stimpmeter, weed ID, and sprinkler head servicing/wiring helped students gain hands on learning and exposure to real world scenarios that turf managers employ. Environmental benefits of turfgrass poster was distributed for take home | OCT 2019
materials. Guidance Counselor and Teacher Education: Opportunities and Careers in Turf -Meeting with 5-6 high school guidance counselors to discuss career paths, education and professional opportunities that exist in the turfgrass industry. The 1.5 hour meeting helped to introduce and exposed key influencers within the high school system to learn more about the turfgrass industry and how it may be of interest to some of the students in their communities. This meeting led to CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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an additional gathering on the University of Guelph campus with 30+ teachers from the local area where liaison officers and the GTI Communications and Outreach Coordinator were able to highlight careers in agriculture, with specific focus on turf. This was a fruitful engagement that continued to expose key influencers to the opportunities the turfgrass industry holds for young people.
creating relationships and trust while trying to achieve regular input on content of golf magazines.
Regular popular press art icle submissions
A best practices pamphlet on recommendations for lawn maintenance in fall. Interviews U of G turf faculty and short
Reached out to Score Golf to explore an opportunity to submit a regular turf related article. This opportunity would reach a large audience of golfers, homeowners, and public stakeholders. Articles would cover general interest questions about maintenance and cultural College Royal: practices on golf courses as well as highlighting land stewardship, College Royal is the largest student-run open house in North environmental initiatives and best management practices for America. The grant funded the golf superintendent supplies for the University of profession. This article could be Guelph Turfgrass Club that done in conjunction with CGSA hosted a booth within the Department of Plant Agriculture. and/or OGSA as well as other The students were provided with industry partners such as research funding charities. At the Benefits of Turfgrass Poster this time, we have not received a and handouts for parents while formal denial but there has been they entertained kids with a a lack of positive response. putting contest and turfgrass ID/Biodiversity. Wal-Mart interview coordination for article Object ive 3 Met hodology:
This initiative has proven one of the most difficult as we are | OCT 2019
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Cam Shaw and Stephen Fleishchauer, former GTI Director, promoting natural turfgrass at Canada Bloomsin Toronto.
questionnaire was returned outlining various tricks, tips and highlighting the environmental and visual benefits of a healthy lawn to the retailer to promote better management to the homeowners. CTV - News highlight - weeds on home lawns GTI communications responded to and coordinated a local news network to come to the GTI and interview Dr. Eric Lyons on methods for reducing weed incidence in home lawns. The short segment aired on the evening news reaching a wide | OCT 2019
regional viewer audience throughout southwest Ontario. Object ive 4: Edit ing and mat erial support for indust ry part ner publicat ions The relationship with local partners has improved immensely with the activities of the ETOP project. The GTI Communications Coordinator who is funded in part through the project was engaged in writing and submitting articles (7) for publication to the OGSA, Sports Turf Canada, ORFA and CGSA. Moving forward support to regional associations to provide CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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them with content and editorial support needs to be expanded. Associations in Atlantic Canada and in the west need to be informed by us more effectively and encouraged to utilize the resources. There has also been an expansion of the social media presence particularly on turf research being performed at the GTI. The hope is to foster interest and requests for further information about projects that will help regional organizations create content for their publications and web sites that serves memberships and benefits the turfgrass industry. The work with the local organizations has prompted local green industry businesses to utilize the expertise sustained by ETOP to edit outreach materials this spring leading to cost recovery and ongoing sustainability in outreach. Object ive 5: Develop communicat ion mat erials for public and inst it ut ional st akeholders Due to organizational difficulties | OCT 2019
a green industry advisory council was not developed for the purpose of determining the needs of the turfgrass industry. Instead the GTI communications coordinator attended a number of industry and general public events throughout the year beyond the typical industry tradeshows including Landscape Ontario Congress and Canada Blooms. The booths allowed the GTI to promote the benefits of turf to both landscape professionals and the general public as both shows are attended by both groups of people. The shows also proved to be important to raise awareness of the GTI and initiatives like the ETOP aimed at supporting the turfgrass industry. In addition to these activities a partnership was formed with the Grass Roots Initiative at the National Arboretum in Washington D.C. The stock files for turfgrass promotion used in the Grass Roots display were given to the GTI and the project to create our own initiatives. In addition, the exchange of ideas regarding the importance of CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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turfgrass and how to relate that importance to the general public was fruitful and is ongoing depending on funding of future initiatives. The project also provided money for meetings to explore educational opportunities to educate volunteers who maintain municipal facilities such as lawn bowls. The initial meetings resulted in a series of seminars reaching engaged end-users who volunteer by taking care of the turfgrass sports surface. The development and offering of the seminars are currently being funded by the Ontario Lawn Bowling Association on a cost recovery model. The initiative of ETOP allowed the initial seminar to be offered as a core goal to reach out not just to the industry but end users and the general public. We hope this may serve as a model for other sports groups to become more interested and involved in the maintenance of turfgrass for sport. Object ive 6: Field St udy Expansion | OCT 2019
School yard and turfgrass areas for students at school boards was mapped for every school in the Upper Grand School District by hand using google maps using labor that was subsidized by the Experience Guelph program. The data is still too preliminary to write any reports as certain data on school size has been difficult to garner although we now have data on average turfgrass yard size per student across an entire region of Ontario. We are beginning to contact partners in Geography in order to create correlations. Some preliminary data shows that Rural schools have greater turfgrass play areas for public schools (JK-8) (Figure 1) although this does not hold true for high schools where suburban schools have more turfgrass area than downtown schools (Figure 2). Our research showed that most schools have 50 square meters of turfgrass per registered student.
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Bret t Gaudreau, Strathcona County
Fredi Held, Kelowna Springs Golf Club
Brad Gerspacher, Wintergreen G&CC
Ilan Hight on, Royal Oak Burial Park
Richard Grant , Musqueam Indian Band
Benjamin Hout a, Astro Turf
Dave Griffit hs, SD#33 (Chilliwack)
W illiam Hunt er, Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo
Marie Gubbels, City of Campbell River Hugh Gurney, City of Campbell River Braeden Hage, Richmond CC Nat han Hagel, Kamloops G&CC Terry Hall, Vancouver Parks Board - Queen Elizabeth Pitch & Putt Cliff Halliday, Town of Sidney Jeff Hallihan, City of Campbell River Mat hew Hamilt on, Shaughnessy G&CC John Hart , Meadow Gardens GC Ian Hayes, Twin Lakes Golf Resort | OCT 2019
Greg Johnson, City of Lethbridge Ray Keit h, City of Nanaimo Parks Pat Killin, City of Campbell River Randy Knot t , District of North Cowichan Michael Knoll, Vancouver Parks Board Fraserview Golf Course St ef Linder, Tsawwassen Springs Cody Lit t le, Olds College Brad Lobbezoo, City of Victoria Parks Brian Lut zer, City of Saskatoon Bob MacGillivary, CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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Absorbpur Ryan Mart z, Okanagan GC Paul McClary, City of Coquitlam St eve McKague, Capital Regional District SEAPARC Eli McLeod, Pro-West Services Dain Mikulic, Marine Drive GC Kevin Nelson, Surrey Parks & Rec Keit h Oft ebro, City of Saskatoon Sean O't oole, Vancouver Parks Board McCleery Golf Course
Darcy Plewes, City of Lethbridge Mat hew Pocock, City of Cranbrook Arlene McW illiam-Prot z, Strathcona County Rec/Pks/Culture Ken Raft er, City of Nanaimo Parks Darren Reed, SD#61 Greater Victoria Larry Reist , SD#75 (Mission) Ken Revoy, Calgary Board of Education St ephen Rodonich, Eaglequest Coyote Creek Jeff Rollins, Rollins Machinery Ltd.
James Parker, City of Victoria Engineering
Geoff Rose, Belmont Golf Course
Dawn Pat rick, City of Coquitlam
Jenna Rose, Olds College
Geoff Pearmain, Vancouver School Board
Corrine Rot hwell, Belmont Golf Course
Raymond Pet ers, Musqueam Indian Band
Campbell Somerville, Okanagan GC
Donyne Plankenhorne, City of Campbell River
Curt Spaven, SD#62 (Sooke)
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Mike St echly, TGK Irrigation Ltd Mike Swain, Vancouver Parks Board Fraserview Golf Course James Tait , UBC Athletics Chelsey Thapa, City of Campbell River Chad Vizzut t i, Myrtle Point GC Cassidy Yeulet t , City of West Kelowna Brian York, Northlands GC Bradley Young, Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo Devon Younger, City of Campbell River Would you like to see your name on thislist? CLICK HERE to join the WCTA right now! Are you interested in knowing more about the societal benefitsof turf? CLICK HERE for a great poster from the CTRF.
| OCT 2019
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Tell us about your t eam Dave has a diverse team (including 6 fulltime positions; 3 Sportsfield Operators, 3 Equipment Operators,) several contract workers and summer students. His focus is always on positive encouragement for his team and making safety a priority. This year their team added a full-time IPM position (and an Intern from the U of G DMT program) which has helped. How Dave manages the day to day aspects of the role is to ?go with the flow?. He says you can never know what all is going to happen and it?s exciting to be a part of something that challenges you and your team. Your Award Submission says you are great at bot h t he hands-on applicat ions of your role but also t he administ rat ive side. Does t his come nat urally? Dave tells us that he sees the administrative side not as a strength but understands the importance of record keeping, being organized and planning. That?s half the battle. The best way to approach all aspects of | OCT 2019
the role is to be ready for anything. W hat are your biggest challenges? - Similar to other teams, this year the weather has been the biggest challenge. It created quite the problem solving practice in scheduling resources for the fields as well as managing the condition of the fields themselves. - The other challenge is getting enough communication with the user groups. He feels this is one of their team?s weaknesses but it?s challenging with the large number of user groups that book their fields. - Another challenge is the high demand on their fields and trying to keep fields in ideal shape when they are used so often. W hat ?s unique about your fields? All non-fenced and non-booked fields are available as off-leash dog parks from dawn to dusk. This can cause significant challenges with preparing fields for safe play. Also, many of their CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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fields are built on old landfill sites and that alone causes challenges with filling of fields and ensuring they are flat for play. W hat do you like best about your job? Dave really enjoys watching how a sports field transforms from pre-game condition to the perfect playing surface, as produced by his team. He also enjoys the innovative opportunities that different challenges provide. It allows the creative, problem solving juices to flow. W hat does your average day include? My day always begins by checking emails and communications then reviewing the bookings for the day, planning for the day ahead (setting priorities, scheduling staff and resources, making adjustments where necessary), then he does site visits to check on the variety of field maintenance that is happening and providing guidance, | OCT 2019
encouragement and a helping hand to his team. How can we recruit younger generat ions t o t he sport s t urf indust ry? Dave shares what to look for: - It?s important to have grass growing knowledge, to understand how shaping the soil affects the growth of the grass and its capabilities. - It?s also good to understand how the construction of things happens so you can assess what is good, what isn?t and if it?s doing what it?s supposed to do, after it?s constructed. - It?s important to have sports experience so you understand the impact of the athlete?s actions on a sports field - Most importantly is to have good communication skills, being able to speak effectively with others. He suggests volunteering and taking leadership opportunities when possible. Dave lives by the goal: With everything, set yourself up for success.
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Tank, Celtic Distributors & Husqvarna
AFTERNOON SESSIONS OUTDOORS @SOFTBALL CITY
9:00-9:40 ?Olympic Softball Qualifier hosted by City of Surrey?? Jamey Serediuk, Surrey Parks
11:30-12:30 BBQ lunch provided by ICONIX WATERWORKS and dedicated
9:40 - 10:00 Networking break and coffee service - delegates switch rooms
12:30-3:00 1/2 hour demo stations X 5 (including trade show):
10:00-10:45 Greetings from Prominent Sponsors: Nutrien/Evergro, Prairie Coast & Rainbird
-demo station #1 (white): Exhibitor Trade Show Dash!
?Biotechnology Solutions to Reduce Reliance on Traditional Fertilizers and Pesticides?? Dale Overton, Overton Environmental 11:00-11:30 Laser Levelling Demo for full delegation - Field 1
| OCT 2019
trade show / networking time
-demo station #2 (blue): EcoTea Liquid Biological Amendment -demo station #3 (green): Greenworks 82 Volt Power Equipment -demo station #4 (yellow): Turf Tank Intelligent Marking -demo station #5 (red): Husqvarna Automower
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Questions? Visit us online at sportsturfcanada.com and wcta-online.com or call us and we?d be happy to chat. Better yet, attend one of the events and see what we are all about. We look forward to meeting you! More about STC and W CTA
school boards, municipalities, sod farms, nurseries, landscapers, lawn bowling greens, mechanics, horticulturistsand industry suppliers. Sport s Turf Canada
328 Victoria Road South, SportsTurf Canada wasestablished Guelph, ON N1L 0H2 in 1987 at a meeting held at the Phone: (519) 763-9431 University of Guelph to addressthe Fax: (519) 766.1704 need to minimize and avoid turf-related injury on athletic fields. Email: info@sportsturfcanada.com Almost thirty yearslater the Web: sportsturfcanada.com association continuesto passionately promote better, safer sportsturf through innovation, West ern Canada Turfgrass education and professional Associat ion programsacrossthe country. PO Box 698, Hope, BC V0X 2L0 The WCTA isa nearly 700 member, inter-provincial, not-for-profit industry organization whose purpose isto promote the interchange of scientific and practical knowledge through education, discussion, research and to undertake advocacy relating to the care and management of turfgrass. The WCTA isproud to serve and support a diverse range of professional turf management interestssuch asgolf courses, | OCT 2019
Phone: (604) 869-WCTA (9282) Toll free fax: 1-866-366-5097 Email: exec.director@wctaturf.com Web: wcta-online.com
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Western Canada Turfgrass Association To be considered for funding, please complete the 2020 Research Grant ?ONECALL? application form and return to executive.secretary@ turfresearchcanada.ca by Tuesday, October 31st, 2019 by 5:00pm Pacific time. CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION FORM (PDF version)
submission. While the CTRF is administering this application process, individual organizations will make funding decisions based on their own priorities, funds available, previous commitments, etc. As a result, funding for individual projects may be provided by one or more funding group. If you have questions, please contact me at executive.secretary @turfresearchcanada.ca.
CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION FORM (MS Word Jerry Rousseau version) CTRF Executive Secretary Please get in touch with the CTRF if we have not acknowledged receipt of your application within 2 weeks of
| OCT 2019
www.turfresearchcanada.ca
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greens and fairways from late winter/early spring ice build-up, Guelph Turfgrass Institute was ?This place is an idea. The Guelph pressed into service. It lent its expertise to superintendents Turfgrass Institute is a concept facing devastating that allows people who have expertise in a number of areas to circumstances before engaging in follow-up research to help service golf through research,? avoid future problems. Lyons said of the facility?s Needless to say, GTI?s phone mandate. ?All of us come here ? number is one most soil scientists, pollination superintendents across the biologists, environmentalists ? country keep in their list of and if we have a research contacts. ?Ninety per cent of the question that applies to the graduates from our two-year game and to the industry, we University of Guelph diploma have a place, a home through program wind up going into the GTI, to disseminate that golf industry,?said Cameron information.? Shaw, GTI?s outreach and Unlike the United States Golf communications coordinator. Association?s (USGA) green ?Many of the top section and its ongoing support superintendents in Canada have of turfgrass science (every state been through the course here.? across America has its own University of Guelph?s simple yet visionary mission statement: ?To Improve Life.?
standalone turfgrass research and testing facility), the Canadian golf industry must rely almost exclusively on GTI to conduct research on its behalf. When issues arise like they did in 2014, when dozens of courses across Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes faced dead Poa annua | OCT 2019
Some have even come full circle. Cutten Fields?Bill Green, a Class ?A?Ontario Golf Superintendent Association member, who graduated from both the University of Guelph and Penn State University, stays connected to GTI every day beyond his alumnus status. The CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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Stanley Thompson-designed Cutten Fields runs adjacent to Guelph Turfgrass Institute?s brand new location and plot test facility. Last fall, in his role as site manager, Green was entrusted with the grow-in of five-and-a-half acres of Poa annua, bentgrass and other turf varieties that comprise GTI?s primary research plots.In the world of turfgrass it was like overseeing the maturation of a top-five golf course in the world. ?I?ve had superintendents from all over Ontario and even across Canada come here to see the different species of grasses we have on site. GTI is an educational resource for the game. People honestly don?t know what?s going on here or what the place even does but it?s critical to golf in Canada,?Green explained. On a walking tour of the neatly manicured test site, Green explained just how critical. He motioned towards a group of researchers conducting field testing on bio-solids. Earlier, Lyons and Shaw pointed out | OCT 2019
plots where research and analysis was being done on more drought tolerant fescues and fine fescue blends. GTI even has a sloped plot used to measure run off. Dozens of turf-related, student and faculty initiated test projects are being conducted simultaneously too. The fact GTI even exists is a testament to the vision of numerous individuals. People like Mac and Beth Frost, whom the G.M. Frost Research and Information Centre is named after, Ron Craig, Norm McCollum and countless others connected to the University of Guelph. They are individuals not widely known beyond their immediate sphere of turfgrass influence but their service to the game in this country deserves recognition. Like Lyons, Shaw and Green do today, those trailblazers and supporters of GTI understood the value of turfgrass research. ?Before I came here I always thought golf courses were bad for pollinators, that they hurt bees. Talk to a pollination CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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biologist and they?ll tell you just the opposite, that they?re great, that native pollinators need that grassland. Plants have a lot of power to do good in our urban environment. Institutes like this one help us to truly understand how a golf course functions,? Lyons added.
Guelph turfgrass facility and program up for long-term viability. That, in a present sense, is significant. In the last four years scrutiny from the public and government regulatory agencies has removed important tools superintendents use to manage their facilities, Thirty years after it was founded, particularly in the area of Guelph Turfgrass Institute 2.0 is pesticides. As those tools go away the only way new products taking shape. With an expiring can be brought to market to lease on land owned by the replace them is through the province and re-zoned by the collection of data gathered in City of Guelph for real estate development, the transition to a Canada. new facility, located on ?The golf industry is not a static University of Guelph land next to entity,?Shaw explains. Cutten Fields, has been ?It?s constantly changing on the challenging but rewarding. side of maintenance and it Along with the five-plus acres of research plots, two storm retention ponds, test greens and trial gardens, the next generation of the GTI will be home to a brand new G.M. Frost Centre teaching and outreach facility. Not only do the stakeholders promise that it will be state-of-the-art in every detail, the re-envisioned infrastructure of GTI 2.0 sets the University of | OCT 2019
changes at an incredibly fast rate, so fast that research can?t keep up with it because research is a slow process. Our facility is one of very few with the necessary infrastructure to deliver that data.? Rick Young isSCOREGolf's Business& Equipment Analyst. CLICK HERE for the original article
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2019 Turf Research Funding Summary Based on funds raised in 2018, cash available to the Research Committee for 2019 projects was just under $14,000. With disbursements totalling approximately $17,000 (the difference will come from long-term investments), the following projects were put forward by the Research Committee and approved by the WCTA Board for 2019 funding:
Project Title: Canadian Turf Research Foundation Cooperative Funding The CTRF collects and distributes research monies much like the WCTA but on a National Scale. We have contributed to this collaborative approach to research funding annually since 1992. PROJECT LENGTH: multiple projects / varies W CTA COMMITMENT: $4,000 See Here for list of current research projects. Project Title: Comparing iron sulfate versus chelated iron for the suppression of | OCT 2019
microdochium patch on annual bluegrass putting greens in the presence and absence of phosphorous acid, Oregon State University Even though chelated iron has been shown to suppress Microdochium nivale in a laboratoty setting, this will be the first field study that compares the effects of chelated iron versus iron sulfate with or without the addition of phosphorous acid on the incidence of Microdochium patch on annual bluegrass putting greens. PROJECT LENGTH: 2 years W CTA COMMITMENT: $10,000 USD in year 1 CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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Previously funded project s in progress:
to estimate costs of synthetic and natural fields
Project Title: Capital Cost of Natural and Synthetic Sports Fields, University of Guelph
PROJECT LENGTH: 3 years
This project is creating a comprehensive cost analysis of constructing and maintaining multitude of types of synthetic fields and compare those costs to the construction and maintenance of different types of natural grass fields. This information will aid in the decision making process when schools and municipalities undertake the construction of new facilities. The cost analysis will include a 30-year cost analysis encompassing construction, maintenance, renovations and disposal of materials. The project will accomplish this by: - Creating a guide sheet comparing the cost of natural and synthetic fields over a 30 year cycle - Creation of a working model in which factors could be changed | OCT 2019
W CTA COMMITMENT: $15,000 total, $7,500 outstanding
Acknowledgements The WCTA would like to thank and recognize those individuals, groups, companies and institutions who have contributed generously to turf research project funding this year, without whom our Turf Research funding program simply would not exist. Portion of member dues: $12,141 Transfer from previous year surplus: $7,496 2019 Silent Auction contributors: $7,986 Kwantlen University Turf Club contest proceeds: $3,204 Extra member contributions: $121 Allied and education institution contributions: $250 CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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We would also like to take this opportunity to thank those who serve on our Research Committee: Pet er Sorokovsky - City of Burnaby (Chair) David Davidson - Kwantlen Polytechnic University David Duncan - THP Co. (WCTA Past President) David Woodske - BC Ministry of Agriculture Dr. Brian Holl - Lamorna Enterprises
Finally, on behalf of the entire WCTA membership, we'd like to recognize the tireless work of Turfgrass Researchers and Educators who continually drive the turf management industry forward, largely behind the scenes, with their vision, dedication and accomplishments. If you wish to contribute to turf research through the WCTA, please contact Committee Chair Pet er Sorokovsky at peter.sorokovsky@burnaby.ca.
Please note that the Western Canada Turfgrass Association accepts no responsibility in Ladd Legeyt - Agrium Advanced Technologies respect to the opinions and data expressed in the editorial (Industry Representative) material or outcome of the Jim Ross research projects. The views do - Prairie Turfgrass Research not necessarily represent the Centre (retired) views of the Association.
| OCT 2019
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It is speculated that chelated iron may suppress Microdochium patch while not adversely affecting turfgrass quality. Therefore, a field trial was initiated in September 2018 to compare iron applied every two weeks as either iron sulfate or as chelated iron (DTPA) in
combination or in absence of phosphorous acid. In order to mimic real-world conditions when the applications are made, replicated golfer traffic is being applied to the plots by walking over the area with golf course shoes during the fall and the winter months.
Treat ment s include: 1) 0.5 # FeSO4 / M 2) 0.5 # FeSO4 / M + 3.2 oz. Duraphite 12 / M 3) 1.0 # FeSO4 / M 4) 1.0 # FeSO4 / M + 3.2 oz. Duraphite 12 / M 5) 0.1 # Fe aschelated iron / M (equivalent to Fe level in 0.5 # FeSO4) 6) 0.1 # Fe aschelated iron / M + 3.2 oz. Duraphite 12 / M 7) 0.2 # Fe aschelated iron / M (equivalent to Fe level in 1.0 # FeSO4) 8) 0.2 # Fe aschelated iron / M + 3.2 oz. Duraphite 12 / M 9) Fungicide Control 10) Non-treated Control Preliminary results suggest both iron sources when combined with phosphorous acid produce very little visual differences in disease suppression. Although, there is some visual evidence that iron sulfate alone may | OCT 2019
suppress Microdochium patch more than DTPA iron. Visual turfgrass density appears to be higher in plots receiving DTPA iron compared to plots receiving iron sulfate (Image 1).
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Soil testing, digital image analysis, and NDVI data analysis will take place at the conclusion of the first trial year (30th of April 2019).
Image 1: Effectsof iron sulfate (FeSO4) or chelated iron (DTPA) in the presence or absence of phosphorous acid (H3PO3) compared to a not treated control and a fungicide rotation on an annual bluegrassputting in Corvallis, OR. For year one of the
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Foundation. At Rutgers University, Dr. James Murphy and Dr. Bruce Clarke are addressing the ability to utilize a threshold-based fungicide program on bentgrass fairways and will establish the dollar spot susceptibility across different common cultivars. Budgets are tighter than ever and this project has a specific focus on the economic impact of cultivar selection when managing dollar spot. Research such as this would be a great asset to turf managers looking to select a cultivar for bentgrass fairways who are faced with a restricted budget in their unique operation. One of the up and coming trends in turf management is the utilization of biological controls and beneficial fungi to improve turf quality, and reduce fertilizer and water inputs. This is the focus of Dr. Manish Raizasda?s research at University of Guelph. Dr. Raizasda is evaluating the usage of probiotics to reduce the water and nitrogen utilization when seeding new turfgrass . In this study, natural occurring turf | OCT 2019
microbes will be used as seed coating to reduce the necessary inputs of fertilizer and water when establish turf from seed, the time when the largest inputs of water and fertility are needed. Dr. Katrina Jordan has received OTRF funds for two different projects, both based out of the University of Guelph. Dr. Jordan is attempting to improve our understanding of the biology and management tactics for Take-All Patch in Canada caused by Sloeiomyces Cylindosporus, a new fungus causing take-all conditions in Canadian turfgrass. This study will focus on how to better manage the causes of the disease and improve a researcher?s ability to inoculate this fungus for further research studies. Dr. Jordan?s second project is focussed on the usage of biosolids for improving soil health, fertility and disease management. The biosolids selected for this project are the solid organic waste remaining from wastewater treatment plants that are typically destined
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to landfill sites. These biosolids are rich in nitrogen and could be beneficial to a turf manager?s tool kit, as supplemental applications of inorganic nitrogen sources. Dr. Jordan will also be analyzing the benefit or negative impact these applications could have on long term soil health and disease development.
user groups. The goal of the project is to develop a set of guidelines to aid municipal field managers a justification for limiting the usage of sports fields. This set of guidelines will benefit both the turf managers as well as the end users with improved and safer field conditions.
The OTRF is excited to see the The fifth research project being upcoming progress of these supported by the OTRF, is work projects and the value they will being conducted by DSC and bring to the turfgrass Associates?Pam Charbonneau. management industry. If you Ms. Charbonneau is developing have an interest in reviewing the a rating system for the maximum OTRF?s previously funded usage of sports fields before a research, would like updates on significant decline and/or failure current research, submit a is seen particularly on municipal research proposal application or soccer fields. Many want to learn more about how to municipalities have challenges support the OTRF, please visit managing sports field turf due to the website at www.otrf.ca for the high usage by residents and more details.
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