New England Blade - Spring 2024

Spring 2024

NESTMA at NERTC

Robotic Field Painting Case Study

March 6 Awards Presentation

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CONTENTS • Spring 2024 UPCOMING EVENT

FEATURES

COLUMNS

DEPARTMENTS

80 N ESTMA at NERTC

160 C ase Study:

140 S ynthetic Turf:

6 President’s Message 10 NESTMA News 27 Index of Advertisers

200 I mproving Turfgrass

260 P rofessional

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT 120 D an Johnson

Groundskeeper Quabbin Regional School District

Robotic Field Painting

Sustainability with Better Genetics

Navigating the Complexity of Running Track Care Development: Taking a Team Approach to Leadership

Find this issue, Podcasts, Events and More: TheTurfZone.com

On the cover: Alumni Field at Quabbin Regional High School in Barre, Massachusetts

Officers

Directors

Board of Trustees

President

Tom Barry, CSFM Greens Farms Academy Greens Farms, CT

Kim Britton Saint Anselm College Manchester, NH

Ryan Bjorn Gillette Stadium Foxboro, MA

John Cunniff Walpole, MA

Chris McGinty Framingham Parks Department Framingham, MA

Advancing professionalism in sports turf management and athletic field safety through education, research, and scholarships.

The official publication of the New England Sports Turf Managers Association (NESTMA), the New England Blade is dedicated to educating, advising, and informing members of the profession and furthering the goals of the Association. The New England Blade carries news and features related to the sports turf management profession. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material and reserves the right to edit any article or advertisement submitted for publication and to refuse advertising not in keeping with the goals of the Association. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the validity of claims in connection with items appearing in the New England Blade. Mention of a commercial product does not imply endorsement by the New England Blade, NESTMA, or Leading Edge Communications, or preference over similar products not mentioned. The New England Blade is published quarterly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of NESTMA. Presorted standard postage is paid at Jefferson City, MO. Printed in the U.S.A. Advertising: For display and classified advertising rates and insertions, please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge Street, Suite 200, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524.

4 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

President Elect Art Goodhind Town of Natick Natick, MA

Brendon Connor College of the Holy Cross Worcester, MA

Treasurer

Adam Ferrucci Read Custom Soils Wareham, MA

Andrew Carlisle, CGM Worcester Technical High School Worcester, MA

Past President Ben Polimer Town of Weston Weston, MA

Ian Lacy Tom Irwin Advisors, Inc. Burlington, MA Scott Lagana Turf Products Corp.

Holden, MA

Official Chapter

Victoria Wallace University of Connecticut Storrs, CT

Management Team Virginia Wood, Executive Director Peggy Benjamin Kristen Dreyer Charissa Sharkey

NESTMA Headquarters 67 West Street Medfield, MA 02052 (508) 653-1241 NESTMA.org NESTMAinfo@gmail.com

Technical Editor Victoria Wallace University of Connecticut Storrs, CT

A MERGER THAT HAS TURF AT HEART Aquatrols® and the turf division of Precision Laboratories™, two of the leading brands in turf management, have merged to form The Aquatrols Company. This merger brings together the most comprehensive portfolio of soil surfactant and adjuvant products in the industry.

The Aquatrols Company will continue to offer the full line of Aquatrols and Precision Laboratories soil surfactants, as well as Precision Laboratories tank mix adjuvants, colorants and additives. VerdeLNX™, a novel line of advanced nutrient products, will be added to the portfolio in early 2024.

EXPLORE OUR STORY CURIOUS ABOUT THE AQUATROLS COMPANY? LEARN MORE AT WWW.AQUATROLSCOMPANY.COM

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

A New Year. A New NESTMA!

I

feel like the entire turf industry is eager to get back to Providence and the New England Turfgrass Conference.

Personally, I’m looking forward to seeing many of you again and to hear how the past year has treated you.

One of the things on my radar is learning how others are finding good employees these days. It’s a tough market with many factors impacting the labor shortage. A record low unemployment rate, long-term effects of the pandemic, Baby Boomers retiring at an accelerated pace, to name just a few. All of which is a challenge for our departments and facilities as we work to engage and retain qualified staff.

NESTMA’s leadership is working with local vocational schools, community colleges, and universities to find out how we can best give back and support turfgrass students (our future employees).

Scholarships, grants, training programs, mentorship – we’re looking at it all. Let’s find the ways our more experienced professionals can pull the next generation under their wing and help them succeed.

I hope you’ll join us on March 6 for our annual Awards Meeting and Lunch. This is NESTMA’s chance to recognize excellence in sports field management (see page 8 for details); award scholarships that help turfgrass students reach their full potential; and share what you and your peers have accomplished over the past 12 months.

We’ll also preview new things to look forward to in the coming year. Be on the lookout for exciting changes that will propel our association well into the future!

I ask you to welcome it all! Tell your friends and colleagues about where NESTMA is going and encourage them to get involved.

Let’s make the most of 2024!

Chris McGinty NESTMA President

Thank You C O M M E R C I A L PA R T N E R S These companies partner with NESTMA on our educational events, through advertising in The Blade, and support of our E-Newsletter. Please be sure to thank them for their support of our industry as you do business with them through the year.

A-OK Turf Equipment – www.aokturfequip.com Aqua-Aid, Inc. – www.aquaaidsolutions.com Atlantic Golf and Turf – www.atlanticgolfandturf.com Brock USA – www.brockusa.com Covermaster Inc. – www.covermaster.com Finch Turf – www.finchturf.com Franklin Paint Company – www.franklinpaint.com G.P.S. New England Golf Course Management, Inc. Greenhaven Turf Care – www.greenhaventurf.com H2O Irrigation – www.h2o-irrigation.com Liberty Landscapes, LLC – libertyathleticfieldcontractors.com MJ Cataldo Inc. – www.mjcataldo.com Mountain View Landscapes & Lawncare www.mountainviewinc.com Natural Tree & LawnCare – www.naturaltree.com/about New England Pro Greens & Turf – turfinstaller.net North Turf Inc. – northturf.com Nufarm Americas – nufarm.com/usturf.com Osborne Organics, LLC – osborneorganics.com/contact Pioneer Athletics – pioneerathletics.com Precision Laboratories, LLC – www.precisionlab.com

Read Custom Soils – readcustomsoils.com A.D. Makepeace Replay Maintenance USA – www.replaymaintenanceusa.com Richey & Clapper, Inc – www.richeyandclapper.com Sherwood Sportsturf Silico Turf LLC SiteOne Landscape Supply – www.siteone.com/golfsales Slater Farms LLC – www.slaternaturalfarms.com SODCO INC – www.sodco.net Specialized Turf Services, Inc. – specializedturfservices.com Sports Fields Inc. – sportsfieldsinc.net Sports Turf Specialties, Inc – sportsturfspecialties.com Sportscapes Unlimited LLC – sportscapesunlimited.com Tartan Farms LLC – www.tartanfarmsri.com The Charles C. Hart Seed Co. – HartsTurfPro.com Tom Irwin Advisors – tomirwin.com Tuckahoe Turf – tuckahoeturf.com Turf North America Farms LLC – tnafllc.com Turf Products Corp – www.turfproductscorp.com Turf Robotics – www.turfroboticsllc.com Turface Athletics – www.turface.com US Playground Surfacing – www.USPlaygroundSurfacing.com

For information on NESTMA sponsorship and advertising contact NESTMAinfo@gmail.com.

6 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

LOOKING TO PROTECT YOUR PLAYERS AND ASSET? CALL REPLAY MAINTENANCE TO HELP YOU DEVELOP A CUSTOMIZED SYNTHETIC SURFACE MAINTENANCE PLAN

New England Regional Turfgrass Conference – See You There!

Cutting-Edge Education • Powerful Networking • Innovative Trends

H

undreds of New England’s sport field professionals will gather in Providence, Rhode Island March 5 – 7, 2024 for the 27th annual New England Regional Turfgrass conference. This is our region’s premier educational conference and trade show. NESTMA is proud to be a part of this valuable learning experience that connects SFMs with industry experts, researchers, and academics from across the country.

Wednesday, March 6 and Thursday, March 7 features leading experts addressing a broad range of sports turf topics such as Dealing with Drainage Problems, Turf Pest and Disease Management, Strategies for Improving Summer Stress, Managing Turf with Tight Restrictions, Integrating Battery Powered Tools, and more (see sidebar). Participants can also take advantage of a wide variety of specialized pre-conference sessions on Tuesday, March 5.

A highlight of this year’s educational lineup is the opening keynote. Nick Pappas, CSFM, Field Director for the National Football League – and a UMass graduate – will present “Modern Field Management/Managing Super Bowl Fields and Events” on Wednesday, March 6 at 8:00 a.m.

The expo halls are sold-out and jam-packed with deals on the latest equipment, technology, and trends designed to help you do your job better every day. With receptions, lunches, and special events scheduled throughout the conference – including NESTMA’s Awards Meeting on Wednesday, March 6 – there’s plenty of time to make new connections and network with colleagues.

Learn more and sign up online at NERTF.org or by phone (401) 841-5490.

Sports Turf Topics @ NERTC • For detailed information: NERTF.org WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6

THURSDAY, MARCH 7

Dealing with Sports Field Drainage Problems

Understanding the Design & Construction Process

Dr. James Murphy • Rutgers University

Modern Grub Management with the Environment in Mind

Patrick Maguire • Activitas, Inc.

Effective Budget Strategies for Sports Field Managers

Dr. Ben McGraw • Penn State University

Tom Barry • Greens Farms Academy & Carl Samuelson • Newtown, CT

Plant Defense Activators & Beneficial Microbes

Managing School Grounds Surrounds Using BMPs

Dr. Bruce Clarke, Emeritus • Rutgers University

NTEP: Sports Turf Varieties

Dr. Scott Ebdon • University of Massachusetts

Diagnostic Tips for Problem Sports Fields Rich Buckley • Rutgers University

8 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

Victoria Wallace • University of Connecticut & Greg Foran • Glastonbury, CT

Managing Fertility on Sports Fields That Have Restrictions Dr. Kevin Frank • Michigan State University

The Trouble with Beech: Beech Leaf Disease Rich Buckley • Rutgers University

SPECIALTY

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We provide core products to support recreational activities including but not limited to golf courses, sports fields, volleyball, squash courts, and equestrian. Our manufacturing facility produces damp and dry products necessary to support your specifications.

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NESTMA NEWS EXCITING THINGS IN STORE FOR 2024!

Congratulations!

Annual Awards Meeting & Lunch Wednesday, March 6, 2024

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Rotunda Room, Rhode Island Convention Center Don’t miss this terrific opportunity to catch up with old friends, make new connections, and learn about exciting new opportunities for NESTMA and its members in 2024!

Sports Field Manager of the Year

Join us as we recognize outstanding achievement in New England sports field management.

Parks Superintendent City of Woburn, Massachusetts

James DeLong

The Awards Meeting & Lunch is complimentary for current NESTMA members.

Reservations required.

Please reserve your spot

by February 23, 2024 at NESTMA.org Generously supported

by Tom Irwin, Inc.

Commercial Partner of the Year Patrick Maguire, RLA, LEED AP® President & Founding Principal Activitas, Inc. Dedham, Massachusetts

Congratulations to longtime NESTMA member David Pinsonneault, CSP, CPRP, CPWP-M, Public Works Director at the Town of Lexington, MA who was awarded the Harry C. Gill Memorial Award at the SFMA annual conference in Daytona Beach, Florida. Dave is a past president of both SFMA and NESTMA, and a very active supporter of the sports turf profession on the local and national level.

The Harry C. Gill Memorial Award was established to honor an individual for their outstanding ability and commitment to the sports field industry and to acknowledge their dedication to SFMA. Nominations for the Gill are made by SFMA members and acknowledge an individual for long-standing service to the SFMA. The award itself is a rather unique piece of art, depicting a groundskeeper armed with the tools of his trade. • 10 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

Welcome New Members!

Ricky Aither

Brattleboro Union H.S., Brattleboro, VT

Jesse Anderson SiteOne

Jim Asam

Town of Milford, MA

Brian Casey

Brattleboro Union, H.S., Brattleboro, VT

Kyle Colburn

Southern Maine Community College, Athletics South Portland, ME

We all want

Green Grass, No Weeds.

Every tool you need to have the greenest, most weed-free grass is right here.

Justin Laliberte

Town of Norfolk, MA

Mike Lucier

Sportscapes Unlimited John Maher SiteOne

Ryan McCaughey

Healthy turf starts with Greene County Fert.

PRO TECH SUPPORT • BUY/SHIP DIRECT

Learn more: GreeneCountyFert.com

Philips Andover Academy Andover, MA

Adam Norcia

Brattleboro Union, H.S. Brattleboro, VT

Anthony Rosati UMass Athletics Amherst, MA

Nathan Salmore

Longwood Cricket Club Chestnut Hill, MA

Bill Scribner

Bentley College Waltham, MA

Angel Zayas

Town of Brookline, MA

Renew Today Many thanks to those who have renewed their NESTMA membership for 2024.

Renewal is quick and easy online at NESTMA.org/Renew24.

With all the opportunities in store for NESTMA members this year, you don’t want to miss a minute.

To discuss advertising opportunities, contact Leading Edge Communications:

888-707-7141

sales@leadingedgecommunications.com

Spring 2024 • New England BLADE • 11

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ON

DAN JOHNSON Groundskeeper

Quabbin Regional School District Barre, Massachusetts

Where did you go to school? What was your major?

I went to Stockbridge School of Agriculture and majored in Landscape Contracting. After completing my associates degree, I received my bachelor’s degree in Plant and Soil Sciences within the University of Massachusetts.

How did you get your start in the sports turf industry?

After spending 18 years in the nursery industry, I decided to change my career path and began my next step by accepting a Grounds/Athletic position at Northfield Mount Hermon in Gill, MA. This is where I gained a lot of my knowledge in turf management, athletic field setup and grounds maintenance.

Where did you go from there?

Since Northfield Mount Hermon I accepted a position at Quabbin Regional Middle/High School. It is here that I brought my previous work experiences to maintain 30 acres of grounds and athletic fields.

We maintain two baseball fields, two softball fields, four soccer fields, two field hockey fields, a football field, track, and a cross country course as well as the landscape.

12 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

Who helped you the most when you first started out in the sports turf industry?

A few people have helped me out tremendously in the turf field positions. Mike Henderson was the Assistant Director of Grounds at Northfield Mount Hermon when I began my career there. He introduced me to a lot of turf maintenance techniques, field setup guidelines as well as many other experiences.

Since working at QRSD I have met others that have helped me along the way. One of which is Scott Mackintosh from Atlantic Golf and Turf. He has been a wealth of knowledge in our fertilizer and seed needs and is always a great person to talk and ask questions regarding the turf.

What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received?

Some of the best advice that I have received is to take pride in your work. Do the best you can and the results will show when you are done. After a long day at work, it is always rewarding when practices or games begin, and the fields are full of athletes.

Varsity Softball Field – Quabbin Regional High School

Alumni Field – Quabbin Regional High School

What’s your favorite thing about your current position/responsibilities?

Some of my favorite things at my current position are trying to make an improvement on all of our fields. I have been learning every day and trying new techniques and methods to improve efficiency with our limited resources to improve turf quality. It is always challenging trying to get our daily maintenance completed along with additional aerating, overseeding, fertilizing etc.

Is there a recent project that you have been able to complete?

We recently regraded and added new infield mix to our varsity softball field. Projects like this are challenging to accomplish with just two of us, with all our other daily tasks. Other projects that are on the list would be to start implementing a top-dressing program on some of our fields.

What advice would you share with people starting out in sports turf management today?

My advice would be not to be afraid of getting your hands dirty.

Take on both old and new ideas and to never stop learning. I have always found that when others are working for me, I try to work along with them.

What do you find most beneficial about being a NESTMA member?

Attending NESTMA’s conference, meetings, and training sessions allows me to talk to others in the industry. I learn what products, equipment, and maintenance techniques others are using and what may or may not be working. It is always nice to see on-field equipment demonstrations as well as proper maintenance seminars on turf or baseball/softball fields.

Please share a bit about your family life and/or what you enjoy doing in your free time?

I have been married for more than 25 years. We have two daughters. One is a junior in High School and the other is a junior at UMass majoring in Horticultural Science. Our family enjoys our annual summer vacation to Maine and spending time with other family members. Some of my special interests are watching sporting events, hiking, snowshoeing, woodworking, and carpentry projects. •

Spring 2024 • New England BLADE • 13

COLUMN: SYNTHETIC TURF

Navigating the Complexity of Running Track Care

By Arthur Eddy, ASLA, LEED AP

M

aintaining a running track is a multifaceted responsibility that demands collaboration between facility directors and professional maintenance teams. Among the various aspects that demand attention: the maintenance of trench drains; the mitigation of slipping hazards caused by soil, debris, and mold/algae build-up that frees draining surfaces to eliminate long-term damage; and identifying and expediting repairs are critical components in ensuring the longevity and safety of running tracks. Both facility directors and professional maintenance teams play distinct yet complementary roles in addressing these issues.

Facility directors, as overseers of athletic facilities, are tasked with the strategic planning and coordination of track maintenance efforts. Their role encompasses setting budgets, scheduling maintenance activities and ensuring that the overall maintenance strategy aligns with the facility’s goals. Due to the constant impact of athletes’ footsteps, exposure to varying weather conditions, and general usage, wear and tear on a running track is inevitable. Recognizing the significance of regular inspections and maintenance strategies is essential for maintaining the track’s integrity and preventing minor issues from escalating into major problems.

Recognizing the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance of running tracks is paramount.

14 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

Trench drains, strategically positioned at the edges of running tracks, play a crucial role in managing water drainage. Over time, these drains can become clogged with debris, hindering their effectiveness and potentially causing water stagnation. This compromises the track’s structural integrity and creates a slipping hazard for athletes. Recognizing the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance of trench drains is paramount for both facility directors and professional maintenance teams. Professional maintenance teams, armed with specialized tools and expertise, play a central role in the physical clearing of trench drains.

Utilizing high-pressure washers these teams ensure that debris is efficiently removed, allowing for unobstructed water drainage.

Addressing slipping hazards goes beyond just cleaning trench drains. Both facility directors and professional maintenance teams must be vigilant in identifying and rectifying factors contributing to slippery surfaces. This includes the appropriate elimination of mold or algae growth on the track surface. Regular inspections by both parties are crucial for spotting early signs of wear or damage that could compromise the track’s integrity and increase the risk of slips.

Professional maintenance teams bring a wealth of expertise and hands-on experience to the table. They specialize in the detailed tasks required for effective track maintenance, such as dirt and debris removal, cleaning trench drains, and identifying potential issues with the track surface. These teams often utilize specialized equipment, including high-powered sweepers and vacuums to perform thorough and efficient maintenance.

Additionally, neglecting necessary repairs can lead to more extensive and costly damage over time. What might start as a small crack or a minor issue can progress into a significant structural problem. Timely interventions not only save costs in the long run but also contribute to the sustainability of the facility, reducing the need for major renovations or replacements.

Facility directors should emphasize the importance of a proactive approach to repairs within the overall maintenance strategy. This involves establishing a systematic schedule for inspections, outlining clear protocols for reporting and addressing issues, and collaborating closely with professional maintenance teams to ensure that repairs are conducted with precision and efficiency.

In the collaborative effort between facility directors and professional maintenance teams, communication is key. Facility directors may leverage their oversight role to advocate for ongoing education and training for maintenance teams. Staying abreast of the latest advancements in track maintenance practices ensures that professional teams are well-equipped to handle evolving challenges, contributing to the sustained excellence of running tracks under their care.

In conclusion, trench drain maintenance, slipping hazard mitigation and repairs are integral aspects of running track maintenance, demanding collaboration between facility directors and professional maintenance teams. By recognizing the unique roles each party plays and fostering open communication, a comprehensive and effective maintenance strategy can be implemented. This ensures that running tracks not only meet the highest standards of safety, but eliminate small problems from turning into larger ones while providing athletes with a reliable and secure surface for training and competition. •

Arthur Eddy is CEO of RePlay Maintenance in Rumford, Rhode Island. Connect with Art at Aeddy@replaymaintenance.com or (877) 641-1819.

Photos courtesy of the author.

Track drains play a crucial role in managing water damage.

Spring 2024 • New England BLADE • 15

FEATURE

Case Study:

Robotic Field Painting

By Brendon Connor, Superintendent of Grounds, College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, MA

Introduction Holy Cross is a D1 liberal arts school in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Our athletic field crew is expected to deliver high quality fields that are safe and top quality for all game, practice, and intramural activities. With increased field use, budget constraints, a reduced skilled labor pool, and increased responsibility on our campus property, demands on our daily maintenance tasks have grown steadily.

We invested in a robotic field painter as a means to both save on labor costs and improve the quality of our lines. We now use the robot on all our fields and have seen a massive time and labor cost savings.

Site Conditions • Seven- and one-half acres of varsity game fields.

• Seven acres of practice fields.

Problems • Continual increase in the costs of labor and materials to maintain the athletic fields.

• Steady expansion of responsibilities; employees’ time is limited.

• Prior to painting a field, the time dedicated for the initial layout on any of our game or practice fields has been one of our biggest labor costs, requiring 2–3 employees. Expectations for perfectly painted lines are very high; it takes time to make sure we get it right.

Goals • Reduce labor related to lining out and painting fields.

• Increase time available for other maintenance tasks.

• Achieve consistent precision in field quality and appearance.

Steps Taken

The robotic field painter at work at College of the Holy Cross.

16 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

• First, I completed an audit of total inputs for the layout and painting of a field. This analysis helped us prove to administration that a robotic painter was worth the investment.

We considered several autonomous-type paint machines and selected the model that best met our needs.

• We have a four-year lease, which costs about $10,000. Buying the machine was cost-prohibitive (about $40,000), and we expect the technology to improve over time, so it was more practical to lease. The lease comes with an excellent service program.

• Once we received the machine, we spent some time on each field becoming familiar with programming and completed the initial set ups. The program is very user-friendly and easy to use. Once the machine is programmed with the correct dimensions, the same set up can be reused in subsequent years.

• While the robot is painting, one person is required to be onsite to oversee the machine. Although the employee cannot walk away from the machine while it is in operation, it is possible to multi-task small jobs in and around the field.

TIRED OF PAINTING SPORTS FIELDS?

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AUTONOMOUS SPORTS FIELD LINE PAINTERS

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FEATURE • continued

Results • During the first full year of using the paint machine, we saved about 100–200-man hours. For example, it takes roughly half the time to paint the soccer field, with only one employee needed to oversee the machine. Paint use is about the same.

• We saw the greatest time-savings on the football field because there are so many different lines to paint. The return on that field was extensive—about 40-man hours, over the course of the first initial set up and complete painting of the field.

• With the time saved, we now have employees available to do other tasks, which has been of enormous benefit to our crew.

• The quality of the lines has significantly improved. The robot paints perfect lines each and every time without any human error.

• We have also found other ways that the machine helps us complete responsibilities. We can locate irrigation heads, mark out edges of baseball and softball fields for accurate infield skin and warning track dimensions, as well as efficiently line the football stadium for graduation and baccalaureate mass seating and stage setup. Labor for graduation setup used to require 100- man hours; the robot can complete that setup in four hours.

What We Learned • The machine is limited to an 8–10 hour day of painting; the transponder battery cannot be swapped out.

• If the battery in the robot or transponder is exhausted, the machine will paint erratic lines or stop completely. If the machine has a clogged nozzle, it will continue to try to paint, which requires the operator to manually stop the machine, unclog the nozzle, and restart the line.

• The machine also does not seem to function properly in cold temperatures (near freezing). When cold, it has difficulty painting straight lines, which may be due to the type of oil in the drive motors. Keeping the machine warm is important.

Conclusion Over the course of the first full year with the robotic paint machine, we have dramatically reduced our labor costs related to field layout and painting. We increased our efficiency as a crew and improved the quality of the product we present for our student athletes and campus community. •

Funds to support the creation of NESTMA’s Best Management Practices for the New England Sports Field Manager, including this case study, were provided by the New England Regional Turfgrass Foundation. All photos courtesy of the author.

18 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

The robotic field painter at work at College of the Holy Cross.

The quality of the painted lines is exceptional.

W

FEATURE

Improving Turfgrass Sustainability with Better Genetics

By Kyley Dickson, Ph.D.

Standard Variety

20 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

hen it comes time to reseed or renovate an area in the fall or spring, selecting the most suitable grass variety can be a challenging task. Over the years, plant breeders and seed companies have made significant advancements in enhancing their grasses through plant breeding.

These improvements include developing grasses with resistance or increased tolerance to specific diseases, better drought tolerance, and an enhanced ability to withstand extreme climatic conditions. However, verifying these claims is crucial. To address this, various research programs conduct tests on new turfgrass varieties under different conditions, comparing them with standard grasses that have been used for many years.

Research programs are essential in identifying new varieties of turfgrasses that stand out as premium performers and discovering how much they have improved. For instance, Kentucky 31 tall fescue, which was identified in Kentucky in 1931, is still available for purchase at most stores that sell grass seed today. The improvements in technology have increased efficiency and overall performance of turfgrasses, just like how cars have evolved from 1931 to today. Plant breeders make major improvements every year, with many of these new varieties being more efficient with fewer inputs and more adapted to difficult environments. Breeders look at several variables such as plant density, color, leaf thickness, disease resistance, drought tolerance, and traffic tolerance to improve turfgrasses.

Improved Variety

FEATURE • continued

The National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) is a renowned turfgrass research program that has gained global recognition. It has expanded to evaluate seventeen turfgrass species across forty U.S. states and six Canadian provinces.

The program collects and summarizes data on various aspects of turfgrass, including quality, color, density, resistance to diseases and insects, and tolerance to heat, cold, drought, and traffic. NTEP’s findings are used by plant breeders, researchers, extension personnel, local and state government entities, growers, and consumers worldwide. The program has become the standard for turfgrass evaluation in the United States and many other countries.

and TWCA conduct research trials at universities across the U.S. to evaluate grasses. Currently, these trials are limited to cool season grasses.

The Alliance for Low Input Sustainable Turf (A-LIST) is a national non-profit organization that aims to assist turfgrass managers and grass growers in achieving sustainable plant growth.

The organization comprises universities and industry companies that work together to test, identify, and promote grass varieties that combine high turf quality with low-input performance.

These varieties are designed to reduce water, chemical, and fertility requirements. The A-LIST provides information on certified, high-quality turf that is verified through transparent protocols and independently tested. The A-LIST focuses on varieties respond to reduced inputs such as water, fungicides, insecticides, herbicides, and fertility. To become A-LIST approved, grasses must be in the top statistical grouping at multiple locations over multiple years.

NTEP Search

The NTEP trials are carried out over a consecutive five-year period at various research universities across the nation.

The researchers monitor the quality of each variety, recording monthly results. At the end of each year, they publish an updated report on the trials. The NTEP data is a valuable resource that can help determine grass varieties that are ideal for low maintenance, traffic tolerance, and overall quality.

This is due to the wide range of trials conducted by the program. The data is freely accessible to everyone on NTEP.org.

Additionally, the NTEP has introduced a new search tool that allows users to identify different grasses based on species, location, or variety. You can also scan the QR code provided to visit the NTEP website directly.

It’s important to note that while the data is available online, there are no certifications or approval of varieties from the NTEP. The information solely reflects how well a particular grass variety performed in the trials. Nevertheless, this resource is highly beneficial when selecting turfgrass varieties. Next time you purchase a seed bag, take a moment to examine the tag and review how the grasses fared in the NTEP trials. Opting for a variety that performed well in your area according to NTEP results will likely yield superior results. Keep in mind that certain varieties may thrive better in specific regions of the country compared to others. Therefore, it’s advisable to consider the locations of the tests and select a variety that closely represents your area.

There are organizations that offer approved varieties or certifications. Two such organizations are the Alliance for Low Input Sustainable Turf (A-LIST) and the Turfgrass Water Conservation Alliance (TWCA). Similar to the NTEP, both the A-LIST

22 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

A-List Approved Varieties

The Turfgrass Water Conservation Alliance (TWCA) is a nonprofit organization committed to water conservation and dedicated to preserving the ecological benefits of turfgrass in the managed environment. The organization believes that by improving the plant materials available, they can reduce the water needs of the managed environment while preserving the vital ecological services provided by green space. The TWCA provides independent transparent analysis of objective data, which anchors their peer-reviewed qualification process. The TWCA program assesses drought tolerance of grasses using rainout shelters to simulate drought conditions and measure their resilience.

TWCA Approved Varieties

2023

7,178 Visits on The Turf Zone website in 2023 !

4 Million Social Media Impressions in 2023 !

13.29k

Page visits on The Turf Zone website in 2023 !

105

14

State coverage east of the Mississippi !

Podcasts produced in 2023 featuring timely topics for those on the go!

41

Digital and print state turf magazines published in 2023!

1 3 6 ,1 5 9 Digital Publication Impressions in 2023 !

23,307 Total Digital Publication Reads

FEATURE • continued

The research funded from these organizations instills confidence that the grasses possess the improved traits claimed by the respective organizations. Both programs indicate their approval by displaying their logos on seed tags located on each bag. Currently, there are only approvals for seed for cool-season grasses.

These programs have resulted in greater breeding efforts that has resulted in the traits each of these organizations are focused on. The work these organizations have done to improve areas of breeding that have not always been the highest priority is tremendous. Both organizations are formed from groups of seed companies that saw a need and have funded research to further breeding in each area and decided to make it happen. For a comprehensive list of approved varieties, please refer to each organization’s websites https://a-listturf.org or https://www. tgwca.org, or scan the QR codes.

list of reduced input of tall fescue varieties and table 2 is for Kentucky bluegrass. These tables show either A-LIST or TWCA varieties that did well in Tennessee’s NTEP and all the NTEP trials overall that grass species overall. These varieties would be the top five varieties for use in New England due to their superior performance in research trials for both low input and high input situations. All the grass varieties in both lists should have superior performance in these conditions and can survive in more stressful conditions than traditional standard varieties.

Not all grasses are great in all circumstances, sticking with the car analogy you would not use a small car to try and pull a semitrailer, as with grasses some are adapted for certain uses better than others. Keep in mind that even the most adapted grasses can still die and do poorly if the conditions for growth become too harsh.

Using grass varieties that require lower inputs is better for the environment. These varieties are more sustainable because they need less water, or fertilizer, or pesticides to thrive. By reducing the use of these inputs, we can minimize the environmental impact and promote a healthier ecosystem. These new varieties require fewer chemical treatments and less water, making them more environmentally friendly. Additionally, they can help conserve water resources and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers.

Rutgers University trial sites and the University of Connecticut. To explain the table there is an X by each area that a grass was the top statistical category for that area. The columns show if they are A-LIST approved. Additionally, there is a column indicating they were in the top statistical performer for the NTEP traffic trial, this indicates that the varieties had superior traffic tolerance good for high use areas. Additionally, the top statistical category for the NTEP trial in Northeast, this helps to see how these varieties would do in an area with similar growing conditions throughout the Northeast. The last column is when all the NTEP locations for that trial are taken and averaged, these grasses were in the top performers for the trial overall.

If you think, “It’s great that they have these approvals for low inputs and water reduction, but how did they do in our area?”

Well for those who live in New England, table 1 is a top ten

TABLE 1. Top Five Tall Fescue Reduced Input Varieties for New England

Variety

Company

ALIST Approved

NTEP Traffic

NTEP Knoxville

NTEP Overall

Regenerate

Landmark Seed Company

X

X

X

X

SuperSonic

Mountain View Seeds

X

X

X

X

Xanadu (JT-268)

Barenbrug

X

X

X

Bonfire (JS DTT)

Barenbrug

X

X

X

Reflection

Landmark Seed Company

X

X

X

24 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

X

One of the limitations of the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) is that many of the varieties it tests are not commercially available or may never go into commercial production for various reasons. However, this article aims to provide tables of commercially available varieties that can be purchased today. These varieties can help improve management situations where inputs are limited or where you simply want a variety with improved genetics that offers optimum performance. However, locating these improved varieties can be challenging. I have included a list of companies that currently sell these products in the tables. It is important to note that these higher-end products are typically not available at big-box stores; instead, they can be found at landscape supply stores, distributors, or sod farms.

It is important to note that grass varieties that thrive in one region may not perform well in another. Therefore, it is advisable to look at the NTEP data for your specific area. The NTEP provides valuable information about grass varieties that excel in different regions. For instance, certain varieties may flourish in Utah but struggle in Tennessee. By selecting the right variety for your area, you can optimize your turfgrass management and achieve better results.

Grass breeding efforts have significantly contributed to improving sustainability and adaptability. Universities such as Rutgers, Oklahoma State University, University of Georgia at Tifton, Texas A&M University, University of Florida, Mississippi State University, and North Carolina State University,

along with seed companies, have made remarkable progress in breeding grass varieties with improved genetics. These varieties listed in the tables are more resistant to pests, diseases, and drought. They require fewer chemical treatments and less water, making them more environmentally friendly. By leveraging these advancements in grass breeding, you can enhance your turfgrass management situation and contribute to a greener and healthier environment.

In a world where resources are becoming increasingly scarce, it is crucial to choose grasses that are well-suited to their environment. This article presents an overview of some of the top cool season grasses to consider when making selections in New England. In the southern part of the state, cool season grasses may struggle to thrive, making warm season grasses a more viable option. Tennessee has seen great success with many warm season grasses, including Bermudagrass and Zoysia. The tables are specifically cool season grasses that are two commonly used grasses in Tennessee. The advancements in breeding in the last two decades show some amazing improvements in a short period of time. When renovating or reseeding an area this fall, consider opting for seeds with improved genetics. Doing so will result in better turf quality and contribute to a healthier environment overall. If you are unsure whether to choose cool or warm season grasses, consult with a University of Tennessee County Extension agent for guidance. • Reprinted with permission from the Tennessee Turfgrass Association.

TABLE 2. Top Five Reduced Input Kentucky Bluegrass Varieties for New England

Variety

Company

ALIST Approved

NTEP Traffic

NTEP Knoxville

NTEP Overall

fBlue Note

Mountain View Seeds

X

X

X

X

Bluebank

Landmark Seed Company

X

X

X

X

Barserati

Barenbrug

X

X

X

X

NuRush

Barenbrug

X

X

X

Syrah

Lebanon Turf

X

X

X

Spring 2024 • New England BLADE • 25

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Taking a Team Approach to Leadership

By Neal Glatt, CSP, ASM

A

re you feeling tired lately? Perhaps the thought of another season just seems to weigh heavier this year than the past few years? It’s a common feeling right now. With all the pressures we must face as sport field managers, from the weather to the economy to the job market to the supply chain, it seems like change is the only constant in a world that is becoming more uncertain every day. Fortunately, we don’t have to navigate it alone.

This feeling of being depleted or exhausted often arises from workplace stress that hasn’t been successfully managed. For leaders, the issue isn’t necessarily that there is too much workplace stress, but rather that they often try to manage all the stresses themselves. It’s almost like the more they try to do, the worse the problem gets.

Some leaders have said, “It’s lonely at the top.” This sentiment is a self-created mistake, and certainly not the best way to lead. Great leaders understand that by building real connections with their people, they foster trust, loyalty, and development that helps the whole organization thrive in difficult situations. They create a team environment where everyone can say that they have a “best friend at work” and engagement peaks.

When a whole team is united and shares a common set of values by which to make decisions, it becomes much easier for leaders to trust others with leadership initiatives. Instead of driving each change, process, or idea themselves, leaders can feel free to allow other team members drive initiatives. Sharing the load allows everyone to better manage the workplace stress and work can become enjoyable again.

What’s more, the best leaders will recognize the individual strengths that their team members contribute and often discover that delegating responsibility for driving initiatives doesn’t only free up time and energy but has the potential to deliver better results as well. There are usually only a few things that we can do great in life, so partnering with those who have complementary talents allows our teams to reach new heights with a better range of competencies.

Have you allowed those around you to realize their potential by driving important initiatives? Or are you still trying to muster the energy to shoulder the entire load yourself? Let’s make this season our best yet by empowering those around us to shine and become refreshed by working as a member of a true team. •

Neal Glatt is Managing Partner of GrowTheBench.com, an online training platform for the green industry.

Connect with Neal at NealGlatt@gmail.com.

26 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Atlantic Golf and Turf.............................3 rick@atlanticgolfandturf.com

Greene County Fertilizer Co... ................11

4 Million +

Annual Social Media Impressions x.com/theturfzone Over 17,000+ Impressions for Top News Post for 2023

https://x.com/TheTurfZone/status/1667634993198424064

www.greenecountyfert.com

Harrell’s LLC................ Inside Front Cover www.harrells.com

Kesmac.. ..................................Back Cover www.brouwerkesmac.com

Phyllom BioProducts............................19 www.phyllombioproducts.com

Progressive Turf Equipment Inc............27 www.progressiveturfequip.com

Read Custom Soils. . ..............................21 www.readcustomsoils.com

Replay Maintenance USA. . ......................7 www.replaymaintenanceusa.com

Over 12,800+ Impressions for Top Sponsored Post for 2023

https://x.com/TheTurfZone/status/1665765350829424643

Contact us today to learn about effective and unique TurfZone marketing strategies that target turf industry professionals.

Slater Farms, LLC. . ..................................9 www.slaternaturalfarms.com

Smith Seed Services.............................11 www.smithseed.com

The Aquatrols Company. . ........................5 www.aquatrols.com

The Charles Hart Seed Company.............9 www.hartseed.com

The Turf Zone................................. 23, 27 www.theturfzone.com

sales@leadingedgecommunications.com 888–707-7141

Turf Robotics. . ......................................17 www.turfroboticsllc.com

Spring 2024 • New England BLADE • 27