Fall 2019 • Vol. 8/No. 4
GOING NATURAL
on Pennsylvania Golf Courses STMA Offers Education for Every Career Stage
Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council P.O. Box 99 Boalsburg, PA 16827-0550 Phone: (814) 237-0767 Fax: (814) 414-3303 info@paturf.org www.paturf.org
Vol. 8 / No. 4 • Fall 2019
6
Publisher: Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge St. • Franklin, TN 37064 Phone: (615) 790-3718 Fax: (615) 794-4524 info@leadingedge communications.com Pennsylvania Turfgrass Editor John Kaminski, Ph.D. Penn State • jek156@psu.edu Pennsylvania Turfgrass Associate Editors Maria Landschoot maria.landschoot3@gmail.com Heather Welch Penn State • hgw1@psu.edu President Chase Rogan GCSAA Field Staff • Mid-Atlantic Region Allison Park, PA (614) 241-3037 Vice President Tom Fisher Wildwood Golf Club • Allison Park, PA (412) 518-8384 Secretary-Treasurer Rick Catalogna Walker Supply, Inc. (412) 897-0480 Past President Pete Ramsey Messiah College • Mechanicsburg, PA (717) 577-5401
14
Directors Tom Bettle Penn State University
Features
Departments
6 Cover Story
4 President’s Update
Dan Douglas Reading Fightin Phils
4 Calendar of Events
Elliott Dowling USGA Agronomist, Northeast Region
5 Advertiser Index
Nick Huttie Muhlenberg College
11 Penn State Turf Team
Shawn Kister Longwood Gardens
Going Natural on Pennsylvania Golf Courses
12 Between the Lines STMA Offers Education for Every Career Stage
14 Penn State News
Tanner Delvalle Penn State University
Tim Wilk Scotch Valley Country Club Matt Wolf Penn State University
2 Pennsylvania Turfgrass • Fall 2019
HERE WE
GROW AGAIN With over 90 years’ experience, you can depend on fifth-generation, family owned Fisher & Son Company to provide you with the tools and expertise to exceed your turf and horticulture expectations.
Let’s Talk. 800-262-2127 THE PREMIER CHOICE OF GOLF, LAWNCARE, LANDSCAPE AND SPORTS TURF MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONALS.
FisherandSon.com
President’s Update
LEADERSHIP through RELATIONSHIP
L
earning how to be a better leader or communicator has always been sort of an abstract concept to me. Maybe it’s because my mind tends to think more scientifically — for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. If you Google “how to be a better leader,” the first result is “start by understanding your leadership style.” How? What are the different styles? How do I identify my personal style? It almost leads to more questions. Keep scrolling down the list and you will find “encourage creativity, serve as a role model, be passionate.” It just seems so, I don’t know, wishy-washy. I’ve listened to leadership seminars and read leadership books (ok, maybe only one). I’ve tried. But my grasp on this concept remains tenuous. Some say that leadership is a quality that you either “have or you don’t,” but I don’t really believe that. Regardless of what is said in any books, podcasts, motivational speeches, or webinars, I’ve decided the best type of leadership that suits me is leadership through relationships. I believe that all humans desire relationships. If we think about our deepest relationships in life — a spouse, a child, a sibling, a parent, a good friend, or a higher being — we would likely do almost anything for them. We will do everything within our control to serve that person, to keep them safe, to make them feel appreciated and vice versa. When we have relationship with one another, we are invested in each other’s life and well-being. So, I believe that if we work to cultivate meaningful relationships with people who may work with/for us, they will likely follow the lead because they know we are invested in their well-being. Sure, building meaningful relationships is not easy. Maybe someone is shy or quiet. Maybe we have conflicting world views. Maybe there is just too much of an age difference for that LAZY millennial (sorry, had to go there... P.S. I am a millennial) to really understand our perspective. But have we REALLY tried to understand their perspective? Have we been persistent in our pursuit to get that quiet person to open up? Of course, some relationships are very natural and develop more rapidly than others. After all, there is a reason why we have all heard the saying that “marriage takes work.” And I think any reader who is married can attest that this statement is true. This saying refers to a relationship that is based on deep affection, deep love, deep connection, and years of cultivation. If that relationship takes work, then why would any working relationship be any different?
4 Pennsylvania Turfgrass • Fall 2019
I want to encourage everyone to take time to truly invest in building relationships with those around you, particularly within your working environments, and especially if you are in a position of leadership. In my opinion, no difference is too much to overcome. If we all really try, and look for the best in those around us, I bet we probably have more in common than we realize. But it takes time and intentional work to cultivate and deepen relationships over time. However, if we invest the required energy to build these relationships, I believe we can become better leaders, no matter how abstract the concept may seem. Yours truly,
Chase Rogan, PTC President
Calendar of Events
November 19–21, 2019
Penn State Golf Turf Conference Nittany Lion Inn State College, PA
January 24, 2020
Eastern Pennsylvania Golf, Lawn, Landscape and Sports Turf Conference and Trade Show Shady Maple Conference Center East Earl, PA
February 6, 2020
Northeastern Pennsylvania Turf Conference and Trade Show (NETS) The Woodlands Inn and Resort Wilkes-Barre, PA
February 26, 2020
Western Pennsylvania Golf, Landscape and Sports Turf Conference The Doubletree by Hilton Pittsburgh-Cranberry Mars, PA
Advertiser Index
Aer-Core, Inc............................................ 15 www.aer-core.com
Beam Clay............................................... 13 www.BEAMCLAY.com • www.PARTAC.com
Native grass & wildflower seed
Coombs Sod Farms.................................. 5 www.coombsfarms.com
Covermaster, Inc....................................... 8 www.covermaster.com
CoverSports USA...................................... 9 www.coversports.com
East Coast Sod & Seed.......................... 11 www.eastcoastsod.com
Ernst Conservation Seeds........................ 5 www.ernstseed.com
Fisher & Son Company, Inc...................... 3 www.fisherandson.com
FM Brown’s & Sons................................. 13 www.fmbrown.com
George E. Ley Co.................................... 11
ernstseed.com
Leading Edge Communications............. 15
sales@ernstseed.com 800-873-3321
www.gelcogolf.com
www.LeadingEdgeCommunications.com
Progressive Turf Equipment Inc............. 10 www.progressiveturfequip.com
Quest Products Corp............... Back Cover www.questproducts.us
Seedway.................................................. 13 www.seedway.com
Shreiner Tree Care................................... 11 www.shreinertreecare.com
Smith Seed Services................................. 5 www.smithseed.com
Tomlinson Bomberger............................. 11 www.mytombom.com
The Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council (PTC) serves its members in the industry through education, promotion and representation. The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, its staff, or its board of directors, Pennsylvania Turfgrass, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or PTC members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this publication. Copyright © 2019 by the Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council. Pennsylvania Turfgrass, is published quarterly. Subscriptions are complimentary to PTC members. Presorted standard postage is paid at Jefferson City, MO. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: Pennsylvania Turfgrass, allows reprinting of material published here. Permission requests should be directed to the PTC. We are not responsible for unsolicited freelance manuscripts and photographs. Contact the managing editor for contribution information. Advertising: For display and classified advertising rates and insertions, please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge St., Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524. Fall 2019 • Pennsylvania Turfgrass
5
Going Natural on Pennsylvania Golf Courses
Cover Story
By Pete Landschoot, Ph.D., Professor of Turfgrass Science, Penn State University
The
trend of establishing infrequently mowed grass stands, often referred to as naturalized grass stands or native areas, on Pennsylvania golf courses has been steadily growing over the last two decades. Some reasons for this relate to aesthetics and design, whereas others center on reducing labor and conserving resources. At certain times of the growing season, the brown wispy seedheads of non-mowed grasses impart a natural look to the course, reminiscent of the classic links courses in coastal areas of the British Isles. Naturalized grass stands can also serve as hazards, offering challenges for golfers and penalties for errant shots (Figure 1). From the manager’s point of view, naturalized grass stands serve the practical purpose of reducing costs associated with water, fertilizer, fungicides and mowing. With budget reductions and labor shortages plaguing golf course operations across Pennsylvania and the U.S., it is no wonder that more areas are going “natural” on golf course properties. On the flip side, naturalized grass stands can be a headache for golf course managers. These areas often become infested with weeds, insects, and burrowing animals. Because of the nutrient-rich mineral soils throughout much of Pennsylvania, perennial grasses grow rapidly and stands can become extremely dense. Hence, mowing, thinning, and removal of stem and leaf debris may be needed to keep naturalized grass stands in good condition. Mowing and thinning operations often require specialized equipment, adding capital expenses to budgets of some golf course operations. The next few paragraphs provide a brief overview of the species, placement, mowing regimes, and weed problems of naturalized grass stands on Pennsylvania golf courses.
Species selection and establishment
In the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the U.S., the fine fescues and tall fescue are the most persistent and aesthetically acceptable grass species for naturalized areas on golf courses. Of the fine fescues, hard, sheep and Chewings are most popular in mixtures used for establishing naturalized stands. Although creeping red fescue performs well in most regions of Pennsylvania and is an excellent grass for weed suppression, it tends to become very dense and not conducive for finding or striking golf balls. Although creeping red fescue is present in some fine fescue mixtures, it is usually less than 40% by weight. By itself, creeping red fescue is best placed in areas furthest from active play. Hard and sheep fescues are relatively heat, drought, and shade tolerant when grown in non-mowed stands. Foliage of hard fescue is typically dark green, whereas sheep fescue foliage has a blue-green hue. Hard and sheep fescues are somewhat slower to establish than Chewings and creeping 6 Pennsylvania Turfgrass • Fall 2019
red fescue. However, they can make vigorous, and sometimes excessive, growth in fertile soils. Although hard fescue performs well in Southeastern Pennsylvania, trials in central Pennsylvania have shown occasional thinning and decline of some hard fescue cultivars in early spring following late fall mowing and cold winter temperatures (Figure 2). Chewings fescue cultivars have lighter green foliage than hard fescue and produce attractive light brown seedheads. This species grows well in most areas of Pennsylvania and is a common component of seed mixtures for naturalized grass stands (typically between 20 and 40% by weight). Mixing other grass species with fine fescues in naturalized grass stands is generally discouraged; however, one species native to North America, little bluestem, has performed quite well in our trials when mixed with fine fescue at low seeding rates. Tall fescue is less popular as a species for naturalized grass stands due to its coarse texture and the fact that golfers find it difficult to play from when dominant in non-mowed stands. However, it is persistent, heat and drought tolerant, and competitive with invasive weeds. This species also produces aesthetically pleasing seedheads when viewed from a distance (Figure 3). Although there are different ways of establishing fine fescues, we have had the most success when the entire site is treated with glyphosate, core aerated, and sliced prior to slit or broadcast seeding. Establishment from seed is generally more successful when performed in late summer versus spring, as there is less competition from weeds and the grass has two cool growing seasons to become established before being subjected to summer heat and drought stress. Seeding rates of fine fescues vary, but our research trials show that 4 lb./1000 sq. ft. provides a vigorous stand that is competitive with weeds. Starter fertilizer will help speed establishment, but once grass covers the soil surface, fertilization should be curtailed. Some golf course renovation projects have used fine fescue sod as a means of establishing naturalized grass areas. Although more expensive than seeding, this method offers the advantage of establishing fine fescue quickly with little to no weed competition.
Location
Location is a key consideration in using naturalized grass stands on golf courses. Non-mowed grasses located near irrigation heads will often lodge due to water accumulation on seedheads and become unsightly. Areas with tall grasses too close to fairways and greens are subject to lost balls and difficulty in striking the ball accurately, thus slowing play. Fine fescues are not particularly wear-tolerant and should be kept away from areas with high cart and foot traffic. To avoid these
Non-mowed fine fescue on the Ailsa Course at Turnberry; a classic links course built in sandy soils on the southwest coast of Scotland.
FIGURE
FIGURE
Stand of ‘Marco Polo’ sheep fescue in a partially shaded wooded area.
Non-mowed stand of tall fescue on a golf course in Western Pennsylvania.
FIGURE
FIGURE
The 10th hole at the Club at Nevillewood in Pittsburgh, demonstrating ideal placement of naturized stands of fine fescues near tees and behind fairway bunkers, well away from primary landing areas.
Lodging of fine fescue naturalized area following heavy rains in July.
FIGURE
FIGURE
Plants like milkweed and aster can add diversity and color to naturalized grass stands.
1
3
5
issues, naturalized grass stands are usually kept away from irrigation heads and in out-of-play areas behind bunkers and primary rough (Figure 4). Other areas that are a good fit for naturalized grass stands include steep banks that are difficult to mow, low-traffic areas around tees, near wooded areas, buffer strips along ditches and stream banks, soil mounds serving as barriers between the golf course and roads or houses, and in large swaths of open land not in play. Features such as stone walls and split-rail fences can be enhanced by careful placement of non-mowed fine fescues. Areas of the course with poorly drained soil and/or that remain wet for long periods can be good candidates for naturalized areas but may require species that are better adapted to these conditions than fine fescues. Areas intended to attract birds and other wildlife may be better left to more diverse plantings, including some shrubs and small trees that provide cover and food.
2
4
6
Mowing
Periodic mowing can improve aesthetics of naturalized grass stands, suppress certain weed species, as well as help with thinning. To keep naturalized areas in grass and reduce encroachment of trees and shrubs, the areas must be mowed at least once per year. Many, if not most naturalized grass stands in Pennsylvania are mowed only once per year in late fall. Golf course operations with adequate labor and equipment may mow two or three times per year. The number and timing of mowing varies depending on the experience of the manager and the effect desired, but early-mid spring, after seedheads dissipate in late summer, and when the golfing season ends in fall are most popular. Mowing after lodging occurs following heavy summer rainstorms can improve the appearance of the stand and prevent smothering of tillers beneath the fallen stems (Figure 5). Mowing of tall grass plants requires specialized mowers and attachments, as well as equipment for removal of stem Fall 2019 • Pennsylvania Turfgrass
7
Cover Story • continued
and leaf debris. Mowing equipment used on golf courses in Pennsylvania include adjustable height rotary mower decks attached to Ventrac or Steiner tractors, flail mowers, and in some cases, hay cutting equipment rented or borrowed from local farmers. When mowing does occur, cutting heights should be about 4–6 inches. Collecting and removing cut stem and leaf material makes for a neat appearance of the stand and reduces smothering of new shoots emerging in spring. Units that can pickup, collect, and dump leaf and stem material, such as the Wiedenmann Super 500, are the most efficient means of removing debris from naturalized grass areas. On steep slopes, collection of leaf and stem debris may have to be done by hand.
Weed management considerations
Perhaps the most challenging aspect of managing naturalized grass stands is keeping weed populations to an acceptable level. Encroachment of different plant species is part of the natural succession of a non-mowed grass stand, and keeping all invaders out is unrealistic. In fact, some golf course managers let nature take its course in these areas and don’t devote a lot of effort to controlling weeds. Many other managers attempt to control some of the most invasive and objectionable weed species in non-mowed grass stands.
8 Pennsylvania Turfgrass • Fall 2019
Deciding which species should be controlled or suppressed, and which species can be left alone depends on the expectations of golfers and judgement of the manager. Some weeds, such as milkweed, butterfly weed, aster, and Queen Anne’s lace are desirable when present in small populations, as they enhance the appearance of the stand, attract pollinators and butterflies, but don’t interfere much with play. Other weeds, including Canada thistle, quackgrass, Japanese stiltgrass, nutsedge, and foxtail are more aggressive and can spread rapidly, taking over large portions of the stand. Thus, managers need to determine which weeds are problematic, and then decide what, if anything, to do about it. (Figure 6) Many annual grass and broadleaf weeds can be controlled or suppressed with preemergence herbicides. If no spring seeding will take place, products containing pendimethalin, dithiopyr, prodiamine, and other preemergence active ingredients can be used for control of crabgrass, goosegrass, and foxtail. Isoxaben (Gallery 75 DF) can be used for controlling some annual broadleaf weeds. Control of perennial grasses, sedges, and broadleaf weeds can be challenging in non-mowed fine fescue stands. If only a few single-stalk weeds are present, such as horseweed or Canada thistle, they can be removed by hand or with string trimmers. However, postemergence herbicides are usually more efficient for reducing extensive weed infestations.
TABLE 1: Mean seasonal quality, seedhead density, and seedhead height ratings for 18 fine fescue cultivars managed as a non-mowed naturalized grass stand. Cultivar
Species
Longfellow Intrigue 2 Wrigley 2 Fairmont Radar Lacrosse Treasure Cascade Chantilly Navigator II Epic Rosecity Aberdeen Shademaster III Sword Beacon Spartan II Gotham LSDǂ
Chewings Chewings Chewings Chewings Chewings Chewings Chewings Chewings Creeping red Creeping red Creeping red Creeping red Creeping red Creeping red Hard Hard Hard Hard
Mean seasonal quality§ (2014) 7.0 6.1 6.1 5.9 5.6 5.5 5.4 4.8 6.5 6.4 6.3 6.1 6.0 5.6 5.2 6.0 5.3 5.1 1.0
Mean seasonal quality (2015) 5.9 5.7 5.7 5.3 5.2 4.9 4.6 4.3 6.4 5.7 5.5 5.7 5.1 5.8 4.7 3.0 2.5 2.1 0.7
Seedhead density (2014) Medium Medium Low High High High High High Low Low Low Low High Low High High Medium Medium —
Seedhead height in inches (2014) 10 9 10 12 12 13 13 12 10 9 10 9 11 9 12 13 11 10 2
§
Quality ratings indicate the overall appearance of the turf and can incorporate several components including density, texture, uniformity, and freedom from disease and insect damage. Quality is rated using a scale of 1 to 9, where 9 = highest quality.
TABLE 2: Percentages of fine fescue species in some commercial seed mixtures for non-mowed naturalized grass stands. Name of mix
Fine fescue species
Low Maintenance Mixture
40% hard, 30% sheep, 30% Chewings
Low Maintenance
40% hard, 30% sheep, 30% Chewings
No Mow Ecology Mix BT
65% hard, 33% Chewings
No Mow
70% hard, 30% sheep
Lesco No Mow Fine Fescue
80% hard, 20% Chewings
ProScape Links/ Ecology Mix
40% Chewings, 40% creeping red, 20% hard
Purelinks
34% creeping red, 33% Chewings, 33% hard
Triumph Low-Gro Mixture
60% hard, 20% Chewings, 20% creeping red
Links
40% hard, 30% Chewings, 30% creeping red
Harrell’s Native Rough Mix
50% hard, 30% sheep, 15% Chewings, 5% little bluestem
Links Fescue Blend
25% hard, 25% sheep, 25% Chewings, 25% creeping red
ǂ
LSD = Least significant difference. Differences between two entries are statistically significant only if the LSD value, listed at the bottom of each column is exceeded by the numerical difference between two entries. For example, if cultivar ‘A’ is 1.0 unit higher in quality than cultivar ‘B’, then this difference is only significant if the LSD value is 1.0 or less.
Get ahead of the game in the cold months with FieldSaver® Winter Turf Blankets/Growth Covers. Custom sizes available. We are the manufacturer! Standard sizes ship fast, from Philadelphia!
Actual sequence in same location November: Season ended with less than 10% of turf cover.
December: After seeding and fertilizing, active turf growth even with temperatures below freezing.
• Protect turf from harsh winter conditions! • Promote faster spring growth and green-up! • 8 Year Limited Warranty
• Heavy 100% woven polypro fabric • Reinforced hems and grommets all edges • Stakes stay in place & won’t rip fabric
Spring: Covers have been removed. (Uncovered turf still dormant) Stakes keep covers in place in brass grommets at 5' intervals.
For price quotes, sizes, fabric specs and samples, visit www.CoverSports.com sales@coversports.com • 800-445-6680 We make covers for all athletic surfaces: Rain Covers, Sideline Tarps, Track Protectors
Fall 2019 • Pennsylvania Turfgrass
9
Cover Story • continued
Some postemergence herbicides will injure fine fescues, whereas others are relatively safe, so be sure to read product labels carefully for tolerant species before using in naturalized grass areas. Two postemergence grass herbicides that are effective in controlling annual and perennial grass weeds are fluazifopP-butyl (Fusilade II Turf & Ornamental Herbicide and Ornamec 170) and sethoxydim (Segment II and Sethoxydim SPC). Both herbicides are safe to use on fine fescues at labelspecified rates but differ somewhat in the species of weed grasses controlled. Caution should be used when applying these herbicides near native grasses, such as little bluestem and switchgrass. Yellow nutsedge can be controlled postemergence with one of several different herbicides that contain sulfentrazone (Dismiss, Dismiss NXT, Solitare, or Echelon 4SC), halosulfuron (Sedgehammer or Prosedge), or Imazosulfuron (Celero). Nutsedge herbicides are best applied in mid-June before tubers (nutlets) mature. Highly invasive broadleaf weeds can be controlled by one or more combinations of broadleaf herbicide active ingredients. One of the most tenacious and common broadleaf weeds, Canada thistle, can be controlled with postemergence applications of clopyralid-containing products such as Confront or Lontrel. Canada thistle has extensive rhizomes and is a
10 Pennsylvania Turfgrass • Fall 2019
prolific seed producer; thus, it has potential to produce new plants throughout the growing season. Follow-up herbicide applications are often needed for acceptable control of this weed species.
Summary
Naturalized grass stands can enhance the beauty of golf courses and create interest and challenges for golfers. Selection of fine fescue seed mixtures and seeding at the correct time of year are paramount in successful establishment. Non-mowed grass stands should be placed in areas that do not receive irrigation or fertilizer, and where play will not be slowed. Mowing should occur at least once per year, and possibly more frequently to suppress weeds, shrubs, and tree growth. Weed management is a significant challenge in maintaining naturalized grass areas, and managers should devise a plan for troublesome weeds and scrutinize herbicides labels for safety to fine fescues and efficacy on target weeds. 7 The author acknowledges the following individuals and organizations for providing assistance in research on naturalized grass areas: Shawn Kister, Longwood Gardens; Tom Bettle and Bill Meyers, J. Valentine Turfgrass Research Center; Matt Anasiewicz, Helena; Mark Leppert, Sunnehanna Country Club; Jeff Gregos, E.H. Griffith; and The Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council.
Steve Shreiner
Penn State Turf Team
Certified Arborist #0090
334 South Henderson Road King of Prussia, PA 19406
Jeffrey A. Borger Senior Instructor in Turfgrass Weed Management 814-865-3005 • jborger@psu.edu
610·527·3637 610·265·6004
Michael A. Fidanza, Ph.D. Professor of Plant & Soil Science 610-396-6330 • maf100@psu.edu
David R. Huff, Ph.D. Professor of Turfgrass Genetics 814-863-9805 • drh15@psu.edu
Brad Jakubowski Instructor of Plant Science 814-865-7118 • brj8@psu.edu
steve@shreinertreecare.com www.shreinertreecare.com
Digital MARKETPLACE Scan the QR code: Download your favorite QR reader to your phone and scan the code to learn more about these companies.
John E. Kaminski, Ph.D. Professor of Turfgrass Science 814-865-3007 • jek156@psu.edu www.gelcogolf.com
Peter J. Landschoot, Ph.D. Professor of Turfgrass Science 814-863-1017 • pjl1@psu.edu
• Irrigation Systems • Golf Course Alterations • Field Drainage
130 Devereux Road • Glenmoore, PA 19343 610-942-3809 • Fax: 610-942-9556 • Pump Stations • Vibratory Plowing • Pond Cleanout
• Trenching • Stream Bank Stabilization • Drainage on Existing Greens
Ben McGraw, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Turfgrass Entomology 814-865-1138 • bam53@psu.edu
Andrew S. McNitt, Ph.D. Professor of Soil Science 814-863-1368 • asm4@psu.edu
Max Schlossberg, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Turfgrass Nutrition / Soil Fertility 814-863-1015 • mjs38@psu.edu
Al J. Turgeon, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus of Turfgrass Management aturgeon@psu.edu
Wakar Uddin, Ph.D. Professor of Plant Pathology 814-863-4498 • wxu2@psu.edu Fall 2019 • Pennsylvania Turfgrass 11
Between the Lines
STMA OFFERS EDUCATION FOR EVERY CAREER STAGE
As
a sports field manager, where do you turn when you have a professional development question? We talked with Kristen Althouse, a graduate of Penn State’s Turfgrass Science program and Education Manager of the Sports Turf Managers Association. STMA is a great resource for members wishing to access educational programs that will support and advance their careers at every stage, she says. “One of the best parts of my job is interacting with our members. They are hard-working, dedicated people that are very serious about providing the best fields possible for users. If someone has a question, help is just a phone call away.”
Education Opportunities
As Education Manager, Althouse oversees many opportunities for professional growth: • The Annual STMA Conference, four days of educational seminars, hands-on workshops, networking opportunities, tours, and a trade show. The 2020 conference (#STMA2020) will be in West Palm Beach, Florida. • The Certified Sports Field Manager Program, developed by STMA to validate professional knowledge, skills, and abilities. To achieve this designation, an individual must qualify to take the CSFM exam by meeting a combination of requirements, including education and experience. CSFM certification can contribute to professional advancement. CSFMs must earn continuing education units to maintain their certification. • The Environmental Facility Certification Program, official confirmation that STMA environmental best practices are implemented throughout a facility in 10 areas of management (stormwater management, fertilization, pesticides/ Integrated Pest Management, recycling, composting, mowing, energy conservation, shop buildings and storage areas, irrigation and water quality testing, and educational outreach). • The Turfgrass Science Curriculum, developed to provide secondary students with a solid foundation in the science and practices of turfgrass management, and thus, a competitive edge in pursuing higher education or career options. This curriculum can easily be implemented into secondary agriculture education classrooms regardless of teacher experience. The format allows teachers to adjust the standards and benchmarks to meet the requirements of state Departments of Education. The curriculum can also be utilized for training individuals new to the turfgrass industry. Agriculture instructors, students, sports field crew members, parks and recreation employees, and others new to turfgrass science can all benefit from this curriculum.
Keystone Athletic Field Managers Organization 1451 Peter’s Mountain Road Dauphin, PA 17018-9504 www.KAFMO.org • Email: KAFMO@aol.com
12 Pennsylvania Turfgrass • Fall 2019
STMA education is widely recognized by other associations, including American Sports Builders Association (ASBA), National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS), and National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP). If someone is interested in a formal degree, they are directed to universities that offer degree and/or certificate programs.
Assessing Needs
Kristen Althouse relies on member feedback and committee input when assessing current educational needs. For example, the STMA Information Outreach Committee is fielding concerns about glyphosate and pesticide exposure, so Dr. Travis Gannon from NC State University has been asked to present a webinar series with factual information regarding pesticide exposure. The most frequent request Althouse encounters, however, is for professional development. While many STMA members are solid on turfgrass science and can easily manage a field, they feel the need for professional skills such as communication, decision-making, work/life balance, and employee management. Questions like: How can sports turf managers have input when supervisors are considering moving from natural to synthetic turf? How can sports turf managers most effectively communicate with coaches and parents to meet their demands or ease their fears? How can the older generation of sports turf managers relate with young millennials? These questions are addressed by providing a Professional Development track at the annual conference and in the STMA Institute to assist sports turf managers with these challenges.
Resources
There are many avenues for turfgrass management professionals to get support, says Althouse. STMA has 34 chapters throughout the U.S. that represent more than 6,000 sports turf industry professionals. They provide regionally-based education that includes field days, conferences, and social events. The STMA website also provides a lot of technical information for members. Articles, conference recordings, and webinars are all available in the STMA Institute to help sports turf managers address field and personnel issues. Members have access to Michigan State’s Turfgrass Information File (TGIF), a huge database of research, as well as professional and trade articles. SportsTurf magazine, STMA’s official publication, provides industry-specific education and various social media channels – Twitter (@FieldExperts),
Contact: Linda Kulp, Executive Secretary Phone: 717-497-4154 kulp1451@gmail.com
Contact: Dan Douglas, President Phone: 610-375-8469 x 212 KAFMO@aol.com
Instagram (fieldexperts), YouTube (STMA – Sports Turf Managers Association) and Facebook (STMA – Sports Turf Managers Association) – provide great places for people to connect with their peers and share information in a public forum. And of course, members can always contact Althouse directly by phone (800-323-3875) or email (kalthouse@stma.org).
The Future
When asked about her own career path, Althouse remembers working on a golf course in high school and enjoying it so much that she decided to pursue a degree in Turfgrass Science at Penn State. She developed an interest in the educational side of the industry and found that she also really enjoys working with high school and college students. “Organizing the annual Student Challenge at the STMA conference is really exciting. A few years ago we added a hands-on component to test student skills on something they might encounter in the field,” she recalls. “I’ll never forget the looks on their faces the first year we did it — they had to do irrigation assembly. I think the committee had more fun with that than the students!” Perhaps it was her own early experiences that have led Althouse to look beyond active professionals to younger generations. “As the future of our industry, it is important to support their growth.” She has made a strong push to reach high school students with the secondary turfgrass science curriculum she developed. In addition, she is working with FFA on a Career Development Event focusing specifically on turfgrass science and hopes to incorporate more turfgrass science topics into existing events. “STMA is a small association, but our members have a huge impact,” she says. With her attention to the up and coming generations, that impact is sure to continue. 7 Kristen Althouse
800-247-BEAM www.BEAMCLAY.com STATE APPROVED CO-OP PRICING
email: sales@beamclay.com
THE STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE FOR INFIELD MIXES, MOUND CLAYS & RED WARNING TRACKS OVER 5,000 INFIELD & SPORTS PRODUCTS
Fall 2019 • Pennsylvania Turfgrass 13
Penn State News
Douglas Apple, Tom Bettle and Samuel Lobaugh
Penn State Hosts High School Students Interested in Turf
On
Turf Students Receive PTC Scholarships
Friday May 17th, close to 50 students and their teachers from Brentsville High School visited the Penn State Turfgrass Program. Led by Drew Miller, instructor and creator of the school’s turfgrass curriculum, the students had a tour of the sports and research facilities at Penn State to expose them to options for continued education after high school. Thomas Goyne, Assistant Supervisor of Grounds, shared how the athletic fields at Penn State are maintained. Students tested some of the tools used to monitor fields to ensure players’ safety and asked questions about how the management varies for the different sports. Following the tour of Jeffrey Field, Matt Neri, Sports Turf Manager at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, took the students onto the field and inside his maintenance facility where he shared the intricacies of managing the baseball field that serves as the home for both a minor league and collegiate baseball team. The students, who traveled four hours from Northern Virginia, also visited the Valentine Turfgrass Research Facility and various research labs on campus. Grad students and faculty discussed their research on disease and weed management, sports field safety and drone technology to assess the health of golf course turf. “The industry needs good people right now and the fact that Brentsville has this many students interested in turfgrass is amazing,” said John Kaminski, Professor of Turfgrass Science. “As a faculty, we wanted to help out by showing them as many aspects of what we do as possible.” At the end of the busy day, the students learned about the educational programs at Penn State and had a Q&A period with Steven Craig, Superintendent at Centre Hills Country Club and Matt Wolf, Grounds Maintenance Supervisor at Penn State. Last but not least, students were treated to the world-famous Creamery ice cream and left with a nice “swag bag” of Penn State Turfgrass items. 7
The
Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council is pleased to announce that Douglas Apple and Samuel Lobaugh are the spring 2019 recipients of the PTC scholarships. Douglas Apple is a native of Hatfield, PA. He has interned at Indian Valley Country Club in Telford, PA and at Saucon Valley Country Club in Bethlehem, PA. He also worked for the State College Spikes minor league baseball team during his time as a Penn State student. Following graduation, he will return to Indian Valley Country Club as an Assistant in Training. Samuel Lobaugh is from Pittsburgh, PA, where he has managed the landscape aspect of his father’s business, Lobaugh Maintenance, Inc. He completed an internship last summer at Oakmont Country Club and also worked at the Joseph Valentine Turfgrass Research Center while he was a University Park student. He has accepted a position as an agronomist at Oakmont Country Club. 7
Scholarship Recipients
J. Robert Hummer Turfgrass Scholarship Jonathan Kaschak Andrew Wile
D.M. Boyd, Co. Turfgrass Award Ian Patterson E.H. Griffith Turfgrass Management Award Paige Alcorn John Shupp
M. Forest Randolph Memorial Scholarship in Plant Science Dylan Cellini William Covert Jonathan Kaschak Sean Murphy Benjamin Rita
George W. Hamilton Senior Memorial Scholarship in Turfgrass Science William Covert
Dr. James R. Watson, Jr. Memorial Turfgrass Scholarship Kyle Roach
Congratulations to the recent graduates of the Class of 2019! We can’t wait to see what you do next! Associate Degree in Turfgrass Science & Management Brayden Brumley Andrew MacCagnano Kara Neterval Nathan Williamson
Bachelor’s Degree in Turfgrass Science Douglas Apple Christopher Boal Daniel Bove Trever Browne Christopher Cooke Grant Cotchen
14 Pennsylvania Turfgrass • Fall 2019
Kyle Dawson David Hendler Joseph Kopania Samuel Lobaugh Phillip Mahr Ian Marshall Nicholas Narog Seth Re
Brady Scales Dylan Sechler Matthew Simonds Justin Taylor Robert Welsh Kevin Whalen Clifton Willis Jacob Wilson
Masters of Professional Studies in Turfgrass Management Debra Harlow-Aldecoa Benjamin Pacific John Rost
Fall 2019 • Pennsylvania Turfgrass 15
