Tennessee Turfgrass - October / November 2014

October/November 2014

The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, the Tennessee Valley Sports Turf Managers Association and the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

The Importance of

Liming Acidic Soils TTA Award Winners — Stonehenge Golf Course and Humboldt Golf and C.C. Also, Special Inside!

49th Annual TTA Turfgrass Annual Conference & Tradeshow, Program & Registration Forms

The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, Tennessee Valley Sports Turf Managers Association and the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

TABLE OF CONTENTS October/November 2014

18

FEATURED ARTICLES

14 18 24 28

TTA Member Spotlights — Frank Turner, Cochran Family McDonalds, and Thomas Trotter, Nashville Sounds Upcoming Event — 49th Annual TTA Turfgrass Conference & Tradeshow, Program & Registration Forms Cover Story — The Importance of Liming Acidic Soils TTA Award Winners — Stonehenge Golf Course, Public Course of the Year Humboldt Golf & C.C. Private Course of the Year

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DEPARTMENTS From the TTA President, Paul Carter, CGCS

6

From the TVSTMA President, T.J. Derrick

8

From the MTGCSA President, Ben Harbin

10

Industry News

12

Calendar of Events

26

Index of Advertisers

31

The Tennessee Turfgrass Association 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, Tennessee Turfgrass Magazine, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or Turfgrass Association members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this quarterly publication. Copyright ©2014 by the Tennessee Turfgrass Association.

Tennessee Turfgrass is published bimonthly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. Third-class postage is paid at Nashville, TN. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: Tennessee Turfgrass allows reprinting of material. Permission requests should be directed to the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. 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 Street, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524.

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From the TTA Presid ent

Paul L. Carter, CGCS

Changing of the Seasons For

many of our members, the long, hard summer grind is behind us, while others are just getting started, showcasing their handiwork on athletic fields all over Tennessee, and yet still others will continue the never-ending job of educating young minds and new clients. Whatever your role in the turfgrass industry in Tennessee, I hope you have had a safe and successful year so far.

Once again, “It’s Football Time in Tennessee” — a long-awaited respite when we can unwind from the demands of the summer months, relax and recharge with friends and family, and begin to look forward to another season. With the new SEC Network airing this year, we will have even more opportunities to see and hear about all the great athletic venues in the Southeast. We must remember, and remind those who have forgotten, that without the hard work and dedication of the men and women tirelessly slaving to make the playing surfaces safe and play-

io The miss

able, there would be no games played. No football games. No soccer matches. No baseball or softball. No golf.

I hope you were able to join us at the 2014 UT Field Day in September, as Drs. Brosnan, Sorochan, Samples and Horvath (along with all the other UT professors, graduate students and agricultural research center personnel) showed us the many new and exciting products and techniques they have been researching to better our industry. From more effective chemical and fertilizer programs to innovative mowing procedures to different ways to maintain sports field turf, there is always something for everyone at the Field Day, and I, for one, always go away knowing I got my money’s worth for attending.

Speaking of attending, we should all look ahead to the 2015 TTA Conference and Tradeshow, which will be held at the Cool Springs Marriott on January 5–7. Dr. Brosnan has already been working up a great line up of interesting and exciting speakers for this year (see pages 18–23).

In the meantime, go ahead and put it on your calendar.

Several years ago, we began/expanded our awards program from just scholarships and the Professional of the Year award to include other awards that would help spotlight the deserving work of some of our members. Over the years, we have helped shine the light on many deserving turf managers, and the awards program has taken on a special meaning to our membership. It is that time again to put either your name or the name of a deserving colleague into the hat. If you would like to be in the running for an industry award or if you know someone who deserves to be, then let a TTA board member (listed on page 9) know, and we will include them for consideration. Let’s get out there and tell people all the great things the turfgrass industry does in Tennessee.

Paul L. Carter, CGCS 2014–2015 President

n of the Te nn essee Tur fg ra ss A s s o c i at i o

To promote the turfgrass industry through education, scholarship and research.

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

n

From the T VSTM A President

T.J. Derrick

Two Great Events Ahead for Tennessee’s Sports Turf Managers!

With

the fall season in full swing, we sports turf managers are making plans to prepare our fields for the winter months. This will help us stay “ahead the game,” since the spring season seems to start earlier each year.

With travel ball, select tournaments and

various leagues, finding down time is important and must be scheduled. This is a vital part of the safety aspect of our industry, and we must stay in communication with the coaches and help to educate them on some of the aspects of certain projects. This will help them better understand why the fields may be shut

down at times so that we can continue to provide quality playing surfaces.

We all do our best to keep our fields in the best condition possible with the resources we are given. It is great to have an organization like ours where we can bounce ideas off other members. As we go into the winter months, we can talk to other turf managers to help improve our staffs.

That being said we will be having a West TN Field Day in November. By now, you should have already received an email or flyer with the details of the event. This is something that we have been talking about doing, and we are very excited about spending the day in West Tennessee.

Along with the West TN Field Day in November, we will have an annual meeting/education seminar in Middle TN in December and a full day of presentations from university professors and sports turf managers. More details will follow as soon as they become available, and we will be sure that you have adequate time to make arrangements. We need to see every one of our members at both events, and I hope you bring someone with you who may not be a member so that we can show them this great organization and continue to grow, one by one.

I hope everyone has a great fall, and we will see you in November!

T.J. Derrick

2014 TVSTMA President

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, the Tennessee Valley Sports Turf Managers Association and the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

Tennessee Turfgrass is the official publication of The Tennessee Turfgrass Association 400 Franklin Road Franklin, Tennessee 37069 (615) 591-8286 tnturfgrassassn@aol.com www.ttaonline.org Published by Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street Franklin, Tennessee 37064 (615) 790-3718 Fax (615) 794-4524 Email: info@leadingedge communications.com Editor Dr. James Brosnan TTA OFFICERS President Paul Carter, CGCS Bear Trace at Harrison Bay (423) 344-6374 Vice President Theo Lankford Nashville Sports Leagues (615) 799-8664 Secretary/Treasurer Bill Marbet Southern Athletic Fields (931) 380-0023 Past President Bob McCurdy McCurdy Farms (731) 692-3515 Executive Secretary Jim Uden Tennessee Turfgrass Assn.

(615) 591-8286 TTA 2014 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bob Elliott Scott Freund Luke Hankins Cal Hill Joe Hill Timothy Long Mickey Lovett Mitch Parker Jason Pooler Jason Sanderson Sean VanHoose Doug Ward TTA ADVISORY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Bill Blackburn Dr. Jim Brosnan Dr. Brandon Horvath Lynn Ray Jeff Rumph, CGCS Dr. Tom Samples Dr. John Sorochan Dr. Wes Totten

TTA • TVSTMA • TGCSA

9

From the M TGCSA P resident

Ben Harbin

A Word from the

MTGCSA W

interkill, winterkill, winterkill…

I wish someone would say that word one more time. I have heard it all summer long. However, as we faced the many challenges throughout the year, I was glad to see it didn’t hurt our attendance in our meetings this year.

We kicked off our year in April at Old Hickory C.C. and our thanks go to superintendent Dan Johnson and his crew for hosting. We enjoyed a preview of the PGA Championship at Valhalla with superintendent Roger Meier, a drone and gadget presentation by Bill Brown with Turf Republic and a motivational speech

from John Riley, a former NFL kicker.

We had 60+ in attendance and about 20 golfers.

Our May meeting held in Murfreesboro at Old Fort Golf Course was just as successful. Superintendent Joel Beckham and his staff were gracious hosts. Mark Cleveland with Aquatrols gave a presentation on “How to Perform an Irrigation Audit.”

Two Rivers G.C. was our host course on September 22. Dr. Beth Guertal from Auburn University gave a presentation on phosphorus and potassium.

The Governor’s Club in Nashville will be the host of our Annual Scholarship and Research Tournament on October 13th. Then, we wrap up the year back at Bluegrass Yacht and C.C. for our educational meeting.

On a personal note, my time as a golf course superintendent is coming to end. I will soon be acquiring a family business in Texas. As I was reading through the TTA membership directory, I was proud to say that I knew most everyone involved in our great association. I have been truly blessed to work and be a part of this industry. I will always cherish your friendships and will miss being a part of it; yet at the same time, I look forward to the new challenges before me in my new endeavor.

Ben Harbin

2014 MTGCSA President

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

In dustr y N ew s

New Turfgrass Exhibit to Open in Washington, D.C.

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

The

U.S. National Arboretum and the National Turfgrass Federation are collaborating in the development of a new exhibit in Washington, D.C., to highlight various uses of turfgrass. The exhibit is the centerpiece of the four-year “Grass Roots Initiative” that focuses on the environmental, economic and recreational benefits of turfgrass in landscapes, golf courses and athletic fields. The Grass Roots Initiative is “committed to helping citizens, including national decisionmakers, understand new and emerging science underlying our nation’s beautiful lawns, athletic fields and gardens,” notes National Arboretum Director Dr. Colien Hefferan.

The Initiative will feature a website accompanying the exhibit, as well as professional and scientific symposia and homeowner-focused workshops and demonstrations. Directed to audiences ranging from homeowners to professionals to policymakers, the Initiative will showcase the value of turf as an environmental asset when properly managed and the importance of research to continue to leverage that value. In addition, the Initiative is coordinating the National Arboretum, the National Mall and Arlington National Cemetery in an attempt to develop a “National Greenscape Corridor” that links the three facilities. It is also coordinating public messaging and outreach to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable turfgrass and landscape maintenance practices at these culturally historic landscapes.

The 1.3-acre exhibit space will be located near the front entrance of the National Arboretum in Washington, D.C., which hosts about 500,000 visitors annually. Rain Underground, a Baltimorebased landscape architecture firm, donated the exhibit design, which will include displays featuring a compact golf hole, sports fields, lawn areas with a variety of warm- and cool-season grass species, irrigation and fertilizer displays, a green roof using grasses and a rain garden dem-

onstrating the ability of grass to absorb water and nutrients. In all, the exhibit will contain 14 interactive displays designed to engage visitors to learn more about turfgrass uses, history and best management practices for maintenance. Additionally, hundreds of ornamental grasses will link various elements of the exhibit and will thematically link the exhibit with other garden areas across the Arboretum’s nearly 450 acres.

While plans for the exhibit have been in the works for over a year, a full-time Initiative coordinator, Geoff Rinehart, was hired in September 2013, and the ground-breaking for the exhibit was last November. The National Turfgrass Federation has raised more than $400,000 over the four-year life of the exhibit for construction. In addition to monetary donations from over 15 sponsors, much

of the labor and materials for the irrigation system, the golf display, sports fields, permeable paver pathways, green roof and sod installation are being donated or provided at a deep discount.

While turf associations in Maryland and Virginia may be most familiar with the project, Rinehart wants to elevate awareness about the exhibit on a national level “since this is not just a Washington, D.C. or a Mid-Atlantic project, but a national project.” Construction began in spring as soon as the weather cooperated, and a grand opening date will be announced once the construction timelines become clearer. For more information about the exhibit or the Grass Roots Initiative, contact Geoff Rinehart at geoffrey.rinehart@ars.usda.gov or visit the Initiative Facebook page at facebook. com/NTFGrassRootsInitiative. T

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

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TTA Member Spotlig ht TTA Member Spotlight on

Frank Turner, Cochran Family McDonalds, Knoxville, TN

Job title: Landscape Supervisor Years in this position: 16 years Where did you attend college, and when did you graduate?

University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 1978 What was your major?

My major was Turfgrass Management, although my diploma reads Bachelor of Science Agriculture. At the time, Turfgrass Management was in the department of Ornamental Horticulture and Landscape Design.

How long have you been a member of TTA? After accepting my first golf course superintendent’s job at Graymere Country Club in Columbia (TN) in December 1980, I attended my first TTA conference in January 1981. I have not missed a conference since then.

What year did you get started in the turfgrass industry?

My first summer job on a golf course was in 1973 at Bluegrass Country Club in Hendersonville.

have learned so much from the many people I have met over the years. I think this is the greatest attribute of working in the turf industry — we are willing to share our knowledge with others and help each other when we encounter problems.

What did you do before your current job position?

1978–1981 — Assistant Golf Course Superintendent, Capital City Country Club, Atlanta, GA 1981–1986 — Golf Course Superintendent, Graymere Country Club, Columbia, TN 1986–1998 — Golf Course Superintendent, Cherokee Country Club, Knoxville, TN

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love working outdoors. When I left the golf course business, I was fortunate and blessed to be hired by the Litton Cochran family in Knoxville. They are the owner/ operators of 27 McDonalds restaurants in and around Knoxville. They opened the first McDonalds in Knoxville in 1960 and, from the beginning, have placed an emphasis on quality landscaping.

Who have been your mentors in the industry?

Certainly, Dr. Lloyd Callahan (University of Tennessee) was instrumental in my education and was my advisor during my years at UT. As far as others, I consider everyone in this industry my mentor. I

What have been your contributions to the industry?

I remember being on the TTA board of directors in the early 1980s when we met with UT’s deans of the College of Agriculture for the very first time as an industry.

We were trying to convince them that the

Left to right: Frank Turner with son Brock, son Robby, wife Judy and son John.

Brock and Frank Turner at the Augusta National Golf Club, where Brock volunteers each year for course preparation during the week of the Masters.

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

turfgrass industry was an important and significant segment of agriculture in Tennessee. We held a board meeting at UT every year, met with the deans and continued to raise awareness of our industry. I believe our greatest achievement came in 1985 when, through our lobbying efforts of UT and the state legislature, a bill was passed that established the position of Turfgrass Extension Specialist at UT. That position was filled by Dr. Tom Samples, and we all know what a tremendous impact he has had on our industry. I think that was the beginning of the expanded turfgrass team now in place at UT, and I’m proud to have played a very small part in that.

How has TTA enhanced your career?

My career and my life have been enhanced by the many friends and relationships I have developed through TTA. I met many in the industry while living and working in Middle and East Tennessee. Through my involvement on the TTA board of directors, and with my good friend and college classmate, Jimbo Thomas, I’ve met a number of people in West Tennessee.

What are your hobbies?

I love to play golf — I just can’t figure out why my score never gets better!

My wife and I enjoy attending UT football games and Lady Vols basketball games.

Tell us a little about your family.

Judy and I have been married 36 years.

She works for Kimberly-Clark as an accounting analyst. We have three sons.

John (age 32) has a Recording Industry Management degree from MTSU. He lives and works in Nashville as a crew leader for a local landscaping company, plays in a band and continues to work toward a career in the music industry. Brock (age 27) graduated from UT in 2010 and was hired as the assistant golf course superintendent at Vaquero Club in the Dallas/ Ft. Worth area. Our youngest son, Robby (age 20), is a junior at UT, majoring in Nuclear Engineering. T TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

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TTA Member Spotlig ht TTA Member Spotlight on

Thomas Trotter, Nashville Sounds, Nashville, TN

Job title: Head Groundskeeper Number of years in this position: I’m currently in my sixth season.

Where did you attend college, and when did you graduate?

Clemson University, in 2006 What was your major?

Turfgrass How long have you been a TTA member?

5 years What year did you get started in the turfgrass industry?

My first job was at Hejaz Shrine Golf Club in 2000.

Why did you choose a career in the turfgrass industry?

I had a lot of work experience in turfgrass during high school, so I figured it would be an easy transition into college. My

career just evolved from there, and fourteen years later, I’m still having fun doing what I do.

Major Leagues for the first time. I also like to watch my former employees progress in their careers.

What did you do before your current job position?

I was the assistant groundskeeper for the Louisville Bats, the AAA affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds.

Have you won any job-related awards?

TTA 2010 Professional Sports Field of the Year

Who have been your mentors in the industry?

My biggest influence within the industry has been David Greene, superintendent at Hejaz Shrine Golf Club. There is no way I would be where I am today without having worked for David. Tom Nielsen, Luke Yoder and Bill Marbet are a few others among many who have helped me along the way.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love seeing a player get called up to the

What have been your contributions to the industry?

I’d like to think I’ve helped a lot of my interns and other employees be better turfgrass managers. That’s certainly my goal. I had a lot of help along my career path, so I’d like to return the favor.

How has TTA enhanced your career?

The networking opportunities are invaluable. Every person you meet has different experiences than your own, and they always know certain things that you may not know. I think it’s important to continuously grow in this industry, and TTA allows us the opportunity to do that as a group.

Newlyweds Thomas and Becky Trotter.

What are your hobbies?

Working on my house and hanging out with my wife.

Tell us a little about your family.

I’m originally from Greenville, SC. I’ve been married to my wife Becky for eight months. We currently live in East Nashville. T

Home field for the Nashville Sounds

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

49

th Annual

Tennessee Turfgrass Association

and

Conference Trade Show January 5, 6 and 7, 2015 Franklin Marriott Cool Springs • 700 Cool Springs Blvd. • Franklin, Tennessee 37067

A Growing Tradition In Tennessee’s Green Industry

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

Conference Program Monday, January 5

GCSA Points .50 • TN Pesticide Certification Credits — 5 pts. in C3, C10 and C12 for full attendance at all Monday sessions.

General Session — Morning 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Better Soils, Better Turf, Fewer Pesticides?

Dr. Tom Samples, The University of Tennessee Learn how optimizing soil chemical and physical properties can reduce pesticide use on turf.

The History of Aerification: The Hole Story

Tennessee Turfgrass Economic Impact Survey

Mr. John Mascaro, Turf-Tec International Learn about the history of turfgrass aerification as an integrated pest-management tool for maximizing turf quality and minimizing pesticide use.

Dr. Jim Brosnan, The University of Tennessee Results of a research project that determined the economic impact of the turf industry in Tennessee will be presented. Attendees will be able to use this data to have an economic justification for their continued use of select pest-management practices to maximize turfgrass quality.

Dislodgement of Foliar Pesticide Residues Following Applications to Turfgrass

Dr. Travis Gannon, North Carolina State University Learn about the latest research on dislodgeable herbicide, fungicide and insect residues following applications to turfgrass.

3:15 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

John Mascaro’s Photo Quiz Comes Alive

Mr. John Mascaro, Turf-Tec International Participate in a case study identifying pest-management and other problems afflicting turf on golf courses, sports fields and lawns.

TTA Business Meeting and Awards Reception Presidential Address

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

LUNCH (on your own)

Mr. Paul Carter, CGCS, TTA President

Committee Reports and Awards Presentations

General Session — Afternoon 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Keynote Presentation — The SEC: Why We Are So Much Fun!

Behind the Scenes at Neyland Stadium

Dr. Mark Windham, The University of Tennessee

Mr. Darren Seybold, The University of Tennessee Learn about turfgrass-management practices used to prepare the playing surface at Neyland Stadium on the campus of The University of Tennessee. An overview of practices used to manage weed, disease and insect pests will be presented.

Tuesday, January 6

GCSA Points .15 • TN Pesticide Certification Credits — 1 pt. in C3, C10 and C12 for full attendance at all Tuesday classes.

8:30 a.m. • Breakfast

Concurrent Morning Session #1 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Concurrent Morning Session #2 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Fungicide Movement: Up, Down and Sideways

The Fate of MSMA After Application

Five Lessons Learned in 2014

Surfaces or Shoes: What Plays a Bigger Role in Athletic Field Safety?

Dr. Brandon Horvath, The University of Tennessee Learn about how knowledge pertaining to the movement of fungicides in turfgrass tissues can maximize efficacy.

Mr. Chris Hartwiger, USGA Green Section Mr. Hartwiger will present an overview of five case studies observed by USGA agronomists in 2014 in the Southeast, focusing on agronomic and pest-management issues affecting turf quality.

Dr. Travis Gannon, North Carolina State University Learn about the latest research on MSMA’s fate after application to turfgrass.

Dr. John Sorochan, The University of Tennessee Hear the latest research to manage stresses (including pests) to maximize field safety and playability for athletes.

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. • TGCSA Annual Meeting 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. • Tradeshow • Please support our vendors!

The TTA Social on the tradeshow floor will begin at 5 p.m.

Conference Program Wednesday, January 7

GCSA Points .25 • TN Pesticide Certification Credits — 3 pts. in C3, C10 and C12 for full attendance at all Wednesday sessions.

8:30 a.m. • Breakfast

Concurrent Session #1 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Concurrent Session #2 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

New Insects and Diseases That Will Affect the Landscape of Your Golf Course

Dollar Spot: New Approaches to Controlling an Old Disease

Why Is Large Patch So Difficult to Control?

Exploring the Issue of Off-Types in Ultradwarf Bermudagrass Putting Greens

r. Frank Hale and Dr. Alan Windham, D The University of Tennessee Learn about new disease and insect pests of the landscape that can affect golf course turf.

Mr. Jesse Benlli, The University of Tennessee Learn about the turfgrass disease, large patch, including the latest options for control.

Mr. David Shell, The University of Tennessee Learn about new strategies for controlling the turfgrass disease, dollar spot.

Mr. Eric Reasor, The University of Tennessee Learn about current research exploring the new weedmanagement issue of off-type grasses in ultradwarf putting greens.

10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. • Break

Concurrent Session #1 10:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Concurrent Session #2 10:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Social Media for the Turf Professional

A Year for Bermudagrass Recovery from Winter Damage

Mr. Scott Boyle, The University of Tennessee Learn how to effectively use social media to communicate messages about turfgrass maintenance and pest-management practices to end users.

UT Undergraduate Internship Feature

r. Brandon Porch and Mr. Austin Hood, M The University of Tennessee Learn about the experiences of UT undergraduate students interning in pest-management positions on golf courses.

12:30 p.m. • Conference

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Mr. Kyley Dickson, The University of Tennessee Learn about practices used to recover bermudagrass turf from winter damage, including management of weed, disease and insect pests.

A Novel System for Disposing of Excess Pesticide Spray Solution

Mr. Daniel Farnsworth, The University of Tennessee Learn about a novel system to dispose of excess pesticide spray solution using soil microbial degradation.

Adjourns • Please have a safe trip home.

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

Conference and Tradeshow Please complete, sign and return this form with your payment.

Please list all information as you would like it to appear in the 2015 TTA Directory.

Please list the first and last names of the persons attending the 2015 Conference & Trade Show. Attach separate list if needed.

Directory:_ ______________________________________________________________

1)_______________________________

Company Name:_________________________________________________________

2)_______________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________

3)_______________________________

City/State/Zip:_ __________________________________________________________

4)_______________________________

Telephone:______________________________________________________________

5)_______________________________

Fax:_____________________________________________________________________

6)_______________________________

Email:___________________________________________________________________

7)_______________________________

Twitter Handle:__________________________________________________________

Primary Function Turf Manager q Golf Course q Parks &

Recreation q Sports Field q Hotel/Resort

q q q q q

Commercial

Vendor

Hospital/Health Care q Commercial q Irrigation Contractor Lawn Care School/University q DOT Cemetery q Retail Center q Other_______________ Sod Producer q Landscaping Other_______________

q q q q

Equipment Dealer Distributor Manufacturer Other______________

Registration Options 1

2

3

4

5

6

Primary Member Registration....................$185.00

7

8

Total $

Price includes 2015 membership dues.

Associate Member Registration.................$125.00

Registrants from the same facility are eligible for Associate Membership if the facility has two primary members.

$

Student Member Registration......................$60.00

$

One-Day Pass (Limit 1)..................................$80.00

$

One-Day Student Pass (Limit 1)...................$10.00

$

First-Time Attendee One-Day Pass................ FREE

$

Endowment Fund Contribution q Research q Scholarship q Extension

$ Grand Total $

TTA Office Use Only:

Date ________________

Check No. ________________

Cash ________________

Registration Form

49th Annual Tennessee Turfgrass Association

Rules & Regulations Opening and Closing: The exhibit officially opens at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2015, and will close at 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2015.

Exhibit Set-up and Breakdown: General booth set-up will be from 7:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2015, until 11:00 a.m. All exhibits must breakdown 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2015.

Booths: There will be fifty-four (54) 10' x 8' booths available. Each will be piped and draped. Each will have a 6' skirted table, 2 chairs, wastebasket and one I.D. sign.

Contract for Space: The application for space and the formal notice of assignment constitutes a contract for the right to use the space so allotted. In the event of fire, strikes, or other uncontrollable circumstances, the contract will not be binding. The Tennessee Turfgrass Association reserves the right to cancel any contract with any exhibitor any time prior to or during the conference.

Use of Space: All demonstrations, interviews, distributions of advertising material or other activities must be confined to the limits of the exhibit booths. No exhibitor shall assign, sublet or share the whole or part of the space allotted without the knowledge and approval of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association.

Insurance and Fire Protection: The Tennessee Turfgrass Association will exercise all reasonable care for the protection of exhibitor’s material and displays. An official of the trade show committee will be on duty in the exhibit area during set-up and breakdown periods. The exhibit area will be secured during non-exhibit hours.

Liability: The exhibitor agrees to make no claim against the Tennessee Turfgrass Association nor its members or employees for loss, theft, damage or destruction of goods, nor any injury to himself/herself, or employees prior, during or subsequent to the period covered by the exhibit contract, nor for any damage whatsoever, including the damage to his business by reason of failure to provide space for the exhibit, nor for failure to hold the Conference as scheduled. The exhibitor, upon signing the contract for exhibit space, expressly releases the foregoing named conference and individuals from any and all claims for such loss, damage or injury.

Cancellation: In the event an exhibitor must cancel, and cannot exhibit, the following will apply.

A. If the reserved booth or island can be contracted, a 100% refund will be granted.

B. If the reserved booth or island can not be contracted, a 50% refund will be granted.

F loor Plan

Please indicate preferences on Exhibit Space contract

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

Conference and Tradeshow Booths

Size

Unit Price

Booths 100 – 811 (Max. limit of 4)

80 Sq. Ft.

$510

ADDITIONAL MEMBERSHIP TO TTA: 1 included with 10' x 8' booth rental.

Quantity

Total

$50 Total

Please make checks payable to:

Tennessee Turfgrass Association • 400 Franklin Road • Franklin, TN 37069 • (No Credit Cards) First Choice

Second Choice

Third Choice

Booth Preference

All reservations are made on a first-paid, first-reserved basis only. Please note the cancellation policy as outlined on the previous page under “Rules & Regulations.” If electricity is required, please contact Jim Uden at (615) 591-8286 for the Marriott form and further information. Purchased luncheon tickets will be included in the vendor packet upon registration and setup.

Please print or type the following: Name:________________________________________________ MEMBER Name:__________________________________

(Person responsible for the booth)

(To be included in Directory)

Signature:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Firm:___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Contract for Exhibit Space

49th Annual Tennessee Turfgrass Association

Cover Stor y

The Importance of

Liming Acidic Soils

By Tom Samples, Ph.D., John Sorochan, Ph.D., and Jim Brosnan, Ph.D., Plant Sciences Dept.; Hugh Savoy, Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science Dept.; and Alan Windham, Ph.D., Entomology and Plant Pathology Dept., The University of Tennessee

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nless lime is applied, many Tennessee soils in which turfgrasses are maintained become acidic.

Soil acidity increases as turfgrasses remove calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and potassium (K), or as the nutrients move in water (leach) below the turfgrass rootzone. Nitrogen (N) fertilization, and collecting and removing grass clippings, can also result in acidic soils. As the total amount of acids in soils increases, several essential nutrients change form and are no longer available to turfgrass plants. The activity of many species of beneficial microorganisms in soils may also slow.

H represents hydrogen. When subjected to a soil pH test, strongly acidic soils yield very high levels of H or aluminum (Al) ions. Soil with a pH below 7.0 is acidic, and above 7.0 is alkaline. Soil with a pH of 5.0 is 10X more acidic than the same soil with a pH of 6.0 and 100X more acidic than the soil with a neutral pH (pH = 7.0).

The amount of lime needed to neutralize the acids in a soil depends on the soil’s pH and the ability of the soil to resist (buffer) a change in pH. Clayey soils have a greater buffering capacity than sandy soils.

Soil pH

Availability of essential mineral nutrients

The term pH is a notation used to designate the level of acidity or alkalinity of a soil, where p represents “potential,” and 24

In native soils, the essential mineral nutrients are available for uptake by turfgrasses

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

when the soil pH is slightly acidic (ranging from 6.0 to 6.5). Soil with a pH of 5.5 or less may be very low or deficient in Ca, Mg and phosphorus (P), yet may contain excessive Al and manganese. See Figure 1 for more information about nutrient availability in soils of varying pH.

Turfgrass weeds and diseases as indicators of soil pH The presence of several broadleaf weeds including cinquefoil (Potentilla simplex), ground ivy (Puccinia glechomatis), sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella) and Shepherds purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) may indicate low soil pH and a high level of soil acidity. Conversely, the presence of common plantain (Plantago major) may indicate that the soil is alkaline and has a relatively high pH. Similarly, the fungal

diseases Fusarium patch, spring dead spot, summer patch and take-all patch can be much more severe when turfgrasses are growing in alkaline soils.

Figure 1. Relative nutrient availability at varying soil pH values.

Soil pH testing Soil testing is a key to determining when it is necessary to apply lime and the amount of lime to apply. A glass electrode is used to estimate the pH of the soil sample. De-ionized water is added to dry, pulverized soil before measuring the level of acid in the soil sample solution. The pH of this solution is often reported on the soil test result form as Water pH. Water pH is used to indicate a need for lime. The amount of acid held (adsorbed) by clay and organic matter in the soil sample that must be neutralized is often reported as Buffer pH. TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

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CONTINUE D Liming materials Agricultural or ground limestone is the main source of lime for turf applications.

Agricultural lime is marketed in either calcitic or dolomitic forms and is sold in bulk or bags. The most common form of bagged limestone is dolomitic. Calcitic limestone contains mostly Ca carbonate (CaCO3), while dolomitic limestone contains both Ca plus Mg carbonates (CaMg(CO3)2).

Particles of ground limestone are often compressed to form larger granules or pellets. Although pelletized lime is usually much easier to apply, if the lime pellets do not break down quickly once they contact rain or irrigation water, their effectiveness in raising the soil pH may be reduced. Pelletized lime may require Photo 1. Pelletized dolomitic limestone.

Calendar of Events more time to raise the soil pH of the turfgrass rootzone than ground limestone.

Role of calcium and magnesium in turfgrasses As part of the cell walls and membranes, Ca contributes to overall plant strength.

Calcium is also required in order for cells to divide and expand.

The amount of Ca2+ in the soil solution surrounding turfgrass roots influences the amount of K and sodium (Na) cations a turfgrass plant absorbs. For example, when the solution is low in Ca2+, the amount of K+ and Na+ absorbed is often very similar. However, when the supply of Ca2+ in soil solution is adequate, much more K+ is absorbed than Na+. Calcium also improves the uptake of nitrate N (NO3-).

Magnesium is part of the chlorophyll molecule and is critically important for photosynthesis. The plant’s ability to produce proteins and transfer energy from one plant part to another is affected by Mg. An adequate level of Mg also improves the uptake of P from soil.

Application timing

Photo 2. Bagged pelletized dolomitic limestone.

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Although late fall is preferred, lime can be applied to turf any time during the year. Rotary (centrifugal) spreaders are commonly used to apply pelletized lime, while pulverized lime should be applied using a drop- or gravity-spreader.

When establishing turfs, the total recommended amount of lime can be broadcast and tilled into the soil before planting. In established turfs, no more than 50 lbs. of lime should be applied per 1,000 ft2. For example, if soil test results indicate the need to apply a total of 150 lbs. of lime per 1,000 sf2, 50 lbs. per 1,000 sf2 can be applied on 6-month intervals such that 50 lbs. per 1,000 sf2 is applied initially, an additional 50 lbs. per 1,000 sf2 is applied after 6 months, and the final 50 lbs. per 1,000 sf2 application is made 1 year after the initial application.

Liming acidic soils most often results in healthier turfgrass and reduces the need to supplement those mineral nutrients that were once unavailable to turfgrasses. T

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

November 3 ETGCSA Scholarship and Research Tournament Fox Den Country Club Knoxville, TN

November 11 MTGCSA Meeting

Bluegrass Yacht & C.C. Hendersonville, TN

November TBA MAGCSA Meeting

Glen Eagle Golf Course Memphis, TN

November 21–24 ASLA – Annual Meeting & Expo (American Society of Landscape Architects) Colorado Convention Center Denver, CO

January 5-7 49th Annual TTA Conference and Trade Show Marriott Cool Springs Franklin, TN

January 13–16 STMA Conference and Exhibition Denver, CO

February 16–19 TPI International Education Conference and Field Day (Turf Producers Intl.)

La Costa Resort & Spa Carlsbad, CA

February 21–26 Golf Industry Show Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center San Antonio, TX

April 7 UT Herbicide Resistance Field Day Windyke Country Club Memphis, TN

TTA Award W inners

Congratulations to TTA’s 2013 Public Golf Course of the Year…

Stonehenge Golf Course

By Liz Nutter, Managing Editor, Leading Edge Communications (publisher of Tennessee Turfgrass)

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amed by Golf Digest as the Best New Golf Course in 1985 and the Best Public Course in Tennessee in 1995, and currently ranked by Golfweek in the top five courses in the state, Stonehenge Golf Course in Fairfield Glade also garnered TTA’s 2013 Public Golf Course of the Year. As one of five golf courses in the Fairfield Glade Resort in Crossville, TN, the course is one of the most popular for golfers in Cumberland County.

Punctuated with hills, valleys, rock outcroppings, tree-lined fairways and many water hazards, Stonehenge is both scenic and demanding. It’s also one of the few courses in the state with creeping bentgrass from tees to greens (the roughs

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are a bluegrass/fescue blend). The par72, 6,549-yard course hosts the Tennessee Golf Association (TGA) Father Son Tournament, TGA Women’s Open, Tennessee PGA Senior State Open and the TGA/ TPGA Tennessee Cup matches.

Superintendent Sean VanHoose, CGCS, is understandably proud of Stonehenge’s numerous accolades over the years, especially considering the course’s many management challenges. For one, its design is tough on equipment. “Most golf courses are in somewhat of a block design; Stonehenge is more like a meandering stream, with two big nine-hole loops,” VanHoose comments. “We wear out a lot of equipment, just traveling from one hole to the next.”

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

The course also has very shallow soil on top of rock in many places, which made installing the new irrigation system in 2010 quite difficult. “We spent a tremendous amount of money having rock crushed to put in the system,” he recalls.

“We had to work closely with the contractor to maximize our budget to cover the entire course.”

VanHoose has been a member of TTA since 2003 and has served on the board of directors since 2009. “I am blessed to be married to a beautiful wife, Vickie, who is very understanding of the demands of my job,” he says. “She and my step-daughter, Haley, age 9, often come to the course to spend time with me, which makes my job that much more enjoyable.” T

TTA Award W inners

Paul Webb, Humboldt Golf & Country Club’s general manager/ golf course superintendent, with his wife Jenny and sons Eli and Hall.

Congratulations to TTA’s 2013 Private Golf Course of the Year…

Humboldt Golf and Country Club

By Liz Nutter, Managing Editor, Leading Edge Communications (publisher of Tennessee Turfgrass)

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traddling Madison and Gibson Counties in west Tennessee, Humboldt is a lovely small town that’s home to just over 8,000 residents and the West Tennessee Strawberry Festival, a 75-year-old tradition held each year the first full week of May. Even more solidly rooted in Humboldt’s history, though, is the recipient of TTA’s 2013 Private Golf Course of the Year — Humboldt Golf and Country Club.

Established in 1926, the 18-hole, par71 course lies on gently rolling terrain, with the front nine holes crowning a hill and the lower nine holes dipping into fertile bottomland. The greens are grassed with Champion ultradwarf bermudagrass,

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while the fairways, roughs and tees are a blend of Tifway 419 and common bermudagrass.

The non-equity member club has about 375 members from the communities of Gibson County (where Humboldt is located) and Madison County, including the city of Jackson, which is only about 10 minutes south. Club members enjoy a wide range of activities, from swimming lessons to cookouts with live entertainment to various golf tournaments.

Overseeing the entire facility and all of its goings-on is Paul Webb, who quickly earned the respect and support of club members after signing on as golf course superintendent in early

TENNESSEE TURFGRASS October/November 2014 Email TTA at: tnturfgrassassn@aol.com

2010. A 2005 graduate of The University of Tennessee-Knoxville and a 2007 graduate of The University of TennesseeMartin, Webb was promoted to general manager/golf course superintendent only 18 months after he arrived. Today, in addition to maintaining the golf course and organizing its tournaments, he also oversees the clubhouse, pro shop and bar and grill.

The club membership recently approved an almost $800,000 renovation that will begin next year. The project will include expanding the course onto an adjacent 55-acre property owned by the club, as well as adding a driving range/ practice facility. T

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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION • TENNESSEE VALLEY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION • Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association

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