Virginia Turfgrass Journal - January / February 2016

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

January/February 2016

2015–2016 Virginia Turfgrass VARIETY

RECOMMENDATIONS How to Benefit from Conference Attendance Plus,

Educational Programs for M-A-T-E and Come to the Bay!

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council | January/February 2016

27 17 Upcoming Event Program for the First Annual Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo (M-A-T-E)…

Growing For Our Future, January 25–28

23 Upcoming Event Program for the 2016 Come to the Bay! Landscaping in the Transition Zone, February 23–24

27 Cover Story

2015–2016 Virginia Turfgrass Variety Recommendations

17 DEPARTMENTS 6 Presidentʼs Message

from Fred Biggers, CGCS

8 Directorʼs Corner

from Tom Tracy, Ph.D.

10 Editorʼs Perspective

Mark Vaughn, CGCS

12 VTF Report

from Betty Parker

14 VTC Membership Benefits and Application Form

33 Index to Advertisers 34 Turfgrass Calendar

32 Professional Matters How to Benefit from Conference Attendance Virginia Turfgrass Council (VTC) 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, Virginia Turfgrass Journal, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or VTC members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this bimonthly publication. Copyright ©2016 by the Virginia Turfgrass Council. Virginia Turfgrass Journal is published bimonthly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of VTC. POSTMASTER: Send change of address notification to VTC, P.O. Box 5989, Virginia Beach, VA 23471. Postage guaranteed. Third-class postage is paid at Nashville, TN. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: Virginia Turfgrass Journal allows reprinting of material published here. Permission requests should be directed to VTC. 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 37068-0142, (615) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524. Deadlines are the first of the month prior to the following month’s publication. (Example: August 1 for the September issue.)

4 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2016 www.vaturf.org

Virginia Turfgrass Journal is the official publication of The Virginia Turfgrass Council P.O. Box 5989 Virginia Beach, VA 23471 Office: (757) 464-1004 Fax: (757) 282-2693 vaturf@verizon.net PUBLISHED BY Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street Franklin, Tennessee 37064 (615) 790-3718 Fax: (615) 794-4524 Email: info@leadingedgecommunications.com EDITOR Mark Vaughn, CGCS VTC OFFICERS President Fredrick Biggers, CGCS Wintergreen Resort (434) 325-8252 Vice President Rick Owens, CGCS Laurel Hill Golf Club (703) 674-6934 Treasurer Scott Woodward Woodward Turf Farms (540) 727-0020 Past President Frank Flannagan msg1sg@verizon.net (804) 356-1535 VTC DIRECTORS Steve Glass Tony Montgomery Marc Petrus Jesse Pritchard Christian Sain Michael Skelton Rick Viancour, CGCS Jimmy Viars, CGM VTC ADVISORY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Mike Goatley, Ph.D. (Chair) Shawn Askew, Ph.D. Jeffrey Derr, Ph.D. Erik Ervin, Ph.D. David McCall EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/ DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS Tom Tracy, Ph.D. (757) 464-1004 VIRGINIA TURFGRASS FOUNDATION Betty Parker (757) 574-9061

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

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Presidents Message

Thanks to a

GREAT TEAM! M any good decisions have been made over the past several years to advance the turfgrass industry in Virginia. The energy for many of these changes came out of a Turfgrass Summit held in November 2013, where representatives from all of the various turf-related organizations in Virginia came together to discuss how we would most efficiently promote our industry’s interests.

Although we did not follow through on all of the committees that came together as a result of that Turf Summit, the die was cast: the VTC needed to become the organization that formed an umbrella over the other specialized areas (VGCSA, VSTMA, sod producers, VPGMA, etc.) to represent these entities on a state level in addition to what they are already doing to represent their particular segments.

Two years later, I am proud to say that much progress has been made in how the VTC represents Virginia’s turf industry. This progress is due entirely to the hard work that the “VTC team” puts in to move things forward. The day-to-day management of the VTC falls to Dr. Tom Tracy, who works tirelessly to advance many different aspects of turfgrass management. Through his hard work, the VTC now puts on six regional pesticidetraining events each year. Also, he has helped develop the CTP (Certified Turfgrass Professional) and the GITL (Green Industry Team Leader) programs, coordinating and teaching both of these with Virginia Tech’s Dr. Mike Goatley. Additionally, Tom trains the employees of all of VTC’s Platinum members. For the past year, Tom has also put in countless hours coordinating the new M-A-T-E Conference with the Maryland Turfgrass Council’s executive director, Vernon Cooper.

I also feel strongly that I have been lucky to serve with an extremely talented VTC board of directors. Rick Owens, CGCS, has served as program committee liaison with Dr. Goatley and Dr. Tom Turner (UMD) for the M-A-T-E Conference and will be taking over as your new VTC president for 2016–2017. Scott Woodward has been the chairman of the M-A-T-E tradeshow committee. Marc Petrus has been leading the Membership committee to further expand the VTC membership base. Jimmy Viars, CGM, has been instrumental in leading the Certified Turfgrass Professional Program

Fred Biggers, CGCS 2014–2015 VTC President

committee from conception to actually starting the program. Mike Skelton has been a big help serving on the M-A-T-E Committee and has been very active supporting other committees throughout the year. As always, Tony Montgomery is a really big help working on the Research Golf Tournament committee, and he also helps out with photography at the annual conference and the golf tournament. Christian Sain heads up the legislative committee and has done a great job touring the state capitol, handing out seed bags to our legislators. Rick Viancour, CGCS, is our resident sage on the VTC board and is always a great resource when we are looking for the “right way to proceed.” Jesse Pritchard came on to the board mid-year this year and is still getting his sea legs, but he’ll serve as the VSTMA liaison to the VTC board. Our current past president, Frank Flannagan, has been an invaluable contributor and has always been my mentor (he has had a tough job!). I offer all of these gentlemen my sincere thanks for their dedication to our industry and for the gifts of their time and talents.

Many more folks contribute to the VTC’s mission.

The Virginia Tech turf team — Dr. Erik Ervin, Dr. Mike Goatley, Dr. Shawn Askew, Dr. Jeff Derr, Mr. David McCall and many others — work hard in countless ways to help us with pesticide, fertilizer, CTP/ GITL and VT Short Course training. Their work is why we all give of our time and energy to raise funds to support their research efforts. I would also like thank Mrs. Betty Parker, executive director of the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation, for her many contributions to advancing the VTF. Did you know that the VTF Endowment fund now has $547,000!

Last but not least, our many commercial vendors have provided great support and sponsorship of our many different activities. Thank you for all that you do to support our industry. I always look forward to attending the tradeshow each year, and I feel fortunate to work in an industry that fosters so many friendships and close relationships between companies and their customers.

Fred Biggers, CGCS 2014–2015 VTC President

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Director’s Corner

You, Too, Can

BECOME CERTIFIED!

Tom Tracy, Ph.D. VTC Executive Director

On

Friday, December 11, after the conclusion of the 2015 Virginia Tech Turfgrass Short Course, 61 persons sat for the Certified Turfgrass Professional (CTP) examination. Wow! The huge turnout is indicative of the pent-up demand for this program that provides a tangible demonstration of competence for professionals in our industry. The December examination marked a capstone of pilot studies that lasted for three years. During those years, we administered more than 130 developmental copies of the exam, developed a training manual, met with environmental groups, took hard looks at similar programs in other states, established goals and objectives and established a Certification Committee.

Developing the program may be equated to a threelegged stool. Dr. Mike Goatley was the first leg. Allow me to say a great “Thank You!” to him. His vision first caused the VTC to consider the CTP program, and his tireless, behind-the-scenes efforts pulled together a team that built the other two legs.

Developing the examination was the second leg. Sam Doak is the person who took the proverbial bull by the horns and wrote a Beta copy of the exam. That copy was administered at the end of the 2013 Turfgrass Short Course. We learned lessons from that test and altered the questions, added categories and strengthened the identification portion. We offered a revised examination during the 2014 Turfgrass Short Course. Our

study of those results led us to further tweak the written questions and to completely revise the identification section.

Developing the training manual and study materials marked the third leg. With Dr. Goatley’s leadership, we met with representatives from Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Chesapeake Bay Commission and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Input from these persons led us to add a complete section dedicated to Best Management Practices. Both the manual and study materials are available for free at a dedicated web site: www.turfprofessional.org.

Having been solidly set on three legs, the foundation is being built upon by the establishment of the Turfgrass Certification Committee. The VTC board of directors formed this committee during the summer of 2015 and appointed Jimmy Viars as its chair. The committee developed the standards to become a Certified Turfgrass Professional. They also established policies for maintaining and renewing the certification.

Becoming a CTP is not easy — in addition to passing a rigorous, four-part written examination, applicants must: (1) be a Certified Fertilizer Applicator or a Certified Nutrient Management Planner, (2) be a Commercial Pesticide Applicator or a Registered Technician and (3) complete the Turfgrass Short Course or similar training. But years of research, development and industry input clearly point to the value of making the effort to become certified!

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Cover Story continued

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

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Editor’s Perspective

Prognostications for

2016

2...0...1...6.

Do you realize if you divide 20 by 16, and multiply by 8, and then subtract 7.25, you’ll come up with 2.75?

Checked the math, didn’t ya? Okay, but how many of you could do it in your HEAD like me? Yeah, I still got it. You think this shiny head is just a solar panel for a love machine? Oh, no.

Speaking of solar, it’s time to fire up the ol’ solarpowered crystal ball. I got rid of that coal-fired one years ago. Besides, who cares about the people of WV and Eastern KY as long as the good folks in D.C. are fat and happy?

As I’m sure you’ll remember from last year’s predictions, we’re finally free of the downer Year of the Sheep, and we’re barreling into the Year of the Monkey. But not just any monkey — the Red Fire monkey. Being red headed and born in the Year of the Monkey, I was ecstatic about this until I realized subsequent years of the Monkey are disastrous for Monkey babies. Plus, after 40+ years of being married to another Monkey, I suddenly find out that I would have been better off with an Ox or Rabbit. Why don’t they teach you this stuff in school?

Oh yeah, the annual disclaimer. Ridiculous statements, politically incorrect references, inflammatory language, inciteful quips, race-baiting insinuations and out-andout-lies are not the views nor the responsibility of this publication. What do you think we’re running here, a political campaign, for goodness sakes?

Prediction #1 Well, since it is an election year, Emperor-elect Trump announces an inauguration unlike any other.

The asphalt paving of Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House will be removed and replaced with 8" of solid-gold paver bricks. The Donald also reveals that work will soon begin on adding a fifth face to Mt. Rushmore.

Mark Vaughn, CGCS Virginia Turfgrass Journal Editor

Prediction #2

The latest Super Bowl victory by the New England Patriots is marred by yet another cheating controversy.

Cam Newton of the Carolina Panthers is livid when sideline helmet communications are “mysteriously jammed” and replaced by a loop of Celine Dion’s greatest hits.

“You ever tried to do the Superman celebration to the ‘The Power of Love’? I looked like some fool white boy out there stomping around!”

Prediction #3 Supt. Sting finally gives up on the wild, carefree life of a golf course superintendent and reinvents himself as cuntry sanger Bo Dacious. In his newfound Southern accent, Dacious explains, “I finally figured out sangin’ ‘bout girls, cold beer, pickup trucks and tight jeans was a lot more fun than hangin’ out with spray techs, drinkin’ energy drinks, wearin’ khakis and dealin’ with greens chairmen.” His first song “She Was Worse than Pythium” rockets up the charts.

Prediction #4 The Golden State Warriors finish the season a perfect 82–0 (hey, right now they’re 22–0, so only 60 more to go; it could happen). After losing in the second round of the playoffs, owner Peter Gruber fires interim head coach Luke Walton, citing his inability to “take us to the next level.” “Whaaaat? This thing happens all the time at my club,” an exasperated Gruber exclaims.

Prediction #5 The Prez elect shocks the nation by suggesting Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State. In a press conference, the always-candid Trump says, “C’mon, really? The only entity that has more money than me is the Clinton Foundation. I told Hill I needed her to get back on the road and rub some elbows for us… ah, I mean… for the good ol’ USA.”

Prediction #6 The ban on long putters takes effect as promised on January 1. By January 31, there have been 612 citations

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issued by golf pros in the Commonwealth to unsuspecting players either nabbed by roving “marshals” or turned in by fellow golfers after their round.

Repeat offenders, such as a well-known superintendent at a course (let’s say between Richmond and Petersburg), have their handicap cards shredded on the practice green of their respective clubs and their long wands broken in half as members cheer from the Clubhouse balcony.

Things become nasty in March as hundreds of senior golfers storm VSGA headquarters, hurling their Pings and Scotty Camerons through the windows a la Ernest T. Bass style. Board member Ainsley “Shorty” Wellingham describes the incident as a blatant assault on a “gentlemen’s game” and vows to hunt down and waterboard those responsible. In other news, a Scotty Cameron Big Sur S sells on the black market for $1,500.

to keep it stirrin’ and people talkin’ ‘bout us both, right?’ And I say, ‘Yeah, we cool.’ So Brandie says, ‘I want you to watch something with me.’ Then he puts on this VHS tape of this old dude wearing pink pants, a purple argyle sweater and purple and pink FJ’s. Got the ugliest, flattest golf swing you’ve ever seen. Got good hair though, and I say, ‘Brandie, is this home movies of your dad playing in the Club Championship or something?’ Brandie says, ‘Nah, Ty. If this guy doesn’t take 4 to get up and down on 18, he beats Nicklaus for the Open at St. Andrews.

He won on tour 20 times.’ I say, ‘No s%#*,’ and he goes on to say this dude swung this way because of back and neck problems. And I say, ‘DUH, and how come Butchie (Harmon), Hankie (Haney), Seany (Foley) or Chrissie (Como) or any of my docs never showed me this guy?’ So I took it to the range in February, and here we are.’

Prediction #7

There you have them. Now plan accordingly. This is also the time in the program when I ask you to give

Finding it impossible not to offend someone fat, skinny, bald, white, black, Asian, Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Mormon, Native American, Hispanic, male, female, transgender, straight, gay, Northern, Southern, old, young, red headed, blond, brunette, countrified, citified, pro-gun, anti-gun, Democratic, Republican, optimistic, pessimistic, gorgeous, ugly, brilliant, mentally ill, tall, short, aggressive, passive, cool, nerdy, preppy or gangsta, comedians around the U.S. go silent for fear of litigation. Lawyers are offended and announce a class action suit against all forms of humor and those that perpetrate it.

back. Yes, to me, not this publication.

After all, I’m the one that sweats and conjures up this crap month after month, year after year. For those of you who were following along earlier and can do rudimentary math, this is my sixth (counting the one I was born in) Year of the Monkey. Since the Chinese calendar is on a twelve-year cycle, this should be easy for even you dolts (pardon me, gentle readers) out there to realize this is a momentous year for l’éditeur. I realize I don’t look a day over 45 in my photo, but retirement inches closer, and unlike so many of those in this lucrative field, I’m coming up a little short. So, if all of our thousands of readers could make a love offering of, say, $500, it would allow me to buy birthday presents for my grandchildren and eventually great grandchildren. Think about it. All you have to do is give up two Salted Caramel Mocha Frappuccinos a week. That still leaves five other days to indulge yourselves. And remember, gluttony is one of the seven deadly sins.

Prediction #8 And the annual… wait for it……

Masters prediction. After months of speculation about his imminent retirement, Tiger Woods jets in to Augusta on Wednesday afternoon just in time for Thursday’s first round. He astounds the massive gallery by going 4 under through the first five holes. Even more astounding is the new short, flat backswing making it all happen. Interviewed after his opening round 63, the Great One explains, “Me and Joie (LaCava) and Stevie (Williams) and Brandie (Chamblee) were all chillin’ at the crib when Brandie says, ‘You know, Ty, all that stuff I say on the tube is just B.S. Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

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VTF Report

Welcome to the

VTF! F

rom time to time, I repeat myself for a very worthwhile cause, and in this article, I hope to remind you of just what the VTF represents and why we exist.

For starters, the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation is a non-profit, tax-exempt, scientific and educational organization 501(c)(3). All contributions are tax deductible.

Since 1988, the VTF has been able to support research projects that have enhanced not only the quality of turfgrass, but also ultimately the overall quality of life.

Fungicide research, control of weeds in grasses, biostimulant research and sports field management are just some of the topics of research trials that have been conducted and supported by the VTF. In an effort to achieve our mission of funding highquality, innovative turfgrass research, our ultimate goal has been the establishment of a stable endowment fund.

We are aiming for $1 million so that the interest generated by this fund each year can be used for turfgrass research while leaving the principle intact. We are headed in the right direction despite the correction in the market last year. Currently, the fund is growing and has a balance of $547,000. Once we reach our goal, the amount of research we currently support (approximately $70,000) will be doubled! Our very talented turfgrass researchers at Virginia Tech deserve so much more than we are currently able to fund them. Here is how you can help.

• If you haven’t already done so, mail in or call me with your donation. You may also donate directly online at: http://vaturf.org/turfgrass_foundation. html Any amount is appreciated, and it adds up so quickly when we all pitch in.

• Come by the Corn Hole extravaganza on Tuesday evening, January 26, on the tradeshow floor of the Mid-Atlantic Turf Expo in Fredericksburg. This event is sponsored by the sod growers to benefit turfgrass research in Maryland and Virginia. There will be at least 12 boards being bombarded at one 12 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2016

Betty Parker VTF Manager

time, and we know this event, being held during our social time, will bring awareness and support to the importance of turfgrass research. You know you’re better than your colleagues… come prove it in the name of research!

Please feel free to call on me or any of our dedicated board members. They can come talk to your organizations and showcase what we are all about. They can also relay suggestions for research that you would like to see done by our research team at Virginia Tech. We are here to get answers for you through the research we support, and the bottom line is, you actually help yourself when you support us.

VTF OFFICERS

VTF DIRECTORS

President

Matt Gregg

Sean K. Baskette

Harrell’s, LLC (863) 698-4008 mgregg@harrells.com

Hidden Valley Country Club (540) 989-6222 hvccmaint@comcast.net Vice President

Jeff Berg Goose Creek Golf Club (703) 729-2500 jberg@kempersports.com Secretary/Treasurer

Fredrick S. Biggers, CGCS Wintergreen Resort (434) 325-8252 fbiggers@wintergreen resort.com

Frank Flannagan (804) 356-1535 msg1sg@verizon.net

Rick Owens, CGCS Laurel Hill Golf Club (703) 674-6934 rickjowens@yahoo.com

Adam Dixon, CSFM Hampton Roads Soccer Council (757) 478-2291 adamdixon@verizon.net MANAGER/VTF

Betty Parker (757) 574-9061 thevtf@gmail.com

VTC Membership

JOIN THE

TODAY!

Membership Benefits For ALL members include: FREE pesticide recertification training at the oneday regional seminars (VA Beach, Hampton, Chantilly, Lorton and Staunton); FREE Certified Fertilizer Applicator training at the Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo in January (M-A-T-E) and Come to the Bay in February FREE entry to the research tour of turfgrass studies in June at the Hampton Roads AREC. FREE subscription to our bi-monthly Virginia Turfgrass Journal.

Valuable assistance on state and local legislative and bureaucratic issues. Do you know that every member of Virginia’s General Assembly receives our bi-monthly Virginia Turfgrass Journal? Several Delegates and Senators have said how much they appreciate being on our mailing list.

Discounts to every one of our activities.

Combined, the value of the first three items alone is at least $145.

Membership dues are $75.

JOIN AS A GROUP OR AS AN INDIVIDUAL Individual Membership One Year — $75 Individual Membership Two Years — $130 Platinum Group Membership Membership fee of $1,200 includes: 11 to 20 members.

Send up to 100 of your employees to one of our Regional Pesticide Training Classes — AT NO COST. Year-round membership listing and link from VTC website.

Fertilizer Certification Training and Recertification Training (3A, 3B 60) at your site.

Gold Group Membership Membership fee of $750 includes: 6 to 10 members Silver Group Membership Membership fee of $350 includes: 1 to 5 members

14 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2016 www.vaturf.org

Membership Application Complete this application form and —

OR register online at

• Turn it in at the M-A-T-E registration desk.

• Mail it to the address at the bottom of this page.

• Fax it to 757-282-2693

www.vaturf.org

Member Information First Name ___________________________________________ Last Name___________________________________________ Company or Organization___________________________________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ City _________________________________________________ State_________ Zip___________________________________ Phone _______________________________________________ Fax _________________________________________________ E-Mail ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Payment SELECT ONE Platinum Group Membership (11 or more members + Year-round listing and link from VTC website) .................. $1200 Gold Group Membership (6 – 10 members) .................................................................................................................. $750 Silver Group Membership (1 – 5 members) ................................................................................................................... $350 Individual for Two Years .................................................................................................................................................. $130 Individual for One Year ................................................................................................................................................... $75

Pay by Check or by Credit Card Please check appropriate box:

Check

AMEX

VISA

MasterCard

Card #: ______________________________________________ Print Cardholder Name:_______________________________ “Vee” Code for MC/VISA:______________________________ Expiration Date: _____________________________________ Dues may be deductible as a business expense but not as a charitable contribution. Based on 2013 activity, one percent (1%) of dues are not deductible in accordance with IRS Section 6033.

Virginia Turfgrass Council P.O. Box 5989 Virginia Beach, VA 23471 • Phone: 757-464-1004 • Fax: 757-282-2693 Email: vaturf@verizon.net • Web: www.vaturf.org Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

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Upcoming Event

THE 2016 MID-ATLANTIC TURFGRASS EXPO:

Everything is Bigger and Better, Including the Education!

By Mike Goatley, Ph.D., Extension Turfgrass Specialist, Virginia Tech; Tom Turner, Ph.D., Extension Turfgrass Specialist, University of Maryland; Tom Tracy, Ph.D., Executive Director, The Virginia Turfgrass Council; and Vernon Cooper, Executive Director, The Maryland Turfgrass Council

C

ombining the turfgrassindustry resources of two neighboring states (Virginia and Maryland) will present great opportunities for turfgrass professionals across the region at the inaugural 2016 Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo (M-A-T-E), slated for January 25–28 at the Fredericksburg Conference & Expo Center in Fredericksburg, VA. Hosted by the Maryland Turfgrass Council and the Virginia Turfgrass Council, educational opportunities for ALL segments of the Mid-Atlantic turfgrass industry are both extensive and exciting.

Monday morning, January 25, kicks off with concurrent workshops for golf and basic turfgrass. The Golf Workshop is devoted specifically to golf turf pathology, while the concurrent “Turfgrass 101” workshop is designed for those who are new to the industry or those who want a refresher on the basics of the grasses, soils and cultural and fertility management programs of the Mid-Atlantic.

Monday’s lunch is being provided

by Helena Chemical; attendees will be taken to the company’s Fredericksburg location for a meal and interaction with Helena representatives. Afterwards, back at the Conference Center, educational tracks will be offered for golf, lawn and landscape (sponsored

by Lawn & Landscape magazine), sod production and sports turf.

Tuesday morning, January 26, opens with an informative General Session featuring two keynote presentations.

First, Dean Graves, CGCS (Chevy Chase Country Club in Chevy Chase, MD), will share his unique perspective on

personnel management from his many years of experience as a golf course superintendent with “Appreciation: the Key to Success.” Jerad Minnick (Growing Innovations) will follow this presentation by laying his passion for natural-grass athletic fields on the line with “Grass Can Take More.” The General Session also includes the VTC and MTC association annual meetings.

Following the General Session, M-A-T-E attendees will then again be offered separate educational tracks — for golf, lawn care, sports turf and sod production. Tuesday is also the first day of our Mechanic’s Seminar.

This seminar reconvenes on Wednesday morning.

After completion of all of our education sessions at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, the entire group heads to the tradeshow floor for lunch during the grand opening of the 2016 M-A-T-E tradeshow, the largest turfgrass industry tradeshow ever hosted by Maryland and Virginia. Meet and greet all the vendors, and get updates on all of the latest products, equipment and strategies at their booths and during scheduled presentations on the tradeshow floor. Later that afternoon, things get really “corny” for the inaugural M-AT-E Corn Hole Championship that runs from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded, and a portion of the proceeds will support the turfgrass research programs of Maryland and Virginia Tech.

Our educational program resumes on Wednesday morning with the resumption of the Mechanic’s Seminar and two concurrent educational sessions, both featuring university research

updates from scientists and graduate students of the University of Maryland and Virginia Tech. The M-A-T-E tradeshow will open from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., and lunch will once again be served on the tradeshow floor. Later on that afternoon is the annual Virginia Sod Growers Meeting (2 p.m. to 5 p.m.).

The conference continues on Thursday for specific programs on Pesticide and Fertilizer Recertification, Virginia Certified Fertilizer Applicator Training and Examination and Initial Pesticide Review of Core and Offering of Pesticide Applicator exams (for Virginia and Maryland).

One other thing that makes this year’s conference unique — all net proceeds go to the turfgrass research programs of the University of Maryland and Virginia Tech. Not only will attendees get the latest information on your industry, but they will also support the work that helps make their jobs that much easier and successful.

Folks told us that if our two state associations merged, they wanted to see the organizers do something special with our education and tradeshow. We think we have delivered, but only you can verify that for us. Please join us from January 25–28 at the Fredericksburg Conference & Expo Center for a few days of extensive and comprehensive education AND a lot of fun, renewing old friendships and making new acquaintances at M-A-T-E 2016.

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

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Upcoming Event continued

The First Annual

MID-ATLANTIC TURFGRASS EXPO (M-A-T-E) …Growing For Our Future January 25–28, 2016 • Fredericksburg, VA • Fredericksburg Conference & Expo Center

The

Maryland Turfgrass Council and Virginia Turfgrass Council are excited and proud to invite you to the organization’s first annual combined conference — the Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo (M-A-T-E) — slated for January 25–28. And for the first time ever in the history of either council, all profits from the event will be given to the turfgrass research projects at Virginia Tech and the University of Maryland!

Dress for both the educational sessions and the Expo is business casual.

Monday, January 25 Management Session 8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Turfgrass 101 Mike Goatley, Ph.D., Virginia Tech, and Tom Turner, Ph.D., University of MD

Golf Course Session 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (noon) Turfgrass Pathology Seminar Joseph Roberts, Ph,D., University of MD; Lee Miller, Ph.D., University of Missouri; and David McCall, Virginia Tech

Lunch (included with M-A-T-E registration) 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Sponsored by Helena

Concurrent Afternoon Sessions 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Golf Session The Art of Communication Dean Graves, CGCS, Chevy Chase C.C. Using the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program for Selecting Grasses for Golf Course Use Kevin Morris, National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP)

For up-to-the-minute updates and to register online, visit www.turfconference.org

The Perils of Pond Scum: How a Simple Aeration System Snuffs Out Stagnation and Delivers Beautiful Ponds Sandra Burton, Linne Industries Operation Pollinator Frank Wong, Ph.D., Bayer

Lawn/Landscape Session Presented by Lawn & Landscape magazine Implementing Technology to Improve Your Sales and Productivity Matt and Chris Noon, Noon Turf Care In the competitive suburban Boston market, Noon Turf Care has managed to grow into a multimillion-dollar company, thanks to how it has harnessed technology to streamline its production and sales efforts. The Noons will coach LCOs and other landscapers on how they can implement simple technologies to make their operations more productive and profitable.

Taking Advantage of the Outdoor Living Movement Bruce Allentuck, Allentuck Landscaping Bruce is the CEO of an awardwinning landscape construction company that has been installing outstanding jobs for decades. He’ll

18 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2016 www.vaturf.org

share how landscapers can enter the thriving design/build market or take their company to the next level.

Labor and Recruiting Strategies for 2016 Kory Beilder, Ruppert Landscaping Kory is the senior employeedevelopment manager at Ruppert Landscape, a $110 million company with locations across the Eastern Seaboard and 1,050 employees. He’s a frequent contributor to Lawn & Landscape, where he writes about how landscapers can improve their recruiting and retention, and he offers specific strategies on how they can find the best employees.

State of the Industry Research Chuck Bowen, Lawn & Landscape magazine

Sports Turf Session Using the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program for Selecting Grasses for Athletic Fields Kevin Morris, National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) Fraze Mowing and Spring Dead Spot Lee Miller, Ph.D., University of Missouri

Innovation and Technology for Natural Grass Fields Jerad Minnick, Growing Innovations

Sod Session Weed Control Issues in Sod Production Shawn Askew, Ph.D., Virginia Tech Sod Certification Dale Morris, MDA/T&S, and Tom Hardiman, Virginia Crop Improvement Association Tall Fescue/Bluegrass Mixtures Adam Nichols, Virginia Tech

Tuesday, January 26 VTC General Session 8:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.

Welcome by Bill Warpinski, MTC President, and Fred Biggers, CGCS, VTC President Keynote Address #1 — Appreciation: The Key to Success Dean Graves, CGCS, Chevy Chase C.C. MTC Annual Meeting Keynote Address #2 — Grass Can Take More Jerad Minnick, Growing Innovations

Lawn Care Session Weed-Management Strategies for Low-Input Turf Shawn Askew, Ph.D., Virginia Tech

Putting Green Research Reports from Around the U.S. Erik Ervin, Ph.D., Virginia Tech

Organic Options for Use in Lawn Maintenance Tom Turner, Ph.D., University of MD

Poa Seedhead Suppression Shawn Askew, Ph.D., Virginia Tech

Annual Grass Control Update for Ornamental Beds and Turfgrass Jeff Derr, Ph.D., Virginia Tech

Sports Turf Session Performance of Bermudagrass Versus Synthetic Turf: What Does the Research Say? Adam Thoms, Univ. of Tennessee Center for Athletic Field Safety Strategies for Cooling Synthetic Sports Fields Adam Thoms, Univ. of Tennessee Center for Athletic Field Safety

Sod Session Sod Heating Trial Mike Goatley, Ph.D., Virginia Tech Crop Rotation in Sod Production Bob Kratochvil, Ph.D., University of MD; John Brader, Landmark Seeds; and Bill Warpinski, Central Sod Farms

Mechanics Serminar – Day 1

Weed-Management Strategies for Low-Input Turf Shawn Askew, Ph.D., Virginia Tech

Expanded to two days this year! (see page 20)

Low-Input Turfgrass Management Tom Turner, Ph.D., Univ. of MD

VTC Annual Meeting

Concurrent Morning Sessions 10:50 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Golf Session USGA Update Darin Bevard, Director Championship Agronomy, and Elliott Dowling, Agronomist

Golf Research Updates

Special Delivery: Fungicide Application Strategies for Improving Control of Turf Diseases Joe Roberts, Ph.D., University of MD Applying Remote Sensing to the Golf Course David McCall, Virginia Tech

Lawn/Landscape Research Updates Organic Disease Control Methods for Managing Lawns in the Transition Zone Joe Roberts, Ph.D., University of MD Turfgrass-Management Practices That Reduce Pollinator Problems Kevin Mathias, Ph.D., Univ. of MD Pylex Herbicide Update Shawn Askew, Ph.D., Virginia Tech Compost and Microclover Inclusion in Lawns Mark Carroll, Ph.D., Univ. of MD

Tradeshow and Lunch 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

All on the Tradeshow Floor.

Sod Growers Meeting 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, January 28

Lunch and Tradeshow — Please visit with our exhibitors!

12:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Pesticide Recertification

Corn Hole Contest and Reception on Tradeshow Floor 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (noon)

Wednesday, January 28 Fellowship Breakfast 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.

Mechanics Seminar – Day 2 (see page 20)

Concurrent Morning Sessions 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Fertilizer Recertification Virginia Certified Fertilizer Applicator Training and Examination 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Initial Pesticide Review of Core and Offering of Pesticide Exams for Virginia 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

(You must bring an approval letter from VDACS. We are seeking to add MD.) Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

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Upcoming Event continued

Don’t Miss the

Mechanic’s Seminar During the

MID-ATLANTIC TURFGRASS EXPO January 26–27, 2016 Tuesday, January 26

Wednesday, January 27

Registration Details

Morning Session

Morning Session

Only $70

General Session and Small Engines

Tier 4 Diesel Engines

for VTC and MTC Members

Late Morning

$95

Visit the M-A-T-E Tradeshow

for Non-Members (Fees increase after January 10.)

Lunch

Register online at

Included with Registration

www.turfconference.org

Lunch Included with Registration

Afternoon Visit the M-A-T-E Tradeshow

Afternoon Session Landscape Equipment Maintenance

20 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2016 www.vaturf.org

or use the registration form on the next page.

Upcoming Event continued

Registration Form

MID-ATLANTIC TURFGRASS EXPO (M-A-T-E) January 25–28, 2016 • Fredericksburg, VA • Fredericksburg Conference & Expo Center Program and lodging information: www.turfconference.org Full Name: ___________________________________________ (First name for badge): _______________________________ Company/Organization: ____________________________________________________________________________________ Preferred Mailing Address: __________________________________________________________________________________ City: _________________________________________________ State: _____________ Zip/Postal Code: __________________ Telephone:(______) ___________________________________ Fax:(______) ________________________________________ Email: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ CONFERENCE FEES (POSTMARKED BY JANUARY 10; Prices increase after that date.)

1. Registration Fees MTC OR VTC MEMBER MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY Member Rate Non-Member Rate One Day $90 $125 Two Days $170 $205 Three Days $250 $285 Mechanic’s Seminar ONLY $70 $95 FREE

THURSDAY

$60

WHEN ARE YOU ATTENDING? Circle the day(s).

Monday; Tuesday; Wednesday; Mechanics Seminar; Thursday COST:

$ _________________________

2. Attend Trade Show ONLY ($20 per Day, includes Lunch and Tuesday Reception) WHEN ARE YOU ATTENDING? Circle the day(s): Tuesday or Wednesday

$ _________________________

3. JOIN OR RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP

$ _________________________

VTC Regular Membership (January 1 – December 31) $75 MTC Regular Membership (February 1 – January 31) $50 Further membership options at http://turfconference.org/registration.html Total Enclosed

$ _________________________

Cancellations/Changes and Refunds:

Fees for missed meals, late arrivals and early departures will not be refunded. Fees will be refunded, less a $20.00 processing fee, if cancellation or change resulting in a refund is received in writing no later than January 10, 2016. After that date, fees are non-refundable. All refunds will be processed after the conference. Substitutions are allowed at no charge.

PAYMENT METHOD: Check to: Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo (or MATE). Registration confirmation/receipt will be mailed.

Please check appropriate box: Check AMEX VISA MasterCard Card #: ______________________________________________ Print Cardholder Name:_______________________________ Card Security Code Number: ___________________________ Expiration Date: _____________________________________ Please mail, fax, or scan and email completed registration form with payment to: M-A-T-E P.O. Box 5989 Virginia Beach, VA 23471

Phone: (757) 464-1004 FAX: (757) 282-2693 Email: vaturf@verizon.net Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 21

Upcoming Event

February 23–25

Come to the Bay! Landscaping in the Transition Zone Plus, Pesticide Certification and Recertification, Fertilizer Certification and Launch of the Green Industry Team Leadership Certification Virginia Beach Resort Hotel & Conference Center • Virginia Beach, VA • Come to us for AFFORDABLE CEUs!

EDUCATION PROGRAM Tuesday, February 23

Arborist Track Seasonal Maintenance with Emphasis on Pruning Roots: The Ultimate Foundation

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Pesticide and Fertilizer Day • All Day — Pesticide Recertification • Morning — Pesticide Training (Core only) • Afternoon — Pesticide Exams • Afternoon — Certified Fertilizer Applicator Class and Exam (persons desiring fertilizer recertification credits may attend the first two hours)

4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Mixer at Chick’s Oyster Bar Sponsored by Lawns & Gardens Plus

Question and Answer Session

Lawn/Landscape Track Stormwater Management Bryan Seipp, CWPA

Green Industry Team Leadership (GITL) (Attend General Session)

8:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.

General Session — Challenges of the Transition Zone Opening Remarks and Introductions Tom Tracy, Ph.D., VTC Transition Zone Challenges Mike Goatley, Ph.D., Virginia Tech Pollinator Update Eric Day, Virginia Tech Stormwater Management Bryan Seipp, CWPA

Customer Service Cooperative Contracts & Purchasing Leadership Style

VTC MEMBER RATES

12:00 p.m. (noon) – 1:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 23 (Pesticide and Fertilizer Day).....................FREE

Lunch

Wednesday, Feb. 24 .....................................$30

On your own (special deals in hotel restaurants)

Thursday, Feb. 25 .......................................FREE

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Green Industry Team Leadership Wednesday and Thursday.........................FREE

Concurrent Afternoon Sessions

NON-MEMBER RATES

Arborist Session

Tuesday, Feb. 23 (Pesticide and Fertilizer Day).......................$60

Diversity in Planting Use of non-native, non-invasive woody species.

Wednesday, Feb. 24 .....................................$60

Inclusive BMPs That Use Trees, Shrubs, Turfgrass, Etc.

Green Industry Team Leadership Exam .....FREE

Soil Basics

Lawn/Landscape Session: Look at the Basics Meadow Planting and Buffer Management Michael Moore, City of VA Beach

Break

Basics: Soils

Concurrent Morning Tracks

Trailer Safety

Community Forestry Lara Johnson, VDOF

10:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (noon)

Green Industry Team Leadership (GITL) Training and Exam

Registration Details

What is that Sound?

Jeffrey Kline, VB Schools A look at common equipment problems encountered in the field by lawn and landscape professionals.

Community Forestry Lara Johnson, VDOF

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Legislative Experience Jack Karlin, TWCA

Wednesday, February 24 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Thursday, February 25

Basics: Diseases Basics: Pruning

Thursday, Feb. 25 .........................................$60

TWO OPTIONS FOR REGISTRATION Option One: Complete the registration form on the next page and return it to us. Note: VTC members who are attending ONLY on Tuesday must use this option (the form is also available online).

Option Two: Register online (www.ComeToTheBay.org) and pay using PayPal.

Hotel Information Attendee Special Rates ...............................$89!

The Virginia Beach Resort Hotel & Conference Center is located at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay — 2800 Shore Drive Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451 Reserve your room by contacting the hotel directly at 800-468-2722 (mention you are with the VTC).

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 23

Upcoming Event continued

Virginia Turfgrass Council

COME TO THE BAY • February 23–25, 2016 Pesticide Recertification Categories Offered 3A, 3B, 5A, 6, 10, 60 For Virginia, North Carolina, West Virginia and Maryland

Location Virginia Beach (Virginia Beach Resort Hotel, 2800 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, 23451)

VTC Member Registration Tuesday, February 23 (Pesticide and Fertilizer Day) ...............................................................................................................................FREE Wednesday, February 24 (if you’re not registering for Green Industry Team Leadership) .........................................................................$30 Thursday, February 25 ..........................................................................................................................................................................FREE

Non-VTC Member Registration Tuesday, February 23 (Pesticide and Fertilizer Day) .................................................................................................................................$60 Wednesday, February 24 .........................................................................................................................................................................$60 Thursday February 25 .............................................................................................................................................................................$60

Green Industry Team Leadership For VTC members, there is no charge for these two days of training (on Wednesday and Thursday), but you must be registered for it.

VTC Member ..........................................................................................................................................................................................FREE Non-VTC Member (two days of training).................................................................................................................................................$120 Non-VTC Member (Green Industry Team Leadership exam only) ............................................................................................................FREE Make Checks Payable To: Virginia Turfgrass Council, P.O. Box 5989, Virginia Beach, VA 23471 Charge to Credit Card: Check one:

MC/VISA

Am. Express, and fax to (757) 282-2693

Card # _______________________________________________Exp. Date _____________________________________________ MC and VISA “V” Code (last 3 digits on back)___________________ Signature _____________________________________________Date _________________________________________________ Please type or print clearly: Name ________________________________________________Email ________________________________________________ Company _____________________________________________Address ______________________________________________ Phone ________________________________________________Fax __________________________________________________ City __________________________________________________State __________ Zip ___________________________________ Virginia Turfgrass Council, P.O. Box 5989, Virginia Beach, VA 23471 • (757) 464-1004 • vaturf@verizon.net 24 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2016 www.vaturf.org

Cover Story

2015–2016

Virginia Turfgrass Variety RECOMMENDATIONS

By Mike Goatley, Ph.D., Turfgrass Specialist, Virginia Tech; Whitnee Askew, Research Associate, Virginia Tech; and Thomas Hardiman, Virginia Crop Improvement Association and Virginia Tech

The

MarylandVirginia Turfgrass Variety Recommendations Work Group meets each spring to consider the previous year’s data from the Virginia and Maryland National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) and ancillary trials and to formulate these recommendations. Virginia and Maryland variety recommendations are essentially identical except for specialized grasses and research situations that differ due to adaptation and state regulation.

To qualify for this recommended list, turfgrass varieties must: (1) be available as certified seed or, in the case of vegetative varieties, as certified sprigs or sod, (2) must be tested at sites in both Virginia and Maryland and (3)

must perform well, relative to other varieties, for a minimum of two years to make the list as a “promising” variety and for three years to make the “recommended” category. All test locations in Virginia and Maryland are considered in making these recommendations.

The Virginia Crop Improvement Association (VCIA) will accept the turfgrass blends or mixtures listed on page 29 in the VCIA Sod Certification Program. All seed or vegetative material must be certified and meet minimum quality standards prescribed by the VCIA. Many seeding specifications (for municipalities, counties, state and governmental agencies, landscape architects and professional organizations) state that varieties used for turf-

grass establishment must come from this list and that blends or mixtures follow the guidelines for certified sod production. Specifications for state highway seeding are developed separately and may require some species and/or varieties not normally recommended for uses other than roadside seeding.

Seed availability may vary between turf seed suppliers. Some species and varieties may have limited adaptation.

KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS Individual varieties selected must make up not less than 10%, nor more than 35%, of the total mixture on a weight basis. All varieties must be certified.

Selections can be made from Category 1 alone or various combinations of Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 27

Cover Story continued

Categories I and II. Kentucky bluegrasses listed as “Promising� (Category II below) can account for no more than 35% of the blend by weight.

Monet4 Montana4 Mustang 43 Pedigree4 Penn RK44

Category I Recommended Kentucky Bluegrass Varieties (85% to 100% of blend by weight)

Category II Promising Tall Fescue Varieties

Aries Beyond4 Blue Coat Blue Note Diva4 Everglade4 Full Back4 Granite4

Hampton4 Impact Midnight Noble4 NuGlade4 Solar Eclipse4 Sudden impact Touche4

Category II Promising Kentucky Bluegrass Varieties (10% to 35% on a weight basis) Barvette HGT Blue Bank Cabernet Endurance Keeneland

Legend NuChicago Oasis Skye Wildhorse1

TALL FESCUE Both recommended and promising varieties can be used in the VCIA Sod Certification Program.

Category I Recommended Tall Fescue Varieties 3rd Millennium SRP4 Bladerunner 2 Bullseye1 Catalyst Dakota Darlington4 Essential4 Falcon IV1 Falcon V1 Firecracker LS4 Garrison4 Gazelle II4 Gold Medallion4 Hemi Integrity4 Justice4 LS 12004 Magellan4

Raptor II4 Rebel IV4 Rendition RX4 Shenandoah III4 Shenandoah Elite4 Sidewider4 Skyline4 Speedway Spyder LS4 SR 86504 Sunset Gold4 Tahoe II4 Talledega4 Titan Rx4 Titan Ultra4 Titanium LS4 Traverse4 Turbo4

4th Millennium Avenger II Black Tail Corona Firebird 2 Firecracker Hot Rod Maestro Persuasion

Turbo RZ4 Van Gohg4 Wolfpack II4 Xtremegreen4

Raptor III Reflection Regenerate Rhambler 2 Screamer LS Terrano Thor Titanium 2LS Traverse II SRP

BLUEGRASS/ FESCUE MIXTURES (Kentucky bluegrass varieties recommended for mixing with tall fescue sod to enhance sod strength, up to 10% of the seed mixture by weight).

All Kentucky bluegrass in Categories I and II (at left). Hybrid bluegrasses are promising varieties for mixtures with turf-type tall fescue in the traditionally warmer climates of Virginia.

BERMUDAGRASS Varietal differences in texture and winter hardiness are important considerations. If no notation follows the variety name, this indicates it has performed in the top statistical category at both the Blacksburg and Hampton Roads research stations. Varieties with the notation # are recommended only for the warmer regions of Virginia due to concerns regarding their cold tolerance. Note that there are no guarantees regarding winter survival for any recommended or promising variety, and one not noted for cold tolerance might perform well indefinitely in traditionally colder regions of the state, depending on climate patterns.

Category I Recommended Vegetatively Propagated Bermudagrass Varieties Celebration# Latitude 36

PremierPRO Tifton 104

Northbridge Patriot

Tifway#

Category II Recommended Seeded Bermudagrass Varieties Princess 77# Riviera Sovereign4

Veracruz# Yukon

ZOYSIAGRASS Varietal differences in texture and winter hardiness are important considerations.

Category I Recommended Vegetatively Propagated Bermudagrass Varieties Meyer

Zeon

Category II Recommended Seeded Bermudagrass Varieties Zenith

PERENNIAL RYEGRASS (Not for use in sod production.)

Use certified seed.

Category I Recommended Perennial Ryegrass Varieties Apple GL4 Apple SGL ASP60044 Banfield Charismatic II GLSR4 Fiesta 41 Grand Slam GLD Homerun4 Line Drive GLS4

Octane Palmer V Paragon GLR4 Rio Vista Soprano4 Stellar GL4 Stellar 3 GL Uno3

Category II Promising Perennial Ryegrass Varieties (limited data/availability of seed) Amazing A+ Diligent Evolution Expedite Fastball RGL

Premium Provost Rinovo Salinas II Sideways

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

| 29

Cover Story continued

Green Supreme Haven Karma Monsieur Pacific Gem Pangea GLR Pizzazz 2 GLR

Spirit SR 4650 SR 4660 ST Stamina Sunstreaker Thrive Wicked

FINE FESCUES For general use in low-maintenance areas or in partial to full shade. Promising varieties have limited performance data or availability as certified seed. Neither blending varieties nor mixing species have been studied extensively in MD or VA, and limited

research does not indicate any advantage to blending or mixing varieties from the different fine fescues (e.g., creeping red, chewings, hard or sheep fescue). Use only certified seed.

Recommended Creeping Red Fescue Varieties Navigator II

Promising Creeping Red Fescue Varieties Chantilly

Recommended Chewings Fescue Varieties Radar

Promising Chewings Fescue Varieties Fairmount Intrigue 2 Longfellow 3

Treazure II Wrigley 2 Zodiac

Recommended Hard Fescue Varieties Beacon Gotham

Spartan II Sword

Promising Hard Fescue Varieties Bighorn GT

Sheep Fescue No recommended or promising varieties at this time.

Varieties marked with superscript notations denote the following: 1 to be considered for removal in 2016 due to declining performance relative to other varieties.

2 to be considered for removal in 2016 due to declining seed quality.

3 to be considered for removal in 2016 due to the absence of recent testing of certified seed lots in MD and VA. 4 to be considered for removal in 2016 due to lack of recent testing in MD and VA. 30 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2016 www.vaturf.org

DIGITAL Marketplace Scan the QR code: Download your favorite QR reader to your phone and scan the code to learn more about these companies.

Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

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Professional Matters

How to BENEFIT from Conference Attendance

By Robert Harris, CAE, Harris Management Group

S

eminars and conferences are great opportunities for learning and networking. They offer information that is timely, while allowing you the opportunity to evaluate that information in terms of how it applies to you.

Here are some guidelines to maximize the benefits of attending a seminar. Take these thoughts with you so you can walk away satisfied with your investment of time and money.

• Since your objective is to learn and make yourself better, search for “idea-gems.” Try to walk away with at least two new things you can use right away. If you do this, you can consider your attendance worthwhile.

• As you listen, try to apply the speaker’s concepts and information to your personality, style and career. Find the “ah-ha’s,” and convert them to your needs. Think, “How will this work in my environment?” Try to apply the principle in your mind as soon as you hear it.

• Recognize that all information won’t apply all the time. So what? Pick out what will work, and concentrate on that.

Relax, listen and think at the seminar.

• Lower your sensitivity meter — or better yet, turn it off.

You’re here to get information, not to be offended by a remark or word. Don’t expect everything to be politically correct.

• Don’t cut off the presenter’s thought too soon, even if you’ve already heard the information from somewhere else. Just listen with the intent to thoroughly understand and to reinforce what you may already know.

• When you hear a familiar fact, don’t tell yourself, “I already know that.” Instead, ask yourself, “How good am I at that?”

Self-evaluating is the only way to get better.

• Write down questions as they occur to you, and ask them at the first appropriate moment. Question to learn, not to show-off in front of colleagues.

• Take good notes. Too often, great ideas are forgotten in the great mass of information presented and are lost before they have a chance to be implemented. The ideas then fall victim to the busy work that awaits you after the event.

• Write notes as if they will be read at your next staff meeting. Plan to share the “idea-gems” you learn with at least one other person at your organization.

• Sit next to someone you don’t know. Stay away from the people you came with. Make new friends. Look for a potential mentor, customer or contact. At the breaks, make a point of meeting at least one new person.

• Focus yourself. Many people are jealous or envious of the presenter and may try to distract you with their comments.

Don’t worry about anyone else — just concentrate on becoming the best you can be for yourself.

Robert C. Harris, CAE, is CEO of Harris Management Group and the Non Profit Resource Center based in Tallahassee, Florida (bob@rchcae).

32 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2016 www.vaturf.org

Index of Advertisers Agronomic Lawn Management ............. 31 www.FertilizerWithALM.com BASF ........................................................ 14 www.basf.com Ballard Sports .......................................... 31 ballardsports.com Brouwer Kesmac ....................................... 5 www.kesmac.com Buy Sod ..........................Inside Back Cover www.buysod.com Camp Chemical Corp. ............................ 33 Carolina Green Corp. ............................. 31 www.cgcfields.com Chesapeake Valley Seed ........................ 34 www.chesapeakevalleyseed.com Collins Wharf Sod Farm ......................... 30 www.collinswharfsod.com Colonial Farm Credit.............................. 31 www.colonialfarmcredit.com Daniel Sod Farms .................................... 31 www.danielsodfarms.com East Coast Sod & Seed ............................ 31 www.eastcoastsod.com Ernst Conservation Seeds ....................... 30 www.ernstseed.com Fisher & Son Company Inc. ..................... 3 www.fisherandson.com Harmon Turf Services, Inc. .................... 16 www.harmonturfservices.com Home Field Fertilizer / Meadowspring Turf Farm ..................... 33 www.meadowspringturf.com KWMI / K & W Products, Inc. ............... 26 www.KWMIequipment.com Leading Edge Communications ............ 28 www.LeadingEdgeCommunications.com Lebanon Turf ........................... Back Cover www.lebturf.com Luck Ecosystems...................................... 11 www.luckstone.com Mid-Atlantic STIHL, Inc................... Inside Front Cover www.STIHLdealers.com Modern Turf, Inc. ..................................... 9 www.modernturf.com Progressive Turf Equipment, Inc............. 9 www.progressiveturfequip.com Revels Tractor Co. Inc. ........................... 22 www.revelstractor.com Riverside Turf.......................................... 25 www.riversideturf.com Smith Seed Services ................................ 31 www.smithseed.com Smith Turf & Irrigation ............................ 5 www.smithturf.com The Turfgrass Group .......................... 7, 13 www.theturfgrassgroup.com Weed Man ............................................... 31 www.weedmanfranchise.com Woodward Turf Farms Inc. ...................... 9 www.woodwardturf.com Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council

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Turfgrass Calendar

January 25–28 Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo

(a joint conference between the Maryland Turfgrass Council and Virginia Turfgrass Council) Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center Fredericksburg, VA

February 6–11 Golf Industry Show

San Diego Convention Ctr. San Diego, CA

February 22–25 TPI International Education Conference & Field Day

(Turfgrass Producers Intl.)

Hyatt Regency Houston Houston, Texas

February 23–25

June 14

Come to the Bay! Pesticide Certification and Recertification, Fertilizer Certification and Launch of the Green Industry Team Leadership Certification

Pesticide Recertification

Virginia Beach Resort Hotel & Conference Center Virginia Beach, VA

Hampton Roads AREC Virginia Beach, VA

March 29 Pesticide Recertification

(Regional Seminar) Chantilly, VA

April 26 Pesticide Recertification

(Regional Seminar) Lorton, VA

May 24 Pesticide Recertification

(Regional Seminar) Staunton, VA

34 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2016 www.vaturf.org

(Regional Seminar) Hampton, VA

June 21 Virginia Tech Field Day/ Regional Seminar

July 19–20 Virginia Tech Field Days/

Regional Seminar Blacksburg, VA

January 30 – February 2, 2017 Mid-Atlantic Turfgrass Expo

Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center Fredericksburg, VA