TR - October 2024 by annexbusinessmedia

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From the editor

By Mike Jiggens

It’s show time for turf industry

This might be the start of the off season in most parts of Canada, but it’s certainly not a time to kick back until the arrival of spring. The industry’s trade show and conference circuit is already underway with October’s Equip Expo in Louisville, Ky. – North America’s largest landscape equipment show.

It doesn’t stop there. Once the new year arrives, a slew of other shows and industry conferences are set to begin in Canada, starting with January’s Landscape Congress in Toronto which – pound for pound –holds up well against Equip Expo.

Golf-specific conferences and shows are a big part of the winter circuit. Several Canadian golf superintendents are apt to flock to San Diego in February for the Golf Industry Show, but many more will make the trip to Niagara Falls later in the month to attend the Canadian Golf Course Management Conference – an event that will be jointly presented by the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association and the Ontario Golf Superintendents Association.

February will be a busy month with both the Western Canada Turfgrass Association returning to Richmond, B.C. for its 61st annual conference and the Ontario Turfgrass Symposium tak-

ing place at the University of Guelph. Both events are tailored not only to golf, but to other sectors of the turfgrass industry.

Various other provincial and regional conferences will be held during the winter, offering industry professionals the opportunity to enhance their learning and to take a good look at 2025’s new lineup of equipment.

This may be the season when there is apt to be more battery-powered equipment showcased than that powered by gasoline. In only the short while since COVID, the number of battery-powered and autonomous products has exploded, and these will be front and centre at every one of these trade shows.

Here’s a tease of what we can expect – education-wise – at some of these coming events: Landscape Congress:

• Profit killers for landscapers

• Prioritizing health and well-being in landscaping

• Using technology to grow landscaping businesses

• Nurturing talent through apprenticeships and empowerment

Canadian Golf Course Management Conferenc

• Women in turf networking breakfast

• Equipment managers’ sessions

• Assistants’ networking

• Presentations by St. Georges Golf & Country Club superintendent Ian McQueen, Hazeltine National Golf Club superintendent Chris Tritabaugh, Dr. Katerina Jordan of the Guelph Turfgrass Institute and Dr. Micah Woods of the Asian Turfgrass Centre

This may be the season showcasing more battery

equipment

Golf Industry Show

• The bond between superintendents and assistants

• Paving the path to superintendent

• Attracting the next generation of talent

• Making the most of best management practices

• At the time of this writing, there was little information available for both the WCTA conference and the Ontario Turfgrass Symposium, but you can bet they’ll feature topical sessions delivered by expert speakers.

In September, Turf & Re c piggybacked with the Canadian Rental Mart for a show in Calgary. Among the education sessions was a panel discussion by three Alberta-based female turf professionals who spoke about their road into the industry, the challenges they’ve faced along the way and the rewards they’ve experienced.

Turn to page 8 in this issue to read what they had to say.

www.turfandrec.com

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P.E.I. community lends support for new golf course near bridge

A brand new golf course built at the site of a former fabrication yard at Prince Edward Island’s Confederation Bridge would be a boon to the community of Borden-Carleton, those attending a recent packed public meeting heard. Many of those in attendance said a golf course at the 45-hectare site would bring “excitement” to the town and could trigger a domino effect with a marina, hotel and other amenities.

Face-slapped landscaper leads to assault charge

A landscaper trimming hedges at the Victoria Golf Club was allegedly slapped across the face by another woman, leading to assault charges. The Victoria Times Colonist reports police say the landscaper was approached by a woman who had been sleeping in a vehicle in the parking lot. The woman was reportedly irate and slapped the worker on the cheek.

A 49-year-old woman was arrested and was to appear in court on Oct. 16 to face assault charges. The two women didn’t know each other.

Technology allows artificial turf to give off cooling effect

Artificial turf sports field surfaces are often criticized by athletes who prefer the cooling effect of natural grass. New technology, however, has found that evaporation from stored rainwater provides the desired cooling effect.

ScienceNewsExplores reports a Dutch research team has discovered that rainwater stored about 8.5 centimetres below the playing surface will evaporate and provide a cooling effect similar to that of a human being who perspires.

45 hectares

Excellence in landscaping recognized at NALE awards

The 21st annual National Awards of Landscape Excellence (NALE) winners were recently announced live during a special gala at Delta Hotels Dartmouth in Nova Scotia. The sold-out event welcomed 155 industry members from across the country, representing a broad cross-section of the horticultural trades.

The National Awards of Landscape Excellence (NALE) celebrate Canadian companies that have made significant strides in raising professionalism within the landscape industry. Each province nominates members from its Provincial Awards of Excellence, who then compete at the national level. Provinces can enter up to three submissions per category, with a total of 15 entries per association, in categories such as commercial landscape construction, residential landscape construction, landscape maintenance, and landscape design.

Additional awards include the CNLA President’s Award, Garden Centre and Grower of Distinction,

and the Green for Life awards, which honour outstanding contributions to the ornamental horticulture sector by individuals, corporations, or communities. This year’s winners for their contributions to advancing professionalism in the landscape industry:

2024 National Awards of Landscape Excellence Winners:

Caterpillar Award for Commercial Landscape Construction

Winner: Trim Landscaping

For: Queen’s Marque

Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia

Award of Excellence for Commercial Landscape Maintenance Winner: Para Space Landscaping

For: Prodigy

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia

Caterpillar Green for Life Community Award

Recipient: RCAF 100 Pennfield Ridge Air Force Memorial

Location: Pennfield, New Brunswick

Description: Established to commemorate the Royal Canadian Air Force’s 100th anniversary, this project features flower beds, tree plantings, and granite tablets honouring the lives lost at the air base.

Funded by $250,000 from the Charlotte County community, over 130 trees were planted by local students, offering them valuable horticultural experience.

Green for Life Industry Awards

Rohan Harrison – As the Grounds Department leader at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, Rohan, an Accredited Organic Land Care Practitioner, manages 100 acres with a focus on 100% organic care. His work underscores the

healing power of green spaces in promoting health and well-being.

Ben Floyd – A dedicated volunteer from Nature’s Reflections Landscaping, Ben contributed time and materials to help New Germany Rural High School in Nova Scotia develop a school garden. The project has inspired students to explore careers in landscaping.

CNLA President’s Award

Recipient: Bruce Hunter, CNLA Past President

Description: With a career spanning landscape construction and residential services, Bruce has made significant contributions to the industry, including leading the Landscape Certification Program and chairing multiple CNLA committees. His presidency (2017-2019) focused on governance and the sustainable growth of the landscape industry.

Women share their turf stories

Panel of female turf professionals talk about the challenges and rewards of working in a maledominated industry.

By Mike Jiggens

More and more women continue to pursue careers in the professional turf and grounds maintenance industry, and several of these women have achieved notable positions at golf courses, with landscaping companies and in municipal parks and sports field management. Not many decades ago, such positions were held almost entirely by men. In fact, the percentage of women in the industry was likely in single digits.

Times have changed. Not only are more women entering the industry, but an increasing number of them have worked their way up the ladder into management or even ownership positions.

A trio of such women shared their journeys in September during a panel discussion in Calgary at the Canadian Rental Mart/Turf & Rec Show.

Moderated by Morgan Creighton, the founder of a mentorship program designed for women wishing to pursue a career in turf,

the panel included Natalie Russell, assistant superintendent at Country Hills Golf Club in Calgary; Stacy Reichert, assistant superintendent at Calgary’s Inglewood Golf & Curling Club; and Shannon Perry, parks technician specializing in turfgrass with the Town of Okotoks, Alta.

Russell’s initial intention was to teach English, but a summer job opportunity at Country Hills changed everything.

“I ended up finding my calling on the golf course,” she said.

Moving on to the University of Guelph, she earned her two-year diploma in turfgrass management and has since gone from a grounds crew member to assistant superintendent at Country Hills, holding such other positions as foreman, spray technician and second assistant.

Reichert is relatively new to the Inglewood Golf & Curling Club, having started in time for the 2024 season. She had previously been assistant superintendent at McKenzie Meadows Golf Club in

Calgary for four years.

Perry got her first taste of the turfgrass industry as a 14-year-old, working at the Fort McMurray Golf Club. After studying turfgrass management at Olds College, she interned at D’Arcy Ranch Golf Club in Okotoks while completing her Bachelor of Applied Science degree in golf course management before venturing into the municipal field with the Town of Okotoks.

Although Reichert said she hasn’t really faced any gender-related challenges working in a male-dominated industry, Perry made note of her comparatively smaller size, saying the physical aspect of the job can be challenging.

“It made things difficult when you had physically straining tasks,” she said.

Russell said the biggest challenge she faces is owning up to the demands of the job.

“For me personally, I had to work hard and had to live up to expectations, but I felt like the task that was placed on me was the same as it would have been for anyone else,” she said.

Creighton, who had recently been assistant superintendent at Woodside Golf Course in Airdrie, says she is seeing a pattern emerging in which women are accepted as just another person in the field with a job that needs doing.

Being approachable

Russell said that perhaps being a woman makes her more approach-

able by those who wish to share their personal matters.

“I don’t know if it’s just seen as you’re more approachable or maybe you come across as a problem solver, whatever the situation is,” she said. “That’s one thing I’ve noticed that my colleagues don’t necessarily experience the same way that I have. I want to be someone that they feel they can come to and ask me anything and tell me things that are going on at the course.”

Reichert said that when her predecessor retired, it tended to take longer for staff to approach her to discuss golf course matters when such discussions were more immediate with the previous assistant.

Perry noted that when she was leading crews, some staff tended not to take her seriously.

“I have to be more serious more often compared to a man,” she said.

CLOCKWISE: Shannon Perry; Natalie Russell; Morgan Creighton and Stacy Reichert.

WOMEN IN TURF

We’re looking for 2025’s Leading Women in Turf

Turf & Rec is now soliciting nominations for its “Leading Women in Turf” for 2025.

The nomination period is from Oct. 15 to Nov. 29, 2024. Those who best meet the criteria of our judges will be selected as our honourees for 2025. The selected group of women will be featured in the pages of Turf & Rec in early 2025.

Our 2024 honourees and their positions and places of employment at the time included:

• Carol Turner, superintendent at Bigwin Island Golf Club, Baysville, Ont.

• Genna Vilella, facility operations management trainee at the University of Guelph department of athletics

• Karen Rumohr, sales representative for Shuttle 14 Inc. in Edmonton

• Kim Best, superintendent at Eagle Creek Golf Club in Ottawa

• Lesley Thomas, former assistant superintendent at Scarborough Golf & Country Club in Toronto

For more information or to nominate a deserving candidate, visit: https:// www.turfandrec.com/leadingwomen-in-turf/ or san the code

Maintaining a work-life balance can be challenging when working in golf course management. Reichert said it’s difficult to achieve during the golf season but being able to take time off during the winter months makes up for it.

Russell said a work-life balance in golf doesn’t exist in the traditional sense when sleeping for the night is usually between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. She said the trick is to block out three separate times of the day, noting the morning tends to be busier and more stressful because there’s much to accomplish at that time of day.

“The afternoon part might be a little quieter and I can focus on some tasks that have been on the back burner, take care of some things so that they don’t really follow me home, and that at the end of the day when I’m at home it has to be not work-focused,” she said. “That’s much easier said than done.”

Perry said one of the reasons she left the golf sector to work for a municipality was to seek a better work-life balance.

“For me, there was an imbalance to my life,” she said, adding she works Monday to Friday

‘I HAVE TO BE MORE SERIOUS MORE OFTEN COMPARED TO A MAN’

for a municipality that promotes the value of a healthy work-life balance. “I do value my time off in the summer.”

Many women working in the turf industry credit the guidance of mentors for helping them along the way. Perry recognized Creighton and Reichert as two of her mentors who helped her get through some difficult situations, noting many of her initial challenges occurred during her time in college when she was one of two women in a class of 30.

“It can be such an isolating environment,” she said.

Russell said that by attending more industry

Morgan Creighton, left, founder of a mentorship program for women entering the turf industry, moderated a panel discussion in Calgary in September which included, from left, Natalie Russell, assistant superintendent at Country Hills Golf Club in Calgary; Shannon Perry, parks technician specializing in turfgrass with the Town of Okotoks, Alta.; and Stacy Reichert, assistant superintendent at Calgary’s Inglewood Golf & Curling Club. PHOTO: MIKE JIGGENS

events and meeting more people, they become part of a network of trusted peers.

“There are so many people I know I can reach out to on a daily basis and lean on, and it’s really important to have that,” she said, adding most of them are men.

Reichert singled out former Woodside Golf Course superintendent Karen Rumohr – now a plant nutrition specialist with Shuttle 14 – as an important figure in her development.

“I’ve called on her and had her prepare me for things,” she said, adding Creighton’s assistance has also been invaluable in such areas as resume writing.

A resource for other women

Being there as a resource for other women seeking a career in a male-dominated industry is important, Russell said. “If you meet someone who’s looking for guidance along the way, being able to be a person they can rely on and can give them access is important.” She warned that although lending support to other women is beneficial, one’s belief system should not be pushed onto them.

Reichert said mentorship can come in all forms, and being able to provide friendship and honesty is important. She said she’s up front when talking to other women about the golf industry’s work-life balance, including the need to work weekends.

“It’s changing, but I think maybe that’s going to be the biggest deterrent to some people,” she said.

Perry said promoting the fun aspect of a career in turf and the chance to meet new people are what she’d share with women contemplating a career in the industry.

Asked what golf courses can do to create a more inclusive environment, Perry said there is more diversity in golf than ever before and believes golf courses are on the right track.

Reichert added that exposure to golf at a younger age will help to reach out to a more diverse group of people, no matter their gender, race or sexual

orientation.

Russell said everyone working in the industry – women and men – should be held accountable and have high standards.

“If you notice something not going your way and you just sit back and let it roll over, that’s not allowing yourself to

have the best opportunities that you can in this industry,” she said. “As a manager, don’t shy away from giving a woman a chance on your crew. Odds are they’ll work hard and have fantastic attention to detail and do all the things you’d like to see from a crew member.”

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SPIKED ROLLER

How cameras can save lives, money

Large lawn care company explains how cameras in company vehicles have led to greater safety and insurance premium savings.

By Mike Jiggens

The installation of cameras in the fleet vehicles of landscaping companies might give the impression that “Big Brother” is watching a driver’s every move, but there are more practical reasons behind these devices. For starters, the artificial intelligence-equipped cameras will help to “coach” operators and promote safer driving. They will also help company vehicles save on fuel costs. Perhaps most importantly, they will help to exonerate drivers who might be pegged as the guilty party in an accident, and thereby save the company paying expensive insurance premiums.

Jim Milliman, vice-president of safety for Fairway Lawns, a lawn care company with 65 locations in eight U.S. states, spoke in July at the Lawn & Landscape Technology Conference in Las Vegas, telling an audience of lawn care professionals that safety was the primary reason for the company’s installation of cameras.

“To me, that passion of training and safety has been a big part of my life,” he said, adding he tells his employees, “I want you to go home every day safely to your families.”

When Fairway Lawns first considered installing cameras in its fleet of 1,300 vehicles, the idea was to promote safety and reduce its annual insurance premium costs. A pilot project was undertaken in five of the company’s locations that had the highest frequency of accidents. Milliman said the pilot project’s purpose was to see how the cameras worked, how simple they were to use and to determine if they could achieve their objective.

Less than two years ago, Fairway Lawns had about 300 vehicles on the road, but through company ac -

Cameras mounted inside commercial landscaping vehicles will help to reduce distracted driving accidents, such as when drivers are talking on their cell phones.

quisitions and expansion, that number has since increased by almost four and a half times. With so many vehicles on the road and the number of drivers and technicians on board, the need for increased safety became paramount.

“It only takes one second for something to happen,” Milliman said. To make his point, he showed video footage taken last year by an onboard camera involving a driver who had been working on his own for only two weeks. While on his way to the first lawn on his route, another vehicle entered his lane, colliding with the company vehicle and causing it to roll. In-cab video footage showed the driver was wearing his seatbelt at the time, had both hands on the steering wheel and wasn’t distracted in any way, yet he had only a split-second to react. The video proved the Fairway Lawns driver – who walked away from the accident with only minor scrapes and bruises – wasn’t at fault.

‘With the camera systems, we want to be able to prove we were not at fault and exonerate our drivers’

“Our driver did everything right,” Milliman said, adding the employee also had the good sense to let go of the steering wheel and avoid breaking an arm or wrist.

A lesson learned from what the camera recorded, he added, was that company vehicles must be free of loose objects. The footage showed several objects getting tossed around inside the cab as the vehicle rolled.

“What was really impressive was that the camera we had installed never came off.”

In addition to cameras, Fairway Lawns’ fleet of vehicles have also been installed with GPS tracking devices.

Although the installation of cameras might be seen as an invasion of privacy by some, their main purpose is to promote safety, Milliman said.

“They helped us train our drivers. They made them better at driving – staying off their phones and not being distracted. We could see what their speeds were. Were they hard-braking? When you have a driver who’s hard on brakes and equipment, that becomes expensive.”

COACHING DRIVERS

The cameras allowed drivers to be coached which led to improved driving scores. Cameras presented an opportunity for drivers to make corrections if they were doing something wrong. For example, the devices “beeped” if a driver strayed from looking toward the road ahead.

Milliman emphasized the idea behind the cameras wasn’t to play the part of “Big Brother,” but to protect employees, the public and company property.

“The whole point of us installing cameras in our vehicles was just for that reason.”

The cameras encourage employees to enhance their driving skills and save money on fuel but also to pre -

vent fraudulent claims.

“We’re driving commercial vehicles with our name on the truck. We’re a moving billboard. With the camera systems, we want to be able to prove we were not at fault (in the event of an accident) and exonerate our drivers. We wanted to demonstrate to them that if they’re doing everything right, they’re not at fault.”

Milliman said the idea isn’t to catch employees doing something wrong, but to prove they’re doing things right.

“We’re not here to fire you and find you doing something bad.”

When Fairway Lawns began looking at camera systems, it wanted something that fit the needs of

Cameras will promote safety and lead to safer scores among drivers, especially when they’re wearing their seatbelts, are focused on the road ahead, have both hands on the steering wheel and have no distractions.

both the company and its managers with easy-to-use functions and few complications. Knowing that 1,300 company vehicles on the road could potentially increase the chances of an accident, the goal was to reduce the number of injuries and workers’ compensation claims.

“We want to save money on our insurance premiums.”

Milliman said the cameras were simple to install, and the monthly servicing costs were lower than that of a typical cell phone service bill.

“The biggest thing we wanted to do was to reduce distracted driving, stop people from speeding, stop the wear and tear on our vehicles, and make sure people were wearing their seatbelts.”

SENDING OUT ALERTS

The camera system gives alerts if a driver is speeding, provides the time, date and location of the infraction as well as the driver’s name. Among the company’s drivers, 978 of them demonstrated safe driving skills while only one was deemed a risk.

The pilot project produced some surprises, Milliman said, such as catching drivers out of uniform or talking on their phones. He said he was careful to explain to his employees that the camera system wasn’t meant to be an invasion of their privacy, but to protect them and prove they were doing things right.

He said it was important to immediately eliminate any fears employees had that they were being spied upon. They were most concerned that private conversations might be monitored, but sound was deactivated on the cameras.

“That was probably their No. 1 fear.”

Milliman noted that neither he nor anyone else is watching video footage all day. Instead, the system sends out an alert in the event of a collision or a

hard-braking incident or if someone is using his phone when driving.

Any concerns employees had regarding the installation of cameras were eventually alleviated. Because driving scores were being compiled, employees considered it as a competition and endeavoured to achieve the best scores possible. Fairway Lawns rewarded its drivers for their improved safety records. Most drivers achieved scores of at least 90 while those who scored below 80 underwent retraining.

“After a couple of months, our drivers forgot there was even a camera in the truck. It just became a habit.”

Milliman said the improvement in safety alone was worth the cost of cameras. The company realized a 31 per cent reduction in at-fault accidents and a 72 per cent reduction in their severity. A 32 per cent reduction in hard-braking incidents resulted as well as a 90 per cent reduction in speeding violations and a 65 per cent reduction in risk driver behaviour.

All of this resulted in a significant premium discount from Fairway Lawns’ insurance company.

Those little (chinch) buggers!

Regularly inspecting lawns can help detect early signs of chinch bug activity.

By Dr. Sara Stricker & Matt Legg

We are often approached by homeowners who want to show us a photo of damage on their lawn, and they expect us to diagnose the problem from a distance. It’s not always that easy, especially if it might be chinch bugs! These minuscule insects, less than one centimetre in length, can cause significant damage to grass under the right conditions. Understanding their biology, identifying their presence, and knowing how to manage them are crucial steps in maintaining healthy lawns.

Chinch bugs are small, black and white insects that primarily feed on the sap of turfgrass. While several species exist, the most notorious for lawn damage in Canada is the hairy chinch bug (Latin name: Blissus leucopterus hirtus). These pests thrive in hot, dry conditions, making summer their peak season for activity. This summer has been particularly bad in Canada, and it is possible that other species of chinch may expand their range northward in response to climate change and urban expansion. Chinch bugs recently spread into Europe in 2019, and they are trying to keep them under quarantine to prevent the spread (Lima et al, 2021).

Despite their tiny size, chinch bugs can pack a mighty punch.

They are equipped with piercing-sucking mouthparts that allow them to draw out the sap from grass blades. As they feed, they inject toxins into the plant tissue, leading to yellowing and eventually the death of the grass. This damage often appears as irregular patches that can expand rapidly if the infestation is severe. The damage is typically more severe on non-irrigated turfgrass, or under high heat or drought conditions. Urban watering restrictions can exacerbate an infestation. The first sign of chinch bug damage is often small yellow patches that resemble drought stress. These patches typically begin in sunny, dry areas of the lawn. As the infestation continues, the yellow patches will expand, turning brown as the grass dies. The affected areas will spread outward in an irregular pattern. Chinch bug adults will spend the winter under a bush or tree in a state of dormancy. In May, or when the spring daily temperatures are over 21 degrees Celsius, the adults will emerge and lay eggs. Each female can lay up to 200 eggs which take between seven to 30 days to hatch, depending on temperature. The wingless young (called nymphs) can cause significant damage as they feed on the sap from the crown and stems of turfgrasses. The first generation matures around mid-July and will lay eggs soon after. It is possible

A lawn shows extensive chinch bug damage.

to find multiple life stages within a stand of grass. In warmer climates, or in particularly warm years, there is a possibility of a short third generation. In fall the adults will seek out a safe place to spend the winter.

Checking for infestations

To confirm chinch bug infestation, you will need to take a close look at the affected areas to find the bugs themselves. The best time to check for chinch bug infestations is the second week of July (in Ontario) or when the bird’s foot trefoil is in full bloom. They are most active in the daytime, and you may spot them at the base of grass blades or by parting the turf. Get up close and personal with the grass, on the edge of the affected area, and scratch your way into the thatch to look for adult bugs which are black with white stripes or younger chinch bugs which are red or orange with a lighter band around the middle. Regularly inspecting lawns, especially during the summer months, can help detect early signs of chinch bug activity. Using a flotation method – something we refer to in the turf world as “the coffee can method” – can be an effective way to monitor populations. If more than 25 chinch bugs per square foot are found, it’s typically recommended to begin management efforts.

The best way to combat chinch bugs is to prevent them from becoming a problem in the first place. Maintaining a healthy turf stand through proper fertilization, irrigation, and mowing practices is the first line of defence. Avoiding excessive nitrogen fertilizer, which can promote lush but weak growth, is also important. For those managing large areas, such as sports fields or commercial properties, developing an integrated pest management (IPM) plan that includes regular monitoring, cultural practices, and the judicious use of pesticides can help maintain turf health and reduce the likelihood of chinch bug infestations.

Another option for chinch bug management is to seed with endophyte-enhanced grasses. These turfgrass varieties have been inoculated or naturally contain beneficial fungi known as endophytes, which live symbiotically within the plant tissues, particu-

larly in the stems, leaves, and seeds. The endophytes produce alkaloid compounds that are toxic or unpalatable to chinch bugs and other insect pests. When chinch bugs feed on these grasses, the metabolites can either repel them or reduce their survival rates, decreasing pest populations. Endophytes have been found in tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, hard fescue, chewings fescue and creeping red fescue.

When a chinch bug infestation develops, prompt action is necessary to prevent further damage. Since damage is more severe under dry conditions, turning on the irrigation can help reduce their impact. Watering deeply and infrequently encourages deeper root growth and makes the lawn less susceptible to damage.

Biocontrol products containing Beauveria bassiana or Metarhizium anisopliae have shown decent efficacy in the field. These fungi will attack through the skin and grow into the body of the bug, essentially decomposing them before they have died. Unfortunately, biocontrol products are not infallible. They are impacted by environmental conditions such as moisture, temperature, and UV exposure. One study demonstrated that a product containing Beauveria dropped in viability from 80 per cent to 10 per cent within three weeks of application (Thompson et al., 2006). To maximize the efficacy of biocontrol products for chinch, applications should be made when the humidity is high, when the UV light is low (late afternoon or cloudy/rainy days), and at warm temper-

The typical lifecycle of the chinch bugs through the months.

atures (18-29 degrees Celsius). Irrigation after application can also help move the spores deeper into the thatch layer and soil profile, which can provide protection from damaging surface temperatures and UV exposure. Always read the label and follow the instructions accordingly!

In cases of severe infestation, insecticides may be necessary. There are several products registered for use in Canada to use on chinch bugs, but the availability may depend on provincial or regional regulations. Products containing potassium salts of fatty acid and/or pyrethrins (insecticides extracted from chrysanthemum flowers) may be available in regions with pesticide bans. It’s important to follow the label instructions carefully and apply treatments when chinch bugs are most active, typically in the warmer months.

Are they getting worse?

Chinch bugs thrive in hot, dry conditions. Prolonged droughts or water restrictions can weaken turf, allowing chinch bugs to cause more severe damage. Furthermore, as temperatures rise due to climate change, we may see three generations of chinch bug occurring in regions where two generations are currently the norm. If there are three generations, the period during which they feed is prolonged, causing more sustained and extensive damage to the grass. With multiple generations overlapping, it would be more challenging to effectively time control measures. Younger and older chinch bugs might coexist, requiring different strategies for management. More generations can also lead to faster development of resistance to insecticides, which could make chemical control less effective over time.

Chinch bugs, though small, can have a

significant impact on the health and appearance of lawns. For turfgrass managers, landscapers, and homeowners, understanding the signs of an infestation and knowing how to manage and prevent these pests is essential. With the right approach, it’s possible to keep these tiny terrors at bay and enjoy a vibrant, green turfgrass stand all season long.

Resources:

• Lima A., Valada, T., Caetano, M.F., Franco, J.C., Ramos, A. P. 2021. First record of the lawn chinch bug Blissus insularis Barber (Hemiptera: Blissidae) in Europe, Phytoparasitica, 49: 539–545.

• Michigan State University Extension. (no date). Chinch bugs. Available: https://www.canr.msu.edu/ipm/diseases/chinch-bug?language_id=

• Ohio State University Extension. 2012. Chinch bugs in turfgrass. Available: https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/ HYG-2503-11

• Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. 2022. Hairy chinch bugs in lawns. Available: https://www. ontario.ca/page/hairy-chinch-bugslawns

Despite their tiny size, chinch bugs can pack a mighty punch

• Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. 2024. Debunking endophytes. Available: https://www. ontario.ca/page/debunking-endowphytes

• Thompson, S.R., Brandenburg, R.L., Arends, J.J. 2006. Impact of moisture and UV degradation on Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin conidial viability in turfgrass. Biological Control, 39: 401–407.

• University of New Hampshire Extension. 2016. Hairy chinch bug, Pest fact sheet 46. Available: https://extension. unh.edu/resource/hairy-chinch-bugfact-sheet

Dr. Sara Stricker is the communications and outreach co-ordinator at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. Matt Legg is the technical lead at Syngenta Canada.

An adult chinch bug in a turfgrass stand.

Maintaining a health turf stand through proper fertility, irrigation and mowing will help prevent chinch bug damage as seen here.

World-class curlers now lawn care pros

Husband and wife curlers

Brent Laing and Jennifer Jones are the new Weed Man franchise owners in Barrie-Collingwood, Ont.

By Turf & Rec staff

Olympic curlers Jennifer Jones and Brent Laing are the new owners of the Barrie-Collingwood, Ont. Weed Man franchise. The married couple took over the franchise that had been in Laing’s family since 1982. The official transaction took place in the spring.

“I don’t remember life without the green and yellow truck in the driveway,” Laing said.

Laing’s knowledge of the business is supplemented by Jones’ legal background. Together, they have focused their attention on empowering their team, enhancing customer service, and implementing forward-thinking strategies to stay ahead in the industry.

“We’re always asking why and thinking about what we need to do in the future,” Jones said. “We’re preparing for what’s next, not just for today.”

In addition to their ownership of the local Weed Man franchise, Laing and Jones are also operating the sub-brand Mosquito Hero which keeps mosquito populations under control so that customers can enjoy time spent outside their homes.

“At the end of the day, we’re just a part

of a different team,” Laing noted on Weed Man’s website. “This is a team that delivers customer service in the lawn care industry, whereas before it was a team that delivered shot-making on the curling ice. It’s the same. You plan, you execute, you debrief, and you replan, and you execute, and you debrief.”

Jones said the business venture is a big step for her and Laing, not only as entrepreneurs but as a family.

“Brent’s dad has poured his heart and soul into operating this business for the past 40 years,” she said on the company’s website. “We’re honoured to continue the legacy (Brent’s parents) Jane and George have built together. This business holds a special place in our hearts, and we’re thrilled to keep it in the family. It’s not

just about running a business – it’s about preserving a tradition and a sense of community.”

Jones has had an illustrious career on the ice. She skipped Canada’s entry in the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games to a gold medal, having gone undefeated throughout the competition. Additionally, she has won two world championships and six Canadian championships at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts.

Laing competed for Team Canada at the 2018 Olympics in PyeongChang – curling for Kevin Koe – finishing fourth. He has been a member of three world championship-winning teams as well as three championship-winning teams at the Tim Horton Brier. Throughout his curling career, he has played lead or second.

Curlers Jennifer Jones and Brent Laing are the new owners of Barrie, Ont.’s Weed Man franchise.

Supporting roots for healthy turf

Roots need extra support through strategic management. Submitted by Wilbur-Ellis Company

Beneath the turf, living within the soil is a part of the plant that plays a vital role in growing a lush, long-lasting turf.

Pulling nutrients and water from the soil and giving plants physical support, a healthy root system is essential to producing a sound and robust turf.

“Because roots are the plant’s lifeline, they require extra support through strategic management to navigate external stressors and ensure strong, usable turf,” Jason Otto, Wilbur-Ellis district manager and turf expert, said. “Root systems experience many challenges caused by their environment and grower management practices, but there are ways to navigate them.”

Supporting a healthy root zone involves moving two key components throughout the soil – air and water. Many external

factors impact this movement, including temperature, moisture, mowing, turf environment and biological elements. Managing these factors is a balancing act, but with the right resources, you can pinpoint issues and develop a tactical management plan to grow lush, durable turf.

Prepare for the hot, cold, wet and dry

Weather, specifically temperature and moisture, significantly impacts turfgrass. Extreme temperature and moisture conditions cause root systems to shrink and become less efficient at absorbing the plant’s needed nutrients and moisture. Ultimately, when not addressed, shrinkage may cause the plant to die.

“No one can control the weather, but we can control our management to ensure we are helping solve the issue, not make it worse,” Otto said. “For example, growers

can exacerbate problems by rainfall or lack thereof by over- or under-irrigating turf, causing nutrients to be less available to plants.”

Overwatering grasses with shallower root systems limit air movement within the soil. This limited movement prevents plants from taking up nutrients. Underwatering fails to provide the moisture and water turf needs to thrive.

Additionally, temperature plays a large role in the health of turf. Both sudden temperature changes and prolonged extreme weather impact your turf.

Quick changes in temperature, especially at the beginning of warmer seasons, can shock turf. Plants suffer when temperatures suddenly drop because they do not have the time to acclimate. Areas that experience longer cool seasons are more prone to this shock. Proper nourishment and irrigation

Overwatering grasses with shallower root systems limit air movement within the soil.

help plants withstand this stress.

Mow, dethatch and aerate at the right time

Responsible mowing and thatch management are turf managers’ most impactful tools for keeping the root zone healthy. Too much mowing or over-thatching can cause abiotic stress; however, unmanaged thatch can lead to soil compaction, restricting root growth and development.

Finding the right balance in thatch layer management is the key to growing good turf. Plants need some thatch to keep the root zone rigid so it can handle foot traffic and stress. For good turf, it also is important for the thatch layer to be broken up to enhance air movement and distribute water uniformly throughout the root system. Thoroughly dethatch twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, to remove unwanted thatch from your turf without disturbing the plant too much.

Roots react to limited water distribution by staying in the upper layer of the soil, often not reaching the nutrients further down in the soil profile.

Enhance soil health with humic acid and biologicals

Spring is the best time to boost the root zone’s chemical and biological components and enhance soil health.

“Timing for wetting agents is vital,” Otto said. “Applying wetting agents in the spring when the soil softens and after thatching or verticutting, allows the products to reach the levels of the soil where they make the most impact.”

Humic acids and biological soil amendments improve water and nutrient distribution and availability in the root zone. They also help buffer the soil and increase its cation exchange capacity.

“Humic acids can also have a stimulatory effect on both inoculated and native soil microbes,” Otto said. “Get these microbes in the root zone to work for you and

make nutrients more available to healthy plants.”

Using humic acid with a wetting agent included in it, followed by rain or a small amount of irrigation, sets up the soil for the season.

Assess the environment of your turf

The level of shade and sunlight dramatically impacts the quality of turf. Shade caused by trees and shrubs limits the quality of sunlight reaching the plants. Low sunlight fosters algae or moss growth,

leading to thinner turf.

Also, consider the traffic and stress you put on your turf. Walking and driving golf carts or mowing equipment on the turf, especially when the soil is wet, also negatively affects the root zone. This traffic causes compaction, further disrupting airflow and creating unhealthy turf.

Build the right team

Turf specialists are great resources to help you manage your turf and build a management strategy that works best for you.

Billy Goat

Hurricane™

Blower

Air and water are two key contributors to a healthy root system.

Preparing tractors for winter usage

Tractors play a key role in transporting supplies and equipment, no matter the season. By

Joel Hicks

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s essential to ensure your tractor is winter-ready to maintain its efficiency and performance. The winter months can be hard on your tractor, whether it is in use or not.

Many equipment owners depend on tractors for regular snow removal, ensuring their properties remain accessible and safe. In addition to snow removal, tractors can be used for a wide range of other tasks, such as hauling materials, which is why proper maintenance is crucial. For those who manage recreational facilities, tractors play a key role in transporting supplies and equipment, no matter the season.

Properly maintaining your tractor to avoid downtime is important during any time of the year. By protecting your equipment from harsh winter conditions, you will not only ensure its efficiency but also extend its lifespan.

Working through winter? Prepare your machine for cold weather conditions

Just like winter clothing protects you from the cold, preparing your tractor for winter helps ensure that it will perform through frigid conditions. Planning for cold conditions will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your machine running.

Start by switching all tractor fluids to winter-grade options to ensure proper lubrication in colder months. To prevent fuel instability and maintain engine efficiency, add fuel additives to stabilize your fuel and avoid deposits that could clog injectors. Run your machine for 15 minutes after adding the additives to circulate them throughout the entire fuel system, not just the tank. There are several effective fuel additive options available.

Tractors should also be equipped with cold-weather equipment to ensure efficient and safe operation in winter conditions. Engine block heaters are essential for smooth cold starts, as they reduce engine wear, lower emissions, and improve fuel efficiency. Pair this with a battery

blanket to keep your battery at an optimal temperature.

For better traction on snow and ice, use tire chains or consider winter tires. Adding weight ballasts enhances stability and control, particularly when using attachments. Finally, a cab enclosure will keep you warm and protected from the harsh cold while working.

General maintenance best practices

No matter the time of year, establishing a maintenance schedule for your tractor is a must, and this is especially important in the winter months. Regularly inspecting key components and keeping your tractor in top condition can help prevent issues caused by cold weather and ensure reliable

Tractors are used year-round for various tasks, but there are necessary preparations to be made to ensure they perform efficiently during the cold winter months.

performance. Here are some key areas to focus on when performing winter maintenance on your tractor.

First and most importantly, ensure you are familiar with your owner’s manual to ensure you know your machine’s basic and intermediate facts. This can help make the maintenance process easier and can give you an idea of when something is wrong with your tractor.

During cold months, you should regularly check your tractor’s tire air pressure to ensure optimal performance. Cold air causes air pressure to drop faster, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation. It’s also important to keep an eye on belts and hoses, as cold weather can make them brittle and prone to cracks and failures. Regularly inspect them for signs of wear and replace any damaged parts promptly. A broken belt or hose can lead to costly downtime.

With shorter winter days, ensure your tractor’s lights are working properly by checking and replacing any burnt-out bulbs. Inspect wiring and connections for wear or damage, as cold weather can cause corrosion and loosen connections.

In the winter, attachments and implements – like grader blades, front-end loaders, and snowplows – enhance the functionality of tractors. Before using them, it’s crucial to ensure they’re in good condition, as they’ve likely been in storage since last winter.

Start by greasing all necessary points and checking the fluid in the gearboxes, adding or replacing it, as needed. Inspect the hydraulic hoses for damage or leaks, repairing or replacing them, as required. Additionally, consult the owner’s manual for any other recommended maintenance tasks.

Just like humans, tractors need time to warm up before getting to work in the wintertime. Allowing your tractor to warm up ensures proper oil and coolant circulation and helps it reach the correct operating temperature. This brief period allows the engine to lubricate its com-

ponents, reducing wear and tear, and ensuring that all systems function properly.

Having your tractor serviced before winter is also crucial for smooth and efficient operation. Professional service can catch issues that the average owner might miss and handle complex tasks beyond the capabilities of even the most skilled DIY enthusiasts. With access to better tools and processes, professionals can efficiently complete maintenance work, ultimately saving you time and money in the long run.

Proper storage for non-use

Just as you would clean and park a prized car in a garage before leaving it for an extended period, your tractor needs similar care during the winter months. Properly preparing and storing your tractor is crucial for ensuring its longevity and performance, especially if it will be out of use until spring.

The harsh conditions can wreak havoc on your machine if it is not stored properly. To avoid such issues as rust, corrosion, and engine damage, it’s important to follow a few key steps.

Before storing your tractor, thoroughly clean it. This will reduce the risk of rust and corrosion, which can shorten the equipment’s lifespan. Additionally, a clean machine makes it easier to identify and address any damage or wear and tear. This will also make it easier to prepare for usage when spring comes around.

If you are storing your tractor and not using it all winter, it’s ideal to store it in an indoor or sheltered area to ensure that it is protected from the elements. If a sheltered area isn’t available, use a heavy-duty tractor cover. Ideally, you would want to use both.

Sitting idle and exposed in frigid temperatures and wet snow can cause a range of problems, from corrosion to cracked engine components. Additionally, try to run your tractor once or twice a week to maintain the battery and lubricate internal components.

You should perform a routine maintenance check on your tractor before you store it and a few times throughout the winter. Start by topping off your fluids, such as the transmission fluid, hydraulic oil, and coolant. This will prevent condensation, which can water down your fluids. Additionally, you should inspect your tires, hoses, and belts to check for any signs of leaks or damage.

Preparing your tractor for winter is a critical task that can save you time, money, and frustration. By following these steps, you can ensure your tractor remains reliable and efficient throughout the cold months.

Start your winterizing process early, and don’t hesitate to consult with professionals if you need additional help. By taking proactive steps, you can keep your tractor in peak condition, ready to tackle whatever winter throws your way.

End-of-season care of turf equipment

Begin now to prepare equipment for spring success.

By Justin Parrott

As the weather turns cooler, it’s time to start thinking about end-of-season maintenance on your lawn and turf care equipment before storing it for the dormant winter months. Follow the steps below to set your business up for success next spring and hit the ground running.

Maintenance

Completing maintenance checks and performing repairs that you put on the back burner during the busy season is a great way to understand the overall mechanical condition of your equipment. Doing so will help you sidestep any sudden surprises next season, which could cost you valuable time, and get your gear back

to peak operating performance.

Start by doing a full mechanical check to ensure everything is in proper working condition. For aging machines, it’s especially important to check “unusual” maintenance items that can be easily dismissed throughout the season. Are your belts within the manufacturer’s tolerances? Are your bearings still rolling smoothly? Is your parking brake still holding the machine? What kind of shape are your tires in? While these items may not need to be replaced immediately, thinking ahead allows you to plan your time and budget appropriately.

To avoid catastrophic (and expensive!) failure of major components, it’s also necessary to stick to a strict maintenance schedule, as per the owner’s manual. The

The underside of a mower deck is most susceptible to rust if not cleaned properly

oil and oil filters for the engine and transmission, along with the air filtration system, must be checked and changed regularly to maximize longevity. Have greaseable bearings or bushings? Remember to keep on top of the greasing interval!

Your senses can often be the best tool for noticing early symptoms before they turn into bigger problems. While operating your equipment, keep an ear out for unusual sounds and vibrations. That belt squeal or loud “thunk” is likely indicative of something. Although it may slow you down momentarily, it’s best to address

Before storing equipment for the winter season, be sure to follow the necessary maintenance checks.

any potential issues before they become a more serious and costly problem down the road.

Cleaning

The underside of a mower deck is most susceptible to rust if not cleaned properly. Grass buildup can hold moisture and cause damage to the belly of the deck. Getting under the mower deck with a scraper and power washer both during the season and before the off-season will help prevent corrosion. And, if you want to go the extra mile, remove all grass clippings and debris from your machine and give it a thorough handwashing and waxing before putting it into storage.

Storage

We’re not done yet! Your engine, hydraulic, coolant and transmission fluids should be topped up before storing your machine for the winter. Fuel can sometimes be a contentious topic, so I recommended either:

• Filling the tank most of the way up with fresh fuel and adding a fuel stabilizer. Run the engine for at least five minutes to allow the stabilizer to enter the rest of the fuel

system. Most fuel stabilizers claim to keep gas good for up to 24 months – far longer than most need.

• Syphoning the fuel out of the tank and running the machine until it’s dry. While this process takes time, it provides the comfort of adding fresh fuel come spring. However, if you plan on moving your machine at all, this wouldn’t be the best move.

Take a good look at your tires for punctures or leaks and fill them to the appropriate level. A tire parked with low pressure can cause a permanent flat spot, which will cause a bumpy ride and make replacement necessary. Also, keep tabs on inflation levels throughout the winter to avoid flat-spotting tires.

Disconnecting and placing the battery on a battery maintainer can promote longevity. If storing in a cold climate, remove the battery from the machine and store it in a well-ventilated indoor area to prevent damage from the cold. If you have space available, storing your machine indoors is my top recommendation, as it will stay dry from the elements and lower the risk of rodents moving in. However, if you’re parking

your mower outside, cover the machine as best as possible to help prevent surface rust and discolouration. Regardless of where your machine finds itself this winter, you should periodically check under the hood and around the engine for rodents and place clean cardboard under the machine to help identify any potential fluid leaks.

By keeping your equipment in tip-top condition and setting your business up for success next spring, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re ready for whatever next season throws at you.

Justin Parrott is product manager for turf and RTV with Kubota Canada.

If equipment is stored in a cold climate, remove the battery and store it in a well-ventilated indoor area.

Yanmar Compact Equipment has introduced a new line of branded attachments for use with its compact track loaders.

The attachments include a full range of buckets, augers, trenchers, stump grinders, soil conditioners, breakers, sweepers, pallet forks, brush mowers, grapple rakes, grapple buckets and snow and grading blades.

The introduction of the new attachments streamlines the purchasing process for fleet owners, contractors and rental centres by allowing Yanmar dealers to act as a one-stop shop for a comprehensive package of Yanmar equipment and attachments.

“We’re excited to offer yet another reliable and versatile set of tools to help fleet customers and contractors be

productive right out of the gate and conquer the evolving demands of any construction jobsite head-on,” Frank Gangi, product manager, attachments, Yanmar Compact Equipment North America, said. “Additionally, Yanmar customers can save time by buying their machine and attachments all from one place.”

The attachments, available through

Yanmar’s dealer network, allow for seamless compatibility for use with all Yanmar-branded compact track loaders. This allows operators to simply attach the tool and begin work. Plus, owners have access to the same signature 24-month/2,000-hour warranty offered on Yanmar compact track loaders.

In addition to offering the convenience of buying a compatible Yanmar attachment with a matching machine, the new attachment line is simple to finance. Eligible buyers can purchase a Yanmar machine through a Yanmar dealer and finance the attachment with the equipment as a bundle in one package.

The new attachments will be available at Yanmar dealers alongside its full lineup of compact track loaders

Battery-powered zero turn mowers have low noise, no emissions

STIHL has introduced a line of gasoline and battery-powered mowers for the landscaping industry.

Its RZA line of zero-turn battery-powered mowers include the RZA 760, RZA 752 and RZA 748 which can make quick work of mowing and traveling in between jobs, allowing professional landscapers to save on time and money while benefiting from reduced noise, zero exhaust emissions, and the fuel-cost savings of battery power.

STIHL’s RMA 510 is highly maneuverable and able to quickly cover small-to-medium size yards. The mower’s self-propel function features a variable-speed setting control. For added convenience and customization, the deck of the RMA 510 V is adjustable to seven different cutting heights, and the handlebar adjusts to three height positions. Durable, 10-inch rear wheels and eight-inch front ball-bearing wheels allow for mowing over rough terrain.

The RM 756 YC features the mono-comfort handle, Hydrostatic Drive System, and Kohler Command Pro engine.

Backhoe loader digs deep for machine of its size

Bobcat Company has expanded its North American product lineup with the introduction of the B760 backhoe loader which offers optimal digging depth in its size class.

With a wide range of job site solutions built into one machine, the backhoe loader features a lift capacity of more than 2,200 pounds at full reach; digging depth of 18 feet, five inches; and nearly 180 degrees of backhoe swing for less repositioning and fast cycle times.

The backhoe loader comes with a standard-equipped extendable arm that provides up to eight inches of additional dig depth compared to other machines of the same size. The B760’s performance and versatility extend throughout the machine, with the front-end loader providing a lift capacity of 7,985 pounds with its standard, general purpose bucket.

Powered by a turbocharged 3.4-litre Bobcat engine, the B760 delivers powerful, high-torque performance and efficiency. It achieves emissions compliance without the use of a diesel particulate filter (DPF).

With powerful backhoe and loader breakout forces, operators can confidently dig in and conquer some of the most challenging job site tasks such as excavation, site preparation, material handling, trenching, snow removal and more. The power shift transmission provides quick direction changes while the backhoe loader’s swift travel speeds allow operators to minimize the need for a trailer.

With controls that are easy to use, new operators can reach maximum productivity in less time. The easy-to-read, five-inch, colour display panel provides full-featured machine interaction and monitoring capabilities for efficient and productive operation. The operator station and optional cab are designed for all-day comfort, with controls designed for easy use and minimal operator fatigue.

Additional standard features that enhance operator productivity include:

• Ride control for reduced bucket spillage.

• Automatic return-to-dig positioning to maximize cycle time efficiency.

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Health & Safety

By CCOHS

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) promotes the total well being of workers in Canada by providing information, training, education, systems and solutions that support health and safety programs and injury and illness prevention. www.ccohs.ca

The ways to avoid manual material handling injuries doing physical work

There is only an hour left to work and there is still a truckload of material needing to be loaded. Determined to meet the deadline, you pick up the pace, lean over to lift a large item without bending your knees, and suddenly you feel a surge of pain up your back. You’ve just joined the thousands of workers in Canada suffering back injuries each year.

Lifting is the most common cause of low back pain at work in Canada. The number and the severity of injuries can be greatly reduced by preparing and planning for the lift and practicing safe lifting and handling techniques.

Contributing factors

There are many factors that can contribute to back injuries like the weight of the load lifted, the range of the lift, the location of the load in relation to the body, the size and shape of the load, the distance and duration the load is carried, and the number and frequency of lifts performed. Excessive bending and twisting can also increase the risk of back injury.

The following tips can help you and your crew reduce the risk of back injuries when performing manual material handling tasks.

Lifting safely takes planning and preparatio

Remind workers to dress appropriately. They should wear lightweight clothing that is flexible but that won’t easily tear, avoiding exposed buttons, zippers or loose flaps that could get caught by part of the load. Protect your hands and feet by wearing protective gloves appropriate for the materials being handled and safety boots with toe caps and slip-resistant soles.

How often manual material handling tasks are performed and for how long are also important factors to consider. Frequently repeated and long-lasting tasks are the most tiring and, therefore, more likely to cause back injury. Sometimes, specific job tasks require wearing personal protective equipment. These items may hinder movement while lifting and cause injuries. Be sure that a job hazard analysis is performed, and any restrictions have been addressed.

Plan the lift. Make sure that the path to where you are taking the load is clear of obstacles and debris – such as grease, oil, water, and litter – that can cause you to slip and fall. Remove or clean anything that is in the way.

Warm up muscles with gentle stretches to prepare them for the physical stress of the lift and other handling tasks. This is an especially important step at the beginning of the shift, or for workers who only lift occasionally and may not be accustomed to handling loads.

Test the load for shifting contents and weight by pulling or sliding it toward you. Determine if the lift can be made without overexerting. A large-sized load will put

more strain on the body than a small-sized load of the same weight. Remind workers not to lift if they are not sure if they can handle the load safely, to get help with heavy or awkward loads, or when possible, use equipment such as hoists, lift trucks, dollies, or wheelbarrows.

Tips for the lift

Specific handling and lifting techniques are needed for different kinds of loads or materials being handled (for example, compact loads small bags, large sacks, drums and barrels, cylinders or sheet materials like drywall).\

There is no single correct way to lift because lifting can always be done in several ways. On-site, task-specific training is essential. However, there are some general lifting rules to follow.

• Stand close to the load facing the direction that you’ll be moving.

• Place your feet wide apart to keep your balance.

• Get and keep a good grip on the load using both your hands – not just your fingertips. Grasp opposite corners and balance your load evenly between both arms.

• As you lift, keep your back as straight as is comfortable, tightening your abdominal (stomach) muscles.

• Bend your legs so they do the lifting.

• Lift the load smoothly, without jerking, keeping it as close to your body as possible.

• Keep the load in the middle, between shoulder and knee height.

• Avoid twisting and side bending while lifting. Step or pivot, turning your whole body.

• Plan where to set the load down, ideally on a raised platform that will not require you to bend down with the weight of the load. Avoid placing loads directly on the floor.

Rest breaks help

It is also important to take advantage of rest periods to relax tired muscles and recover strength between lifts. Remind workers to switch between heavy loads and lighter ones. Consider your work environment, too – rest more often when it is hot and humid, and when it is cold, be aware that it takes more time to warm up your muscles.

Proper lifting and handling methods can protect people from getting injured. Encouraging your workers to use these safe lifting techniques can help keep them healthy and safe.

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Regional Tractor Sales Ltd. Freelton, ON

Saulco Enterprises Bracebridge, ON

Southpoint Equipment Essex, ON Wyoming, ON

Thornhill Lawn Equipment Ltd. Thornhill, ON

Toll Small Engines Inc. Ottawa, On

W.J. Lambert & Sons Limited Beaverton, ON

West City Powersports Belleville, ON Yarmand Ottawa, ON

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABORADOR

Atlantic Trailer & Tractor

Mount Pearl, NL Clarenville, NL

NEW BRUNSWICK

A.D. Enterprise

Ltée in Edmundston, NB

Atlantic Air Cooled Engines

Moncton, NB

Big Rock Rentals Quispamsis, NB

Down East Powersports

Saint John, NB

Florenceville Ag Ltd.

Florenceville-Bristol, NB

Valley Chainsaw 2014 Jacksonville, NB

NOVA SCOTIA

Cabot Powersports Sydney, NS

Eastern Powersports Limited Amherst, NS

Jerry’s Rv Trailer Sales & Services Ltd. New Minas, NS

The Tractor Dome Inc. Milford, NS

Truro Motorsports

Lower Truro, NS

Attending Equip Expo?

Visit indoor booth 1054 and outdoor booth 7650D to learn more.

Satellite-guided mowing for cleaner, quieter, easier landscaping.

Optimize your green spaces with satellite-guided, precision mowing using the Kress RTKn robotic mower.

Kress Mission RTKn autonomous mowers use cutting-edge tech to deliver flawless, precision cuts for parks, sports fields and public and residential spaces. With no boundary wire or onsite antennas, Kress makes it simple for any landscape. Quiet programmable operation means mowing happens on your schedule while saving three hours of mowing time1 per week, freeing your team to focus on other maintenance tasks.

With zero operational emissions and significant savings on labor and upkeep, Kress is transforming lawn care for professionals everywhere.

¹”Among Robotic Mower Owners,” My Take, 2023.

The only choice for commercial landscapers to replace gas