Clippings 2024, Issue 2

New Brunswick, NJ

Wednesday, July 31, 2024 Adelphia Farm Freehold, NJ

2024 PATRON DIRECTORY

Ad location page in bracket after Company Name

BASF [Page 9]

Paul Ramina

7 Aspen Place, Long Valley, NJ 07853

Ph: (908) 413-2944 • Paul.Ramina@basf.com Fungicide

BURLINGHAM SEEDS [Page 15]

Jason Goss

8883 Rickreall Rd, Rickreall, OR 97371

Ph: (440) 582-8540 jason@burlseed.com Seed

DLF USA [Page 15]

Sean Chaney

175 West H Street, Halsey, OR 97348

Ph: (541) 369-2251 • dlfinfo@dlfna.com

DOUBLE ‘D’ TURF [Page 11]

Dennis DeSanctis Jr.

385 Morrison Avenue Hightstown, NJ 08520

Ph: (732) 580-5516 • dennisjr@doubledturf.com

ENVU [Page 25]

Jeffrey Weld

91 Schofield Road, West Milford, NJ 07480

Ph: (914) 419-9384 • jeff.weld@envu.com

GRASS ROOTS INC [Page 25]

Ken and Keith Kubik PO Box 336, Mt. Freedom, NJ 07970

Ph: (973) 252-6634 keith.kubik@griturf.com • ken.kubik@griturf.com

HARRELL’S No Ad in this Issue

Tyler Otero 59 Baird Road Millstone, NJ 08535 Cell: (201) 230-5195 • totero@harrells.com

HELENA No Ad in this Issue

Tim Gerzabek 500 Pedricktown Road Swedesboro, NJ 08085 Ph: (609) 221-9240 gerzabekT@helenaagri.com

LANDMARK SEED [Page 5]

Jeremy Husen PO Box 13009, Salem, OR 97309 jeremy@pratumcoop.com Seed

MITCHELL PRODUCTS [Page 26]

Jennifer Ayres

1205 West Main Street

Millville, NJ 08332

Ph: (856) 327-2005 • jayres@tricure.com

MOUNTAIN VIEW SEEDS [Page 17]

Troy Kuenzi

8955 Sunnyview Road NE, Salem, OR 97305 Ph: (503) 588-7333 • troy@mtviewseeds.com Seed

PBI GORDON No Ad in this Issue

John Wiblishauser 318 East Glenside Avenue Glenside, PA 19038 Ph: 9609) 774-3310

PRO SEEDS & ALLIANCE SEED (Page 19)

JP Olsen, Henry Lesinski 13965 Westside Ln S, Jefferson OR 97352 Ph: (541) 928-9999 jolson@proseeds.net • henry@allianceseedco.com

RUTGERS DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY [Page 32]

RUTGERS NJAES

Rich Buckley & Sabrina Tirpak

20 Indyk-Engel Way

New Brunswick, NJ 08901

Ph: (732) 932-9140

SITE ONE LANDSCAPE SUPPLY [Page 10} Customer Service

1-800-748-3663

300 Colonial Center Parkway, Suite 600 Roswell, GA 30076

STORR TRACTOR COMPANY [Page 2]

JIm Devaney 3191 Highway 22 East, Branchburg, NJ 08876

Ph: (908) 722-9830 jdevaney@storrtractor.com andydonelson@turf-equipment.com Toro Grounds Equipment and Irrigation

SYNGENTA [Page 19]

Chris Marra 8 Highview Avenue, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927

Cell: (862) 505-4319 Christopher.Marra@syngenta.com

TURCO GOLF [Page 17]

Jeremy Schumer

430 Montclair Avenue Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442

Ph: (201) 588-6274 • jeremy@turcogolf.com

From Your President: JASON OSTERHOUDT

What an amazing day!

The RU Golf classic was another astounding success. It was a day full of sunshine and memories as a record 400 plus players participated in the event this year. It is great to see all the support and I am thrilled to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your participation and support.

The RU Golf Classic not only is a showcase of the passion within our turfgrass community, but also serves as a testament to the invaluable contributions to the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science. For the past 28 years, we have successfully raised money to help fund turfgrass research and education and this year was no exception. Your presence and enthusiasm underscored the importance of this event in fostering camaraderie and knowledge exchange among professionals in our industry. THANK YOU!!

I would like to express my deepest appreciation to our generous sponsors for their unwavering support. Your commitment to the association and foundation and the future of turfgrass management is truly commendable. Your contributions have enabled us to continue our mission of supporting the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science. The success of this event doesn’t happen without your support!! THANK YOU!!

Additionally, I extend a special thank you to our hardworking volunteers who dedicated their time and effort to ensure the smooth execution of the RU Golf Classic. Your dedication behind the scenes did not go unnoticed, and we are immensely grateful for your invaluable contributions. THANK YOU!!

The “Grand Raffle” to end the day was an overwhelming success. It was the first time in my 18 years of attending the event that a buzz filled the reception room. Putters, Balls, Wedges and everything in between were flying out the door. Heck I even won a new putter!! Although, it still doesn’t help my game!! We hope to build upon this success and create even more excitement next year!!

I am looking forward to seeing everyone again at RU Field Days on July 30-31, where we will have the privilege of experiencing world-renowned turfgrass research firsthand. This event promises to be a unique opportunity for our members to engage with cuttingedge research, network with industry leaders, and gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in turfgrass management.

Jason Osterhoudt NJTA President

Rutgers University has long been at the forefront of turfgrass research, and the RU Field Days are a testament to their dedication to excellence in this field. Attendees can look forward to informative presentations, interactive demonstrations, and discussions led by experts who are shaping the future of turfgrass management on a global scale.

From sustainable practices to innovative technologies, the RU Field Days will provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities facing our industry today. Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the field, there will be something for everyone to learn and discover.

I encourage all members to mark their calendars and join us for this unparalleled opportunity to expand your knowledge, connect with peers, and be inspired by the world-renowned turfgrass research showcased at Rutgers University.

Till then, I wish all our members, sponsors and volunteers a great start to your summer!!

Jason Osterhoudt President, NJTA

NJTA’s Mission & Purpose

New Jersey Turfgrass Association’s Mission is to promote the Turfgrass Industry and enhance the environment through education, professionalism, leadership, and our partnership with Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.

Our Purpose is to gather together all the turf interest in the State of New Jersey into a cooperative group for the collection, preservation, and dissemination of information pertinent to the development and maintenance of turfgrass areas.

Cece Peabody, MAT, CMP Executive Director

Compliments Matter!

What is a compliment? Basically, it’s an expression of praise for someone who has gone above the normal or average....it expresses that you admire someone for their actions, work ethic, contribution, and more. A compliment here or there helps your team feel like they belong, that they are achieving more than what their paycheck reflects, and that they are making a difference.

Compliments Matter! There’s something amazing about being appreciated, validated, and seen for all the effort put in at work. A compliment should be appropriate, motivating, and encouraging. You want your team members to feel valued.

By using compliments, you create a more positive work environment, and you also let your team know they can come to you to discuss things that concern them. If you only ever criticize, your team will avoid you and see you as an adversary.

A well-placed compliment can help someone survive a challenging day (especially if they already have dramas in their

GOLF CLASSIC..Another Great Day!

The Rutgers Turfgrass Classic has become better and bigger than anyone dreamed possible and that happened because so many motivated and dedicated people kept trying to make it better. There are so many names that you would recognize but I will just acknowledge some of the leaders. Some of these people were there at the start and some are still involved. Dr. Bruce Clarke, Dr. Richard Hurley, Dennis DeSanctis Sr., Dave McGhee, Dr. Bill Meyer, Cece Peabody and Dr. Karen Plumley. We are now fortunate to have Dr. James Murphy, Dr. Stacy Bonos and Dr. Matt Elmore heading up the Center For Turfgrass Science’s extraordinary support in promoting the Classic.

The New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation actually presents this event. Cece Peabody and her staff are responsible for all of the organization needed for the Classic to function seamlessly from their 6:30 am arrival to their departure as darkness signals an end to the festivities. In conjunction with the Rutgers scientists, the Classic Committee is intimately involved in preparing for everything that happens that day. Jason Osterhoudt and Donovan Maguigan are co-chairmen and along with Josh Kopera, Matt Lindner and Mike Reed, they help with the truly amazing Silent Auction in addition to the 50/50, Mulligans and the new end of day raffle that gave away over $11,000 in golf prizes.

If you are interested in why Rutgers scientists and so many of their students volunteer to help it is because the NJT Foundation exists to support the Rutgers Turfgrass Program and only that program. The Foundation has given over 1.2 million dollars to Rutgers and much of that has come from your support of the Classic. Everyone involved with the Classic is a volunteer and each one actively contributes.

On the day of the event, Matt Willigan approached me with a smile and a question. Matt is the head of golf course operations and he asked me if we were trying to make Fiddler’s Elbow build another course. They have 3 courses and if every hole had 2 teams on each tee that would be 432 players. This year we set a record of 412 players. If you keep supporting the event they may have to add a 4th course.

Shaun Barry Chairman, Golf Classic

The names of our sponsors and winners are noted below and on the next couple of pages. Please review both lists especially our sponsors. This is only the list of our main sponsors and that is because of space issues. We would not be successful without them but every sponsor is important and we appreciate their decisions to support the Classic in a way that is good for them. I also want to thank the 7 different associations that attend every year. They represent many parts of our industry and are from several different states. They, like you, understand and appreciate the great scientists at Rutgers and the research and work they do. My final thank you goes to everyone who helped make this event function so beautifully. I am extremely proud of the effort each one of you made. Many of you are in the shadows but your efforts can be seen clearly in the light of day.

Thanks for your attendance at our 28th Golf Classic!!

Please add May 5, 2025 to your calendar as we gather at Fiddler’s Elbow for the 29th edition of the Rutgers Turfgrass Classic.

2024 PREMIER

SPONSORS

BASF

BURLINGHAM SEEDS DLF

ENVU

GRASS ROOTS

HARRELL’S HELENA

LANDMARK TURF & NATIVE SEED

LEBANON TURF

MOUNTAIN VIEW SEEDS

PBI GORDON

PROSEEDS/ALLIANCE SEED

SITEONE LANDSCAPE SUPPLY

STORR TRACTOR & TORO

SYNGENTA

River Course Results

Closest to the Pin Results

Longest Drive Results

Name

Larry Mayerowitz

Jamison Carr

Nick Tristani

Kelly Lynch

Denise Smith

Bob Marterella

Denise Smith (Jennifer Hatterman)

*Ties are Broken based on Back 9 Score

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GOLF CLASSIC SNAPSHOTS

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Pictures courtesy of Matt Sweatlock, NJTA Director.

The Turf is Ready!

Now is the time for the annual Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days. Clear your calendars for July 30 and 31 for two full days of turfgrass education. Rutgers Field Days will be returning to their traditional locations with golf and fine turf day (July 30) at New Brunswick research farm and lawn, landscape and sports turf day (July 31) at the Adelphia research farm. Each day will be loaded with great presentations and plenty of recertification credits for pesticide and ProFACT license holders.

Fine turf day will start with a bonus early morning Core pesticide session, presented by Mike Reed. His high energy style is always a great way to start the morning. Mike will be discussing ‘Pesticide Compliance and Enforcement’.

The morning field tours will begin at 9:00am with updates on the Bentgrass breeding trials and 2023 NTEP Kentucky Bluegrass trial. The Rutgers turfgrass breeding team has been evaluating varieties of Bentgrass for disease resistance, wear tolerance and divot recovery under a fairway setting. In a second study, evaluations will be toured for shade tolerance and putting quality.

The turfgrass weed science team, under the direction of Dr. Matt Elmore, will display their work on the effective management and the use of PGRs on Goosegrass. The team has an additional study looking at PGRs and herbicide programs for control of annual bluegrass.

Several studies will be presented evaluating the use of biostimulants. The turfgrass pathology team, led by Dr. Ming-Yi Chou, has studies investigating biorational products with the use of fertilizers and fungicides. These studies will show management of Anthracnose and Dollar Spot as well as control of Rhythm and Take-all patch.

The Rutgers turfgrass scientists are going high tech. They have a study making use of remote sensing and robotic imagery for precision irrigation. There is also a study using high-precision multispectral mapping of the turfgrass research fields.

For those still in need of Spanish ProFACT training, there will be ProFACT training and exam on Tuesday. During the field tours the training will be provided in Spanish (10:00am - Noon) presented by Dr. Raul Cabrera.

After the training session, the ProFact exam will be administered; pre-registration is required for the Exam.. (fee is $90)

Craig Tolley, Field Days Co-Chair

The lawn, landscape and sports turf day will see the return of the New Jersey Sports Field Managers Association’s annual trade show. This day will include demonstrations by some of the business partners throughout the day embedded into the field tours. The New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation will have a Silent Auction running during the trade show.

The Rutgers turfgrass breeding team has been hard at work at the Adelphia farm. They will be presenting updates on the 2022 NTEP perennial ryegrass, 2023 NTEP Kentucky bluegrass trial, the 2023 NTEP tall fescue trial and the 2020 NTEP fine fescue trial.

Research at this farm includes work on the performance of cool-season turfgrass under shade. This study is an evaluation of different cool-season species for use in shaded environments for residential use and professional applications.

There will also be a study investigating the performance of Zoysiagrass and Bermudagrass in New Jersey. This study evaluates how these species persist, tolerate disease and their overall performance.

The turfgrass pathology team has several studies to share at this farm. Evaluations include perennial ryegrass for gray leaf spot tolerance, summer patch management in Kentucky bluegrass, and the breeding trials for disease resistance in Kentucky bluegrass.

The turfgrass weed science team will also be presenting some of their work as well. The use of post-emergent weed control products for broadleaf weeds will be shared. Dr. Matt Elmore will be discussing his work on the influence of application methods and adjuvants for post emergent crabgrass control.

The field day committee would like to thank the many sponsors that help make this event possible. Registration is now open, on the New Jersey Turfgrass Association’s website. Be sure to register early to take advantage of the early registration discount. Registration form is also in this issue of Clippings.

2024 Rutgers Turfgrass Research FIELD DAYS

Early Registration Form ONLY. Return by Friday, 7/12/24 or Register On-Site.

Tuesday, July 30, 2024

GOLF

& FINE

TURF

DAY

Hort Farm 2, 102 Ryders Lane, North Brunswick NJ 08902

WHY ATTEND?

• Meet the Rutgers Experts including New Pathologist Dr. Chou

• Creeping Bentgrass, Putting Green and Fairway Trials

• Best Management Strategies for Control of Dollar Spot, and Other Important Leaf and Root Diseases of Turf FOLLOW US: @NJTA_Turfgrass • #RUturfdays24

DIRECTIONS to Farms on websitewww.njturfgrass.org

SCHEDULE OF THE DAY

7:30 AM Registration Opens SILENT AUCTION Opens

8:00 – 8:30 AM CORE SESSION (OPTIONAL) Pick Your Poison: Pesticide Safety Update - Mike

9:00 AM TOURS Begin

1:00 PM TOURS End

1:00 – 2:00 PM Lunch & SILENT AUCTION Ends

2:00 PM FIELD DAY Ends (Unless staying for below)

Sign Credit Forms

PROFACT SCHEDULE (OPTIONAL) GEIGER CLASSRM

10:00 AM -12:00 PM: Basic Training for the Professional Fertilizer Applicator Certification in SPANISH ONLY - 3 Credits - Dr. Raul Cabrera

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Fertilizer Exam in SPANISH ONLY ($90) Pre-Registration Required

Wednesday, July 31, 2024 LAWN, LANDSCAPE & SPORTS FIELD DAY

Adelphia Farm, 594 Halls Mill Road, Freehold NJ 07728

TRADE SHOW & EQUIPMENT DEMOS Sponsored by SFMANJ (Sports Field Managers Assoc. of NJ)

WHY ATTEND?

• Meet the Rutgers Experts including New Pathologist Dr. Chou

• Best Management Practices for Weed Control

• See the Most Advanced Cultivars

• Learn about disease control

• Learn about Species and Cultivars Adapted for the Shade

• The Latest Sports Field & Grounds Products

SCHEDULE OF THE DAY

SILENT AUCTION Opens 9:00 AM TOURS & EQUIPMENT DEMOS Begin 1:00 PM TOURS & EQUIPMENT DEMOS End 1:00 – 2:00 PM Lunch & SILENT AUCTION Ends

FIELD DAY Ends (Unless staying for below)

Sign Credit Forms

How to best prepare for an inspection. Spencer Kerkof, NJDEP

8:00 AM 3:00 – 3:30 PM Pick Your Poison Mike Reed,SynaTek This 30 minute class will explain the importance of using the proper PPE for pesticide application.

This 60 minute class will walk you through a mock inspection, point out the common violations, and allow you to ask questions to clarify any questions you may have.

Use Registration Form on other side or Register Online at www.njturfgrass.org

CORE SESSIONS (OPTIONAL) (Meet at HART PAVILION) 2:00 – 3:00 PM Keys to Passing a NJDEP Inspection 2:00 PM VIC GERARD GOLF CARS 5/19/24

2024 EARLY REGISTRATION FORM FIELD DAYS

EARLY REGISTRATION FEES

Supporting Rutgers turfgrass research

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2024 Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES

Tuesday, July 30 & Wednesday, July 31

At the country’s finest and most respected Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days, Rutgers, Center for Turfgrass Science will share the latest research with turfgrass managers and green industry professionals. We invite you to partner with NJTA and become a SPONSOR. Tracy Wadhams, NJTA Director and Field Days Chair

Complimentary Registrations Included with Sponsor Levels. SEND YOUR COMPANY LOGO TO: execdirector@njturfgrass.org

(8) Complimentary Registrations each day

Logo/Name in eblasts • Company logo/Name on Blade Banner, Signs & Posters • Verbal recognition • Sponsor Badge

SIX (6) Complimentary Registrations each day • Logo/Name in eblasts • Company Logo/Name on Signs/Posters • Verbal recognition • Field Days logo on item. If sponsor level not secured, no gift provided.

FIVE (5) Complimentary Registrations each day • Logo/Name in eblasts • Company Logo/Name on Signs & Posters • Verbal recognition

FOUR (4) Complimentary Registrations each day • Logo/Name in eblasts Company Logo/Name on Signs & Posters • Verbal recognition

(2) Complimentary Registrations each day • Company Logo/Name on Signs & Posters • Verbal recognition • GOLF CARTS (Utility & People Movers) Thanks! VIC GERARD GOLF CARS & STORR TRACTOR

• WATER Thanks! SAM’S CLUB, Edison

• TENT Thanks! Rutgers, OCPE [Office of Continuing Professional Education] Yes, sign

Rutgers Center Hosts 33rd Annual Turfgrass Symposium

Rutgers hosted the 33rd Annual Turfgrass Symposium on March 14, 2024, drawing close to 90 attendees to the hybrid event, including participants via Zoom from France, Finland, United Kingdom, and several U.S. states, like Oregon, Virginia, Texas, Maryland, Tennessee, and North Carolina.

Keynote speaker was John Sorochan, Distinguished Professor in the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee – Knoxville, Institute of Agriculture. He presented his research and testing program for field consistency and uniformity at World Cup 2026, which will be the largest ever World Cup hosted at 16 venues across North America.

Eight Rutgers faculty, staff, and graduate students provided 12 oral and 16 poster presentations on modern approaches to research in turfgrass science and funded by the Center for Turfgrass Science. Abstracts of all presentations can be viewed at the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science website. [https://turf.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ symposium-2024.pdf ]

Three invited speakers included Dr. David McCall, Virginia Tech, Turfgrass Pathology, who described his research on targeted precision turfgrass management systems to reduce pesticide use; Dr. Cole Thompson, USGA, Turfgrass and Environmental Research, updated attendees on the USGA priorities for turfgrass and environmental research; and Dr. Glen Groben, USGA ARS, Foreign Disease-Weed Science Research Unit, who summarized his research on quantifying pathogen population changes in response to fungicide inputs.

Dr. James Murphy, extension specialist in turfgrass management and director of the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science, thanked those who helped to organize and coordinate the event. He also thanked the presenters for taking the time to share their research with the faculty, staff, and students of the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science.

“Their willingness to share and discuss their research among colleagues and attendees ensures that the center is maximizing opportunities for collaboration and strengthening our ability to reach mission relevant goals,” said Murphy.

Dr. Stacy Bonos, professor of turfgrass breeding and associate director of the center, who directs the turfgrass breeding program at Rutgers NJAES, also expressed the center’s gratitude at the feedback on the symposium.

“We received numerous compliments throughout the day about the quality of the Symposium program and the turfgrass research being done at Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science. Those compliments are a direct result of the Center’s faculty, staff, and graduate student commitment and passion for their research,” said Bonos.

The Proceedings of the 33rd Annual Rutgers Turfgrass Symposium is available. [https://turf.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/symposium-2024.pdf ]

Dr. Stacy Bonos

John Sorochan

Dr. James Murphy

Photos by Susanne Ruemmelle • Article from Office of Public Outreach and Communication. Reprinted with permission.

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1/31/23 10:18 AM

BEECH LEAF DISEASE UPDATE 2024

Jean Epiphan, Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, Morris County

Richard Buckley, Director, Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Laboratory

Timothy Waller, Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent, Cumberland County

Roslyn Dvorin, Outreach Coordinator, Urban Forestry Program

Beech leaf disease (BLD) is caused by an invasive nematode Litylenchus crenatae subsp. mccannii (Lcm; Figure 1). Nematodes are microscopic roundworms. Most nematodes are free-living, but some are parasites of animals and plants. Most plant parasitic nematodes live in soil moisture films and feed on plant roots. The nematode that causes BLD is unique in that it is found in the foliage of a tree rather than in the roots.

In the United States, BLD was first discovered in 2012, in Cleveland Ohio. Since that time, the disease has spread from Michigan to Canada, Maine and south to Virginia.

The Lcm nematode only infects beech species (Fagus sp.) and is limited to the leaf and leaf bud tissue. The nematode overwinters in infected buds. In late-winter or early-spring, eggs are laid in the infested tissues and are moved within the leaves as they expand in the spring. Juvenile nematodes are found in symptomatic tissues by mid-summer and adult populations build within the mesophyll cells into the fall. As the season progresses, adult nematodes exit the leaf tissue and migrate to next year’s leaf buds to overwinter.

Research concerning the spread of BLD is ongoing. Wind, humidity, and precipitation have been shown to spread the Lcm nematode at least 38 feet from infected beech trees. Rain can flush high numbers of Lcm nematodes down to lower canopy levels. The native beech blight aphid (Brylloprociphilus imbricator) has been shown to carry live Lcm nematodes and disperse them. USDA Forest Service plant pathology researchers found that several species of birds that eat beech buds have been found to have the Lcm nematode DNA on their bodies. Numerous other species of wildlife utilize beech for habitat resources, so the BLD vector pool has the potential to be very large.

To date, there are no known quarantines in place for beech nursery stock or beech plant debris in the United States. However, it is best to refrain from transporting beech nursery stock or debris to reduce spread or transmission risk.

BLD infection in leaves is recognized by banding of leaf tissue (Figure 2). When held up against a light source like the sky, the infected “bands” between the parallel veins appear opaque against the translucent unaffected tissue. The opaque leaf symptom of BLD helps to differentiate it from other beech leaf damaging agents. The infected banding can become thickened, hardened, and sometimes discolored or yellowed. The progression of leaf symptoms can be rapid from one year to the next. Highly infected leaves become malformed, thickened, shriveled, and shed. Defoliation generally occurs from the lower canopy and moves upwards (Figure 3). As the infection continues to progress, subsequent leaf buds can appear smaller, stunted, diminished, or may be aborted. Ultimately, crowns thin and branches begin to die back, leading to a rapid decline of the tree. Mortality can occur within 1 to 2 years in small saplings and in 6 to 10 years in larger mature trees.

Researchers are currently testing pruning methods and pesticide products to treat BLD. Pruning and other cultural practices have had little effect on the disease so far. Some pesticide and fertilizer products, however, have been shown to improve the health and vigor of infected beech trees while other trialed products have not. Efficacy data is limited at this time, and several products have shown promise, but all are still considered experimental.

Click on the QR CODE link for more detailed information on the long term impact of BLD, the biology of the organism, and the current status of fertilizer and other chemical control options: https://go.rutgers.edu/RUBLD

Figure 1. The beech leaf disease causing nematode Litylenchus crenatae subsp. mccannii, a foliar feeding microscopic roundworm.

Photo Credit: Sabrina Tirpak, Rutgers Plant Diagnostics Laboratory.

Figure 2. Symptomatic beech leaves afflicted with beech leaf disease. These photos are taken against the light sky to show the opaque banding of diseased leaf tissue, an indicative symptom of BLD.

Photo Credit: Jean Epiphan, Rutgers Cooperative Extension.

Figure 3. Advanced beech leaf disease progression exhibited as defoliation of beech leaves, which usually occurs from the lower canopy upwards.

Photo Credit: Colin Milde, Ramapo Tree & Shrub Care LLC.

SILENT AUCTIONS MAKE A HUGE IMPACT IN NEW JERSEY

The recent 2024 Rutgers Golf Classic featured a highly successful silent auction, with all proceeds earmarked for supporting Rutgers University Turfgrass farm and the New Jersey Turfgrass Association Foundation. The event, held at the picturesque Fiddlers Elbow Golf Course, attracted a diverse crowd of golf enthusiasts( 400 plus attendeds), alumni, and industry leaders, all united by a shared commitment to advancing Turfgrass research and education. Participants eagerly bid on a wide range of auction items, from exclusive golf outings and sports memorabilia to luxury travel packages, and industry products, contributing generously to the cause. Since 2005 the silent auction has raised $ 312,000.

Funds raised from the silent auction will significantly benefit Rutgers University’s turfgrass research initiatives. Specifically, the proceeds will support projects in areas such as agricultural science, environmental sustainability, and cuttingedge technology. The financial support from the auction ensures that Rutgers can continue to lead in academic excellence and research innovation. Some of the funding has gone to the following :

- funding for the construction of the Geiger Center, Henry Indyk Fellowship, dollar spot research

- Geiger Center includes irrigation repair, Equipment purchases & soil improvements for research plots

- Rutgers Grants include Economic survey (original) Root zone project, additional Elmore research (Kyllinga & annual bluegrass) Gray leaf spot, Indyk Fellowship. Support for Rutgers Professors

In addition to supporting Rutgers, the auction proceeds will also bolster the efforts of the New Jersey Turfgrass Association Foundation. This organization plays a crucial role in promoting and enhancing turfgrass research and education, which are vital for the maintenance of healthy golf courses, lawns, sports fields, and recreational areas. The foundation’s initiatives focus on sustainable turfgrass management practices, which are increasingly important in the face of environmental challenges. By contributing to the silent auction at the Rutgers Golf Classic and Rutgers Field Days, it highlights the community’s dedication to fostering scientific advancement and environmental stewardship. Josh Kopera, Silent Auction Chair

A silent auction is an event where items or services are displayed for participants to bid on. The ‘silent’ part comes in because no auctioneer orchestrates bids. Instead, each item is accompanied by a bid sheet. Attendees place their bids by writing on the sheet, and usually, they don’t see who else is bidding, adding a sprinkle of mystery to the experience. The highest bidder wins.

The New Jersey Green Industry Council advocates for the Green Industry through education and communication in New Jersey. Its purpose is to educate, represent, promote and defend the interest of its member companies and allied associations through advocacy. To do the work, NJGIC relies on fundraising activities such as its annual Silent Auction which is held annually during the NJ Green Expo Tradeshow in Atlantic City, NJ, hosted by New Jersey Turfgrass Association. This year in 2024, NJGIC will celebrate 20 years of having a Green Industry Silent Auction. Funds raised have totaled over $200,000 since 2010.

The Silent Auction uses funds from the Silent Auction to help support our industry’s future generations. Since 2019, 15 well deserving New Jersey college students in related industry majors have received NJGIC scholarships through the Annual Edward A. Platz Memorial Scholarship. Students in Agricultural or Green Industry subject areas such as Plant Science, Animal Science, Agronomy, Entomology, Ornamental Horticulture, Golf Management, and Nursery Management or related fields are considered for the scholarship. Raising funds through the Silent Auction allows NJCIC to support the next generation in their endeavors to work in agriculture, horticulture, and Turf management.

Funds raised also enable NJGIC to drive initiates in Trenton, NJ with lawmakers and regulators. NJGIC uses funds to partner with State Street Associates, a lobbying firm in NJ working represent and keep our members and industry as a whole up to date on what the legislation is coming out of the state capitol and helps share how laws and proposed bills will impact us. Making it possible for NJGIC to be pro-active in supporting sound science-based legislation, to attend key meetings and be advocates for reasonable laws and regulations in the state. If you are interested in joining forces or would like to support NJIC’s efforts, please visit njgic.org to learn more. Marney Stauffer, Legislative Chair

Pictures courtesy of Matt Sweatlock, NJTA Director.

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MEET NJTA BOARD MEMBERS

BILL ERRICKSON

Bill Errickson is an Agriculture Agent and Assistant Professor in the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources for Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Monmouth County. His programs focus on sustainable management practices that reduce inputs and improve economics for the green industries. Some of his recent work has involved developing and testing biological inoculants to enhance drought stress tolerance and post-drought recovery in cool season turfgrass species. Prior to joining Extension in 2019, Bill had worked in various aspects of the horticultural sector, including operating a diversified farm in coastal Maine and managing agricultural education programs for non-profit organizations. Bill lives in West Belmar, NJ with his wife Lauren, who is the Director of Rutgers Gardens. Bill holds a M.S. in Soil Science from the University of New Hampshire and a B.S. in Biology from Stockton University. He is also nearing completion of a PhD degree in Plant Biology at Rutgers University, working with Dr. Bingru

BOB SHINN (left)

As a lifelong resident of Burlington County NJ, I’m very excited to be joining the NJTA Board. Professionally, I began my career in the green industry as a teen working for my local recreation department by assisting with landscape, park, and athletic field maintenance. After quickly realizing that I wanted to make my career in Turfgrass management, I attended Delaware Valley College (now University), and spent 5 years managing sports fields before moving into the lawn care sector with SavATree where I am currently the Lawncare Service Line Director.

Outside of work I enjoy spending as much time as possible with my wife, Darci, and our three children. When we’re not juggling our kids’ soccer practices, I like to spend time collecting vinyl records, following my favorite soccer teams, and golfing. I appreciate the Board for nominating me, and I am looking forward to this opportunity where I can support fellow professionals and give back to the green industry here in NJ that has been so rewarding for myself and my family.

L to R: Levi (14), Bob, Layton (10), Laila (16), Darci

(right)

Left to Right: Lauren and Bill Errickson

New Jersey Turfgrass Association

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

Membership shall be open to all interested in the development and maintenance of turf. It shall represent all facets of the turf industry, including persons or organizations that grow or manage turf, or supply materials and services to the Green Industry.

JOIN ONLINE: www.njturfgrass.org - Click “Become a Member”

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP •

• Savings on Green Expo & Field Days Registration fees

• Opportunities to earn Pesticide Applicator License Credits

• Clippings Magazine

• Members Directory + Addendum

• Outreach & Education impact in Trenton

• Support of Rutgers University’s Turf Research and turf programs

• Marketing opportunities in NJTA publications

• Participation in events that raise scholarships for the NJ Turfgrass Foundation

• Website: www.njturfgrass.org

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New Jersey Turfgrass Association

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

Membership shall be open to all interested in the development and maintenance of turf. It shall represent all facets of the turf industry, including persons or organizations that grow or manage turf, or supply materials and services to the Green Industry. JOIN ONLINE: www.njturfgrass.org - Click “Become a Member”

q TURFGRASS: Landscape/Lawn Maintenance

Architect q TURFGRASS: Irrigation Installation

Enrolled in Turf Related Program q TURFGRASS: Schools & Athletic Fields q HONORARY: Rutgers Professionals, Award Wnr Payment Information (Required) • MAIL OR FAX TO NJTA Office

DUE:

Since 1970, New Jersey Turfgrass Association’s (NJTA) Mission is to promote the Turfgrass Industryand enhance the environment through education, professionalism, leadership, and our partnership with Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.

The 2024 NJTA Board of Directors

Jason Osterhoudt President Metuchen Golf & Country Club

Matt Lindner Past President SavATree (Retired) NJTF President

Tracy Wadhams Field Days Chair Traywood LLC

Mike Reed Vice President SynaTek Solutions

Shaun Barry Golf Classic Chair

Justin Shield Director Down to Earth Landscaping

Ryan Petitti Secretary Green Lawn

Marney Stauffer Director Corteva Agriscience

Craig Tolley Director County College of Morris

Josh Kopera Director Harrell’s

Matt Sweatlock Treasurer Cedar Park Cemetery

Chris Carson Expo Chair

Dr. James Murphy Advisor Rutgers University

Director Garden State Landscapes

Serving on the Board of Directors of the New Jersey Turfgrass Association is very rewarding. We welcome you to become more involved by joining a committee for one of our eventsGolf Classic, Field Days, or Green Expo. If you have interest or questions, reach out to any of our board members or our Executive Director. execdirector@njturfgrass.org

Maguigan Director Spingdale Golf Club

Donovan

Cece Peabody, MAT, CMP Executive Director NJTA / NJTF

Aaron Kurdyla

Bob Shinn Director SavATree

Bill Errickson Director Rutgers Ext

2024 EVENTS

Tuesday & Wednesday

July 30 & 31, 2024

Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days

Tuesday: Golf & Fine Turf

Hort Farm II, N. Brunswick, NJ

Weds: Lawn, Landscape & Sports Fields

Adelphia Farm, Freehold, NJ

Tuesday - Thursday December 10-12, 2024

Green Expo Turf & Landscape Conference

Borgata Hotel & Casino, Atlantic City, NJ

Rutgers Extension Offices & Numbers

RCE of Atlantic County (609) 625-0056

RCE of Bergen County (201) 336-6780

RCE of Burlington County (609) 265-5050

RCE of Camden County (856) 216-7130

RCE of Cape May County (609) 465-5115

RCE of Cumberland County (856) 451-2800

RCE of Essex County (973) 228-2210

RCE of Gloucester County (856) 224-8040

RCE of Hudson County (201) 915-1399

RCE of Hunterdon County (908) 788-1339

RCE of Mercer County (609) 989-6830

RCE of Middlesex County (732) 398-5260

RCE of Monmouth County (732) 431-7260

RCE of Morris County (973) 285-8300

RCE of Ocean County (732) 349-1246

RCE of Passaic County (973) 305-5740

RCE of Salem County (856) 769-0090

RCE of Somerset County (908) 526-6293

RCE of Sussex County (973) 948-3040

RCE of Union County (908) 654-9854

RCE of Warren County (908) 475-6505

Please notify the NJTA office if any of the above numbers have changed. Thank you. 973-812-6467 • execdirector@njturfgrass.org

2024 NJTA Board of Directors

• Jason Osterhoudt, President

• Michael Reed, Vice President

• Ryan Petitti, Secretary

• Matt Sweatlock, Treasurer

• Cece Peabody, MAT, CMP, Executive Director

• Matt Lindner, Past President & NJTF Fdtn Pres

• Shaun Barry, Golf Classic Chairman

• Chris Carson, Green Expo Chairman

• Josh Kopera, Director

• Aaron Kurdyla, Director

• Donovan Maguigan, Director

• Justin Shield, Director

• Bob Shinn, Director

• Marney Stauffer, Director

• Craig Tolley, Director

• Tracy Wadhams, Director

• Dr. Jim Murphy, Rutgers Advisor

• Bill Errickson, Rutgers Advisor