2025 PATRON DIRECTORY
Ad location page in bracket after Company Name
BASF [Page 9]
Paul Ramina
656 94th Street • Ocean City, MD 21842
Ph: (908) 413-2944 • Paul.Ramina@basf.com Fungicide
BURLINGHAM SEEDS [Page 26]
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. PO Box 1090 Hightstown, NJ 08520
Ph: (732) 580-5516 • DennisJr@DoubleDTurf.com Aeration Services and Products
ENVU [Page 25]
Dr. Patrick Burgess
141 North Shore Drive, Wantage, NJ 07461
Cell: (845) 544-9633 • patrick.burgess@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 [Page 27]
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
LEBANON TURF [Page 11]
Jeremy Bigler 1600 East Cumberland Street Lebanon, PA 17042 jeremy.bigler@lebsea.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.comSeed
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
SITEONE LANDSCAPE SUPPLY [Page 10] Customer Service 1-800-748-3663
300 Colonial Center Parkway, Suite 600 Roswell, GA 30076
STEPHEN KAY, GOLF COURSE ARCHITECT
Stephen Kay Ph: (609) 703-3300
665 St. Andrews Drive Egg Harbor City, NJ stephenkgolf@aol.com08215
Golf Course Architect
STORR TRACTOR COMPANY [Page 2]
Jim Devaney 3191 Highway 22 East, Branchburg, NJ 08876 Ph: (908) 722-9830 jdevaney@storrtractor.com andydonelson@turf-equipment.comToro Grounds Equipment and Irrigation
SYNGENTA [Page 19]
Chris Marra 8 Highview Avenue, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927
Cell: (862) 505-4319 Christopher.Marra@syngenta.com
From Your President: JASON OSTERHOUDT
As we transition from spring into the height of the summer season, I want to take a moment to reflect on the exciting momentum within our turfgrass community and share what’s ahead for us.
First, I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who participated in the Rutgers Turfgrass Research Golf Classic this May. This signature event continues to be a vital fundraiser in support of the world-class turfgrass research conducted at Rutgers. The Classic is more than just a great day of golf— it’s a celebration of the strong ties between industry professionals, researchers, and educators who are committed to advancing the science and sustainability of turfgrass management.
We were fortunate that the rainy weather held off just long enough for us to enjoy a full day on the course. And the event-ending raffle added an extra layer of excitement—with a great lineup of prizes and some very happy winners to wrap up the day. The energy and camaraderie were truly inspiring and reminded us all of the importance of coming together to support a shared cause.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to invite all members and industry colleagues to the Rutgers Turfgrass Field Days, scheduled for July 29 at Hort Farm II in North Brunswick, and July 30 at Adelphia Farm in Freehold. These two days provide an invaluable opportunity to see the latest research in action, connect with peers, and engage directly with Rutgers faculty and staff. Field Days are where research meets realworld application—giving us the tools and insights we need to meet today’s challenges with confidence.
Whether you’re managing a golf course, sports field, lawn care business, or park system, I encourage you to join us in July. Let’s keep learning, growing, and pushing the industry forward—together.
Thank you for your continued support of NJTA and Rutgers Turfgrass.
Sincerely,
Jason Osterhoudt New Jersey Turfgrass Association President
Jason Osterhoudt NJTA President
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.
Growing Greener Together: The Strength of the NJTA Community
At the heart of the New Jersey Turfgrass Association is a simple truth: we grow stronger when we grow together. Whether you’re maintaining a golf course, managing athletic fields, or caring for landscapes across the state, your work helps keep New Jersey green, healthy, and thriving.
As Helen Keller once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” That spirit of collaboration defines NJTA. This past year, our members have shown professionalism, creativity, and a willingness to support one another that continues to move our
Cece Peabody, MAT, CMP Executive Director
Let’s keep it going. Show up. Ask questions. Offer support. Share your story. Your experiences may be the very thing that helps someone else grow.
Because at NJTA, it’s not just about the turf—it’s about the people who care for it. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day, but it’s important to pause and recognize the power of this community. When a fellow member succeeds, we all benefit. When challenges arise, support and knowledge are only a phone call— or a meeting—away.
As we look ahead, let’s continue to nurture our network. Attend events. Ask questions. Share your expertise.
And above all, be proud of the difference you’re making—not just on the ground, but in the lives of your peers and the legacy of turfgrass management in New Jersey.
RUTGERS GOLF CLASSIC - A Success Once More!
The 2025 Rutgers Turfgrass Classic took many months of planning and everything was set for a great event. Unfortunately on the day of the Classic, the weather forecast was 100% certain that a potential all day rain with possible lightning was going to happen. This seemed ominous. It probably would lead to postponement or stoppage of play until the lightning passed through. The forecast kept changing every couple hours that morning. As we approached the start of registration, it changed again and gave the committee some hope that there might be enough breaks in the rain for some cloudy but dry weather. Matt Sweatlock is the NJTA treasurer and he had told us 4 days earlier that we would be OK. He was correct and it stopped in time for head superintendent Steve Saxe to change from having carts staying on cart paths only, to carts being allowed to drive to their golf balls. That was definitely a game changer. It could have slowed play and could have added another 30-45 minutes for players to finish.
I am sure each NJTA board member, Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science scientist, player and staff member at Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club was praying for a break from the rain. As it turned out, the weather was excellent. Cloudy with no rain and only a few groups experienced a light drizzle at the very end of play. I am giving credit to Cece Peabody and her staff because they had put so much effort into preparing for this day.
We were scheduled to have 396 players but with some groups canceling because of the forecast and many players had to cancel because of the issues at Newark Airport, we lost 26 players, but that opened up spots for the dozen Rutgers turfgrass volunteers to play. It was nice to reward them for getting to the course an hour before registration started.
Our
Winners and
Sponsors are on the next page.
Shaun Barry
Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club is a premier facility and it is evident in everything they do. The breakfast buffet is great and their on-course food stations are the best that I have ever experienced and I can’t think of anything missing from their Grand Reception. It is during the reception that people can review all of the items on the Silent Auction. Once Cece closes the Silent Auction, everyone moves into the ballroom where introductions, announcements and thank yous are made. This is immediately followed by awarding prizes for the winning teams and individuals from the golf course.
Once this is done, the golf staff pulls winning tickets for our raffle. Last year the ballroom was nearly filled as we gave away $10,000 in golf prizes. This year it was standing room only for some and the raffle was now at $14,200. Everyone seemed excited to have a chance to win. There were a couple table prizes where everyone at the table won. That was very popular and if you can return next year, I suggest you sit at the table where Liz Coogan is seated. Last year she won one of the 6 Scotty Cameron putters and this year she won 2 of the 6 Scotty Cameron putters. Congratulations Liz.
As usual we had 14 Premier Sponsors. That alone accounts for 168 players and the 6 Eagle Sponsors added another 48 players. Between both groups the total is 218 players. They alone would make it a successful event but the overwhelming response from the industry adds nearly 200 golfers which gets us sometimes over 400 players. A simple thank you doesn’t seem like it is enough but I can assure you that it is sincere and comes from the heart.
Golf Classic Chair
Congratulations to all our winners and our attendees!
Comments from Attendees:
“The Golf Classic was amazing! Had a wonderful day on the course with our team. Kudos for another phenomenal event, which no doubt raised a record number of funds!”
“The Golf Classic turnout was tremendous this year - way to go. I can’t even imagine all the detailed planning that goes into it all. Amazing work by all. Congrats!”
“First and foremost, thank you for a wonderfully run Rutgers Golf Tournament. It was the best one I have been a part of yet. My foursome partners said this was the best charity golf tournament they have been a part of in their playing careers!”
Thanks to all who shared.
Forest Course Winning Team
Tri-State Team - Low Association
THANKS TO THE 2025 GOLF CLASSIC SPONSORS
PREMIER:
• BASF
• Burlingham Seeds
• Columbia River Seed
• DLF
• Envu
• Grass Roots
• Landmark Seed Company
• Lebanon Turf
• Mountain View Seeds
• PBI Gordon
• ProSeeds Marketing & Alliance Seed
• SiteOne Landscape Supply
• Storr Tractor Company & Turf Equipment & Supply
• Syngenta
PAR
• All-Pro Horticulture
• Barenbrug
• Central Garden & Pet-Pennington Seed
• Corteva Agriscience
• Double ‘D’ Turf
• EarthWorks
• East Coast Sod & Seed/DeLea Sod Farms
• GO Seed
• Green Lawn Fertilizing
• Harrington Construction
• MET Golf Course Superintendents Assn
• Dr. William and Jane Meyer
• New Jersey Green Industry Council
• New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association
BREAKFAST
A-LIST
EAGLE
• BrettYoung Seeds
• Harrell’s
• Helena
• Nufarm
• Paige Electric
• SynATek Solutions
BIRDIE
• Borgata Hotel & Casino
• Finch Turf
• Golf Course Superintendents of New Jersey Association & Foundation
• New Jersey Turfgrass Association and Foundation
• Rutgers, Center for Turfgrass Science
PAR
• Oregon Fine & Tall Fescue Commissions
• Plant Food Company
• Rutgers, Office of Continuing Education
• Rutgers, Division of Continuing Studies
• Sacks and Associates
• SavATree
• Scotts Miracle-Gro
• Stephen Kay, Golf Course Architect
• The Andersons
• The Aquatrols Company
• The Downes Group
• Tri-State Turf Research Foundation
• TruGreen Companies
• Tuckahoe Turf Farms
HOLE
• 007XL/777 Bentgrass, Dr. Rich Hurley
• Albaugh Specialty Products • Ceres Turf • Columbia Seeds • Coombs Sod Farms • Cultivated Sod Assn of NJ • DryJect NJ • Jersey Seed • Senator Declan O’Scanlon • Simplot Turf & Horticulture • Vista Seed Partners
BRAD PARK Wins 2024 Dr. William H. Daniel Founders Award
The Sports Field Management Association (SFMA) presented Brad Park, Rutgers University, with the 2024 Dr. Wiliam H. Daniel Founders Award.
Dr. William Daniel set the pattern for educator/researcher involvement in SFMA. The partnership between educators and researchers and the sports turf managers who incorporate these advances in on-thefield applications is key to the progress of the industry. The Daniel Award recognizes an individual who has made signnificant contributions to the industry through research, teaching, or extension.
The award was presented at the annual conference banquet on January 16, 2025, in Palm Springs, CA.
“Brad Park embodies the spirit of this award, and has spent more than two decades working to make athletic fields safer and more sustainable. Park’s career has been dedicated to conducting practical, impactful research -- often focusing on topics that others might overlook due to challenges in funding or implementation.
From traffic stress tolerance studies to projects on lowinput turfgrasses, Park’s work has provided valuable insights to athletic field managers across the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond. Park’s hands-on approach involves
testing turfgrass under real-world conditions, ensuring that the findings are both practical and applicable.
Park is well-known for his expertise in cool-season turfgrass species and cultural practices, and is a trusted resource for practitioners seeking advice on integrated pest management, species selection, and sustainable management practices. Park is also a tireless volunteer, serving on numerous SFMA committees.
CONGRATULATIONS BRAD!
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Pictures courtesy of Shaun Barry, Golf Classic Chair and NJTA Director.
Rutgers Turfgrass Symposium March 20, 2025
The 34th Annual Rutgers Turfgrass Symposium provided Rutgers faculty, students, staff, and guests with the opportunity to exchange ideas and encourage collaboration on research topics in turfgrass science.
Dr. Leah Brilman (Director of Product Management, DLF USA Inc.) presented the keynote on “40 Years of Cool-Season Turfgrass Improvement and Goals for the Future – The Importance of Rutgers – Industry Cooperation”.
Dr. James Baird (Botany and Plant Science Department, University of California, Riverside) summarized the progress in developing better green color retention during winter in bermudagrass, a grass that dramatically reduces water use in the southwestern United States.
Dr. Doug Richmond (Department of Entomology, Purdue University) discussed his research on billbugs, a common insect pest of turfgrass.
Dr. Dominic Petrella (Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, Ohio State ATI) described the improved understanding of shade stress that affects turfgrass in many landscapes.
Mr. Chris Kahn (Geospatial Professional, AlphaRTK) led the discussion of remote sensing technology for data collection in field research trials at Rutgers.
Event summary provided by Dr.
James Murphy
Faculty, staff, and graduate students recognized for their accomplishments at this year’s Symposium included:
Dr. Ming Yi Chou, who received the Merle V. Adams Award and
Mr. Brad Park, who received the Dr. William H. Daniel Founders Award from the Sports Field Management Association.
Three graduate students were recognized at the annual meeting of the Crop Science Society of America in San Antonio, TX:
Mr. Mark Labarge won second place in the graduate student oral presentation competition for Turfgrass Breeding, Genomics, Physiology, and Molecular Biology for “Evaluation of Improved Cold Hardy Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass for Use in New Jersey;”
Mr. Ryan Earp won second place in the graduate student poster presentation under the Turfgrass Breeding, Genomics, Physiology, and Molecular Biology category for “Comparison of Genotype Calling Methods for Kentucky Bluegrass;”
Dr. William Errickson, graduate student and agricultural agent, Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Monmouth County, won the Outstanding Paper in Turfgrass Science Award as the principal author of the article: Promotive Effects of Endophytic Rhizobacteria on Tiller and Root Growth in Creeping Bentgrass During Drought Stress and Post-stress Recovery Involving Regulation of Hormone and Sugar Metabolism. Crop Science, 63(4), 2583-2593.
Dr. William Errickson was also awarded a Watson Fellowship from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America.
Mr. Eric MacPherson was the recipient of the Sean S. Pattwell Graduate Student Internship, which provided him with an educational experience at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Bandon, Oregon.
2025 Rutgers Turfgrass Research FIELD DAYS
Early Registration Form ONLY. Return by Tuesday, 7/15/25 or Register On-Site.
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
GOLF & FINE TURF DAY
Hort Farm 2, 102 Ryders Lane, North Brunswick NJ 08902
WHY ATTEND?
• Meet the Rutgers Experts
• Bluegrass, Bentgrasses, Putting Green and Fairway Trials
• Best Management Strategies for Silicon & Fungicides in pest management, blue-green algae on putting greens
DIRECTIONS to Farms on website - www.njturfgrass.org
Both Days are held rain or shine.
SCHEDULE OF THE DAY
7:30 AM Registration Opens SILENT AUCTION Opens
Pesticide
Credits & NJ ProFACT
Awarded at end of Event
Wednesday, July 30, 2025 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
• Best Management Practices for Weed Control
• Shade research in cool-season turfgrasses
• Management of turfgrass insect pests
• Learn about Tall & Fine fescue trials
• The Latest Sports Field & Grounds Products
SCHEDULE OF THE DAY
Bring a Portable Chair for the Tours 7:30 AM Registration and TRADE SHOW Opens
8:00 – 8:30 AM [OPTIONAL] CORE SESSION Pesticide Compliance & Enforcement - Mike Reed,SynaTek UNDER THE TENT - 1 Credit
9:00 AM TOURS Begin
1:00 PM TOURS End
1:00 –
8:00 AM SIGN PESTICIDE & PROFACT CREDIT FORMS
SIGN PESTICIDE & PROFACT CREDIT FORMS
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) Registration Required
Member
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)
[OPTIONAL] CORE SESSION (Meet at HART PAVILION) 2:00 – 3:00 PM 2:00 PM
Toxicity of Pesticides Mike Reed,SynaTek Whether you are responsible for managing applications for residences, commercial properties, or athletic fields, this 60 minute class will explain the importance of using the proper PPE for pesticide application.
Use Registration Form on other side or Register Online at www.njturfgrass.org
VIC GERARD GOLF CARS 6/12/25
2025 EARLY REGISTRATION FORM RUTGERS TURFGRASS RESEARCH FIELD DAYS
EARLY REGISTRATION FEES
SEEDS & SCIENCE BY DESIGN
You may notice a new look, and a shortened name. What you will soon see is that we are also designing a new way to work - unifying our brand as our North American companies come together as DLF - the global leader in forage and turf.
Building on what we have created over the last century, we look forward to what is ahead, and helping your business grow.
MORE GOLF CLASSIC PHOTOS
Pictures courtesy of Matthew Sweatlock, NJTA Director.
Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days 2025: July 29 & 30
Time
to mark your calendar and send in your registration for the summer Rutgers Research Turfgrass Field Days. The Rutgers faculty and staff along with the NJTA Field Days Committee have been preparing for this year’s annual Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days, with the support of our many industry sponsors. Golf and Fine Turf Day will be held at the Rutgers Research Hort Farm in North Brunswick, NJ on July 29th and Lawn, Landscape and Sports Field Day will be held at the Rutgers
Adelphia Research Farm in Freehold, NJ on July 30th. Be sure to register for both days, as each exciting day will be filled with excellent opportunities to learn about the most current research being conducted by the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science team.
The turfgrass breeding team led by Dr. Stacy Bonos will be displaying the progress on many of the studies being conducted at each of the farms. At the New Brunswick farm (Day 1), attendees will get to see their work on improving Bentgrasses for fairways and putting greens. There will also be a study evaluating shade tolerance varieties of Bentgrasses. At the Adelphia farm (Day 2), the breeding team will be displaying a study looking at the performance of cool-season turfgrasses in the shade conditions as well. There will be an additional study addressing the performance of warm-season grasses in New Jersey. Each day will include visits to the NTEP trials at each of the farms where attendees can see how the new varieties withstand the New Jersey environment.
The turfgrass pathology group will be sharing updates on research conducted at each farm. Dr. Ming-Yi Chou’s team has studies looking at the control of Dollar Spot and Brown Patch on Bentgrass in fairway conditions utilizing fungicides, fertility and biorational products, in New Brunswick. They will also be sharing work on control of Blue-Green algae on putting greens, at this site as well.
Dr. Matthew Elmore and the weed management team will be sharing studies at both research farms. At Hort Farm II, they will have a study evaluating Goosegrass control with plant growth regulators and at Adelphia Research Farm, be sure to stop and listen to a study investigating alternative and synthetic broadleaf weed control programs. New information will be given addressing yellow nutsedge control, using both pre and post-emergent treatments.
Dr. Albrecht Koppenhofer will be sharing his latest research at Field Days as well. First evaluating the role of silicon and fungicides in turfgrass insect pest control at Hort Farm II, then at the Adelphia Farm, he will be discussing management of important insect pests in turfgrass.
Dr. James Murphy will be presenting a study on advancements of long-term topdressing treatments on creeping Bentgrass with different sand sizes. Brad Park will be providing an update on traffic tolerance in the 2023 NTEP Kentucky Bluegrass test.
Each day will include additional sessions for Core pesticide recertification credits. We’ll offer ProFACT recertification credits and Spanish language prep and testing for ProFACT as well.
Let’s get excited for two great Rutgers Research Turfgrass Field Days events! Rutgers Field Days promises to have something interesting for everyone! See you in July!
If it’s Summer, Must Be Summer Patch?
Richard Buckley and Dr. Ming-Yi Chou, Rutgers University
Summer Patch disease, caused by the fungus Magnaporthiopsis poae, and Take-all Patch, caused by Gaeumannomyces avenae, are well known to modern golf course superintendents. These diseases are historically difficult to identify from field symptoms alone and tricky to identify with classic turf diagnostic protocols in the laboratory as well.
Samples of Summer Patch and Take-all are commonly submitted to Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Laboratory. In fact, both diseases are common enough in our laboratory to be in the top 5 diseases diagnosed by the lab each year. Classic symptoms of both diseases in the field are described as rings of dying turf or “frog-eyes” (Figure 1), but as the late Dr. Joe Peterson (Rutgers Professor Emeritus) used to say to me “fungi don’t read the book,” so what we often see in the field is a general malaise and decline of the turf (Figure 2), rather than the classic frog-eye symptom, which makes field diagnosis difficult and brings samples into the laboratory.
Once the turfgrass is in the laboratory, part of our diagnostic protocol is to clear and stain the roots of dying grass plants. In this process, root-infecting patch diseases are diagnosed by the presence of ectotrophic runner hyphae on the roots (Figure 3), and Magnaporthiopsis and Gaeumannomyces are separated by the shape of the hyphopodia (Figure 4). Hyphopodia are specialized structures that these fungi produce to invade plant tissues.
Continued on page 20
Figure 2: Summer Patch on annual bluegrass. Note the non-descript nature of the symptoms on this golf course.
Photo: Elizabeth Holmes, Rutgers University
Figure 3: Ectotrophic runner hyphae on annual bluegrass roots.
Photo: Sabrina Tirpak, Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Laboratory
Figure 4: Ectotrophic runner hyphae and fungal hyphopodia on infected turf roots.
Photo: Chase Bauberger, Rutgers University
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1/31/23 10:18 AM
Summer Patch Article
Root-infecting patch diseases are typically difficult to control despite years of research on cultural control methods and fungicide efficacy trials. Many of the samples that come into the laboratory are here despite well-executed patch disease prevention programs. Several of our clients have historical problems, with frequent fungicide failures and uncontrollable disease, that challenges our current understanding of these diseases. We would also see ectotrophic hyphae and hyphopodia on bentgrass with characteristics that matched Magnaporthiopsis, which is usually found on bluegrasses and fine fescues, rather than Gaeumannomyces, which we only find on bentgrass.
In the summer of 2024, after each suspect patch disease sample was first evaluated by laboratory diagnosticians using standard protocols, the samples with summer patch or take-all diagnosis were shared with the turf pathology research team in the lab of Dr. Ming-Yi Chou for molecular confirmation. The diseased turfgrass included Kentucky bluegrass, annual bluegrass, and creeping bentgrass.
Using modern day molecular tools and gene sequencing, Dr. Chou’s research team detected an emerging pathogen, Slopeiomyces cylindrosporus, in several of these samples. A high percentage of the samples we evaluated had Slopeiomyces cylindrosporus as the causal agent rather than Magnaporthiopsis or Gaeumannomyces. In fact, several other root-infecting fungi were also identified in the samples surveyed, and in several cases, multiple pathogens were found in the sample. Slopeiomyces was particularly common in the bentgrass plugs. We also detected species of Magnaporthiopsis, including M. cynodontis, and M. yugambeh, that are normally found affecting warm-season grasses in samples of cool-season grasses (Figure 5).
Figure 5. An example root pathogen profile of NJ annual bluegrass putting green samples with summer patch-like disease complex caused by S. cylindrospous and M. yugambeh instead of M. poae. Graph: Dr. Ming-Yi Chou, Rutgers University
The complication for us in the Plant Diagnostic Laboratory is that Slopeiomyces is morphologically identical to Magnaporthiopsis on turfgrass roots. The hyphopodia that both fungi produce are identical, so specialized testing is needed to separate the two fungi with 100% certainty. Furthermore, we are finding that Slopeiomyces will likely require different management strategies for optimal control than what we typically use in conventional take-all and summer patch programs. Slopeiomyces and all of the other fungi discussed here grow at different temperatures, so preventive fungicide inputs will need to be altered to get quality control, which makes proper identification of the pathogen or pathogen complex essential for preventive programs.
Fortunately, with Dr. Chou’s assistance, the Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Laboratory is now providing a new service leveraging state-of-the-art gene sequencing technology to help separate the new pathogens from the old ones and help to profile the root-infecting patch disease fungal community at your facility. Proper identification and profiling of the pathogen or pathogen complex with 100% certainty on your site will allow you the opportunity to fine-tune your management program for all of the root-infecting patch diseases, and hopefully in the future, many other devastating diseases as well. Scan the following QR code now for instructions on how you can take advantage of this new technology.
Article presented by Ben Brace, Genesis
Get Ready to Bid: The NJ Turfgrass Foundation
Silent Auction is Here!
Bob Shinn, Silent Auction Chair, NJTA Director
Theexcitement is building as the New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation’s Silent Auction kicks off with its rallying cry: “Bid Early, Bid Often!” NJTA’s Silent Auction committee is on a mission to energize bidders, turning every purchase into valuable support for turfgrass research and the groundbreaking work of The Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science.
As a cornerstone of the Rutgers Turfgrass Classic and the Rutgers Turfgrass Field Days, the Silent Auction offers attendees an incredible chance to snag an array of unique, high-value items—all while backing an important cause. Whether you’re eyeing a round of golf at an exclusive course or discounted industry products, every bid fuels vital initiatives like turfgrass research, economic surveys, scholarships, and grants at Rutgers University.
And the impact is real—since 2005, these auctions have generated over $320,000 for the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science research! So, get ready to place your bids, score amazing deals, and support the future of turfgrass science in New Jersey!
Planning for the Silent Auction begins well in advance of the Rutgers Turfgrass Classic in spring and Rutgers Turfgrass Field Days in summer. Committee members actively seek donations from vendor representatives, NJTA members, and merchandise companies, ensuring a diverse selection of auction items to appeal to all attendees.
As donations roll in, item details are cataloged, starting bids are set, and fair pricing is determined. This meticulous process—spanning months—includes collecting, storing, and curating unique and exciting items for each event, keeping the auction fresh and engaging year after year.
Auction Day: Let the Bidding Battles Begin!
The excitement kicks into high gear on auction day, but behind the scenes, meticulous preparation ensures everything runs smoothly. Items are carefully arranged, bid sheets are prepped, and eager bidders are registered and assigned numbers—then, the action begins!
As the event unfolds, attendees browse, strategize, and place their bids, each hoping to walk away victorious. When the final bids are in and the auction closes, the thrill continues as winners claim their prizes or arrange for delivery. It’s a fast-paced, competitive, and rewarding experience - all in support of a great cause!
If you would like more information or to setup a donation to the NJTA Silent Auction, please reach out to Bob Shinn via email at rshinn@savatree.com.
You can also print the donation form in this issue and send to either Bob or the NJTA officeexecdirector@njturfgrass.org.
All Silent Auction Donations Accepted Donations Support the NJ Turfgrass Foundation
Send form below to NJTA Office - Call (973) 812-6467 or email (execdirector@njturfgrass.org) if questions or more info is needed. Thanks in advance.
NEW JERSEY TURFGRASS FOUNDATION SILENT AUCTION
Rutgers Turfgrass Research FIELD DAYS DONATIONS Form – Complete & Return All Proceeds Benefit the New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation
The New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation holds a SILENT AUCTION during both Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days. All proceeds benefit the New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation, which directly supports Rutgers University Turfgrass Research Programs, Scholarships, and much more.
We encourage you to support cutting-edge turf education and research by donating products, gifts, trips, or services.
Complete the form below with details of your donated products, gifts, trips, or other, and how those items should be handled if won . Fax: (973) 812 -6529 • Email: execdirector@njturfgrass.org
Thank you in advance for making a donation to the Silent Auction!
Robert Shinn Silent Auction Chairman Donovan Maguigan Silent Auction Co-Chairman
Company: Contact Person:
Address:
Phone: ( )
Email:
We will bring product to the SILENT AUCTION
Include Auction item on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 Golf & Fine Turf Day
We will deliver product to the WINNER
Include Auction item on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 Lawn, Landscape & Sports Field s Day
Winner must PICK UP the product
Include Auction Item on either Tues or Weds
GOLF CLASSIC RAFFLE WINNERS! A great winning night for many attendees! Thanks for your support of the Rutgers Turfgrass Research Golf Classic 2025
Thanks to the wonderful professionals who ‘make it happen’ with Cece Peabody at NJTA events: L to R
Marsha Benovengo
Angela Adamchak
Anne Diglio
Kelly Esposito
LaBarge Family Team
At Envu, we know the key to better overall plant health starts well beneath the surface: at the roots. That’s why our treatment plans for greens always begin there with Resilia™ root health solution. Add Stressgard® brand fungicides to boost photosynthesis and Castlon™ fungicide for disease management and watch your greens and root system thrive all season long.
New Jersey Turfgrass Association 2025 MEMBERSHIP
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP •
• Reduced Registration Fees for F 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 Membership Category Types (Annual Dues
o BUSINESS PARTNER (Manufacturer/Supplier or Sod Producer) Includes ONE TO FOUR individuals from same
o TURFGRASS PARTNER (ex: Golf Course, Lawn Care, Landscaper) Includes ONE TO THREE individuals from same company.
ADDITIONAL TURFGRASS PARTNER (4 or more)
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. 25 US Highway 46 West • Wayne NJ 07470
Phone: 973.812.6467 • Fax: 973.812.6529
JOIN ONLINE: www.njturfgrass.org - Click “Become a Member”
Name # 3 Title
Company or Individual Address
Is this Address? Your Business Your Home City State Zip Cell Phone Email Fax
If Applicable: NJ Pesticide License # Date of Birth (DOB)
Name # 4 Title
Company or Individual Address
Is this Address? Your Business Your Home City State
If Applicable: NJ Pesticide License # Date of Birth (DOB)
Manufacturer/Supplier
TURFGRASS: Cemetery o BUSINESS: Sod Producer
TURFGRASS: Lawn Care Applicator
TURFGRASS: Parks and Recreation o TURFGRASS: Golf Course
o TURFGRASS: Landscape/Lawn Maintenance o TURFGRASS: Architect o TURFGRASS: Irrigation Installation o TURFGRASS: Schools & Athletic Fields o HONORARY: Rutgers Professionals, Award Winner PAYMENT INFORMATION (Required) • MAIL, EMAIL, OR FAX TO NJTA OFFICE Type of Credit Card:
Card Number: Name on Card: Expiration Date: (MM/YY)
Address: 3 Digit Security Code: City/State/Zip: Check By Mail: (Payable to NJTA)
Supports
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.
New Jersey Turfgrass Association • 25 US Highway 46 West • Wayne NJ 07470 Phone: 973.812.6467 • Fax: 973.812.6529 • www.njturfgrass.org • execdirector@njturfgrass.org Page 2 of 2 Updated 12.28.24
Jason Osterhoudt President Metuchen Golf & Country Club
Matt Lindner Past President SavATree (Retired) NJTF President
Tracy Wadhams Field Days Chair Traywood LLC
2025 NJTA Board of Directors
Mike Reed Vice President SynaTek Solutions
Shaun Barry Golf Classic Chair
Zach Holm Director Central Park Conservancy
Ryan Petitti Secretary Green Lawn Fertilizing
Marney Stauffer Director Corteva Agriscience
Craig Tolley Director County College of Morris
Matt Sweatlock Treasurer Cedar Park Cemetery
Carson Expo Chair
Director Borst Landscape & Design
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 events: Golf Classic, Field Days, Green Expo.
If you have interest or questions, reach out to any of our board members or our Executive Director. execdirector@njturfgrass.org
“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” – Elizabeth Andrew
www.njturfgrass.org
Dr. James Murphy Advisor Rutgers University
Director Spingdale Golf Club
Garden State Landscapes
Dominick Capone
Donovan Maguigan
Chris
Cece Peabody, MAT, CMP Executive Director NJTA / NJTF
Aaron Kurdyla Director
Bob Shinn Director SavATree
Bill Errickson Director Rutgers Ext
NJTA Spring Webinar Series
This past Spring, NJTA hosted a free four-part webinar series in collaboration with Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Monmouth County. The webinars were held on Thursday nights in March from 6 to 7pm and pesticide license recertification credits for NJ and PA were provided for all webinars, along with ProFACT credits for one of the webinars.
A different speaker was featured each week discussing current topics and innovations for improving sustainable turfgrass management. The series kicked off with a talk on Drones in Agriculture, Turfgrass, and Beyond by Cameron Rozell, Owner of Ag Drones East, where participants were introduced to the many ways in which drones are beginning to be utilized in turfgrass management systems.
The following week went more in depth on using Multi-Spectral Drones in Turfgrass Management, as Rob Hawlick from 227 Solutions discussed practical applications of using this sensor-based technology in turfgrass operations.
The third webinar featured Kevin Rundstrom from Aquatrols, talking about Wetting Agents for Turf Programs, which many participants agreed are an important component of helping to maintain adequate hydration of healthy turf, especially in dry years like we experienced in 2024.
The webinar series concluded with Brad Park, from the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science discussing Applications of Liquids: Nozzles and Calibration in a practical and accessible talk that provided straight forward methods to improve the accuracy and efficiency of fertilizers and chemical applied as liquids.
All the webinars were recorded and are available to watch here: https://myemail.constantcontact. com/Recordings-of-NJTA-Free-2025-Webinars.ht ml?soid=1101788425729&aid=QpXqI0dYgp4
Education, Research, and Innovation in Turfgrass Science
After eight years of study, I completed my doctoral degree in Plant Biology from Rutgers University this Spring. Having gone back to school for this degree after running my own farm, I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Dr. Bingru Huang, one of the world’s leading turf physiologists. My research focused on developing biostimulants from native soil organisms that were discovered in the NJ Pine Barrens and can improve drought stress tolerance in turfgrass. This work involved inoculating cool season turf species, such as creeping bentgrass, with the beneficial bacteria and exposing the plants to drought stress. We found that the inoculated plants had improved drought tolerance and more rapid recovery upon re-watering associated with enhanced root growth, tiller production, and metabolic changes within the plants that supported stress tolerance. These results were exciting because not only was this new and novel scientific information, but the research also had the potential to help reduce water use, while maintaining turf quality in practical applications for superintendents and field managers.
Collaboration with the turfgrass industry to focus on relevant research continues to be paramount at the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science. This partnership forms the foundation for a comprehensive academic program that is inclusive for anyone looking to further develop their skills in turfgrass science, whether that is at the graduate or undergraduate level, or through continuing professional education. I always felt supported going through the program because of the strong network of committed turfgrass professionals who genuinely cared about helping me succeed. As a new NJTA Board Member, I am grateful to now be a part of this team, to help support the turfgrass industry through education, research, and innovation.
- Dr. Bill Errickson
2025 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, Chair, Golf Classic
• Tracy Wadhams, Chair, Field Days
• Chris Carson, Chair, Green Expo
• Dominick Capone, Director
• Zachary Holm, Director
• Aaron Kurdyla, Director
• Donovan Maguigan, Director
• Bob Shinn, Director
• Marney Stauffer, Director
• Craig Tolley, Director
• Dr. Jim Murphy, Rutgers Advisor
• Dr. Bill Errickson, Rutgers Advisor
Plant Diagnostic Laboratory
And Nematode Detection Service
Accurate and timely diagnoses of plant health problems:
♦ Disease and Insect Pest Diagnosis
♦ Plant and Weed Identification
♦ Insect Identification
♦ Fungus and Mold Identification
♦ Nematode Assay
♦ Virus Testing
♦ Fungal Endophyte Screening
♦ Pesticide Resistance Screening
♦ Other Services Available by Contract
https://njaes.rutgers.edu/plant-diagnostic-lab/ or email RUTGERSPDL@NJAES.RUTGERS.EDU or call 732-932-9140 for more details.
Ralph Geiger Turfgrass Education Center 20 Indyk-Engel Way, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Phone (973) 812-6467 • Fax (973) 812-6529
execdirector@njturfgrass.org • www.njturfgrass.org
Soil Testing Laboratory
Chemical and mechanical analyses of soils:
♦ Landscape - fertility, suitability, topsoil evaluation
♦ Farm - fertility, pre-sidedress nitrate, full farm
♦ Organic Media - greenhouse, soilless, compost
♦ Sports Turf - fertility, sand-based root zone
♦ Technical - permeability and ecological
♦ Individual / Specialized Tests
♦ Irrigation Water - pH, salts, nitrate-nitrogen, phosphorous, iron
https://njaes.rutgers.edu/soil-testing-lab/ or email SOILTEST@NJAES.RUTGERS.EDU or call 848-932-9295 for more details.
57 US Highway 1, New Brunswick, NJ 08901