The Greenerside, Volume 66

2023/ Volume 66

CONTENTS 13 QUICK NINE: Advice from newly retired superintendents.

17 A UTONOMOUS MOWERS: Science fiction is quickly becoming a reality.

On The Cover Hackensack Golf Club Golf Course Superintendent: Rich Lane, CGCS Photo by: Evan Schiller

6 Chapter News 10 First Green Hosted by Jill Seymour, CGCS. 21 Tech Tips A Review of The Carta Wheel.

24 GCSAA Feature Exploring chapter benefits.

29 Photo Pages 32 Patron Directory

THE GREENERSIDE

|

1

Our Contributors Editor in Chief: Donovan Maguigan Design & Layout Editor: Maureen Sharples Photography Editor: Shaun Barry Contributing Writers: Kevin Doyle, Donovan Maguigan, and Maureen Sharples Officers: Donovan Maguigan, President Ken Anson, Vice President Jennifer Torres, Treasurer Patrick Quinlan, Secretary Joe Kinlin, Past President Directors: District I- Mark Miedler & Chad Broderick District II- Rob Wagner & Travis Pauley District III- Drew White & Victor Frederico Commercial Representatives Rob Johnson & Paul Ramina Class C Liaison James Surico Rutgers Liaisons Dr. James Murphy Executive Director Maureen Sharples

GCSANJ Newsletter is published four times a year. © 2023 THE GREENERSIDE Opinions expressed in this Newsletter are the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily express the opinions or policies of the GCSANJ Board and its membership. No part of this newsletter may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission.

THE GREENERSIDE

|

2

PRESIDENT'S LETTER DONOVAN MAGUIGAN In my dual role as President and Editor-in-Chief of the Greenerside, I frequently find myself blurring the line between my message for each issue and writing another article. In this issue, I have omitted my typical "Book Review" as I felt that I had exhausted my mental library for content, and yet, I am writing a presidential message centered around a book.

With the hot days of Summer fading and the cool days of Fall around the corner, I wanted to impart some end-of-summer wisdom to our members for self-reflection through the teachings of Confucius, a pragmatist philosopher from China. His teachings were based on practical applications of life and conduct that can still be followed and adapted today. My deep dive into his teachings was sparked by a conversation with a family friend in Singapore who quoted Confucius in regards to seeing friends who travel long distances as "a joy to have friends coming from afar." On the plane flight home, I began to read an aphoristic collection of his works, the Analects.

One particular teaching jumps out at me that I would like our members to review and ask themselves the same questions: "Every day, I examine myself on three points. When I worked to benefit someone else, did I do my best? In my relationship with my friends, did I fail to be trustworthy? Did I pass on any knowledge I myself had not put into practice?"

In looking at each question individually, I implore you to look inward at your actions and manner: "When I worked to benefit someone else, did I do my best?" Our daily work is created for the benefit of others, specifically their leisure and enjoyment. Did you do your best? Even on the hard days, did you fulfill your commitment to the best of your ability?

"In my relationship with my friends, did I fail to be trustworthy?" Trustworthiness can be defined as "truthful or honest." Even outside of your friends, were you trustworthy?

"Did I pass on any knowledge I myself had not put into practice?" In digging a little deeper into this question, did you follow your advice? With your staff, did you practice the same principles that you instilled in them?

While I chose to use Confucius as the center of this message as his words ring true 2500 years later, maybe you can find wisdom from a more recent artist, writer, or songwriter. Maybe the late Jimmy Buffett who said, "We got to roll with the punches, play all our hunches, make the best of whatever comes your way." Or even how to handle what life throws at you from The Big Lebowski, "Well, the Dude abides."

Take the time at the end of the summer, the end of the week, or the end of the day to perform a self-assessment of how you handled things by whomever you chose for philosophy.

THANK YOU,

DONOVAN MAGUIGAN Chapter President

THE GREENERSIDE

|

3

FROM YOUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

MAUREEN SHARPLES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Recently, while mindlessly scrolling through Instagram (a habit I need to break), I came across an interview with Nick Saban, head football coach at the University of Alabama. Truthfully, I had no idea who he was, but I was intrigued by his message and interested in learning more after looking him up. Saban, a known hot head on the sidelines, talked to a radio host about how he has been working on remaining calm and implementing effective communication skills for years, which has attributed to his milder behavior these past few seasons. He focuses on reading his players and tailoring his communication style to bring out the best in them. Saban has realized over the years that his off-the-handle and overly passionate responses may fire up some players but deter others. He’s a work in progress. While I don’t know much about college football or his long list of victories, I think it’s a great example that we are all a work in progress when it comes to being a great communicator.

This interview got me thinking about effective ways to get your message across and how essential it is to practice communicating. I often tell my nine year old son, “your message is getting lost in your mess,” meaning take a breath and calmly tell me what you want to say. Telling him this often makes me think I need to take my own advice. Nick Saban and my son are both great examples that effective communication is a learned skill. Small habits like active listening, keeping your message brief but specific, taking notice of your body language and tone, and expressing appreciation are all building blocks to being a great communicator.

I don’t need to tell you that being a golf course superintendent is a stressful and taxing job. It seems that year after year, golf season is getting longer, the weather is getting more unpredictable, and building a reliable and productive team is getting more complex.

With all this, it may be time to reflect on your communication skills.

While I’m not trying to add another thing to your list, I think articulating your needs and goals may boost morale and result in a more productive team.

LET'S CONNECT

msharples@gcsanj.org

Sincerely, Maureen Sharples GCSANJ Executive Director

@GCSANJ1926 facebook.com/gcsanj @GCSANJ1926 THE GREENERSIDE

|

4

CHAPTER NEWS NEW MEMBERS

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

Michael Croshaw, Class AF Trimax Mowing Systems

Matthew MacFeat, Class C Pinelands Golf Club

Ian Kunesch was promoted to Director of Golf at Bergen County Golf Courses.

Brian Giunta, Class AF Central Turf & Irrigation Supply

Darrell Hill, Class C Galloping Hill Golf Club

Jarad Luknicki is the new Turf Sales Specialist for BASF.

Thomas Woodward, Class A Bayonne Golf Club

Jacob Wainwright, Class C Oak Hill Golf Club

Brian Paul, Class C Crystal Springs Golf Resort

Thomas Cerene, Class C Montclair Golf Club

GROWING FAMILIES Robert Wagner of Trump National Bedminster and his wife, Danielle, welcomed their son, Robert Paul Wagner Jr., on July, 25th.

Brian Gietka, Class I USGA Green Section

THE GREENERSIDE

|

6

CHAPTER NEWS GCSANJ AWARDS Congratulations to our members who have hosted national and regional golf tournaments this spring and summer. Our Awards Committee has recognized the hosts and their teams.

LPGA Cognizant Founders Cup at Upper Montclair Country Club Pictured are Mike Brunelle and Graham Kasprzyk

1st New Jersey Women's Open at Montclair Golf Club Pictured are Michael Sharpe, Vanja Drasler, Michael Campbell, and Michael Sturdivant

LPGA Mizuho Americas Open at Liberty National Golf Club Pictured are TJ Gallagher, Greg James, and Brian Gjelsvik

103rd NJ State Open Championship at Hackensack Golf Club Pictured are Rich Lane, CGCS, and his team.

2023 KPMG Women's PGA Championship at Baltusrol Golf Club Pictured are Shawn Haverdink and Greg Boring

The ShopRite LPGA Classic At Seaview Golf Club Pictured are Mike Bair, his crew members, and District 3 Director Jennifer Torres.

LIV Golf Invitational at Trump National Bedminster Pictured are Rob Wagner and his volunteers.

108th Met Open Championship at Arcola Country Club Pictured are Steve Gauli, Paul Dotti, Awards Chairman Pat Quinlan, and Andrew Stilwell

THE GREENERSIDE

|

7

CHAPTER NEWS GCSAA WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Four GCSANJ members were chosen to be part of the inaugural Women’s Leadership Academy on Nov. 7-9, 2023, at GCSAA headquarters in Lawrence, Kansas.

Vanja Drasler, superintendent, Montclair Golf Club Raquel Schwartz, assistant superintendent, Stone Harbor Golf Club Jill Seymour, CGCS, superintendent, Charleston Springs Golf Course Jennifer Torres, superintendent, Westlake Golf and Country Club The event will feature education focused on key areas of self-discovery, understanding others, effective communication, and inspiring others, all of which are key attributes of influential leaders. Forty applicants were chosen for the inaugural class. Congratulations!

THE GREENERSIDE

|

8

FIRST GREEN EVENT

Charleston Springs Golf Course

By Maureen Sharples On June 5th, Jill Seymour, CGCS, and her team of volunteers at Charleston Springs Golf Course welcomed 60 third-grade students from Mercerville Elementary School for its inaugural First Green field trip. Jill led the three-hour event with assistance from fellow GCSANJ members and Monmouth County staff members. The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, the New Jersey State Golf Association, and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey sponsored the day.

The students rotated through six STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) learning stations. Students practiced hands-on learning on the golf course and how to solve problems like a golf course superintendent. Each station had leaders from Jill’s crew, neighboring superintendents, or vendors who taught the lessons and guided the students through the hands-on demonstrations.

Congratulations to Jill for all her hard work making the event a rewarding experience for the students and all the volunteers. To host a First Green field trip, visit the GCSAA First Green website, www.thefirstgreen.org.

STEM Learning Stations STATION 1- Math Students calculated the square footage using a ruler, tape measure, and measuring wheel. They also got to hit golf balls at Golfzilla. Nearly 20 feet tall, the inflatable Golfzilla target promotes curiosity about the game of golf.

STATION 2- Cool Tools on the Green The tools station allowed the students to learn about and try out the tools of the trade, like a stimpmeter, soil probe, soil profiler, and rangefinder.

THE GREENERSIDE

|

10

STATION 3- Cutting Cups & Putting Contest Students watched a cup-cutting demonstration and competed in a putting contest.

STATION 4– Irrigation & Water Usage / Technology Students learned about the role of irrigation in the management of healthy turfgrass and the importance of conserving the quantity of water used. They got to see the sprinklers in action and ran through them.

STATION 5– Soils and Seed Students felt and saw different seeds and soil. They learned about the importance of soil nutrients in supporting healthy turf and water filtration.

Thank you to all the members who volunteered!

Tammy Banks Keith Bennett Elizabeth Coogan Tim Mariner John Petrovsky Raquel Schwartz Jennifer Torres

STATION 6– Equipment & Bunkers Volunteers demonstrated the purpose of a variety of equipment. Students learned about bunkers and how they are maintained.

THE GREENERSIDE

|

11

THE GREENERSIDE

|

12

A QUICK NINE

Chris Carson, Tom Grimac, and Jeff Wetterling, CGCS answered our NINE quick questions, sharing their experiences as recently retired golf course superintendents.

Briefly describe your career in golf.

My next-door neighbor in Verona, NJ, was Ed Nickelsen, superintendent at Montclair GC. He helped me get my first job at Essex County CC in 1976, where I cut greens, cut steep banks with a Bunton 36" mower, became a night waterman on the public course (ECCC was 36 holes then), and fell in love with the business. I was making $2.90 per hour, and I basically paid my way through Rutgers with that income; times have changed in that department.

Chris Carson

Midway through my sophomore year I changed to turf management under the guidance of Dr. Ralph Engel, though my degree is in Environmental Science as no turf major existed then. I became superintendent at Tara Greens Golf Center when I was a senior at Rutgers, then assistant at Montclair Golf Club for three years, then superintendent at North Hempstead CC in Long Island for three years, then superintendent at Echo Lake CC for the last 36 years of my career.

I was very fortunate to have spent almost my entire career at the same golf course - Tavistock Country Club, from 1975 through 2014. In 1975, I started pushing a rotary mower and became the superintendent 4 1/2 years later after completing school at UMASS. I spent the last six years of my career with George Ley Company doing sales and estimating.

Tom Grimac

At 15, I worked for Charley Dey's father, moving irrigation pipes on the potato farm. Charley Dey recently returned home from serving our country as a paratrooper, and his father put him in charge of the irrigation crew. We were paid a handsome sum of $1.00/hr. It wasn't until the following summer the newly hired superintendent for The Greenacres C.C. moved next door and offered me a rotary mowing job. I worked there every summer through high school and college. I eventually became the Assistant Superintendent there under Charles Edgar.

Jeff Wetterling, CGCS

In 1978, at 25 years old, I accepted the Head Superintendent's job at Forest Hill Field Club. Much of my success could be attributed to the turf school at Cook College, which Charley Edgar gave me the opportunity to attend. I remained at FHFC until 1993, when I assumed the head superintendent at Greenacres C.C. I retired in 2021 after 29 seasons.

What are your big plans for retirement?

Do you plan to stay involved in the industry?

Retirement plans include continuing to help coach soccer at Westfield High.

Teach in the Rutgers Professional Golf Turf Program (I've doubled my teaching load there).

What I WON'T be doing is carrying around the 50pound bag of stress that was on my shoulders for 39 years... and that has been an incredibly freeing experience!

I will continue to help run the NJ Green Expo, speak at the GCSAA convention and elsewhere, and periodically write for Golf Course Management Magazine.

I plan on doing whatever my wife and I want to do, with travel being a big “want”. We have traveled extensively in our 37 years of marriage, and plan on much more. We will be paring down our bucket list later this year by traveling to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand for 3 weeks. In between traveling, I ski all winter and golf all summer.

Due to my relocation to Colorado, my Northeast contacts cannot be put to use for staying involved in the golf industry. I fully support the industry by playing as much golf as I can though! I also open the Pro Shop at a local course 2 days/week.

Nancy and I have had 48 years with no extensive summer travel, so that will be a priority going forward.

Maybe help out for special events.

THE GREENERSIDE

| 13

A QUICK NINE Describe your first day of retirement.

My wife Carol and I are just beginning to travel a bit, and though we don't plan on doing any world tours we have set our sights on Italy, Greece and Northern Europe. We are most interested in driving around our country to visit cities, museums, gardens and national parks. The RV life holds exactly no appeal to us, but the open road is calling for sure.

Do you have any habits or daily rituals that have carried over into retirement?

I've had no problem sleeping in, and I stay up past 9:00 a few times a week now. I've taken to hiking about 7 miles a day, usually at Watchung Reservation, which I thoroughly enjoy. In addition to the exercise (and the lost 35 pounds), I'm listening to audiobooks and college courses while I hike, and these new habits have become ingrained into my routine.

What advice do you have for young superintendents?

To young superintendents, I'll say that the future is yours- make of it what you will. For all of the stress and griping we share among our peers, the reality is that we have a very cool job that provides many rewards and "psychic paychecks." My advice, which is based on my experience only, is that if you find yourself in one of the really good jobs then hold on for the long haul. I will add that the great clubs are not determined by the prestige of the facilities you manage but by the quality of the members you serve; if you are lucky enough to work for people who support and appreciate your efforts, then you are in a great position indeed. Also, and most important: save your money and contribute aggressively to your 401k and develop this habit as early as possible. You will be glad you did.

My first official day of retirement, at the height of the pandemic, was spent in my car driving to Colorado. “Time for a new adventure!”

I can’t say that I have taken any habits or rituals with me to retirement, but my absolute love of nature (especially sunrise on a golf course, as well as gazing out at the mountains when I’m on top skiing) will always be a big part of who I am.

In my opinion, there are several things a young superintendent should know, with the first one being rather cliche: work HARD all the time. I’m a bit of a dinosaur by today’s standards, but never forget where the buck stops when you’re on summer vacation. The next requirement is continuing education. My generation of superintendents replaced the “farmers” who did not have the formal education that is now required. Never think you don’t need to continue educating yourself. Lastly, I would, and I did, preach “politics and communication.” Communicate your tail off! And please, please learn proper grammar and spelling!

I retired the Friday before Memorial Day weekend. I have a shore house so the weekend at the beach with no concern for turf was on the agenda. Hoping for blue skies and high temperatures was something new.

I can't say that I have many other than continuing to be interested in things being clean and tidy around our property, which is probably a result of the nature of our business. I do stay up later and I can easily sleep past 6:00 A.M.

I always ran my job within certain hours. Obviously, there are exceptions. The job can never end, but you need to put parameters on your commitment to your facility to give your family the time they deserve. It is very easy to get too involved at work.

Learn to manage your resources to their full potential. Also, diversify your interests. Have something to do when you have downtime and eventually retire. It is important to do this sooner than later.

THE GREENERSIDE

| 14

What advice do you have for superintendents about to retire?

During your career, what innovation had the biggest impact on your daily work?

For my friends who are nearing retirement, my strong suggestion is that you have something to retire to: I've found that having a plan made it easy for me. And, trust me, as so many others told me: you will know when it is time to retire.

When I look back at all of the innovations I've witnessed over my 46 years in the business, I'd say that the most important improvements have been the quality of the science from our friends at Rutgers and other universities, the quality and safety of the chemistries now available to us, the general improvement in the equipment we use in our jobs, and the vast improvements in water distribution and management now possible. What hasn't changed is our reliance on the people who make our careers possible- our staff. The best part of the Covid crisis has been that our often invisibleto-members crew are being paid a better wage, and most assistants are making a livable salary now.

For anyone nearing retirement, be sure to have a good financial advisor to help you understand what you need to ensure your financial wellbeing and therein your happiness. Hopefully this planning should have begun long before this point in your life. HAVE A PLAN!

Plan to stay busy. Whatever you were going to do, DO IT. Don't wait.

Time will really go fast now.

What advice would you give a superintendent starting their career?

As for advice, the best I have to offer is that I think it is possible to find a healthy balance between work and our personal lives. I've managed my staff and myself using that overarching belief, and I am certain that doing so accounts for my being able to survive for so long, and that my club benefited as well with excellent playing conditions from a value-oriented budget perspective.

I had a good run, and now I'm writing the next chapter of my life...

Without a doubt, the advancements in the technology of water management, from the sophistication of irrigation systems to the recognition of “drainage, drainage, drainage.”

Regarding drainage, the XGD type of greens drainage was the best single drainage advancement, in my opinion.

Network! Make a lot of friends amongst your peers, as well as anyone in other areas of the industry. Never hesitate to pick up your phone and call someone you respect who can give you sound advice.

We all need help quite often. Anyone who thinks they know it all or doesn’t ever need help is destined to have a hard road in front of them.

Motorized sand trap rake, triplex mowers, and automated irrigation systems.

Go in with your eyes wide open. Today's superintendent has to have a wide and varied skill set to be successful. Don't narrow your vocational choices and continue through any means available to become better educated in a variety of disciplines. The road you begin on may not be the road you end on.

THE GREENERSIDE

| 15

THE GREENERSIDE

| 16

FEATURE

By Donovan Maguigan

As young kids, we were all amazed by the visions of life-changing technology in 2015, depicted in the film Back to the Future II, with auto-lacing shoes, flying cars, and shrunken pizza that instantly cooked to full size in seconds. As the calendar approaches ten years past the setting of that film, we see that technology has not quite approached the level of our creative imagination. Short of building your own C3PO or R2-D2, a droid will not step on your property and start mowing your greens, nor are we close to replacing our staff with a fleet of obedient machines. GPS technology, moisture sensors, drones, and cloud-based computing are our current best tech on the market for golf courses, and while we may not have flying golf carts on our courses, autonomous mowers are starting to emerge as the next best thing to droids and hoverboards.

As labor remains short across the nation, the prospect of robots or automation making our jobs easier feels less like science fiction and more like a viable, practical solution to a real problem. The addition of a single autonomous or potential fleet of mowers could provide superintendents with a much-needed labor-saving force. These machines that are either guided by buried wires or advanced GPS systems can reduce the amount of labor needed to mow a particular area, freeing resources

elsewhere. In New Jersey, superintendents are already starting to put these autonomous mowers into action on their properties. While not a complete end to the labor problem, these mowers are already providing solutions.

For Todd Raisch, Golf Course Superintendent at Ridgewood Country Club, the decision to purchase autonomous mowers was initiated by the construction of a new practice facility and the labor associated with it. Raisch recalled, “Last fall, we began the construction of a 2-acre, 5-green short game practice area. While telling a colleague about the expected challenges and concerns of daily maintenance of the area and having it ready by 7:30 a.m. each day, he suggested that autonomous mowers may be a possible solution.” The solution was a small fleet of mowers powered by Husqvarna and controlled by GreenSight’s TurfCloud software.

The mowers were ordered and delivered in less than a month, with a few more weeks for initial setup due to the current demand. As Raisch stated, “Autonomous mowers are growing in popularity very quickly, and I believe it is hard for the distributors to keep up with demand.” The silver lining to this, according to Raisch, “In reality, compared to how long it takes to get traditional equipment, the wait wasn't too bad.”

THE GREENERSIDE

|

17

FEATURE

Utilizing cloud software, the mowers are remotely controlled and mapped to guide themselves through the desired mowing areas. For this particular model, the mowers can mow as low as 0.250" with small replaceable razor blade-like decks, which have enough strength to slice through divots. The mowers are calibrated to make slight adjustments to the mowing paths each day and can be adjusted utilizing GPS mapping. Smartphone notifications alert managers of potential issues and monitor their progress.

"There is a learning curve to these mowers. It took us about three weeks to feel comfortable with them and work out the kinks. They are not 100% autonomous. Someone does need to be around for unexpected issues that will arise. 97% autonomous isn't bad, though," Raisch said at a recent demo at Ridgewood this summer. During the demo, the short game area mowing was shown even as players actively used the facility, with little disruption. In addition to showing their operation, general maintenance and charging stations for the fleet were shown against the backdrop of a new indoor hitting facility.

Looking back at the first season of operation at Ridgewood, Todd is optimistic and looking towards the future as the technology improves, "What is available now is a nice first start. The quality of the cut is good but not great. That's why we initially focused on the practice facilities and clubhouse lawns. The mowers are perfect for these areas. It would be nice to use this same technology for blowing and in the bunkers as well." Beyond the new short game area, the future is bright for autonomous mowers at Ridgewood, "We will be expanding from the practice areas to the clubhouse grounds and eventually onto the golf course itself."

As Ridgewood plans for the future, another New Jersey golf club is also deciding to begin building an autonomous mowing fleet and staying ahead of the times. Mike Campbell, Director of Golf Course Operations at Montclair Golf Club, purchased his fleet of mowers with plans to begin using them in the Fall of 2023. He and the club elected to demo and then purchase a set of mowers for their short game area to “stay on the front edge of things and ahead of the tech curve.”

Campbell hopes to use the initial fleet of mowers to help gain experience with the operation before moving them to larger portions of the course as he said, “(We’re) hoping that as we learn more and use them on our short game area, we will learn and be able to position the club easier in higher productivity and efficiencies across larger acreage areas when the time comes.” He stated, “I see this as a stepping stone and, if all goes well, will help us find new ways to reduce our labor footprint on our large acreage areas.”

While Husqvarna is gaining momentum and establishing its fleets at several facilities, other companies are entering autonomous mower production. ECHO is currently producing a fleet of autonomous mowers, including a model that can collect golf balls from a driving range and a separate unit that can mow without damaging golf balls. For larger units, including fairway mowers and triplexes, Toro and John Deere continue to test models and invest in developing these mowers.

THE GREENERSIDE

|

18

FEATURE

New Jersey superintendents are already successfully implementing these machines into their maintenance programs and planning to expand their fleets. As the technology continues to improve and develop, many additional courses will surely follow. We may not have flying cars or droids, but science fiction is quickly becoming a reality.

THE GREENERSIDE

|

19

THE GREENERSIDE

|

20

TECH TOOLS OF THE TRADE The Carta Wheel

By Donovan Maguian With a course restoration starting at Springdale in the fall and the need for accurate course measurements, a tech solution to make the task of measuring the golf course easier was at the forefront of my mind. Previously, I used the “measure” function on my GPS watch or traditional measurement techniques, length times width. With 65 bunkers and areas of disturbance that were far from square, I looked to technology to help organize and collate the multiple measurements that I would make.

The Carta Measuring Wheel simplifies the measuring process by combining a measuring wheel with your cell phone and Bluetooth connection. The wheel connects to the app “Plott,” and using the phone’s gyroscope, you can quickly and accurately measure difficult or oddly shaped areas.

The sleek white plastic body and rubber wheel are sturdy but bound to get dirty out in the field. The wheel quickly connects to the app via Bluetooth and is powered by AA batteries.

(photo by letsplott.com)

After purchasing the wheel, I made initial measurements at our recently constructed short game practice area to “practice” using the wheel. The wheel has a smartphone mount that holds your phone, which will be used to interface with the wheel via the app. The app provides a prompt to name the prescribed area before giving you options for starting the paths, colors, layers, and adjustments to the measurements.

Measuring is completed by initiating a new path on the app and walking the intended border, with the measuring wheel beeping as you return to the starting point. While measuring, it is important to keep your smartphone level as the phone’s gyroscope is used to dictate turns. I still struggle to match the end starting point exactly, but the measurements are largely unaffected.

(photo by letsplott.com)

THE GREENERSIDE

|

21

After completing your measurement, you can access the linear distance and area. In this example, you can see the outline of the bentgrass chipping area at our new practice facility. The center number indicates the square footage, and the outside border indicates the linear feet of the border. If you plan to measure multiple paths, you can add a path, choose the color, and organize the data.

There are some drawbacks to the app and interface, including organizing multiple paths you have measured for a project and applying digital images with your measurements. Using our example of measuring my new practice area, you will end up with a bowl of noodles for your paths after measuring each area.

You will have to pinch and zoom while moving the lines to their corresponding locations for the map. Moving and rotating the lines takes getting used to as images rotate on a central rotation point.

This issue only applies if you intend to overlay the measurements over an aerial image.

Over the Summer of 2023, I have done multiple measurements across the course, including irregularly shaped sod areas like our steam line zoysia project and preparation for our upcoming restoration. The measurements are accurate, and as I hoped, measuring oddly shaped areas is much easier than length times width with averages.

Overall, it’s a great tool with some app quirks that require getting familiar with the app. The true test of this tool will be its long-term durability, especially over bumpy construction terrain during our project.

THE GREENERSIDE

|

22

THE GREENERSIDE

| 23

GCSAA FEATURE

CHAPTER BENEFITS

By Kevin Doyle, GCSAA Field Staff

Hopefully, you were able to learn how GCSAA provides and delivers valuable resources directly to you the member in the previous newsletter. This article dives into the resources available to your local association.

The affiliation between GCSAA and your local association is very important, and the ability of your chapter to deliver value to you, the member, is key to the success of our industry. The goal of utilizing resources and benefits delivered from GCSAA, your local chapter, to you, the member, is to build the “we” instead of the “us” and “them.”

Effective local associations have the best chance of assisting you in being a highly efficient and effective member. GCSAA works to ensure that resources are available to give the best possible chance of that happening. An extensive list of those benefits and resources are listed below. Whether you are a leader of your local chapter or not, this list should show the value of associations working together for the benefit of everyone!

Chapter Board Resources Effective management involves having clear job descriptions, taking accurate minutes of meetings, and working closely with superintendents who represent the future of the chapter and the profession. A policy and procedures handbook also is an invaluable guide. A handbook should cover governance, planning, goal setting, decision-making, problem-solving, financial management, and board and staff professional development. Tips, tricks, and templates are available to assist your local association.

GCSAA staff can facilitate a Board Orientation Session at no cost to the chapter. Topics include: Governance — bylaws, SOPs, board roles and expectations, confidentiality, and board business.

Financials — budget, authorization, fiscal Responsibility, IRS considerations.

Your chapter and GCSAA — field staff, affiliation agreement, insurance policies, voting.

Teamwork — working together as a board, understanding conflict, Five Dysfunctions of a Team, and lack of commitment.

Investing the time to conduct a Strategic Planning Session encourages chapters to establish a framework, helps them to focus on accomplishing specific goals, and broadens the scope of member involvement. GCSAA provides strategic planning assistance. A field staff representative will facilitate a 1/2-day or full-day planning session with your chapter's board of directors or other members who wish to participate.

GCSAA hosts a Chapter Leaders/Executives Symposium in the spring at GCSAA Headquarters in Lawrence, Kan. The symposium provides leadership training, development, and support to chapters. It also highlights the programs and services available to chapters through GCSAA and provides an opportunity for chapter leaders and executives to network with their peers from around the country.

THE GREENERSIDE

|

24

GCSAA FEATURE

Grant-Financial Opportunities Although GCSAA dedicates considerable resources to national outreach, those efforts alone are not enough to achieve the desired results. For this reason, GCSAA has established the Chapter Outreach Grant to help chapters engage in activities that complement its efforts to communicate the value of membership to key constituents, primarily golfers and employers.

Thanks to generous support from ClubProcure, the GCSAA Foundation is offering one-time chapter grants for qualified member education events held in 2023. Affiliated GCSAA chapters may apply for a grant of up to $1,000 to help fund educational events, including speaker fees, event space rental, meeting logistics, food and beverage, and related travel.

Agronomic and environmental Best Management Practices are key to successful golf course operations. They are also key to successful advocacy and ensuring golf's license to do business. GCSAA has offered grants, through funding from the Foundation, to chapters to build state documents and to facilitate those working on facility adoption programs. This grant process is reviewed each year to ensure the goals of the BMP initiative are being met, and the 2024 opportunity has yet to be determined at this time.

Looking to strengthen membership and empower your equipment managers? An Equipment Managers Toolkit has been created with information on competencies, best management practices to develop education, education GCSAA can offer, and promotional pieces to reach EM members.

Stay ahead of the latest laws and regulations.

GCSAA outlines key issues and connects you, even one-on-one, with staff while offering free compliance counseling, information, and resources available in the GCSAA Compliance Center, housed in the Advocacy Hub. In addition, GCSAA’s Government Affairs team can assist in developing Action Alerts to advocate on staterelated legislative and regulatory issues.

Hopefully, you recognize many of the resources above as benefits being utilized by your local association. Better yet, I’m hopeful you are utilizing the BMP and Government Affairs opportunities at your own facility! Be sure your equipment manager finds those educational resources too. As always, I hope I can be a resource to you as well. Be sure to reach out to your chapter and GCSAA to ensure you make the most of all of your membership benefits.

For the second year in a row, the GCSAA Foundation’s Rounds 4 Research program supporting turfgrass research broke records, yielding more than $544,500 during its April 24-30 online auction, an increase of $53,300 over 2022.

More than 1,500 rounds of golf were donated for an online auction where more than 16,000 bids were made, and 1,471 rounds were sold to golfers. R4R funds are used to strengthen advocacy, education and research that advances the work of golf course management professionals. Your support of the GCSANJ R4R efforts have positively impacted golf in New Jersey. Thanks again to all who have donated, and for those who haven’t, please consider doing so in the future!

Communications Resources There are News Release Templates available that can be a starting point for spreading the word to local media about chapter success stories and milestones.

Chapter anniversary template Chapter fundraiser template Chapter awards template Chapter board election template THE GREENERSIDE

|

25

GCSAA RESOURCES UPCOMING WEBINARS A NATURAL FIT: BUILDING A 'GRASS ROOTS' DISPLAY AT YOUR GOLF COURSE Harlyn Goldman, CGCS, Jon Lobenstine and Geoff Rinehart, Oct. 18 @ noon AVOID THESE CAREER MISTAKES – DON’T BE YOUR OWN WORST ENEMY Tommy Witt, CGCS, Oct. 24 @ 10 a.m.

BEYOND THE SCOPE – FROM TRADITIONAL TO MODERN DISEASE DETECTION AND MANAGEMENT David McCall, Ph.D., Lee Miller, Ph.D., and Ferestheh Shahoveisi, Ph.D., Nov. 7 @ 11 a.m.

VISIT GCSAA.ORG/EDUCATION/MY-LEARNING-HUB Times listed are for the U.S. Central time zone.

THE GREENERSIDE

|

26

CONFERENCE NEWS

NJ GREEN EXPO Turf & Landscape Conference

GCSAA CONFERENCE AND TRADE SHOW

DECEMBER 5-7, 2023 BORGATA HOTEL, ATLANTIC CITY, NJ

JANUARY 29-FEBRUARY 1, 2024 PHOENIX, AZ

Visit njta.wildapricot.org to register!

Visit gcsaaconference.com to register!

Advanced registration pricing is available until December 3rd.

THE GREENERSIDE

|

27

THE GREENERSIDE

|

28

JUNE GOLF MEETING SPRING BROOK COUNTRY CLUB Hosted by Joe Scioscia

Steve Aspinall, Josh Kopera, Rob Schipper, and Garret Birchenough

Kevin Doyle and Ian Kunesch

Rich Sweeney, Gary Arlio, Dick Neufeld, and Tom Pepe

Chris Boyle and Jeff Weld

Pat Quinlan and Joe Scioscia

Brian Bontemps

Joe Kinlin, Tom Currie, Alan Bean, and Joe Scioscia

Jack Meyer, Jim Devaney, Travis Pauley, and Fred Parcells

Mike Weber and Rob Johnson

THE GREENERSIDE

|

29

RUTGERS TURFGRASS RESEARCH FIELD DAY

Russ Harris and Joey Wolff

Mike Weber

Tom Tucci

Steve Chirip and Dr. Bruce Clarke

Dr. Jim Murphy and Dr. Matt Elmore

Jason Osterhoudt and Donovan Maguigan

Paul Ramina

Matt Sweatlock and Sabrina Tirpak

Dave Oatis and Rich Buckley

THE GREENERSIDE

|

30

NINE & DINE SKYWAY GOLF COURSE Hosted by Fred Parcells

Joe Kinlin and Steve Chirip

Jim Devaney, Sean Konsavich, Rob Arnts, Freddy Carmona, and Tim Gerzabek

Shaun Kennedy and Russ Harris

Juan Casiano, Corey Angelo, Kelly Barrell, Barry Kronman

Pat Quinlan and Fred Parcells

Jason Osterhoudt, Pat Quinlan, Shaun Kennedy, Fred Parcells

Mike Handley and Nick Alley

Dr. Matt Elmore, Dr. Jim Murphy, Dr. Donald Kobayashi, and Brad Park

Keith Bennett and Kevin Rundstrom

THE GREENERSIDE

|

31

GCSANJ PATRON DIRECTORY A.G. ENTERPRISES Staff Uniforms Rick Gordon Ph: (Cell) 201.741.4500 Fx: 201.575.4140 merrick160@gmail.com agenterprisesonline.com

DOUBLE ‘D’ TURF LLC Dennis DeSanctis Jr. & Sr. Aeration Services, Rentals, Equip Sales PO Box 1090 Hightstown, NJ 08520 Ph: 732.580.5516 Dennis Jr@doubledturf.com

AQUATROLS World leader in the development of soil surfactants and wetting agents. www.aquatrol.com Kevin Rundstrom Ph: 856.287.9258 krundstrom@aquatrols.com

EARTHWORKS Carbon based fertilizers Jack Higgins Ph: 484.894.0242 hwww.earthworksturf.com jack@soilfirst.com

BASF Plant Protection & Plant Health Products, Lexicon, Xzemplar, Honor, Insignia David Schell Ph: 410.800.8762 david.schell@basf.com Paul Ramina Ph: 908.413.2944 paul.ramina@basf.com BLOOMING BEDS Plant Care Services Wayne Jackson 21 Madison Plaza #130 Madison, NJ 07940 Ph: 973.937.7009 www.bloomingbeds.com wayne@bloomingbeds.com COOMBS SOD FARMS Ph: 856.358.4763 info@coombsfarm.com 84 Highway 77, Elmer, NJ 08318 DOWNES TREE SERVICE CO. Tree Services, Removal, Pruning, Stump Grinding, Mulch, and Topsoil Kevin Downes Ph: 973.238.9800 info@downes.pro

EAST COAST SOD & SEED Sod & Seed Supplier,Bent Grass, Bluegrass, Tall Fescue, and Fine Fescue Sod Kevin Driscoll Ph: 609.760.4099 kdriscoll@eastcoastsod.com

FERTL SOIL Manufacturing/ Blending of Sand and Soils, Topdressing, Divot Repair Soils, and Engineered Soils Mike Warner Ph: 866-688-8628 orders@fertl-soil.com 155 Central Schoolhouse Road Carneys Point, NJ FINCH TURF John Deere Authorized Dealer Joey Wolff jwolff@finchturf.com Cell:410.215.6921 Russ Harris rharris@finchturf.com Cell: 609.498.4031 419 Industrial Drive North Wales, PA

ENVU Plant Health Products Pesticides Jeffrey Weld Ph: 914.419.9384 jeff.weld@envu.com www.envu.com

FISHER & SON COMPANY Distributor of Golf & Turf Products,Fertilizer, Seed Rob Johnson 110 Summit Drive, Exton PA 19341 Ph: 800.262.2127 Cell: 215.475.7998 rjohnson@fisherandson.com

EWING IRRIGATION & LANDSCAPE SUPPLY Irrigation & Turf Products Rain Bird Golf Distributor Fred Rapp frapp@ewingirrigation.com Ph: 848.225.4618

GRASS ROOTS, INC. Golf Course Maintenance Supplies www.griturf.com Ken Kubik: 973.418.7035 Keith Kubik: 973.418.7034 Office: 973.252.6634

E-Z-GO TEXTRON Nick Roberto E-Z-GO, Cushman, Jacobsen Ph: 845.637.7641 nroberto@textron.com Andy Bulizak Ph: 973.617.7478 abulizak@textron.com THE GREENERSIDE

|

32

GCSANJ PATRON DIRECTORY GENESIS TURFGRASS Ben Brace 570.472.1248 bbrace@genesisgreensupply.com 137 Commerce Drive Glen Rock, PA 17327 genesisturfgrass.com

NUFARM Pesticides for the turf & ornamentals Michael Molchan 25 Roland Avenue Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054 Ph: 610.653.7983 michael.molchan@nufarm.com

STORR TRACTOR COMPANY Commercial Toro Turf & Irrigation Equipment Steve Bradley 3191 Highway 22, Branchburg NJ Ph: 908.722.9830 sbradley@storrtractor.com

HARRELL’S LLC Josh Kopera Cell:201.213.8693 jkopera@harrells.com Jen Schneider Cell:732.828.0895 jschneider@harrells.com harrells.com Ph: 800.282.8007

PLANT FOOD COMPANY “The Liquid Fertilizer Experts” Dick Neufeld: 973.945.6318 Tom Weinert: 914.262.0111 Tom Pepe: 609.751.1372 Biostimulants & Other Products for Premium Turfgrass

STEPHEN KAY GOLF COURSE ARCHITECT Master Planning, Drainage Design & Restoration 665 Saint Andrews Drive Egg Harbor City NJ 08215 Ph: 609.703.3300 stephenkgolf@aol.com

HELENA People…Products…Knowledge Tim Gerzabek Cell: 609.221.9240 GerzabekT@helenaagri.com www.helenaagri.com LABAR GOLF RENOVATIONS Golf Course Construction & Renovations Richard S. LaBar Jr. 170 Mount Airy Road, Suite A1 Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 Ph: 908.502.5353 rich@labargolf.com NOBLE TURF Brian Gjelsvik 25 Roland Avenue Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054 Ph: 856.273.1402 briang@seetonturf.com

POCONO TURF Matt Paulina Sales Representative, PA & NJ 610.883.6108 ​mattpaulina@gmail.com www.poconoturf.com SITEONE LANDSCAPE SUPPLY Providing the Products & Expertise That You Need & Trust Frank Jacheo: 732.489.1442 fjacheo@siteone.com Fred Stauffer: 317.518.2841 fstauffer@siteone.com Shawn Reynolds: 401.486.9133 sreynolds@siteone.com SOIL & WATER CONSULTING Corey Angelo Consulting and Analysis for Your Turfgrass, Soils, and Water.

Ph: 848.225.5115 corey@soilandwaterconsulting.com

SYNATEK Shaun Kennedy 737 Hagey Center Drive, Unit A Souderton, PA 18964 Ph: 866.266.9288 skennedy@synateksolutions.com SYNGENTA Manufacturer, Plant Protectants Chris Marra Cell: 862.505.4319 Christopher.Marra@syngenta.com WILLOW'S BEND Specializes in golf course pump stations. Service and installation.

Scott Scherer P.O. Box 1344 Belle Mead, NJ 08502 Ph: 908.837.9102 scott@willowsbend.com

THE GREENERSIDE

|

33