North Carolina Turfgrass - July/August 2018

July/August 2018

Sports Turf Field Inspection

A Publication of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina

A New Spin on Irrigation Plus,

Managing Algae in Turfgrass

North Carolina Turfgrass is the official publication of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina 110 Horizon Drive Suite 210 Raleigh, NC 27615 919-459-2070 fax 919-459-2075 www.ncturfgrass.org

Executive Director Anna Brooks Whichard, CAE IMI Association Executives annabrooks@imiae.com 919-459-2070

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Published by: Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street Franklin, TN 37064 615-790-3718 fax 615-794-4524 info@leadingedge communications.com

TCNC OFFICERS President

table of contents July/August 2018

12 Cover Story

Sports Turf Field Inspection

From the President, Damon Dean TCNC Career Hub

16 Green Light

TCNC Deluxe Members

on Pests

Calendar of Events

Managing Algae

NCCTP Program

in Turfgrass

New TCNC Members and NCCTP

18 Green Light

on Irrigation

Index of Advertisers

A New Spin on Irrigation

NC State Turf Team

6 8 10 11 22 25 26 26

The Turfgrass Council of North Carolina (TCNC) serves its members in the industry through education, promotion and representation. The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, its staff, or its board of directors, North Carolina Turfgrass, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or TCNC members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this bimonthly publication. Copyright Š 2018 by the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina. North Carolina Turfgrass is published bi-monthly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of TCNC. Presorted standard postage is paid at Nashville, TN. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: North Carolina Turfgrass allows reprinting of material published here. Permission requests should be directed to TCNC. We are not responsible for unsolicited freelance manuscripts and photographs. Contact the managing editor for contribution information. Advertising: For display and classified advertising rates and insertions, please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge Street, Franklin, TN 37064, 615-790-3718, Fax 615-794-4524.

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Damon Dean Keith Hills Country Club West End, NC 910-893-1372

Vice President Gene Queen Nature’s Select Premium Turf Services Winston-Salem, NC 336-768-7999

Past President Billy Cole Raleigh Country Club Raleigh, NC 919-427-0312

Treasurer Kevin Herrmann Fairway Green, Inc. Raleigh, NC 919-818-9640

Directors

H. Dean Baker Kinston Country Club Kinston, NC David Bradley, NCCTP Turf Mountain Sod, Inc. Hendersonville, NC Michael Hrivnak, NCCTP Canopy Lawn Care Raleigh, NC Jonathan Richardson, NCCTP Green Resource Dunn, NC

From the President

Closing In I

hope everyone is having a good summer. As always, this year has been a challenge for most Turf Managers around the state. We started with a drought and we’re ending with 15-plus inches of rain in some

areas in just a few days. Go figure. I don’t know if I need to wear something for the dust or buy a boat to travel around our property with. I know the heat is on, but I am writing this on August 10th and summer

is about to come to an end. This year is flying by. Cooler weather is CLOSING IN!

Field Day at NC State University was held this week and it was well attended even with the warm temperatures. That shows the dedication to obtaining knowledge is great in this industry. I want to thank the faculty and staff at NC State that was involved in this event. It is always a great event and I suggest you attend next year if you have a chance.

The research that is passed along to us during the event is partly because of TCNC and other organizations funding and supporting the University. That is some of the value of your membership to TCNC. The TCNC board and staff are working hard and we are starting to make plans for our Annual Meeting. I hope you can attend. It is always a fun event.

Now for most of us as Turf Managers, we will not slow down much until winter. Seeding, Fertilizing, and Aerifying are coming up very fast. I hope everyone is ready for fall because it is getting closer. Pre-season football has just started and college football is getting ready to gear up. Don’t forget to spend some time with family and friends to recharge your batteries.

God Bless.

Damon Dean, CGCS

2017–2018 TCNC President

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TCNC Career Hub

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A P u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e T u r f g r a s s C o u n c i l o f North Carolina 9

TCNC Deluxe Members Companies wishing to support TCNC with multiple members can join as Deluxe Members.

New for the 2018–2019 membership year, Deluxe Memberships can be purchased in one of three tiers: 1–5 employees; 6–10 employees; or 11+ employees.

If you'd like to learn more about the Deluxe Membership, please contact the TCNC office at (919) 459-2070 or info@ncturfgrass.org.

Thank You to Our Deluxe Member Organizations American Turf Grass Corporation

Givens Estates Green Resource

Barefoot & Associates, Inc. BASF Corporation

JRM, Inc. Keith Hills Country Club

Buy Sod, Inc

Kinston Country Club

Carolina Farm Credit

Leap Frog Landcare, Inc.

Carolina Green Corp.

McConnell Golf LLC

City of Brevard

Myatt Landscaping Concepts, Inc.

City of Raleigh Parks & Recreation

SiteOne Landscape Supply Smith Turf & Irrigation Sod Solutions, Inc. Southern Ag Southern Seeds Inc The Biltmore Company The Club at Longview

City of Shelby

Nature's Select Premium Turf Services

Country Boy Landscaping Inc

NC State University Athletics

Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community

NCSU Landscape Construction Services

Tri Est Ag Group Inc.

Diamond Creek Golf Club

North Carolina A&T State University

Triangle Chemical Company Turf Mountain Sod Inc

Fairway Green

Pennington Seed — ProTurf Division

Fayetteville Technical Community College

Quality Turf

Duke University

Revels Turf & Tractor 10

SAS Institute Landscaping Dept.

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Town of Cary Public Works Town of Huntersville Parks & Recreation Town of Southern Pines

UNC Chapel Hill Vereens Turf Products

Calendar of Events October 17–19

GIE+Expo — Green Industry Equipment Expo and School of Grounds Management Kentucky Expo Center Louisville, KY

October 19–22 ASLA – Annual Meeting & Expo

(American Society of Landscape Architects) Philadelphia, PA

November 12–14

Carolinas GCSA Annual Conference & Show

Myrtle Beach Convention Ctr. Myrtle Beach, SC

January 14–18, 2019 Green & Growin' Greensboro, NC

January 22–25, 2019 STMA Conference and Exhibition Phoenix, AZ

February 2–7, 2019 Golf Industry Show

San Diego Convention Center San Diego, CA

February 18–21, 2019

TPI International Education Conference & Field Day (Turfgrass Producers Intl.)

The Westin Charlotte Charlotte, NC

A P u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e T u r f g r a s s C o u n c i l o f N orth Carolina 11

Cover Story

Creating

Safer Fields for Athletes:

By Tom Serensits, Manager, Center for Sports Surface Research, Penn State University Seams and inlays require routine inspection.

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Field inspections help reduce injury risk and liability by identifying issues and allowing time to correct potential hazards before the players hit the field. In fact, the NFL now mandates that all fields be inspected prior to all games based on league-mandated criteria. Each field manager is then required to submit an official report following the inspection within 72 hours prior to kick-off. Following a similar program of routine field inspections demonstrates a proactive approach and commitment to athlete safety.

Synthetic Turf Fields

Monitoring and Documenting Playing Field Conditions

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ith another fall sports season on the horizon, many of you are likely checking field use schedules, readying your field painters, and making sure you have enough seed to get you through the season. A field manager’s “to-do” list certainly grows as the calendar changes to fall. One key aspect of preparing for the upcoming season can sometimes be overlooked – a proper and thorough field inspection.

If you have a synthetic turf field, there are several potential hazards that require regular inspection. The first is carpet seams. Properly functioning (non-separating) seams do not pose an elevated risk. However, if the seams begin to fail and separate, they create potential tripping hazards.

When a synthetic turf field is installed, large sections of carpet are rolled across the width of the field. These carpet pieces are five yards wide and extend completely across the width of the field. As a result, seams are typically located on every 5yard line. However, that is not always the case – sometimes the seams are located at the 2.5 yard lines or other locations.

Once you locate the seams on your field, walk along each seam and check for separation, paying particular attention to high-use areas (Photo 1).

In addition to the seams going across the field, there are seams at each inlay.

While inlays reduce or eliminate the need to paint field markings, careful inspection is needed to ensure they are flush with surrounding turf. All inlay seams should be inspected on a regular basis for separation. Common inspection guidelines state that any seam that has separated more than 3 mm should be remediated according to the field manufacturer’s recommendations (Photo 2).

Particular attention should be paid to complex logos that contain many small inlays as these contain many seams and are often located at the highly-used center of the field. Any separation, peeling, or unevenness should be addressed immediately.

Wrinkles in synthetic turf can sometimes develop over time. Wrinkles can also create a tripping hazard. Again, follow the field manufacturer’s recommendations for repair.

Check for depressions on high-use areas of the field resulting from low levels of infill. If the field is used for lacrosse, pay extra attention to the goal mouth areas. Lacrosse goal mouths are notorious for crumb rubber infill displacement and resulting depressions. If holes and depressions are found, additional crumb rubber infill should be installed in these areas.

A few buckets of crumb rubber likely can do the job. Spread a thin layer of rubber onto the area, brush it into the fibers with a broom and repeat until the infill is level with surrounding turf.

For bigger areas, larger pieces of equipment, such as a topdresser, can be used to spread crumb rubber across the field. No matter the size of the area, it is important to use the same size and type of rubber originally installed by the turf manufacturer.

Infill depth testing is also an important component of a field inspection. An easy way to measure infill depth is with a fireproofing depth gauge. These gauges are available online and typically cost less than $20. Be sure to obtain your target infill depth from your field manufacturer.

Maintaining proper infill depth is important for the longevity of synthetic turf fibers and is key to keeping field hardness in check.

Field hardness can be measured with a Clegg Impact Soil Tester. All areas of the field should be under 100 when measured with this device. A guide detailing testing and managing surface hardness can be found at http://plantscience.psu.edu/ research/centers/ssrc/resources.

The field should be free of any and all foreign objects and debris such as garbage, leaves, etc. Blowers and sweepers specifically designed for synthetic turf can help clean the field before and after games (Photo 4).

If the field has been used for any nonfootball events, such as a graduation, walk the field and look for nuts, bolts, screws,

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Separating or uneven seams and inlays should be fixed using manufacturers recommendations.

Monitoring surface hardness with the Clegg Impact Soil Tester.

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Debris on the field should be removed prior to field use.

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Cover Story | continued

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A magnet removes potentially dangerous metal objects from the field.

nails or any materials that may have been used in construction of the stage or a similar structure. The amount of metal debris that is sometimes found on fields can be both surprising and dangerous. At professional stadiums, field managers typically go over the field with a large magnet after events such as concerts to remove metal debris. Magnets capable of being pulled by utility carts are available for purchase and are a useful tool if your field regularly hosts non-football events (Photo 5).

Be sure to inspect sideline areas for obstacles such as trash cans and benches.

These types of items should be far enough away from the playing surface that a player has a chance to stop before coming into contact with them. A minimum buffer zone of 25 feet is commonly recommended.

Goal posts should be checked to ensure they are properly anchored. Goal post pads should be installed for all games and practices.

Natural Turf Fields

While there are no seams to worry about like on synthetic turf fields (unless the field was recently sodded), there are a number of potential hazards that require attention on natural turf fields.

Holes and depressions can increase injury risk and should be filled in as soon as possible using sand and/or soil. When time allows, the area should be preferably sodded if it is large or, at a minimum, the area should be seeded as soon as possible.

Perennial ryegrass is often the species of choice as it germinates and matures quickly.

Be on the lookout for any debris and/ or foreign objects such as metal helmet accessories and nails used to string out the field during the painting process.

If the field has an in-ground irrigation system, check that all sprinkler heads have fully retracted below the surface as designed and that any quick-coupler keys and similar items have been removed and valve caps have been properly placed in the closed position. It is a good practice to cover plastic valves box covers and similar covers with synthetic turf or another ‘non-slip’ covering as there is a potential for players to slip on these items, especially when wearing cleats. Also check to be sure there are no depressions in the area around each irrigation head and valve box.

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High-use areas like goal mouths and the middle of the field require extra attention as these areas are at high risk for turf loss and elevated surface hardness. Monitor the amount of turf cover and overseed on a regular basis. As on synthetic fields, surface hardness can be tested using a Clegg Impact Soil Tester. All areas of the field should be under 100 Gmax when measured with this device. As hardness levels increase, be sure there is adequate soil moisture since a dry field is typically a hard field. Synthetic fields, surface hardness can be tested using a Clegg Impact Soil Tester (Photo 6). All areas of the field should be under 100 Gmax when measured with this device. As hardness levels increase, be sure there is adequate soil moisture since a dry field is typically a hard field.

Just as with synthetic turf fields, goal posts and sideline areas should be inspected, and potential obstacles should be moved away from the immediate sideline area to create a buffer zone. After nonfootball events, the field should be checked for metal debris as previously described in the synthetic turf section.

Also be sure to inspect fences and any transition areas such as a transition from turf to a running track surrounding the field. The transition between surfaces should be smooth with minimal change in elevation.

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STMA field inspection checklist — the full checklist is available at stma.org.

Document Your Inspections

A field inspection checklist is a great way to be sure to not overlook any elements of your field inspection. It also provides a record that the field was inspected should an injury occur and the safety of the field be questioned. It is also a good idea to take pictures as a way to document field conditions throughout the year.

You can make your own field inspection checklist or use one that has already been created. The Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) has a thorough field checklist that is available under the ‘Knowledge Center’ on their website — stma.org. The website also contains “how to” videos for inspecting synthetic, natural, and baseball/softball fields.

Routine field inspections demonstrate a proactive approach to athlete safety.

Hazards both on the field of play and the surrounding area can be identified and remediated before they pose an injury risk, creating a safer environment for all field users. G A P u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e T u r f g r a s s C o u n c i l o f N orth Carolina 15

Algae Green Light on Pests

Managing

in Turfgrass

By Lee Butler, Extension Coordinator Entomology and Plant Pathology, NC State University

Symptoms

Although they do not infect grasses, bluegreen algae are a significant pest problem in the turfgrass industry. These organisms contain chlorophyll just like plants, but they grow by producing chains of threadlike cells similar to fungi. Symptoms of algae appear in areas where the turf canopy has been thinned by poor growing conditions or other pest activity. In these areas, a green or black mat of fuzzy growth is evident in the turf canopy or on the surface of the thatch. During periods of dry weather, this algal growth forms a dry, cracking crust on the thatch surface that repels water and impedes turf recovery.

Development Factors

Algae may develop whenever thinning of the turf canopy permits sufficient air, light, and water to reach the thatch surface. Algal growth is most aggressive during the late spring, summer, and early fall when warm, humid conditions are conducive to algae growth and turf thinning.

Low mowing heights, shady conditions, poor soil drainage, and frequent irrigation also encourage algal growth in the turf canopy. Repeat applications of plant growth regulators and / or DMI fungicides may cause thinning of the turf canopy in close-cut turf such as a golf course putting green and lead to algae invasion.

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Algae have historically been thought of as secondary colonizers, meaning that they only fill-in areas where turf density has been reduced by some other problem.

However, mounting evidence indicates that high levels of algae activity can directly cause thinning of putting green turf, possibly by production of toxins or competition for air, water, and nutrients.

An aggressive algae management program can greatly increase the density and overall quality of putting greens during periods of warm and humid weather.

Cultural Control

Maintenance of dense, healthy turf is the most effective way to prevent algae invasions. Avoid establishing turf in areas that are heavily shaded or poorly drained, or take steps to correct these problems in established turf. Mow at the recommended height for each turfgrass species and increase mowing heights in shady areas to compensate for the reduced light levels.

Irrigation should be applied deeply and infrequently; apply sufficient water to wet the entire root zone, and then reapply as needed when the turf shows signs of wilt.

Putting greens and other high traffic areas must be cultivated regularly to maintain soil drainage and aeration.

Chemical Control

Ammonium sulfate, hydrated lime, or

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other materials can be applied to “burn� the algae in infested areas. Extreme caution is needed when doing this, especially on golf course putting greens, as these materials can also burn the turf or cause nutritional imbalances in the soil.

The fungicides chlorothalonil and mancozeb are effective algaecides. These products will control algae on a preventative or curative basis, but preventative applications are much more effective.

Repeat applications on a 10- to 14-day interval during warm, humid weather provides excellent algae control and significantly increases the density of putting green turfgrasses. Note that chlorothalonil and mancozeb are not approved for application to residential lawns.

Fungicides containing copper hydroxide should be used with caution, as copper can accumulate in the soil to toxic levels after repeated applications. For this reason, copper hydroxide should only be used under extreme circumstances to bring severe algae infestations under control.

Once a severe algae infestation has occurred, fungicide applications alone will not provide acceptable control. Additional steps must be taken to physically break-up the mat of algal growth so that the turf can recover. Spiking, aerification, verticutting, topdressing, or combinations thereof are effective ways to accomplish this. G

Fungicide and Formulation1

Amount of Formulation2

Application Interval3

Efficacy Rating

Resistance Risk

1.8 to 3.25

1.8 to 3.25

++++

Low

2 to 3.6

2 to 3.6

4 to 5.5

4 to 5.5

3 to 5

3 to 5

6 to 8

6 to 8

chlorothalonil + acibenzolar-s-methyl

2 to 3.6

7 to 14

++++

Low

(Daconil Action)*

4 to 5.4

14

chlorothalonil + azoxystrobin (Renown)*

2.5 to 4.5

10 to 14

++++

Low

chlorothalonil + fluoxastrobin (Fame C)*

3 to 5.4

7 to 14

++++

Low

chlorothalonil + thiophanate-methyl (Spectro)*

2 to 5.76

7 to 14

++++

Low

chlorothalonil + triticonazole (Reserve)*

3.2 to 5.4

14 to 28

++++

Low

0.5

14

++

Low

0.21 to 0.26

14 to 28

++

Low

mancozeb (Fore)

6

7 to 14

++

Low

(Dithane)*

6

10

chlorothalonil (Daconil Ultrex)* (Daconil Weather Stik, Legend)*

(Daconil Zn)*

fluazinam (Secure)* fluxapyroxad (Xzemplar)

1O ther trade names with the same active ingredients are labeled for use on turfgrasses and can be used according to label directions.

2 Apply fungicides in 2 to 5 gallons of water per 1,000 square feet according to label directions. Use lower rates for preventive and higher rates for curative applications.

3 Use shorter intervals when conditions are very favorable for disease. * Products marked with an asterisk are not labeled for home lawn use.

Efficacy Rating ++++ = excellent control when conditions are highly favorable for disease development +++ = good control when disease pressure is high, excellent control when disease pressure is moderate ++ = good control when disease pressure is moderate, excellent control when disease pressure is low + = good control when disease pressure is low ? = not rated due to insufficient data

Resistance Risk Low = Rotate to different chemical class after 3-4 applications; tank mixing not necessary Medium = Rotate to different chemical class after 1-2 applications; tank-mixing with low or medium risk product recommended High = Rotate to different chemical class after EVERY application; tank-mix with low or medium risk product for EVERY application ? = not rated due to insufficient data

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Green Light on Irrigation

A

New Spin on

Irrigation

By Ashley Wilkinson, Professor Golf and Sports Turf Management Horry Georgetown Technical College

An

interesting thing has happened in the golf world lately-CONSTRUCTION! For the first time in roughly ten years we see golf clubs entertaining the idea of construction projects. This consumer confidence was showcased at the Golf Industry Show this past February in San Antonio. Builders created an indoor putting and turfgrass complex with numerous grass varieties and bunker construction methods. However, as often happens, new irrigation strategies were a small part of the overall construction showcase. In my opinion, no improvement in construction will affect our industry as much as advances in water control and distribution.

With so much emphasis being placed on water efficiency, I often find myself speaking of the importance of improved watering practices. Over the last few years, my lecturing has taken a specific direction, two-wire irrigation control. As costs associated with golf courses continue to rise, finding cost-effective improvements to our management strategies have become more and more difficult. One shining example of a cost-efficient improvement has been the evolution of two-wire irrigation control and the decoder-based sprinkler head. Now, before distributors begin to correct my ‘decoder’ assertion, yes, I know the technical jargon. But maybe more importantly, many in our industry do not.

And that’s why I was compelled to write this article. The ability to modernize an irrigation system is available… and it’s cheaper than you think!

Decoder systems are not a new invention. The technology has been around for decades. The issue with two-wire decoder systems was their association with block systems. One decoder could control numerous sprinklers. The problem was with the marketing. We were beginning the modern era of irrigation where increased independent sprinkler control was a necessity for the high demands placed on golf courses. Block systems were no longer considered efficient, regardless of cost. Large sprinkler companies continued to research the positive aspects of decoders: two-way communication, less wire, and faster troubleshooting and repair. If we jump forward thirty years, we find ourselves in the modern two-wire evolution. Two-wire systems now offer independent sprinkler control as the “decoder” is built into the solenoid. These solenoids act as mini computers doing at each sprinkler what a satellite once did for dozens of sprinklers, and the advanced surge protection included in each solenoid can

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handle thousands of volts to protect the modern technology, drastically reducing repairs.

The new irrigation strategy to incorporate two-wire systems into existing piping systems is called “spin off-spin on” renovation. My good friend Andrew Johnston with Wesco, a Toro distributor, coined the term and I stole it… or promoted it.

Simply put, a spin off-spin on renovation will convert your outdated sprinklers and communication system while removing almost ALL of the fail points. Gone are satellites, once a fixture on every golf course. The efficiency of the new two-wire systems put control of your irrigation into your handheld smart device. The $4,000 satellite bill from explosion-by-lightning is eliminated. The hours spent troubleshooting satellites to find the burned up board are now gone. Learning that fire ants have short-circuited a faceplate on Friday afternoon — gone.

For those that still want a satellite, that ship has sailed. The only fail point is now limited to the aforementioned surge protected solenoid.

So what can the two-wire system do better than a satellite system? For one, it offers endless expandability. You will no longer be limited to 64 or 72 stations. If you want to add a sprinkler or valve, simply splice into the wire and presto! You’re connected to the central computer. Each decoder-type sprinkler has an ‘address’ that allows the turf manager to quickly add the sprinkler to the program of choice. No new wire runs back to the satellite, under the cart path. For those operating under tight budgets, you can install the two-wire system in phases. A course can add fairways, greens, and other features when it best suits them and makes financial sense. I have assisted more than one course with partial installations IN HOUSE during greens renovations and found the improved lightning protection offered through the grounding protocols will win over even the most skeptical superintendent.

The modern two-wire control system uses extremely low electrical voltage. The risk of personal injury from touching 120 or 240 volt wires running to the satellites has been eliminated. There is no longer the need for a dedicated power line to control the system, snaking through the entire property, enticing electrical surges and lightning. All the needed low voltage electricity simply runs through the single two-wire that runs to the sprinklers. Also removed is the need for confusing wire sizing.

There is no common wire. There is no field wire…only the twowire. All two-wire can be the same size, simplifying the design

July/August 2018

Green Light on Irrigation | continued

and installation. The two-wire voltage is so low that, according to code, the need for an electrician to make risky connections and splices has been negated. Personal injury from electricity is all but gone.

A spin off-spin on renovation does not fix your ailing pipe.

Only a new piping system can do that. What a new control system CAN do to improve leaks is better control your flow of water, evenly distribute flow throughout the property, and improve your hydraulic tree, thus hopefully reducing the water hammer that your old control system could not. The spin offspin on renovation can be easily installed by plowing the wire.

(Photo 1) Open trenches should not be needed unless extremely rocky soil interferes with rudimentary plowing. The disruption of the turfgrass created by plowing is minimal and, if rolled shortly after installation, should be healed and barely noticeable in under two weeks.

An added benefit of the spin off-spin on installation is the warranty. If the property uses new swing joints while installing the new sprinklers, the manufacturers are including at least a five year warranty! That is a significant reduction in potential leaks and failures. The confidence that manufacturers have in the new two-wire spin off-spin on renovations should ease many minds when evaluating the reliability of the new sprinkler control systems. “It can’t be that easy” I am often told. Well, it is.

The one central point that must be driven home is the importance of good grounding and splices. “Proper wire splicing, avoiding exposure in the wire to the soil, and good grounding are essential for a two-wire system” says Matt Correntin with Rainbird. “But above all else, good grounding is the key.”

Regardless of the brand of sprinkler, the amount of ground rods or ground plates will greatly increase versus an antiquated satellite driven system. This small investment in grounding will still greatly outweigh the costs associated with satellites. The average amount of wire that an 18-hole course will install can reach one million linear feet. That number drops to roughly 200,000 linear feet for a two-wire installation, or one fifth the financial investment in wire. That savings, coupled with the savings of no satellites, quickly adds up. At roughly four thousand dollars per satellite…how much money can you save on your course?

Proper location of existing infrastructure is paramount for keeping repair costs down. Phone lines, existing power lines, and piping system cuts can add costs to the installation. Using a wire locator to find existing power lines can alleviate repairs and keep the current control system intact. (Photo 2) This is especially important if you are going to implement the new system over time. Another benefit of locating wires can be locating irrigation pipe prior to plowing through it. Since most mainline and lateral irrigation pipes have either power or field wires in the same trench, time consuming and costly repairs can be avoided. We often call this practice “pot-holing”. By potholing we can locate what is under ground and either go over or under the existing pipe and wire. The adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” has never been more correct than when installing two-wire control systems.

While new grass, sand, and chemicals are all evolving rapidly, there is no more essential need than improved irrigation management. Hopefully, you now understand a bit more about twowire spin off-spin on renovations…and can see through the “spin” to get to the facts. G 20

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1 Plowing of the wire and new head installation Toning for wires to avoid costly and time-consuming repairs prior to installing the new wire

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NCCTP Program

Fast Facts about the NCCTP Enrollment Requirements: old a current TCNC membership. If not currently H a member, go to www.ncturfgrass.org and click ‘JOIN NOW’ to join online or download an application.

Have a minimum of one full year of work experience in the turfgrass industry.

Agree to the Certified Turfgrass Professional Code of Ethics as detailed on the application form.

Submit: • A current and valid NC Pesticide Applicators license • A completed NCCTP application (current TCNC members may apply online).

• NCCTP Program Application: $150 • Self-Study Materials: $50 • Exam Fee: $50

Become a NC Certified Turfgrass Professional!

The

North Carolina Certified Turfgrass Professional (NCCTP) program is a comprehensive program developed to enhance the technical competency of turfgrass professionals, while elevating their professional image, that of your business and of the turfgrass management industry. Administered by the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina, the NCCTP designation confirms your expertise in turfgrass management to prospective customers and your peers.

Curriculum and Exam:

Reasons to Begin Earning Your NCCTP Designation Today he NCCTP program increases and enhances your turfT grass industry knowledge, career, and business development through a course of study of in-depth coverage of the science of turfgrass management.

The NCCTP designation offers immediate confidence and credibility of turfgrass management practices to customers and prospective employers.

Promote and market yourself as a North Carolina Certified Turfgrass Professional.

• Use the NCCTP logo on your business materials.

• Use NCCTP pins, uniform patches, and vehicle decals.

• Your TCNC Member Directory listing is distinguished with the NCCTP logo.

We Are Partnered With The NC State Turfgrass Professional Short Course he NC State Turfgrass Professional Short Course, a comT prehensive turfgrass education program, is offered at select NC State Extension offices and at NC State University.

This Short Course offers a full curriculum of the science of turfgrass management as well as Continuing Education Credits for NCDACS Pesticide and NCLCLB Landscape Contractors’ license holders, and it will help you prepare for the NCCTP exam.

This Short Course is recommended but not required to take the NCCTP exam.

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urriculum covers nine core areas: Turfgrass CharacterisC tics; Establishing Turfgrass; Soils & Nutrient Management; Cultural Practices; Pests & Integrated Pest Management; Pesticides & Plant Growth Regulators; Landscape Safety & Pesticide Use; Calculations & Calibration; Turfgrass Business & Economics.

Candidates have six months from the date of their enrollment acceptance to complete the NCCTP exam.

Candidates have six hours to complete the exam and must score 80% or more on each section to receive the NCCTP designation.

Exams can be taken at the TCNC office in Raleigh during normal business hours, or arrangements can be made at your local NC State Extension location.

Exams will not be graded if any application information is missing or if TCNC membership status cannot be confirmed.

Please allow two to three weeks for exam grading and reports.

Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will receive communication with their results and either next step options or their graduation packet.

Maintenance Requirements: aintain a current TCNC membership as a means of M demonstrating ongoing support for the industry.

Submit an annual $50 renewal fee, which supports the NCCTP program and related promotional activities.

Designation year is the same as the TCNC membership year, from July 1st to June 30th.

Hold a current NC Pesticide Applicator’s License.

Subscribe to, actively support and uphold the TCNC Certification Code of Ethics.

The NC Certified Turfgrass Professional designation (NCCTP), the NCCTP logo and related programs materials are the trademarked property of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina and cannot be used without TCNC’s written permission.

For additional information, contact TCNC at (919) 459-2070.

July/August 2018

NCCTP Certification Program

Enrollment Application Name___________________________________________________________________ Phone_____________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City_____________________________________________________________________ State____________ Zip_ ____________________________________ E-Mail_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ TCNC Membership #*_ ___________________________________________________ Pesticide Applicator License #_______________________________

Qualifications / Requirements Please read the items below and check each one that is true for you.

Membership: I am now, or I am applying here to be, a member in good standing of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina. esticide License: I hold a current North Carolina Pesticide Ground Applicator License with subclass L, turf, and ornamental P (or equivalent from another state).

Experience: I have completed a minimum of one full year of turfgrass industry professional work experience.

Exam: Upon acceptance into the program, I plan to complete my study and take the required exam within six months. uty: I have initialed the following page of this application to show that I strongly support and willingly subscribe to the D Certified Turfgrass Professional Code of Ethics, and I pledge to uphold the credibility and integrity of the program. ontinuing Education: I agree to successfully complete additional future curriculum materials or sections that may be C required as a result of new technology or regulation.

Company________________________________________________________________ Title_ _____________________________________________________ Supervisor_______________________________________________________________ Supervisor’s Phone_________________________________________ Supervisor’s E-Mail___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Company’s Address_ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City_____________________________________________________________________ State____________ Zip_ ____________________________________ Work Experience_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Describe your turfgrass industry professional work experience; one full year is required to apply.

NCCTP Application Fee: $150, Study Materials: $50, Exam Fee: $50, TCNC Dues (call for amount, based on date) Total $____________________

Check Number__________________ (payable to TCNC) Credit Card:

AMEX

Visa

MC

Discover

Billing Zip Code____________________

Credit Card #____________________________________________________________ Exp. Date______________________ Sec Code____________ Name on Card___________________________________________________________ Signature______________________________________________ By signing this application, I verify that all the information is true and correct, I acknowledge and assume full responsibility for the charges on this application, and I agree to honor and abide by the terms of this non-refundable payment.

Signature__________________________________________________________________________________ Date____________________________________

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NCCTP Program | continued

Certified Turfgrass Professional

Code of Ethics Please read and initial each section below that you support and commit to uphold.

Duty to the Public Conduct service first and foremost with regards to the safety, health, and welfare of the general public. Provide service, recommendations, and information based upon honest experience, and scientifically accurate and factual knowledge.

I Agree

Duty to the Environment Operate in such a manner to protect and preserve our environment. Use and monitor all equipment, products, and materials in a manner consistent with the label and safe for the environment.

I Agree

Duty to the Laws of Our Land Abide by all laws and regulations affecting the turf industry and support the enforcement of these laws.

I Agree

Duty to Our Fellow Professionals Refrain from the use of false, misleading, or deceptive marketing and advertising practices. Practice and insist upon sound business management practices. Maintain the highest standard of personal conduct to reflect credit and add stature to the turf industry. Recognize the importance of strong relationships within the industry.

Abstain from untruthful debasement, or encroachment upon, the professional reputation or practice of another turfgrass professional.

I Agree

Duty to the Association Participate in association activities and events to help further the profession.

Abstain from any unfair exploitation of my association, industry, or profession.

I Agree

By signing this Code of Ethics, I agree to follow the duties and intentions outlined above, and I commit to supporting and upholding these ethics with consistency and integrity.

Printed Name________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Signature__________________________________________________________________________________ Date____________________________________ Please Return Entire NCCTP Application To TCNC Via: email: info@ncturfgrass.org fax: (919) 459-2075 or mail: TCNC, 110 Horizon Dr. Ste 210, Raleigh, NC 27615 24

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July/August 2018

New TCNC Members and NCCTP

Welcome, New TCNC Members!

Congratulations, New NCCTP!

Merett Alexander

Jarad Webster

Byron Vaughn

NG Turf Inc. Whitesburg, GA

UNCG Greensboro, NC

Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community Asheville, NC

Patrick Bowers

Charlie Willis

PBI Gordon Chesterfield, VA

GrassWorks Turf Solutions Lexington, NC

Jessica Brown Raleigh, NC

Rickey Craft UNCG Greensboro, NC

Brad Hardison NC Cooperative Extension Clinton, NC

Brandon Hicks Southern Ag Hendersonville, NC

Matt Kirkman UNCG Greensboro, NC

Raleigh, NC

Travis Murray The Biltmore Company Asheville, NC

Lee Sapp Green Resource Colfax, NC

James Smith UNCG Greensboro, NC

Matt Sorrell Smith Turf & Irrigation Angier, NC

Ryan Webb UNCG Greensboro, NC

Download your favorite QR reader to your phone, and scan the code to learn more about this company.

Patrick Maxwell

Digital Marketplace

Shawn Lennon NCSU Cooperative Extension Bolivia, NC

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Index of Advertisers

NC State Turf Team

Barenbrug USA.......................................5 www.barusa.com Brouwer Kesmac.....................................7 www.kesmac.com Buy Sod....................... Inside Back Cover www.buysod.com Carolina Fresh Farms..............................9 www.Carolinafreshfarms.com Carolina Green Corp.............................25 www.cgcfields.com Carolina Turf Farms, Inc.......................15 www.carolinaturffarms.com Divots, Inc.............................................25 www.divotssand.com Golf Agronomics Supply & Handling...11 www.golfag.com Green Resource..................... Back Cover www.green-resource.com Mid-Atlantic STIHL, Inc.........................19 www.stihldealers.com Morgan Sand Co...................................14 NC Sod Producers Association............21 www.ncsod.org Progressive Turf Equipment, Inc..........21 www.progressiveturfequip.com Quality Turf, Inc......................................6 www.qualityturfnc.com Smith Seed Services..............................14 www.smithseed.com Southern Seeds, Inc..............................11 southernseedsinc.com Southern Specialty Equipment.............11 www.ssequip.net Super-Sod................................................3 www.supersod.com The Turfgrass Group...Inside Front Cover www.theturfgrassgroup.com Turf Mountain Sod................................25 www.turfmountain.com

Crop and Soil Sciences Dr. Dan Bowman Professor, Crop Science (919) 515-2805 dan_bowman@ncsu.edu Dr. Rich Cooper Professor, Crop Science (919) 515-7600 rich_cooper@ncsu.edu Emily Erickson Crop Science Lecturer (919) 513-2034 emily_erickson@ncsu.edu Dr. Travis Gannon Assistant Professor (919) 515-2647 (Office) travis_gannon@ncsu.edu Matt Martin Extension Associate – Turfgrass, NCSU Crop Science Dept (910) 675-2314 (Office) matthew_martin@ncsu.edu

Dr. Susana Milla-Lewis Associate Professor, Turfgrass Breeding and Genetics (919) 515-3196 susana_milla-lewis@ ncsu.edu Dr. Grady Miller Professor (919) 515-5656 grady_miller@ncsu.edu Dr. Charles Peacock Professor and Extension Turfgrass Specialist (919) 515-7615 charles_peacock@ncsu.edu Dr. Ron Qu Professor, Crop Science (919) 515-7616 rongda_qu@ncsu.edu

Entomology and Plant Pathology Dr. Terri Billeisen Extension Associate (919) 515-7464 tlhoctor@ncsu.edu Dr. Rick Brandenburg Extension Specialist (Peanuts & Turf) & Department Extension Leader (919) 515-8876 rick_brandenburg@ncsu.edu Lee Butler Extension Coordinator (919) 513-3878 elbutler@ncsu.edu Dr. Jim Kerns Associate Professor and Extension Specialist (Turfgrass Pathology) (919) 515-2730 (Office) jpkerns@ncsu.edu

Vandemark Farms...................................9 www.vandemarkfarms.com

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July/August 2018

Dr. Robert Richardson Professor and Extension Specialist (919) 515-5653 rob_richardson@ncsu.edu Dr. Tom Rufty Professor (919) 515-3660 tom_rufty@ncsu.edu Dr. Wei Shi Professor, Crop Science (919) 515-2647 (Office) wei_shi@ncsu.edu Dr. Fred Yelverton Extension Specialist (Turfgrass / Forage Crop Weed Mgt) (919) 515-5639 fred_yelverton@ncsu.edu

Biological and Agricultural Engineering Dr. Garry Grabow Extension Specialist and Professor (919) 513-7348 garry_grabow@ncsu.edu

Horticulture Science Dr. Danesha Seth Carley Director, SIPMC & NC IPM Coordinator (919) 513-8189 danesha_carley@ncsu.edu