North Carolina Turfgrass - November / December 2023

November/December 2023

A Publication of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina

9 Reasons to Choose a College Major in Turfgrass Plus, Improving Turfgrass Sustainability with Better Genetics

NORTH CAROLINA | SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | VIRGINIA Office 704.393.8873 www.turf-care.com www.smithturf.com

Table of Contents November / December 2023

16 C O V ER S T O RY

9 Reasons to Choose a College Major in Turfgrass

F EATUR E AR TICLE S

MOR E FE ATUR E S

14 Member Spotlight

From the President TCNC Deluxe Members

on Greg Harris

26 Improving Turfgrass Sustainability with Better Genetics

NC State Turf Team Calendar of Events NCCTP Program Index of Advertisers

6 8 8 9 36 39

FIND THIS ISSUE, PODCASTS, EVENTS AND MORE: THETURFZONE.COM

16

4 North Caro lina Turf gra ss

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S I G N U P N O W F O R YO U R

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From the President North Carolina Turfgrass is the official publication of the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina

IMPACT ACHIEVED IN 2023 Dear Members,

P.O. Box 641 Wake Forest, NC 27588 984.301.5460 www.turfgrasscouncilnc.org

CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER Marcy Cottle info@turfgrasscouncilnc.org 984.301.5460 Published by: Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street Franklin, TN 37064 615.790.3718 Fax 615.794.4524 info@leadingedgecommunications.com

TCNC OFFICERS

Bustling green golf courses and playgrounds have seamlessly shifted to lively football stadiums and shopping centers around our gorgeous state. While our work at the TCNC is never done, you will find me taking a brief pause this time of year to cheer on my favorite college team, hopefully dominating the green.

As I reflect on this incredible year, I am beyond proud of the work we have accomplished together. From supporting our professions and industry through continued legislative efforts alongside the Green Industry Council (GIC) to re-connecting in-person with our membership and partners at the return of our Annual Conference and new TCNC Meet-Ups, we have uplifted partnerships, met new members, celebrated continued advocacy endeavors, and ignited passion among new and existing turfgrass enthusiasts.

With unwavering dedication, we will continue our mission of promoting the North Carolina turfgrass industry through continuing education, support of NC State research and extension, environmental stewardship, governmental advocacy, and lasting relationships. We will strive for even greater accomplishments in the new year by harnessing the power of collaboration and innovation. I hope you join us as we aim to extend our reach and make an even more profound impact on the turfgrass industry in the coming year.

My door (and email) is always open. I hope you reach out and let me know how to better serve you and help your voice be heard. I wish a joyous and memorable holiday season to you all.

All the best!

PRESIDENT Kevin Herrmann Fairway Green Inc. Raleigh, NC

VICE PRESIDENT Wilson Sutton Emerald Golf Club New Bern, NC

PAST PRESIDENT Gene Queen Nature's Select Winston-Salem, NC

TREASURER Jonathan Richardson, NCCTP NCCTP Chairman Green Resource Dunn, NC

DIRECTORS Brian Beane Southern Turf Winston-Salem, NC

Kevin Herrmann TCNC President K.Herrmann@fairwaygreen.com

Greg Harris Leap Frog Land Care, Inc. Cary, NC Shaun Kerr Gates Four Golf and Country Club Fayetteville, NC

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Years ago, LSU decided to move to Celebration® Bermudagrass across its sports facilities. Over the years, the athletic grounds staff has installed Celebration on the soccer, softball, baseball, practice fields and the crown jewel, football’s Tiger Stadium. Across the maintenance spectrum for Celebration, the LSU grounds staff have been innovators. They continue to produce a championship product year in and year out.

“For us at LSU, all the athletic fields that we compete on are all Celebration. So the (football) stadium, softball, soccer, our practice facilities, Alex Box, our baseball stadium, they’re all Celebration as well. Celebration for us just works and it’s a good fit.”

– Trevor Austin – LSU Sports Turf Manager

More Info At: SodSolutionsPro.com/LSU

TCNC Deluxe Members

NC State Turf Team

Companies wishing to support TCNC with multiple members can join as Deluxe Members. Deluxe Memberships can be purchased in one of three tiers: 1–5 employees; 6–10 employees; or 11+ employees.

CROP AND SOIL SCIENCES

If you'd like to learn more about the Deluxe Membership, please contact the TCNC office at 984.301.5460 or info@turfgrasscouncilnc.org.

Thank You to Our DELUXE MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS City of Asheville Parks and Rec Emerald Green ETM (Eastern Turf Maintenance) Fairway Green Fayetteville Tech Gates Four Golf & Country Club

Sod Solutions Southern Ag

Southern Seeds, Inc.

Emily Erickson Crop Science Lecturer 919.513.2034 emily_erickson@ncsu.edu Dr. Susana Milla-Lewis Professor & University Faculty Scholar 919.280.3443 susana_milla-lewis@ncsu.edu

The Biltmore Company Tillery Country Club

Leapfrog Landcare

Triangle Chemical Company Turf Mountain Sod, Inc.

Dr. Wei Shi Professor 919.513.4641 wei_shi@ncsu.edu Dr. Fred Yelverton Professor & Extension Specialist 919.515.5639 fred_yelverton@ncsu.edu

ENTOMOLOGY AND PLANT PATHOLOGY

Dr. Terri Billeisen Extension Associate 919.515.7464 tlhoctor@ncsu.edu

Lee Butler NC State Turf Diagnostics Lab 919.513.3878 ebutler@ncsu.edu

Dr. Rick Brandenburg Extension Leader 919.515.8876 rick_brandenburg@ncsu.edu

Dr. James Kerns Professor and Extension Specialist 919.513.4820 jpkerns@ncsu.edu

HORTICULTURE SCIENCE

UNC – CH

NaturaLawn of America (Raleigh)

Wake Forest University

SiteOne

Weed Man

2022 – 23 Renewal as of 8/31/2023 Don't see your company's name?

Dr. Danesha Seth Carley Director, Southern IPM Center & Associate Professor 919.513.8189 danesha_carley@ncsu.edu

www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/people/

Renew today at www.turfgrasscouncilnc.org

8 North Caro lina Turf gra ss

Dr. Rob Richardson Associate Professor & Extension Specialist 919.515.5653 rob_richardson@ncsu.edu

SunRock

Town of Garner

Morehead City

Dr. Travis Gannon Assistant Professor 919.515.2647 travis_gannon@ncsu.edu

Dr. Grady Miller Professor & Extension Specialist 919.515.5656 grady_miller@ncsu.edu

Southern Garden

Green Resource

McConnell Golf

Matt Martin Extension Associate 910.409.5899 matthew_martin@ncsu.edu

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Calendar of Events

JA NU A R Y 22 – 25, 2024

Your New Go-To Grass

SFMA Conference & Exhibition Ocean Center Daytona Beach, Florida

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Use Tahoma 31 to design golf courses that are beautiful, sustainable, easier to maintain and play great.

JA NU A RY 29 – FEBRU A RY 1, 2024 GCSAA Conference & Trade Show Phoenix, Arizona

All claims based on research results from National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) trials & Oklahoma State University. Visit our website for full reports.

See Tahoma 31 in the Transition Zone for yourself at: Brook Hollow Golf Club, Dallas, TX (fairways, tees, roughs) Chillicothe Country Club, Ohio (fairways)

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 © 2023 by the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina. North Carolina Turfgrass is published bimonthly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of TCNC. Presorted standard postage is paid at Jefferson City, MO. 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, Suite 200, Franklin, TN 37064, 615.790.3718, Fax 615.794.4524.

Liberty National Golf Club, New Jersey (driving range tee)

COLD

PLAYABILITY

DROUGHT

Plant Tahoma 31 further north for a strong base in the winter that fights wilt in the sumner.

Thick, dense turf. ¼ to ½-inch mowing height for tees, fairways.

Use less water. Takes 18% less water than TifTuf.

COLOR

QUALITY

SHADE

Blue-green most of the year. Golden in dormancy. Earliest green-up for spring color.

Rated #1 for beauty and resilience.

Heals fast from divots & wear.

Got trees? Handles up to 63% shade.

Naval Academy Golf Club, Maryland (fairways, tees) Congressional Country Club, Maryland (8-acre driving range) Southern Hills Country Club, Oklahoma (collars)

CAROLINA TURF FARMS PO Box 850, Raeford, NC 28376 910-875-6141 ncsodman@carolinaturffarms.com carolinaturffarms.com

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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 No rth C aro l i n a 9

News from TCNC

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The largest selection of brand names from one trusted source gives you the peace of mind that you’ll be in good hands with your next purchase.

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News from TCNC | continued

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A Pu 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 No rth C aro l i n a 13

Board of Directors Spotlight

GRE G HARRIS Owner, LEAPFROG LANDCARE TCNC Member Since 2016

Why did you join TCNC? Simple answer; I joined TCNC because I’m in the turfgrass industry and it’s a professional organization that supports what I do. If turfgrass is what I do then I’d be crazy not to join it.

What drew you to volunteer on the Board of Directors?

I was drawn to volunteer as a board member because it was an opportunity to give back to the industry that has provided a nice livelihood for my family. As a secondary benefit I get to work directly with some of the best people in our industry from around the state. People that outsiders would consider competitors to what I do. I look at it similarly to a US Olympic Gold medal basketball team. Those teams are made up of competitors from different teams that have come together to win a gold medal for our country . The board of TCNC is a group of business competitors that have come together for the common good of the industry.

What do you love most about TCNC? There aren’t truly a lot of professionals that do what we do.

So, to be part of an organization that truly understands what we do is awesome.

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How has your career benefited from being a member?

My career has benefited in many areas because of being a member of TCNC. Probably the biggest way is through education and networking. Another way is that being part of TCNC adds an extra stamp of credibility to my business.

What is your favorite TCNC Event and why?

My favorite TCNC event so far has been our annual retreat. It was awesome getting into a well-run meeting that truly charted our organizations path for the future. Seeing a strong group of business leaders come together to collaborate, express concerns and work through issues was truly awesome.

How do you define success in the Turf business?

I define success in the turf industry by asking if you are learning, growing, adapting, having fun, building relationships and making some money along the way.

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C O VE R STO RY

9 REASONS

To Choose A College Major in Turfgrass

By Jennifer Howard

Do

you enjoy working outdoors, creating beautiful surroundings, analyzing environmental plant relationships, or growing high-value crops? A yes to any of these means a career in turfgrass management might be for you.

Turfgrass serves valuable functional (erosion), recreational (sports), and ornamental (beautification) purposes in our landscapes. And it is a greening industry.

Managed turf covers 3% of arable US land – primarily in urban and suburban areas.

9 Reasons A Career in Turfgrass Might Be For You 1. It’s a Growth Industry Puns aside, the consumer demand for green activities is ever-increasing. Turfgrass is part of a larger green industry that contributes to the physical and mental health of Americans, especially to those in crowded urban and suburban areas[1]. Americans are spending more than ever on lawn care and are more frequently outsourcing its care. They are also getting outside more. To offset their sedentary screen time, Americans are also watching and participating in more outdoor sports than ever before.

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1.0

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Cover Story | continued

4. Applying Your Scientific Interests “Students are surprised at how much precision math and equipment calibration is necessary to produce high-quality turf. We are perfecting a product, not mowing grass,” Rich Cooper, NC State professor of crop science, commented.

“Turfgrass is unique – unlike traditional crops which fertilize to maximize growth and yield – turf is a permanent installation. There’s no crop rotation so managers have to rely on plant resistance and cultivar selection even more than in traditional row crops,” said Charles Peacock, NC State turfgrass professor. “I tell students – you have to love more than mowing – turf management requires much more than that!”

STEM-oriented students may be surprised to find turfgrass is a prime outlet for their scientific inquiry.

2. Hiring The consumer demand for green space equates to green jobs.

There are 50 million acres of managed turf in the U.S. making it the third-largest crop in the nation. North Carolina alone grows over 2 million acres of turf making it the largest ornamental crop in the state[2]. All of that turf needs management.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an 11% growth in the category (50% faster than average)[3]. “There is more hiring demand than we have graduates,” said David Crouse, director of undergraduate programs for NC State’s Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. “In the past few years, our turfgrass graduates have been in the catbird seat. They get their pick of where they want to live and work … One student last year had 30 job offers before he even graduated.” While job demand fluctuates geographically depending on economic conditions, the industry has shown a steady demand curve.

3. Income Potential As if the outdoor backdrop wasn’t enough, the salary potential in the industry is also green. While starting salaries vary, an assistant superintendent may start around $46,000 and advance to a position of golf course superintendent averaging $93k–109k nationally (depending on qualifications)[4]. Industry trade magazine Lawn & Landscape reports “Those superintendents who have a relevant degree can command higher salaries than those who have only a high school education.”[5] Landscape sales and management report average salaries between $45k-$60k per year. And plant breeders and seed producers typically earn between $56-73k annually.[6]

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5. For the Love of Sports Many students find their way into turfgrass science by way of summer golf course jobs or athletic interests.

“It’s a way to stay connected to your game even if you aren’t a top tier player. You don’t have to be a good golfer but it certainly helps to love the landscape,” Cooper said. “And be curious. A good turf manager is a detective, constantly observing for changes and figuring out what drives them.” The love of sport applies to athletes of all types – baseball, football, soccer, and golf. It’s no secret that many golf course superintendents enjoy the perks of playing the back nine as on-the-job research.

6. Collaborating with Teams and Athletes Turfgrass managers are a critical part of an athletic team. “Our Turf Cultural Systems class (CS 400) teaches future turf managers on how to manage sod and support their athletes. Soft, uneven, or poorly managed fields can cause athlete strain and injury,” Cooper said. 90% of NFL athletes prefer natural turf surfaces for safety. Turf managers must be leaders, prepared to manage a facility and crew but also to communicate with teams and coaches.

They play an integral role in their team’s training and ultimate success.

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Cover Story | continued

7. An Office With a View It’s obvious that golf courses and athletic venues usually occupy some of the most beautiful places on earth. So if enjoying the outdoors is a factor in your career decision-making, this is an easy one. But the beauty of location comes with challenges.

“Turf is a perennial plant so it has to be maintained from year to year,” noted Fred Yelverton, extension specialist in turfgrass weeds. “NC has a diversified climate – from snow to palm trees – so the turf varies. Students have to learn to manage warm and cool-season grasses differently.” Understanding micro-environments and regional conditions necessitate a firm foundation in a variety of environmental disciplines including soil science, plant pathology, and fertility management.

8. Environmental Impact Turf not only beautifies our space but provides environmental protection through evaporative cooling, carbon processing, erosion protection, and water quality. But it poses environmental challenges too. “A lot of turf is recreational – people and pets play on it. So it has to be safe. Understanding and preventing [skin] exposure to irritants is something we teach our students,” Yelverton said. “From environmental runoff to fertility and pesticide fate, students have to be able to deal with all of that. Organic chemistry is a foundational part of what we do.”

What Careers are Available in Turfgrass?

Your career path can vary depending on your personality, interest specialty, and preferred work environment. A background in turfgrass science can lead to careers working in the field, an office, or a lab. Like working hands-on outdoors? Golf and athletic clubs hire turf specialists to design and manage their landscapes. Prefer working with customers? Seed and equipment sales could be the route for you. Fascinated by science? Manufacturers and universities employ scientists to improve and test new turf varieties and products.

In the Field

Business

Lab / Industry

Golf Course Superintendent

Seed & Nutrient Supplier

Plant / Seed Breeder

Irrigation Specialist

Turf Equipment Manufacturer / Sales

Weed Scientist

Landscape Designer / Contractor

Business Owner / Manager

Extension Agent

Residential Lawn Care Service

Sales Representative

Park / Commercial Grounds Manager

Sod Grower

Athletic Field Manager

9. Liking the Boss Turfgrass management is ripe with opportunities for entrepreneurship. The number of private landscape companies continues to grow. “There are so many opportunities for specialization,” Rick Brandenburg, entomology and plant pathology extension leader, said. “For example, there’s an entire business opening up for pollinator-friendly yard management. Who would have thought that 15 years ago? There’s so much room for growth.” Statistics bear this out. Over ⅔ of landscape contractors own businesses that work in residential settings. 80% of these businesses project moderate to high demand for their businesses in the coming year[7].

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NC State alumni test the greens of the Women’s US Open Golf Tournament.

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Turfgrass Is More Than Mowing Whether you love the roar of the mower or cringe at the crank, turfgrass science goes beyond grass cutting. It’s an in-demand interdisciplinary career path with branches from bioscience to entrepreneurship.

Don’t be fooled by the fun of sports or by lush landscapes, turfgrass science involves more hard science than you think. Turfgrass science represents a range of academic disciplines including soil science, weed control, plant breeding, fertility management, plant pathology, and precision agriculture.

Why Do You Need A Turfgrass Degree?

The answer becomes apparent when you think beyond the mower. Turf is a specialty field of study that straddles horticulture and agriculture. Maintaining and managing turf in highuse applications like sports, athletics, and recreation requires a different level of skill and attention than a backyard mow.

There is also an entire industry supporting turf management that requires researchers, scientists, breeders, and analysts who have higher education – often master’s level or beyond. “Employers are looking for more educated employees today. People with a four-year degree are hands-down better off – both in being hired and also being promoted within a company,” said Travis Gannon, NC State researcher in herbicide and pesticide fate. “A turfgrass degree provides individuals with more technical expertise and preparation for critical thinking and problem-solving.”

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Cover Story | continued

Susana Milla-Lewis is another example of NC State’s specialized expertise. Milla-Lewis is the leader of the university’s turfgrass breeding research program. Her lab and students have worked to build a research pipeline lab and field testing over 15,000 turf strains over the last 10 years. Our turf students enjoy the opportunity to learn from her experience in CS 211 Plant Genetics course and as a potential adjunct in lab internships.

NC State’s Grady Miller is the director of the Center for Turfgrass Environmental Research & Education, a joint effort between NC State and NC A&T University. Formed in 2001 by the turfgrass industry, the center funds turf research projects across multiple disciplines on topics from geese control to environmental gas volatility. Funded research is presented in an annual symposium and summaries are posted to TurfFiles, the NC State turf extension portal.

Hands-On Experiences

Why Study Turfgrass at NC State?

Renowned Faculty We offer students the opportunity to work and learn with national and internationally known faculty. Our 1,500 acre Lake Wheeler Road Research lab houses our turfgrass research lab.

It is heralded for advances in turf genetics and named cultivar releases. The annual NC State Turfgrass Field Day attracts over 800 attendees for expertise, tours, and workshops from faculty and staff our students interact with daily.

NC State also proudly houses a campus-affiliated Lonnie Poole Golf Course which hosts events, offers training, and internship opportunities. Both locations are regular outings for turf class field trips. “One of our class exercises is to evaluate the zoysia cultivar trials at Lake Wheeler. Students rate plots over several weeks to determine which varieties are performing best. Then we compare the students’ assessments with our expert extension specialists and see how they stack up,” Cooper shared.

Students interested in lab or field research have a welcome home at NC State. Our researchers specialize in turf genetics, agricultural chemical fate, environmental quality, weed and soil science, and spatial analytics. Lab internships are often available to undergraduates and field internships are a degree requirement.

Networking

“Our program is successful because we have great students and specialized faculty,” Fred Yelverton said. “The size of our program allows us more expertise in a variety of turf topics that we can share with our students.”

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Our turfgrass students operate an active student group hosting industry speakers, attending industry conferences, participating in a turf quiz bowl and other events to extend learning and professional networking opportunities. The club also assists in hosting the annual Art Bruneau Golf Tournament benefiting NC State turfgrass student scholarships.

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John Tournour perfects the Nationals’ field for the World Series (photo courtesy of John Tournour)

Our turfgrass faculty and staff are part of a vast network of industryoriented alumni who are always looking to give back. This engaged alumni community supports our campus events with guests and offers internship and networking opportunities that frequently translate to jobs. Our students come from a range of backgrounds but go on to work with municipal and major league sports venues including the Washington Nationals, Denver Broncos, and many elite golf courses including St. Andrews and Pebble Beach.

North Carolina has a significant turf industry presence including equipment distributors, agricultural chemical companies and distributors, sod producers, not to mention many golf and athletic facilities in the Triangle, Charlotte, and Sandhills. “The impact of this concentrated pool of employers is not to be overlooked,” Travis Gannon noted.

Location When it comes to turf, everything comes down to location. North Carolina is uniquely situated in a climate transition zone. With a range of USDA hardiness zones and three geographic regions in the state, NC State’s turfgrass program offers training and study on both cool and warm-season grasses. This prepares students to work in cooler northern climates or those warmer climates to the south. Because of their location, most universities can only offer one turf type of experience.

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Cover Story | continued

Two or Four Year Degree?

NC State’s Crop & Soil Department offers several undergraduate degree pathways in turfgrass. Options include: • 2 year Associates in Turfgrass Management • 4 year Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Crop and Soil Science (Turfgrass concentration)

to complete a turf program when they already have or don’t need the added value of a four-year university degree.

The turfgrass minor is open to all NC State students. It is designed for students majoring in crop and soil sciences, biological sciences, horticulture, and parks & recreation but is useful to any student wanting expertise in establishing and maintaining turfgrass.

• Minor in Turfgrass Science

What’s the difference?

Both programs cover soil health, turf management, fertility, pests, and disease. The four-year turfgrass degree program culminates in a bachelor of science degree. Course rigor and breadth are more intense. This program is beneficial for traditional college students interested in pursuing golf/athletic management, plant breeding, and professional supervisory positions.

The two-year program produces an associate’s degree and is well suited for non-traditional or older students returning to school, changing careers, or seeking technician or specialist positions. This more compact, concentrated path allows students

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Scholarship Assistance The industry demand for qualified turfgrass professionals drives multiple employers and industry groups to offer scholarship aid specific to turfgrass students for both the two and four-year programs. Visit our scholarship page to learn more about applying for assistance.

Interested in Learning More?

Take a Test Drive NC State offers an annual Turfgrass Academy each spring, where students and chaperones meet faculty, learn about our programs, and get out on the green. If you are a student interested in turfgrass science (or know someone who is), learn about our multiple degree programs or sign up for an email exploration of our department’s undergraduate studies.

Keep abreast of all the latest news and research from the Department of Crop & Soil Sciences by joining our Friends of Crop & Soil Sciences weekly newsletter.

We are #growingthefuture.

Footnotes [1] “ The Turfgrass Industry – Present & Future“, National Turfgrass Federation [2] Turfgrasses, NC State Turffiles [3] E mployment Projections, US Bureau of Labor Statistics 2018 [4] “ 2019 Compensation and Benefits Report,” Golf Course Superintendents Association of America [5] A verage Salary of a Golf Course Superintendent, Chron.com [6] “ The Owner’s Paycheck,“ Lawnandlandscape.com [7] “ 2019 Green Industry Outlook,“ Irrigation & Green Industry

A Pu 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 No rth C aro l i n a 25

FEATURE

Improving Turfgrass Sustainability WITH

BETTER GENETICS

W

hen it comes time to reseed or renovate an area in the fall or spring, selecting the most suitable grass variety can be a challenging task.

Over the years, plant breeders and seed companies have made significant advancements in enhancing their grasses through plant breeding. These improvements include developing grasses with resistance or increased tolerance to specific diseases, better drought tolerance, and an enhanced ability to withstand extreme climatic conditions. However, verifying these claims is crucial. To address this, various research programs conduct tests on new turfgrass varieties under different conditions, comparing them with standard grasses that have been used for many years.

Research programs are essential in identifying new varieties of turfgrasses that stand out as premium performers and discovering how much they have improved. For instance, Kentucky 31 tall fescue, which was identified in Kentucky in 1931, is still available for purchase at most stores that sell grass seed today.

The improvements in technology have increased efficiency and overall performance of turfgrasses, just like how cars have evolved from 1931 to today. Plant breeders make major improvements every year, with many of these new varieties being more efficient with fewer inputs and more adapted to difficult environments. Breeders look at several variables such as plant density, color, leaf thickness, disease resistance, drought tolerance, and traffic tolerance to improve turfgrasses.

By Kyley Dickson, Ph.D.

STANDARD VARIETY

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IMPROVED VARIETY

N ov e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3

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Feature | continued

The National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) is a renowned turfgrass research program that has gained global recognition. It has expanded to evaluate seventeen turfgrass species across forty U.S. states and six Canadian provinces.

The program collects and summarizes data on various aspects of turfgrass, including quality, color, density, resistance to diseases and insects, and tolerance to heat, cold, drought, and traffic. NTEP’s findings are used by plant breeders, researchers, extension personnel, local and state government entities, growers, and consumers worldwide. The program has become the standard for turfgrass evaluation in the United States and many other countries.

across the U.S. to evaluate grasses. Currently, these trials are limited to cool season grasses.

The Alliance for Low Input Sustainable Turf (A-LIST) is a national non-profit organization that aims to assist turfgrass managers and grass growers in achieving sustainable plant growth. The organization comprises universities and industry companies that work together to test, identify, and promote grass varieties that combine high turf quality with low-input performance. These varieties are designed to reduce water, chemical, and fertility requirements. The A-LIST provides information on certified, high-quality turf that is verified through transparent protocols and independently tested. The A-LIST focuses on varieties respond to reduced inputs such as water, fungicides, insecticides, herbicides, and fertility. To become A-LIST approved, grasses must be in the top statistical grouping at multiple locations over multiple years.

NTEP Search

A-List Approved Varieties

The NTEP trials are carried out over a consecutive five-year period at various research universities across the nation. The researchers monitor the quality of each variety, recording monthly results. At the end of each year, they publish an updated report on the trials. The NTEP data is a valuable resource that can help determine grass varieties that are ideal for low maintenance, traffic tolerance, and overall quality. This is due to the wide range of trials conducted by the program. The data is freely accessible to everyone on NTEP.org. Additionally, the NTEP has introduced a new search tool that allows users to identify different grasses based on species, location, or variety. You can also scan the QR code provided to visit the NTEP website directly.

It’s important to note that while the data is available online, there are no certifications or approval of varieties from the NTEP. The information solely reflects how well a particular grass variety performed in the trials. Nevertheless, this resource is highly beneficial when selecting turfgrass varieties. Next time you purchase a seed bag, take a moment to examine the tag and review how the grasses fared in the NTEP trials. Opting for a variety that performed well in your area according to NTEP results will likely yield superior results. Keep in mind that certain varieties may thrive better in specific regions of the country compared to others. Therefore, it’s advisable to consider the locations of the tests and select a variety that closely represents your area.

There are organizations that offer approved varieties or certifications. Two such organizations are the Alliance for Low Input Sustainable Turf (A-LIST) and the Turfgrass Water Conservation Alliance (TWCA). Similar to the NTEP, both the A-LIST and TWCA conduct research trials at universities

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The Turfgrass Water Conservation Alliance (TWCA) is a non-profit organization committed to water conservation and dedicated to preserving the ecological benefits of turfgrass in the managed environment. The organization believes that by improving the plant materials available, they can reduce the water needs of the managed environment while preserving the vital ecological services provided by green space. The TWCA provides independent transparent analysis of objective data, which anchors their peer-reviewed qualification process. The TWCA program assesses drought tolerance of grasses using rainout shelters to simulate drought conditions and measure their resilience.

TWCA Approved Varieties

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Feature | continued

reduced input of tall fescue varieties and table 2 is for Kentucky bluegrass. These tables show either A-LIST or TWCA varieties that did well in Tennessee’s NTEP and all the NTEP trials overall that grass species overall. There are three varieties of tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrasses that are in bold, these highlighted varieties would be the top three varieties for use in Tennessee due to their superior performance in research trials. The other top ten are great varieties perform well in Tennessee, the bolded varieties simply highlight the top performers according to the criteria used to rank the grasses overall. All the grass varieties in both lists should have superior performance in these conditions and can survive in more stressful conditions than traditional standard varieties. Not all grasses are great in all circumstances, sticking with the car analogy you would not use a small car to try and pull a semi-trailer, as with grasses some are adapted for certain uses better than others. Keep in mind that even the most adapted grasses can still die and do poorly if the conditions for growth become too harsh.

The data from the NTEP is from Knoxville at the University of Tennessee trial site. To explain the table there is an X by each area that a grass was the top statistical category for that area.

The columns show if they are A-LIST or TWCA approved.

Additionally, there is a column indicating they were in the top statistical performer for the NTEP traffic trial, this indicates that the varieties had superior traffic tolerance good for high use areas. Additionally, the top statistical category for the NTEP trial in Knoxville, this helps to see how these varieties would do in an area with similar growing conditions to Knoxville.

The research funded from these organizations instills confidence that the grasses possess the improved traits claimed by the respective organizations. Both programs indicate their approval by displaying their logos on seed tags located on each bag. Currently, there are only approvals for seed for cool-season grasses. These programs have resulted in greater breeding efforts that has resulted in the traits each of these organizations are focused on. The work these organizations have done to improve areas of breeding that have not always been the highest priority is tremendous. Both organizations are formed from groups of seed companies that saw a need and have funded research to further breeding in each area and decided to make it happen. For a comprehensive list of approved varieties, please refer to each organization’s websites https://a-listturf.org or https://www.tgwca.org, or scan the QR codes.

Using grass varieties that require lower inputs is better for the environment. These varieties are more sustainable because they need less water, or fertilizer, or pesticides to thrive. By reducing the use of these inputs, we can minimize the environmental impact and promote a healthier ecosystem. These new varieties require fewer chemical treatments and less water, making them more environmentally friendly. Additionally, they can help conserve water resources and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers.

If you think, “It’s great that they have these approvals for low inputs and water reduction, but how did they do in our area?”

Well for those who live in Tennessee, table 1 is a top ten list of

TABLE 1. Top Ten Tall Fescue Reduced Input Varieties for Tennessee Variety

Company

ALIST Approved

Firecracker GLS

Mountain View Seeds

Grande 3

TWCA Approved

NTEP Traffic

NTEP Knoxville

NTEP Overall

X

X

X

X

DLF

X

X

X

X

SuperSonic

Mountain View Seeds

X

X

X

X

Xanadu (JT-268)

Barenbrug

X

X

X

Bonfire (JS DTT)

Barenbrug

X

X

X

Reflection

Landmark Turf and Native Seeds

X

Lifeguard

Pureseed

Saltillo

X

X

X

X

X

Pureseed

X

X

2nd Millennium

Turf Merchants, Inc.

X

X

Avenger III

Mountain View Seeds

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X

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X

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X

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Feature | continued

Georgia at Tifton, Texas A&M University, University of Florida, Mississippi State University, and North Carolina State University, along with seed companies, have made remarkable progress in breeding grass varieties with improved genetics.

These varieties listed in the tables are more resistant to pests, diseases, and drought. They require fewer chemical treatments and less water, making them more environmentally friendly.

By leveraging these advancements in grass breeding, you can enhance your turfgrass management situation and contribute to a greener and healthier environment.

In a world where resources are becoming increasingly scarce, it is crucial to choose grasses that are well-suited to their environment. This article presents an overview of some of the top cool season grasses to consider when making selections in Tennessee. In the southern part of the state, cool season grasses may struggle to thrive, making warm season grasses a more viable option. Tennessee has seen great success with many warm season grasses, including Bermudagrass and Zoysia. The tables are specifically cool season grasses that are two commonly used grasses in Tennessee. The advancements in breeding in the last two decades show some amazing improvements in a short period of time. When renovating or reseeding an area this fall, consider opting for seeds with improved genetics. Doing so will result in better turf quality and contribute to a healthier environment overall. If you are unsure whether to choose cool or warm season grasses, consult with a University of Tennessee County Extension agent for guidance.

The last column is when all the NTEP locations for that trial are taken and averaged, these grasses were in the top performers for the trial overall.

One of the limitations of the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) is that many of the varieties it tests are not commercially available or may never go into commercial production for various reasons. However, this article aims to provide tables of commercially available varieties that can be purchased today. These varieties can help improve management situations where inputs are limited or where you simply want a variety with improved genetics that offers optimum performance. However, locating these improved varieties can be challenging. I have included a list of companies that currently sell these products in the tables. It is important to note that these higher-end products are typically not available at big-box stores; instead, they can be found at landscape supply stores, distributors, or sod farms.

It is important to note that grass varieties that thrive in one region may not perform well in another. Therefore, it is advisable to look at the NTEP data for your specific area. The NTEP provides valuable information about grass varieties that excel in different regions. For instance, certain varieties may flourish in Utah but struggle in Tennessee. By selecting the right variety for your area, you can optimize your turfgrass management and achieve better results.

Grass breeding efforts have significantly contributed to improving sustainability and adaptability. Universities such as Rutgers, Oklahoma State University, University of

TABLE 2. Top Ten Reduced Input Kentucky Bluegrass Varieties for Tennessee Variety

Company

ALIST Approved

Blue Note

Mountain View Seeds

Bluebank

TWCA Approved

NTEP Traffic

NTEP Knoxville

NTEP Overall

X

X

X

X

Landmark Turf and Native Seeds

X

X

X

X

Barserati

Barenbrug

X

X

X

X

Jackrabbit

DLF

X

X

Zinfandel

Lebanon Turf

X

X

Bedazzled

Turf Merchants, Inc.

Hampton

Landmark Turf and Native Seeds

X

X

Barrister

Barenbrug

X

X

Syrah

Lebanon Turf

X

X

Yellowstone

Landmark Turf and Native Seeds

X

X

X

X

This article was originally published in Tennessee Turfgrass Magazine, October / November 2023 and is reprinted with permissions.

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N ov e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3

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A Pu 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 No rth C aro l i n a 33

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34 North Carolina Turf gr a ss

Other labeled topsoil products compared in the study were not soils!

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A Pu 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 No rth C aro l i n a 35

NCCTP Program

Fast Facts about the NCCTP Enrollment Requirements:

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.

Reasons to Begin Earning Your NCCTP Designation Today The NCCTP program increases and enhances your turfgrass 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 The NC State Turfgrass Professional Short Course, a comprehensive 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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old a current TCNC membership. If not currently a H member, go to www.turfgrasscouncilnc.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

Curriculum and Exam: Curriculum covers nine core areas: Turfgrass Characteristics; 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: Maintain a current TCNC membership as a means of 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 984.301.5460.

N ov e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3

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.

PESTICIDE LICENSE: I hold a current North Carolina Pesticide Ground Applicator License with subclass L, turf, and ornamental (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.

DUTY: I have initialed the following page of this application to show that I strongly support and willingly subscribe to the Certified Turfgrass Professional Code of Ethics, and I pledge to uphold the credibility and integrity of the program.

CONTINUING EDUCATION: I agree to successfully complete additional future curriculum materials or sections that may be 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____________________________________

A Pu 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 No rth C aro l i n a 37

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@turfgrasscouncilnc.org or mail: TCNC PO Box 641 Wake Forest, NC 27588

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N ov e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3

Index of Advertisers Southern Amick’s Superstore.................................11 www.amickssuperstore.com

Specialty Equipment, Inc.

Benchmark Buildings and Irrigation........15 www.BBandI.com

• Ease of Operation • Low Operating

Buy Sod, Inc............................................19 www.buysod.com

Solid & Dependable Rotary Finishing Mowers

Over 50 Years of Harvesting Innovation

Email: jim@ssequip.net

Website: ssequip.net

Costs • Single Axle Truck Use

Carolina Turf Farms, Inc............................9 www.carolinaturffarms.com Divots, Inc...............................................39 www.divotssand.com

New, Used & Refurbished

Office: 877-366-5399

Mobile: 352-284-8029

DMG Turf, Inc.........................................17 www.dmgturf.com Green Resource........................Back Cover www.green-resource.com Greene County Fertilizer Co...................21 www.greenecountyfert.com Kesmac......................... Inside Front Cover www.brouwerkesmac.com Mid-Atlantic STIHL..................................29 www.stihldealers.com Modern Turf, Inc.....................................25 www.modernturf.com Morgan Sand Company..........................21 www.morgansandco.com Progressive Turf Equipment Inc..............33 www.progressiveturfequip.com Quality Turf, Inc......................................25 www.qualityturfnc.com

To discuss advertising opportunities, contact Leading Edge Communications:

Smith Seed Services................................25 www.smithseed.com

888-707-7141

Smith Turf & Irrigation..............................3 www.smithturf.com

sales@leadingedgecommunications.com

Sod Solutions............................................7 www.sodsolutions.com Southern Agricultural Insecticides, Inc....27 www.southernag.com Southern Seeds, Inc................................23 www.southernseedsinc.com

DIGIT AL MARK ET PLACE Scan the QR Code to learn more about this company

Southern Specialty Equipment................39 www.ssequip.net Super-Sod.................................................5 www.supersod.com The Turf Zone...................................23, 31 www.theturfzone.com Triangle Turf and Ornamental.................33 www.triangleturf.net Turf Mountain Sod, Inc...........................39 www.turfmountain.com Vandemark Farms...................................24 www.vandemarkfarms.com

Ron Hall, Sr Cell – 919-775-8634 Ron Hall, Jr Cell - 919-775-9732 sales@divotssand.com www.DivotsSand.com

A Pu 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 No rth C aro l i n a 39

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Triad

5204 Highgreen Court Colfax, NC 27235 (336) 855-6363

Triangle

1218 Mangement Way Garner, NC 27529 (919) 779-4727

Chemicals

Fertilizer

Coastal

2407 Ocean Hwy, West Shallotte, NC 28459 (910) 363-1230

Winston

191 Budd Blvd Winston Salem, NC 27103 (336) 793-9230

Ladson

9492 Hamburg Road Ladson, SC 29456 (854) 999-4039

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10404 Granite Street, Ste K Charlotte, NC 28273 (704) 927-3100

Charlotte