OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2026
The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, the Tennessee Valley Sports Field Management Association and the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association
SAVE THE DATE FOR THE
61st Annual TTA Conference & Trade Show January 4 – 6, 2027 Plus, Large Patch or Brown Patch? Timing Matters!
1
Cause to Cure OARS PS® eliminates the underlying factors that create soil water repellency, restoring a healthy moisture balance. Excalibur® delivers rapid infiltra�on, consistent rehydra�on, and las�ng hydra�on to keep turf strong, resilient, and thriving.
Combines surfactant performance with patented organic acids to create op�mal rootzone condi�ons for healthy turf growth. Eliminates humic coa�ngs that restrict water movement, allowing roots to thrive in a consistent moisture environment. Restores uniform soil hydra�on, reducing turf stress and promo�ng steady plant development. Improves nutrient and water uptake efficiency, strengthening turf resilience to stress. Creates a healthier rootzone environment that supports stronger, more resilient turf year-round.
Provides rapid and uniform water movement to keep roots well-hydrated for op�mal growth. Enhances rehydra�on efficiency, helping turf recover quickly from dry or stressed condi�ons. Maintains a balanced moisture profile, reducing plant stress and improving overall turf vigor. Supports stronger root systems by ensuring consistent access to water and nutrients. Effec�ve year-round, delivering con�nuous plant health benefits.
THANK YOU for your trust and partnership this year.
Teeing up another year of growth together in 2027
Eastern TN
Eastern TN
Clayton Stovall
Shannon Peterson
678.373.7130
828.243.1568
The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, Tennessee Valley Sports Field Management Association and the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association
TABLE OF CONTENTS OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2026 FEATURE
12
Large Patch or Brown Patch? Timing Matters!
COV E R ST OR Y
16
TTA Annual Conference & Trade Show
DE P A RT M E NT S From the TTA President................................. 6 From the TGCSA President........................... 8 Calendar of Events....................................... 10 Index of Advertisers..................................... 11 The Turfgrass Team at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville............ 15
Read the Digital Edition on T H E T U R F Z O N E . C O M
FOLLOW FOR TURFGRASS RESEARCH, NEWS, EVENTS AND MORE
4
x.com/theturfzone linkedin.com/company/theturfzone facebook.com/theturfzone
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2026
12 16
DO THE RIGHT THING. At Smith Turf & Irrigation, doing the right thing is more than a slogan – it’s our promise. We believe every decision matters. Every detail counts. Every challenge is an opportunity to do and be better. When you choose STI, you’re deciding on a partner that still values integrity, trust and responsibility and it’s been that way for over 100 years. Do the right thing. Choose a company that does too.
NORTH CAROLINA | SOUTH CAROLINA | VIRGINIA | TENNESSEE | BERMUDA
FROM THE TTA PRESIDENT The Official Publication of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, the Tennessee Valley Sports Field Management Association and the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association
Time to focus on professional development.
It
seems the never ending summer of 2026 has finally come to close and we are enjoying some nice Fall weather. It is nice to see the leaves changing, football season in full swing, and those nice cool mornings return. For me the fall and winter months provide a break from the normal day to day operations on the course and a little more time to focus on professional development. I was very fortunate to be given the opportunity to attend my first TTA conference right after graduating from the University of Tennessee. Seeing the size of our industry and all those in attendance was a real eye opening experience. The educational and networking opportunities really showcased all that was going on across our State. From that first conference till today I have enjoyed being involved with our Association and have tried to provide others the opportunity I was given years ago. Each year I try to have multiple people from our facility attend the conference such as our equipment technicians, assistant superintendents, and our Turfgrass students to name a few. I see it as a great learning opportunity not only for those that attend but also for our facility. Seeing all that is going on across our state not only makes them a better professional, it also creates a stronger staff member for our facility. Those that attend always return with a better understanding of the Turfgrass industry and a renewed interest in what we do each day. I hope to see everyone this year at the Conference and I look forward to seeing some new faces as well.
Ryan Blair, CGCS
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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS
Tennessee Turfgrass is the official publication of The Tennessee Turfgrass Association 400 Franklin Road | Franklin, Tennessee 37069 (615) 928-7001 info@ttaonline.org www.ttaonline.org PUBLISHED BY Leading Edge Communications, LLC P.O. Box 246 | Brentwood, TN 37024. info@leadingedgecommunications.com EDITOR Dr. James Brosnan OFFICERS President Ryan Blair, CGCS Holston Hills Country Club Vice President Bart Cash Crossroads Sod Farm Secretary / Treasurer Bob McLean Indian Hills Country Club Past President Ryan Storey Line to Line LLC Executive Director Melissa Martin Tennessee Turfgrass Association Christy Rose Meeting & Membership Coordinator Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association TTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Adam Adkins Jason Bradley Ben Dodd Dan Johnson Cal Hill Jeff Huber Bill Marbet Wells McClure, CGCS William Newsom Kevin Noble Mark Stovall John Wagnon Jeff Wyatt TTA ADVISORY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Bill Blackburn Dr. Becky Bowling Dr. Jim Brosnan Joe Hill Dr. Brandon Horvath Lynn Ray Jeff Rumph Dr. Tom Samples Dr. Dennis Shepard Dr. John Sorochan Dr. Wes Totten
FROM THE TGCSA PRESIDENT
You are being represented. I
would like to share an update from a recent GCSAA National Board meeting held in Nashville. With GCSAA National President Mr. Paul Carter being one of our own from Tennessee, this quarter’s Board meeting was held in his home state, and the Tennessee GCSAA was fortunate to be invited to have a seat at the table.
What made me especially proud was the way our group represented Tennessee. Everyone at the table contributed. Everyone brought experience, perspective, and ideas. I believe we demonstrated that the Tennessee GCSAA is engaged, thoughtful, and committed not only to the needs of our members today, but also to the future of our profession.
Christy Rose, Pat Rose, Jay Willis, Ryan Blair, Jeff Huber, Grayson Guthrie, Dan Johnson, and I had the opportunity to sit down directly with the GCSAA National Board of Directors and staff for what I felt was an extremely productive and informative meeting.
I want every member of the Tennessee GCSAA to know that you are being represented. Your challenges are being discussed. Your ideas and concerns are part of the conversation. And our association has a strong voice at the table.
We were given a tremendous opportunity to exchange ideas, talk openly about our industry, and share some of the things we are seeing and experiencing here in Tennessee. I felt the Board and staff were genuinely interested in what we had to say and were listening intently throughout the discussion. A few times during the meeting, questions raised by your fellow Tennessee members were questions the National Board had already been discussing before we even arrived. To me, that was a very encouraging sign for two reasons. First, it showed that our members are asking the right questions and focusing on the right issues. Second, it showed me that the National Board has its finger on the pulse of what is happening throughout our profession. The conversation was broad, candid, and forward-looking. We discussed workforce development, the challenges facing golf course operations, opportunities to strengthen our industry, and ways local chapters and the national organization can continue working together to support superintendents and their teams.
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We have accomplished a great deal together, but I believe we are just getting started. We have talented people involved, strong momentum, and an opportunity to continue building an organization that supports its members, develops the next generation, strengthens our profession, and represents Tennessee at the highest level. I could not be prouder of the people who represented our association in Nashville, and I am equally proud of the membership we were there to represent. Thank you for your continued support, involvement, and commitment to the Tennessee GCSAA.
Bob McLean President TGCSA Director of Agronomy Indian Hills Country Club
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2026 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org
T H A N K YO U TO O U R PA R T N E R T H E T U R F G R A S S G R O U P F O R A D V E R T I S I N G W I T H U S S I N C E 2 0 0 6 !
W W W . T H E T U R F G R A S S G R O U P. C O M
UPC OMING EVENTS NOVEMBER 4 –5, 2026
Commercial Horticulture Expo Agricenter International 7777 Walnut Grove Rd., Memphis, TN 38120
NOVEMBER 9, 2026 9:00 AM
TNGCSA Chapter Middle Tennessee Meeting Tennessee Grasslands Club
Contact: Mr. Joseph Seago (jseago@utk.edu) Shelby County Extension Office (901-752- 1207)
NOVEMBER 16, 2026 9:00 AM
MTGCSA Scholarship & Research Golf Tournament Jackson’s Old Hickory Country Club
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JANUARY 4 – 6, 2027
61st Annual TTA Conference & Tradeshow Embassy Suites, Murfreesboro
JANUARY 6 – 7, 2027 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
JANUARY 20, 2027 7:00 PM
Landscape Short Course Williamson County Ag Expo Park
TGCSA Social Gathering at GCSAA Conference
4215 Long Lane, Franklin, TN 37064
Fulton Alley
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2026 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org
ADVERTISER INDEX Agra Turf, Inc.................................................. 13 www.agrainc.com
Aqua Aid Solutions................Inside Front Cover www.aquaaid.com
GRASS SO GREEN THAT WE NEEDED AN EXTRA “E” Our Liquid Nutritionals & Specialty Fertility Products Are Blended To Feed Plants, Improve Soil Fertility & Build Topsoil
Carolina Green Corp........................................ 15 www.cgcfields.com
Coosa Valley Turf Farms................................. 13 www.coosavalleyturffarms.com
Corbin Turf & Ornamental Supply.................... 3 www.corbinturf.com
Crossroads Sod Farm...................................... 17 www.csfsod.com
Greene County Fertilizer Co............................ 11 www.greenecountyfert.com
Jackson Sand.................................................. 17 www.jacksonsand.com
Healthy Turf starts with Greene County Fert.
McCurdy Sod Farms, LLC................................ 19
Ship Direct. Pro support always included.
www.mccurdysodfarms.com
Poinsett Turfgrass Company........................... 15
GreeneCountyFert.com
www.poinsettturfgrass.com
Regal Chemical Company................. Back Cover www.regalchem.com
Smith Seed Services....................................... 14 www.smithseed.com
Smith Turf & Irrigation...................................... 5 www.smithturf.com
Super-Sod......................................................... 7 www.supersod.com
Sur-Line Turf, Inc............................................. 14 www.surlineturf.com
The Aquatrols Company.................................. 19 www.aquatrols.com
The Turfgrass Group......................................... 9 www.theturfgrassgroup.com
The Turf Zone.................................................. 23 www.theturfzone.com
Tri-Turf Sod Farms................. Inside Back Cover www.triturfsod.com
Turf Mountain Sod, Inc................................... 11
The Tennessee Turfgrass Association 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, Tennessee Turfgrass Magazine, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or Turfgrass Association members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this quarterly publication. Copyright © 2026 by the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. Tennessee Turfgrass is published bi-monthly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. Third-class postage is paid at Jefferson City, MO. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: Tennessee Turfgrass allows reprinting of material. Permission requests should be directed to the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. 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, P.O. Box 246, Brentwood, TN 37024.
www.turfmountain.com
TTA • TVSFMA • TGCSA
11
FEATURE
Large Patch or Brown Patch? Timing Matters! By Nar B. Ranabhat, Assistant Professor and Extension Plant Pathologist, University of Tennessee
L
arge patch and brown patch can look similar, but they require different management strategies especially when it comes to fungicide application timing. Correctly identifying the disease, scouting at the right time, and applying fungicides when needed can help improve the turfgrass health.
Disease Large patch and brown patch are fungal diseases caused by different strains of Rhizoctonia solani. Large patch mainly affects warm-season grasses including zoysiagrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass, and St. Augustinegrass. Activity of this R. solani strain is most active during cool and wet weather in fall and spring, when temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F. Brown patch primarily affects cool season turfgrass, especially tall fescue. This is the most damaging pathogen of tall fescue throughout Tennessee particularly in middle and east Tennessee. Activity of this R. solani strain is most common during warm, humid weather, when temperatures range from 70°F to 90°F.
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TENNESSEE TURFGRASS
Figure1: Large patch on bermudagrass (Image credit: Alan Windham)
Figure 2: Large patch on tall fescue (Image credit: Alan Windham)
GROWERS OF QUALITY TURF SINCE 1987
Scouting Time Start scouting for large patch in the fall during when soil temperatures approach near 70°F. Watch for brown patch from late spring through summer, especially during hot and humid weather. Since both diseases often return to the same spots, keep a close eye on areas that have had problems before.
COOSA VALLEY TURF FARMS LLC
Fungicide Application Timing
MEMBER OF
Timing is critical for effective disease management. For large patch, apply preventive fungicides in the fall before turfgrass goes dormant, rather than waiting until large patches are visible. For brown patch, consider fungicide applications before or as warm, humid summer conditions begin, especially in areas with a history of disease. The goal is to protect healthy turf before the disease becomes severe, not simply to treat visible symptoms after they appear.
Can Nitrogen Management Affect Large patch and Brown patch development? Fungicides are an important tool for managing severe turf disease outbreaks, but they are only one part of an effective disease management program. What happens day to day on the turf field can have just as much impact, and nitrogen management is an important part of those practices. Applying too much nitrogen during periods when turfgrass is most vulnerable can increase the risk and severity of large and brown patches. For warm season turfgrass, avoid excess nitrogen applications in late fall and early spring, when large patch risk is highest. For cool season turfgrass, avoid excess nitrogen application during hot, humid summer, when brown patch risk is highest.
TIFWAY 419 FESCUE www.CoosaValleyTurfFarms.com (256) 927-4228 • (256) 927-4758 FAX • cvtf@tds.net 900 County Road 492 • Centre, AL 35960
Specialty Distribution
Chris Richburg Outside Sales MS, AL, TN 2008 Eastline Rd Searcy, AR 72143 www.agrainc.com
Cell: 501 593-7122 Business: 501 268-7036 Fax: 501 268-0606 Email: agraturfms@gmail.com
The goal is not to avoid nitrogen, but to apply the right amount at the right time. A well balanced nitrogen program can help reduce the conditions that favor disease development.
What Else Should I Do Besides Spraying? Other cultural practices also help reduce disease pressure and keep turf healthy. • Improve drainage and air circulation when possible.
Office: 205-333-1776 www.surlineturf.com • email: surline1@gmail.com
SPECIALIZING IN: Athletic Field Construction and Renovation Golf Course Construction and Renovation Laser Grading • Super Topdressing No-Till Planting • Sodding • Sprigging On-Site Custom Built Turf Covers Fertilizer • Seed • Turf Colorant Sod Staples • Bunker Nails • Bunker Liners Sod • Sprigs • Sand • Mixes Infield Mix • Infield Conditioners Warning Track Stone • Mound Clay
BLEND
• Reduce the prolonged leaf wetness. • Water carefully and avoid unnecessary nighttime irrigation. • Manage thatch and avoid practices that place extra stress on the turf. • Scout regularly and use past disease problems to guide management decisions.
Key Takeaways For Tennessee turfgrass professionals, the main difference in managing Large Patch and Brown Patch is timing for scouting and management actions: • Large patch affects warm-season turf and is best managed with fall scouting and preventive treatments. • Brown patch affects cool-season turf and requires scouting and preventive treatment during the summer. Accurate diagnosis, timely application, and good cultural practices can improve disease control and help make fungicide use more targeted and effective.
For more information about the disease and lists of fungicide products, see the Extension publication: “Large Path vs. Brown Patch in Turfgrass: How to tell the Difference” by Nar B. Ranabhat and Becky Bowling: https://solutions.tennessee. edu/?view_pub_pdf=3042
THE TURFGRASS TEAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE, KNOXVILLE José Javier Vargas Almodóvar Research Associate II Turf & Ornamental Weed Science The University of Tennessee 2431 Joe Johnson Drive 252 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg. Knoxville, TN 37996 (865) 974-7379 jvargas@utk.edu tnturfgrassweeds.org X: @UTweedwhisperer
Jim Brosnan, Ph.D. Professor, The University of Tennessee Director – UT Weed Diagnostics Center 112 Plant Biotechnology Bldg. 2505 EJ Chapman Drive. Knoxville, TN 37996 Office: (865) 974-8603 tnturfgrassweeds.org weeddiagnostics.org mobileweedmanual.com X: @ UTturfweeds
Midhula Gireesh, Ph.D. Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology The University of Tennessee UT Soil, Plant and Pest Center 5201 Marchant Drive Nashville, TN 37211 mgireesh@utk.edu (615) 835-4571
Becky Bowling, Ph.D. Assistant Professor and Turfgrass Extension Specialist The University of Tennessee 112 Plant Biotechnology Bldg. 2505 E.J. Chapman Dr. Knoxville, TN 37919 (865) 974-2595 Rgrubbs5@utk.edu X: @TNTurfWoman
John Stier, Ph.D. Associate Dean The University of Tennessee 2621 Morgan Circle 126 Morgan Hall Knoxville, TN 37996-4561 (865) 974-7493 jstier1@utk.edu turf.utk.edu X: @ Drjohnstier
Greg Breeden Extension Specialist, The University of Tennessee 2431 Center Drive 252 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg. Knoxville, TN 37996-4561 (865) 974-7208 gbreeden@utk.edu tnturfgrassweeds.org X: @gbreeden1
Kyley Dickson, Ph.D. Associate Director, Center for Athletic Field Safety Turfgrass Management & Physiology (865) 974-6730 kdickso1@utk.edu X: @ DicksonTurf
Brandon Horvath, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Turfgrass Science The University of Tennessee 252 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg. 2431 Joe Johnson Drive Knoxville, TN 37996 (865) 974-2975 bhorvath@utk.edu turf.utk.edu X: @ UTturfpath
John Sorochan, Ph.D. Professor, Turfgrass Science The University of Tennessee 2431 Joe Johnson Drive 363 Ellington Plant Sci. Bldg. Knoxville, TN 37996-4561 (865) 974-7324 sorochan@utk.edu turf.utk.edu X: @ sorochan
Nar B. Ranabhat, Ph.D. Assistant Professor and Extension Plant Pathologist Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology University of Tennessee UT Soil, Plant and Pest Center 5201 Marchant Drive, Nashville, TN, 37211 (615) 835-4572 nranabhat@utk.edu X: @UTplantPathoDoc
Superior Soil. Superior Sod.
SAND BASED SOD WITH INFILTRATION RATE OF 11 IN/HR
www.cgcfields.com TENSILE SRENGTH 88% GREATER THAN 1” THICK CUT SOD SHEAR STRENGTH 43% GREATER THAN 1” THICK CUT SOD
Proven turf for demanding landscapes.
Harrisburg,
Arkansas
870-578-2391 www.poinsettturfgrass.com
TTA • TVSFMA • TGCSA
15
6 1 S T A N N U A L T TA CONFERENCE & TRADESHOW Embassy Suites | 1200 Conference Center Blvd | Murfreesboro, TN 37129
JANUARY 4 – 6, 2027 HOTEL RESERVATIONS
Visit ttaonline.org for details !
• Online Vendor Registration • Tradeshow Floorplan
The TTA has reserved a block of room at The Embassy Suites Hotel in Murfreesboro until November 15. After November 15, reservations will be subject to availability and regular rates. The TTA rate is $176. Please call (615) 890-4464 to make your room reservation and reference The Tennessee Turfgrass Association group code TTG. To book your reservation online, click here.
• Conference Schedule
LOCATION
• Exhibit / Tradeshow / Sponsorship Information
The Embassy Suites Hotel in Murfreesboro is located at 1200 Conference Center Boulevard, Murfreesboro, TN 37129. From I-24 East or West take exit 76 Medical Center Parkway. Head north on Medical Center Parkway, hotel is located on the right. It is located 29 miles (35 minutes) from the Nashville airport (BNA). You may reach the hotel by calling 615-890-4464.
• Awards Luncheon • Hotel Information
You are encouraged to register early.
PESTICIDE POINTS
Full Conference Registration: $600
Applications for pesticide points will be submitted to Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia and Mississippi.
One Day Pass for Monday: $475 This does not include the pesticide exam.
GCSAA Continuing Education
One Day Pass for Tuesday: $475
This program will be submitted for GCSAA continuing education.
CANCELLATION POLICY
One Day Pass Wednesday: $50 First Time Attendee: $375 Since 1965, the Tennessee Turfgrass Association has held strong to its core mission: To promote the turfgrass industry through education, scholarship and research. We invite you to join us at this year’s conference and trade show at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Murfreesboro. This year’s conference features an excellent education program and an expanded tradeshow floor, plus our annual Stars of the Industry awards recognitions! This is a conference you will not want to miss!
All cancellations and substitutions must be received in writing. They may be emailed to info@ttaonline.org. Full refunds will be made if written notice of cancellation is received on or before December 1, 2026. After December 1, 2026, and prior to December 13, 2026 one half of the per person fee will be refunded. No refunds will be made for cancellations received after December 13, 2026. The association has to provide all food guarantees to the hotel on December 13 and is no longer able to lower those numbers. Substitutions are always welcome.
RE G I S T R A T I O N Registration available online by clicking the links. Everyone is encouraged to register early to take advantage of the discounted registration rates.
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MORE INFORM ATION For more information, call The Association office at 615-928-7001, email info@ttaonline.org.
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2026 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org
S O D & SPR I G IN STALL ATI ON
VARIETIES
Residential
TifTuf ® Bermuda Black Beauty Fescue
Commercial SWE E T WAT E R , T N SELMER, TN
FAYE T T V I L L E , T N
Golf Courses
Sales Manager 615-708-5219 randall@csfsod.com
419 Tifway Bermuda Zeon ® Zoysia Meyer Zoysia
Athletic Fields
Randall Keele
HGT Bluegrass
Stadium ™ Zoysia
866-962-3481 CSFSOD.com
MID-SOUTH’S SOURCE for QUALITY SOD and SERVICE
Chris Hayes
East TN Sales Representative 423-506-0019 423-337-0777 (Office) Chayes.acn@gmail.com
61ST ANNUAL Conference Schedule
MONDAY , J A N U A R Y 4 TH 2 02 7
TOPIC
TIME
TIME
9:00 - 9:15 AM
9:15 - 10:15 AM
PRESENTER
WELCOME & OPENING REMARKS
Ryan Blair, CGCS TTA President
FIGHTING THE FREEZE: WINTERKILL AND SPRING DEAD SPOT MANAGEMENT
Dr. Wendell Hutchens Asst. Prof, University of Arkansas
This presentation outlines causes, scouting, and prevention of winterkill in warm-season turfgrass—along with recovery strategies—and provides an overview of cultural and chemical management approaches for spring dead spot.
Moderator Ryan Blair, CGCS
10:00 - 10:15 AM BREAK
10:15 - 11:00 AM
UT ON THE WORLD STAGE: THE VIEW FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD CUP Step inside the science, strategy, and real-world execution behind World Cup pitch performance, and what it means for sports turf moving forward.
FROM CLEATS TO CARS: LESSONS LEARNED FROM HARD ROCK STADIUM
11:00 - 12:00 PM This presentation pulls back the curtain on managing one of the busiest venues in the world, sharing lessons learned from delivering elite playing surfaces across football, Formula 1, global events, and in-house turf production.
Dr. John Sorochan Chancellor’s Professor, University of Tennessee Moderator Ryan Blair, CGCS Tom Wilson Head Groundskeeper, Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium Moderator Dr. John Sorochan
STARS OF THE INDUSTRY AWARDS LUNCHEON
12:00 - 1:30 PM
1:30 - 2:15 PM
2:15 - 3:15 PM
Join us for a celebratory luncheon recognizing standout individuals and organizations whose leadership, innovation, and impact are shaping the future of the turf and landscape industry.
GROWING THE FUTURE: FFA PATHWAYS IN TURFGRASS ACROSS TENNESSEE This session highlights how FFA programs across Tennessee are building the next generation of turfgrass professionals through hands-on experiences and career pathways in both golf and sports turf management.
Dr. Aaron Patton Professor, Purdue University
QUICK CUTS: SOUTHERN WEEDS ON THE MOVE
Dr. Scott McElroy Professor, Auburn University
A fast-paced session covering practical, go-to tools and techniques for quickly diagnosing common turf pests and problems in the field.
4:30 - 5:30 PM
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Moderator Dr. Becky Bowling
BREAK PLANT STUDS, NOT DUDS: MINIMIZING PESTICIDE SUDS
3:30 - 4:30 PM
Moderator TBD
QUICK CUTS: INDISPENSABLE TOOLS FOR DIAGNOSING COMMON TURF PESTS & PROBLEMS
As species like doveweed and goosegrass push into new territory, this session unpacks what is driving their spread, how to spot them early, and what it takes to stay ahead with effective management.
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Shelia Finney, Ryan Storey, Others
Stack the deck in your favor by selecting tough, well-adapted plants for landscape areas that keep pests in check and pesticides on the shelf.
TRIVIA + HAPPY HOUR Kick back with drinks, test your turf knowledge, and enjoy a lively trivia showdown with colleagues from across the industry.
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2026 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org
Justin Stefanski UT Extension Agent, Rutherford County Moderator Dr. Becky Bowling
From tank to target, we help you maximize the efficacy of water, improving results and allowing precise control of water and other input applications.
Our cutting-edge surfactants and other specialty technologies maximize the use of water and inputs in the professional turfgrass and horticultural markets. Chris Vincent, CGCS
Learn more at AquatrolsCompany.com
Southeast Territory Manager cvincent@aquatrols.com (919) 901-7348
O v e r 6 0 0 a c r e s o f 5 n at u r a l g r as s varieties to fit your needs!
731-692-3515 & McCURDYSODFARMS.COM
TALL FESCUE
T UESDAY , J A N U A R Y 5TH 2 02 7
GOLF SESSION
TOPIC
TIME
TIME
8:00 - 9:00 AM
THE WINTER INJURY PLAYBOOK: CHEMISTRY, CULTURE, AND COMMON SENSE A multi-speaker panel breaking down practical strategies to prevent and recover from winter injury by aligning chemistry, cultural practices, and realworld decision making.
DESIGNING IN HARMONY: TIMELESS GOLF ARCHITECTURE FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE 9:00 - 10:00 AM
Andy Staples explores how thoughtful golf course architecture can balance playability, aesthetics, and long-term sustainability, drawing on ongoing projects in Tennessee and beyond that work with, rather than against, the natural landscape.
10:00 - 10:15 AM
BREAK
UNDERSTANDING DEPLOYMENT AND OPERATIONAL INTEGRATION OF ROBOTIC TECHNOLOGY 10:15 - 11:15 AM
Real world examples of how robots have been deployed in all aspects of turfgrass management. Attendees will learn the easiest starting points for entry into to robotics and how to scale over time for even greater automation deployment. Economics of automation will also be discussed.
PRESENTER Dr. Jim Brosnan Professor, Univ. of Tennessee Dr. Wendell Hutchens Asst. Prof, Univ. of Arkansas Dr. Aaron Patton Professor, Purdue University Moderator Dr. Brandon Horvath
Andy Staples, ASGCA Principal, Staples Golf Design Moderator Pat Rose, CGCS
Dr. Scott McElroy Professor, Auburn University Moderator Wells McClure, CGCS
TENNESSEE GOLF IN FOCUS: MEMBER UPDATES AND INDUSTRY DIRECTION 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM This interactive session provides key updates from TNGCSA leadership while engaging members in discussion on priorities, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of golf course management in Tennessee.
ASSITANT SUPERINTENDENT WORKSHOP Tuesday | 9:00 - 11:15AM
BEYOND AGRONOMY – PROFESSIONALISM, CAREER SKILLS, AND ETIQUETTE TO THRIVE IN THE GOLF INDUSTRY Darren Davis, CGCS Carol Rau, PHR Let’s go beyond growing grass and focus on the professional skills that can positively shape the trajectory of your career. This first-of-its-kind seminar will include discussion, activities, and a mixer-style event designed to put learning into action. Join two industry leaders to build your network, strengthen your confidence, and advance your career journey. Are you looking to become more comfortable and confident in social settings at golf facilities while interacting with golfers, members, and community leaders? What about preparing for an interview that takes place over dinner with a board of directors? If you want to take your career to the next level and strengthen your professional presence, confidence, and networking abilities, this highly interactive seminar is for you. Participants will leave with practical skills and insights in the following areas: Networking: cultivating relationships inside and outside the golf industry First impressions: appearance, body language, and conversation Etiquette: social settings, mixers, dinners, and interviews
GEN E R A L S E S S I O N
TIME
TIME
12:00 - 4:00 PM
20
TOPIC LUNCH & FUN ON THE TRADE SHOW FLOOR Join us on the trade show floor for lunch, networking, and a fundraising raffle
T UESDAY , J A N U A R Y 5TH 2 02 7
sports session TIME
TVSFMA AGENDA
TIME
SOD SESSION
MSTC SOD AGENDA
PRESENTER
NEYLAND STADIUM: A FIELD THROUGH Dr. Tom Samples Professor Emeritus, TIME
8:00 9:00 AM
9:0010:00 AM
10:00 10:15 AM
10:15 11:15 AM
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Dr. Tom Samples revisits the early 1990s field renovation through archived photographs while Darren Seybold highlights the modern strategies required to maintain an elite collegiate playing surface.
TRUST THE JOURNEY: NAVIGATING CAREER TRANSITIONS WITH CONFIDENCE AND FINDING SUCCESS Paula will share her personal experiences navigating career transitions, offering insight into embracing change, staying open to opportunity, and building confidence along the path to success.
University of Tennessee Darren Seybold Director of Athletic Sports Surfaces, Univ. of Tenn Moderator Bill Marbet
TBD
Paula Sliefert CEO, SFMA Ava Veith PhD Candidate, Penn State Univ. Moderator John Wagnon
BREAK TOPSY-TURVY: FUNGICIDES FOR NONDISEASE MANAGEMENT AND NONFUNGICIDES FOR DISEASE MANAGEMENT
Dr. Wendell Hutchens Asst. Prof, Univ. of Arkansas
This two-part presentation explores both Moderator expanded roles of fungicides beyond Ryan Storey disease control and effective alternative strategies for managing turfgrass diseases.
TVSFMA BUSINESS MEETING
GE N ER AL SE SSI ON
TIME
TIME
12:00 - 4:00 PM
TOPIC
LUNCH & FUN ON THE TRADE SHOW FLOOR Join us on the trade show floor for lunch, networking, and a fundraising raffle
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WEDNESDAY , J A N U A R Y 6 TH 2 02 7
GOLF
sports
GOLF AGENDA
TIME
TIME
PRESENTER
SPORTS AGENDA PURCHASING NEW PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGIES: QUESTIONS TO ASK
USGA YEAR IN REVIEW 8:00 - 9:00 AM
Chris Hartwiger A USGA Agronomy Team year-in-review highlighting Director - Agronomy, key trends, challenges, and management insights USGA observed across U.S. golf courses, with a focus on how site-specific putting green data can inform both shortModerator term adjustments and long-term decision-making. Ryan Blair, CGCS
THE LONG GAME: BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL AND LASTING CAREER IN GOLF 9:00 - 10:00 AM
10:00 - 10:15 AM
Drawing on more than three decades of leadership in golf course management, Darren Davis shares practical lessons on professionalism, communication, relationship-building, and career development to help attendees remain relevant, create opportunities, and thrive throughout their careers.
Dr. Aaron Patton Professor, Purdue University Moderator John Wagnon
Darren J Davis, CGCS Olde Florida Golf Club
TBD
Moderator
TBD
Bob McLean
BREAK
UPDATES IN PEST MANAGEMENT FOR GOLF 10:15 - 11:00 AM
This session will guide attendees through key questions to ask when evaluating new products and technologies, including considerations related to pest management and pesticide use to support informed decision-making.
PRESENTER
This session will highlight current trends in weed and disease pressure impacting golf courses across Tennessee and beyond. Attendees will gain timely updates on emerging challenges and practical management considerations to inform in-season decision-making.
Dr. Jim Brosnan Professor, Univ. of Tennessee
TWO PATHS TO THE PITCH: EARLYCAREER INSIGHTS FROM WORLD CUP TURF MANAGEMENT Two early-career professionals share contrasting experiences managing elite turf systems during FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Dr. Brandon Horvath Professor, Univ. of Tennessee
WHAT’S IN THE TANK? HOW WATER QUALITY SHAPES PESTICIDE PERFORMANCE
Moderator Dan Johnson
11:00 AM 12:00 PM
This talk highlights key spray water parameters such as pH, hardness, alkalinity, and dissolved solids, and explains how they influence pesticide stability, compatibility, and efficacy across commonly used chemistries.
Rhys Fielder Research Associate, University of Tennessee Ava Veith PhD Candidate, Penn State University Moderator Ryan Storey Dr. Becky Bowling Asst. Prof, Univ. of Tennessee Moderator Bill Marbet
WORKSHOPS TIME
WORKSHOP 101 IRRIGATION Mike Burr Vanderbilt University
WORKSHOPEQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
8:00 - 10:00 AM
This foundational session introduces the core principles of turfgrass irrigation, including system components, precipitation rates, scheduling strategies, and basic water budgeting. Participants will learn how to apply water efficiently to meet turf demand while minimizing waste, runoff, and stress.
This session covers essential equipment maintenance practices for turfgrass systems, including routine inspection, cleaning, calibration, and preventative service for mowers, sprayers, and irrigation components. Emphasis is placed on improving performance, extending equipment lifespan, and reducing costly downtime through proactive, well-documented maintenance programs.
10:00 - 10:15 AM
BREAK
BREAK
SPRAYER/SPREADER CALIBRATION AND TURFGRASS MATHEMATICS Michael Brownlee Simplot Company
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE James Taylor Taylor Turf Equipment
10:15 - 12:00 PM
This hands-on workshop covers sprayer and spreader calibration alongside practical turfgrass math, equipping participants to accurately calculate, measure, and apply inputs for consistent, effective management.
22
James Taylor Taylor Turf Equipment
Continued...
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TTA I NDUST RY PARTNERS PLATINUM PARTNERS
GOLD PARTNERS
SILVER PARTNERS
BRONZE PARTNERS
24
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2026 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org
Thank You for Your Support !
61ST ANNUAL Conference Sponsorships & Exhibiting Opportunities January 5, 2027 | Embassy Suites | Murfreesboro, TN | www.ttaonline.com
Tradeshow Booths
BOOTH
BRONZE
SILVER
GOLD
Platinum
$950
$1500
$2500
$3500
$4500
1
2
1
Drink tickets to distribute to attendees during tradeshow
x
Full Conference Registrations
2
1
2
2
4
TN Turfgass Association Memberships
2
1
2
2
4
Company Listing in Official Conference Program
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Sponsorship ribbons attached to name badge Special Recognition in Tennessee Turfgrass magazine
x
x
x
x
x
Recognition on Conference Agenda Page
x
x
x
x
x
Logo on TTA webpage from November 2025 - September 2026
x
x
x
x
Acknowledgement on social media
x
x
x
x
Recognition on all 2027 TTA Conference & Tradeshow emails
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Recognition During Conference Welcome
x
x
x
x
Recognition During Breaks on Looped Slides
x
x
x
x
Recognition on all TTA emails from November 2026September 2027
x
TTA • TVSFMA • TGCSA
25
TGCSA INDUSTRY PARTNERS GOLD PARTNERS
SILVER PARTNERS
BRONZE PARTNERS
SUPPORTING PARTNERS
26
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2026 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org
Thank You for Your Support !
Member: TPI • Tennessee Turfgrass Association • Tennessee Valley Sports Turf • STMA
SERVICES • Sod Installation • Sprigging • Laser Grading
• Construction & Renovation • Golf Courses
• Athletic Fields • Topdressing • Hydroseeding
• Meyer Zoysia • Innovation Zoysia • Geo Zoysia
• Fescue Blend • HGT Bluegrass • RTF
SOD VARIETIES • Tifway 419 • Latitude 36 • NorthBridge Bermuda
1-800-643-TURF w w w. Tr i Tu r f So d . c o m
TM TM
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TM
NET CONTENTS 2.5 GALLONS
©2020 Regal Chemical, Inc.
NET CONTENTS 2.5 GALLONS
©2020 Regal Chemical, Inc.
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