Virginia Turfgrass Council / P.O. Box 5989 / Virginia Beach, VA 23471 / ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council | January/February 2012
22
12 12 Cover Story A Fresh Look at the DMI Fungicides 16 Feature Story
Organic Matter Dilution Programs for Sand-Based Putting Greens in Virginia
22 Turf Talk
Perennial Grassy Weed Control... I can do this! Wait, how do I do this?
26 Applied Research
Better Turf for a Better Game at Kinlock Golf Club
4 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2012 www.vaturf.org
26 DEPARTMENTS 6 Director’s Corner
from Tom Tracy, Ph.D.
8 E ditor’s Perspective
from Mark Vaughn, CGCS
10 VTF Report
from Betty Parker
28 In Memory 29 Industry News 30 Turfgrass Calendar 30 Index of Advertisers
Virginia Turfgrass Journal is the official publication of The Virginia Turfgrass Council P.O. Box 5989 Virginia Beach, VA 23471 Office: (757) 464-1004 Fax: (757) 282-2693 vaturf@verizon.net PUBLISHED BY Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street Franklin, Tennessee 37064 (615) 790-3718 Fax: (615) 794-4524 Email: info@leadingedgecommunications.com EDITOR Mark Vaughn, CGCS VTC OFFICERS President Melissa Reynolds Dura Turf Service Corp. (804) 233-4972 Vice President Frank Flannagan Belmont Golf Course (804) 501-5993 Treasurer Brian Vincel, CGCS Spring Creek Golf Club (434) 566-2580 Past President Rick Viancour, CGCS Golden Horseshoe Golf Club (757) 220-7489 VTC DIRECTORS Fred Biggers, CGCS Gil Grattan Vince Henderson Rick Owens, CGCS Marc Petrus Steve Slominski Steve Smith Scott Woodward VTC ADVISORY MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Mike Goatley, Ph.D. (Chair) Shawn Askew, Ph.D. Jeffrey Derr, Ph.D. Erik Ervin, Ph.D. Rajandra Waghray, Ph.D. Rod Youngman, Ph.D. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/ DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS Tom Tracy, Ph.D. (757) 681-6065 VIRGINIA TURFGRASS FOUNDATION Betty Parker (757) 574-9061
Director’s Corner
What Are Your
Local Codes and Tom Tracy, Ph.D. VTC Executive Director
Regulations? Over
the past few years, many of you have dedicated countless hours to educating state decision-makers about the value of turfgrass. Such herculean effort was necessary because well-meaning persons have sought to pass legislation that had, at its very core, the false premise that turfgrass destroys the environment. Much of the legislation we confronted focused on fertilizer — from keeping it off impervious surfaces to regulating how much can be applied with each application. We have experienced legislative victories, partnered with environmental groups whenever possible, developed close relationships with state agencies and sometimes took hard stands. Efforts will continue at the state level, but now we must also focus on cities and counties. Why do we need to be concerned about local issues? Simply stated, in Virginia — a Dillon Rule state — localities are able to make laws and enact regulations that are not in conflict with state law. We are discovering local zoning ordinances and building codes that are not only extreme in their disdain for turfgrass but also are highly odious to anyone who values scientific, environmentally friendly decisions. Here are two examples that illustrate the magnitude of this issue. The owner of a historic property in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia was not allowed to install period-authentic, minimally maintained turfgrass on a field near water. Even though historic documents showed the original owners had such a field, the new owner had to select from a pre-approved list of native plants if he wanted to restore the field. My latest information is that the owner abandoned that part of the restoration. An even more extreme example happened with the public school system of a large municipality. During September, the administration of that system issued an immediate ban on all fertilization of school properties. Yes, you read that correctly. Zero fertilizer was to be applied to football fields, soccer fields and all other turf areas owned by the city’s public schools. Soil tests did not matter. Field playability and player safety did not matter. Agronomic and environmental facts did not matter. The only thing that mattered was the administration’s belief that turfgrass fertilizers destroy Virginia’s waters. The VTC worked with Virginia Tech and others to get the ban lifted after a few days. I believe these two examples are just a very, very small fraction of all the antiturfgrass rules and regulations that exist in Virginia’s cities and counties. We need your help as we develop plans and strategies targeting local decision-makers. Please send me copies of your codes or regulations that are against our industry. With your help we can be — and must be — proactive at the local level just as we already are at the state level. c
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Editor’s Perspective
Just in Time...
Predictions for 2012
Mark Vaughn, CGCS Virginia Turfgrass Journal Editor
from the VTC’s King Soothsayer
Well,
if you’re reading this, it looks like we all made it to 2012. I don’t know about you, but I sure slept better after getting that consultant in to check our vulnerabilities for the possible computer meltdown of 11/11/11. $10,000 later, and that ol’ boy had fixed all kinds of potential problems with our point-of-sale software in the pro shop, our irrigation programming, my 1999 Chevy pickup, our fairway mower and the analog clock we have hanging on the wall. He says we’re good for now, but I just know more catastrophic problems are lurking for 12/12/12. The way I figure it, though, we gotta pay him one more time, and then we’re good for the rest of this century. Of course, the bad news is that you and I ain’t making it to the next century anyway. If that isn’t enough to scare you, we are four years removed from 2008, so we have another presidential campaign to endure. But, before you reach for the Gentleman Jack, let me remind you that here at VTC Publishing World Headquarters, we always have the best interests and mental health of our readers in mind. So here, once again, is your roadmap to the future. If you don’t follow it, we can’t help you. But at least we tried. One more time for THE MAN: this is a poorly crafted attempt at satire. It is not meant to ridicule, or make fun of, or use our bully pulpit to push around, anyone. Those things have no place in a civilized society and should be banished to some place that needs them, like China. In fact, this column was not written by anyone connected with the VTC or this magazine. It just appeared one day on our doorstep as part of a manifesto to be published. Oh, the photo at the top? Just a placeholder that keeps us from redesigning the entire page. Taxes, tags and license extra. Void where prohibited.
2012 Prediction #1
Sensing the growing disillusionment with the current lineup of Republican hopefuls, former presidential candidate Herman Cain reenters the race and forms the “P” party. The party’s “We do our thinking from a different place” slogan spreads like wildfire, particularly among the male population. Among the first converts is former president and staunch Democrat Bill Clinton, who states, “Man, I’ve been waiting for a party like this my whole life.” Justin Bieber agrees to perform a free fundraising concert for the party. Campaign manager Tiger Woods announces he will conduct nationwide golf charity outings to raise money for the cause.
8 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2012 www.vaturf.org
2012 Prediction #2
After trying “Play Golf America,” “The First Tee,” “Tee It Forward,” “Take Your _______(Daughter, Son, Dog) to the Course,” “Please Come and Play, We’re Going Broke,” etc. campaigns, the golf world finally gets it. A clever manager in Southside Virginia (of all places) rebrands the course as the “Goodyear Carbon Sink.” Environmentalists (term loosely used) from all parts arrive by the hundreds in old tie-dyed school buses to marvel at this new miracle of modern science. “Would you believe…” bellows the manager in a carnival-barker-esque tone while leading the tour on his Honda U3-X (check it out on YouTube) “… that there are over 38 MILLION little carbon-eating machines on each acre here at ‘The Sink’? That wildlife abounds, that clean water runs, that soil is stabilized, that wetlands are established, that the air is cleaned and renewed, that grandparents and grandchildren can enjoy each other’s company in such a marvelous setting, all the while learning a game that teaches them honesty, perseverance, etc., etc.?”
2012 Prediction #3
Here’s my annual Masters prediction. Some idiot yells, “GET IN THE HOLE” on the tee of the 455-yard, parfour fifth hole. He is promptly dragged down to the pond on sixteen and buried waist deep in mud, and there he stays for the remainder of the week. It makes the annual ball-skipping contests across the pond much more exciting. In other news, no one yells out stupid crap at tournaments the remainder of the year.
2012 Prediction #4
Rejuvenated by his successful fundraising efforts on behalf of the “P” party, Tiger Woods goes on a tear and wins the first three majors of 2012, putting him one shy of Jack’s record. Golf is put on hold, however, as he is announced as the vice presidential candidate for the P party. “Jack’s record is okay, I guess, but having Herm AND me in the White House? Now THAT’S a record,” he says.
2012 Prediction #5
The USGA announces that the site for the 2012 Open will hence be known as the “Olympic Carbon Sink.” In an about-face, San Francisco residents drop plans to try and close Sharp Park Carbon Sink, formerly known as the Sharp Park Golf Course. They instead shift their anger to the tourist trap known as Fisherman’s Wharf, demanding that the city bulldoze the site and haul in hundreds of loads of dirt and sod to establish another carbon sink downtown.
2012 Prediction #6
Just as it looks like our industry is on a roll, hundreds of job losses take place as sups are replaced by the newest Apple creation. “Now when we have problems,” exclaims an excited Bentley Brazelton (chairman of the Emerald City Carbon Sink), “we just tell all the pertinent facts to ‘Siri,’ and badda-bing, badda-boom, we have our answer. No more ‘excuses’ like, ‘Well, it is 102 degrees, and you want the greens stimping 13’ or ‘We just had a three inch thunderstorm’ or ‘Gravity makes greens faster downhill than uphill,’ that we used to get from that overpaid, pickup-truck-driving clown. Why, just yesterday, I told Siri our greens were brown and slow, and she recommended water, fertilizer and lowering the mower. As I’ve said all along, any monkey with a bunch of bananas…”
2012 Prediction #7
TV golf commentators will say for the umpteenth time, “Let that be a lesson to all you amateurs out there. If you are not ready to play a shot, step back and go through your WHOLE routine again.” Yes sir, Einsteins, that’s just what we need. More slow golfers. Makes you want to see Ricky Fowler climb the tower and throw Gary Koch, et al., out on their heads.
2012 Prediction #8
President Obama ups the ante by announcing that, if he’s reelected, he will indeed replace Joe Biden with the Big O from Chicago, Hillary Clinton with Aretha Franklin, Kathleen Sebelius with Chaz Bono, and Leon Panetta with U2’s Bono. The “Godfather” counters with Dave Chappelle and the Wu Tang Clan. This is one election when we will be looking forward to the campaign ads.
2012 Prediction #9
GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans wins the Ironman competition in Hawaii and brings the association more publicity than it could ever garner otherwise (sidebar: he actually does run in Ironman competitions). He then throws down the gauntlet to the CEOs of the First Tee, PGA of America, PGA Tour and CMAA, challenging them to a winner-take-all-golf-relatedrevenue Tough Mudder in the Louisiana bayou. Well, that’s it for another year. Sit back, and watch the magic unfold. Oh, I almost forgot to mention: if you’d like to be a PREMIER partner, which entitles you to our financial predictions for 2012 and a free palm reading, please send a $150 faith gift to 1901 Goodyear Blvd., Danville, Virginia. No checks, please. c
Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council
|9
VTF Report
NEW LEADERSHIP
OPPORTUNITIES Betty Parker VTF Manager
This
WITH THE VTF
past fall, the Virginia Turfgrass Foundation board of directors voted to change the bylaws for the Articles of Incorporation to reflect their desire to increase the number of voting members. By a unanimous vote, the new bylaw adaptation calls for nine voting members instead of seven. Three of our members come to us as ex-officio directors representing the past president, the current president and vice president of the Virginia Turfgrass Council. We feel it is imperative that, as a sister group to this organization, the VTC know how and why money is being raised and disbursed for Virginia’s turfgrass research. Since 1988, when the VTF was founded, we have had a total of only seven directors: these three ex-officio directors and four at-large directors who serve four-year terms. Because we wish to encourage new candidates as officers in the Foundation, we felt it was necessary to have a bigger pool of directors from which to draw. Coming on as a new member of any organization takes time and dedication to the goals and mission of that organization. The ex-officio directors do not serve as officers in the VTF, and we did not feel it was reasonable or responsible to ask virtually everyone else who serves as a director to eventually step forward as a vice president and, ultimately, president. The revised by-laws allow for six at-large directors and will give us a more reasonable pool of candidates for those wishing to extend their terms to six years and serve as an officer. In making this change, it was also our goal to allow for a greater variety of input. It has always been our desire to represent the entire turfgrass industry. In doing so, we look for candidates who represent golf course superintendents, sports turf managers, sod producers and vendors serving the turfgrass industry, as well as city and private-property turf managers. If you or someone you know has an interest in serving your industry and making sure that the best possible turfgrass research is funded to its full potential, give me a name and phone number, and I’ll see that the VTF board receives the suggestion. We appreciate all of you who have the privilege of working in this industry, and we want to provide the best possible scenario for funding the turfgrass research that benefits all of you. We hope each of you has an opportunity to talk with one of our members in the near future to learn more about us, or to just share your thoughts and concerns. Our 2012 slate of officers and directors is listed below.
Officers
Jimmy Rogers: President Adam Dixon: Vice President Lin Diacont: Secretary/Treasurer (non-voting member)
Directors
Dick Fisher Sam Coggin Shawn Basquette Dan McGrory Melissa Reynolds (xo) Frank Flannagan (xo) Rick Viancour (xo)
For questions or suggestions, please talk to one of our board members, or you may call me at 757-574-9061. c
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Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council
| 11
Cover Story
By David McCall, Research Specialist, Dept. of Plant Pathology, Virginia Tech
For
years, we seemed to know everything there was to know about ergosterol biosynthesis inhibitors, or more commonly known as demethylation inhibitors (DMIs). Propiconazole (Banner), triadimefon (Bayleton) and myclobutanil (Eagle) were staples of most turf managers’ fungicide arsenal. Fenerimol (Rubigan) certainly had its place in the market, and people were relatively comfortable with its uses and limitations. Turf managers had used these products repeatedly over the years, and they knew what to expect. Not much really
changed for well over a decade. Over the last three years, however, the turf market has seen the launch of three new active ingredients in this class: metconazole (Tourney), tebuconazole (Torque, Quali Pro Tebuconazole) and triticonazole (Trinity and Triton). Along with a new set of products comes a new set of questions. Will disease control be the same? Will growth regulation still occur? Can these products be used in rotation with the older DMIs? Can plant growth regulators still be applied in conjunction with these products? While all of these DMIs have some similarities, each product
12 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2012 www.vaturf.org
has unique advantages and disadvantages. For instance, most of the newer DMIs have increased activity against anthracnose and brown patch, compared with some of the older chemistries, but they often lag behind in controlling dollar spot. As with the older generation of DMIs, the newest additions pose some potential for some turf injury. Injury and/or growth regulation is most frequently observed on golf course putting greens, but it is seldom a problem on higher-cut turfgrasses. Generally speaking, the new generation is considered to be safer, with reduced risk of any objectionable injury. I have seen
DMI applied at 2 gal./1,000 ft2 Aug. 24, 2011. Virginia Tech G.C.
(p Ban ro n pi er co M na ax Ba zol x e) (tr yl ia et di on m S ef C on E (m a ) yc gle lo E bu W Q ta P (te Te nil) bu bu on on az az ol ole e (m To ) et ur co n na ey zo (tr T le) iti ri co ni na ty zo l (tr Tri e) iti to co n na Flo zo le )
examples of each product, however, that have given cause for concern. In each of these cases, I feel that injury could have been prevented if handled differently. I have noted mild injury from metconazole and triticonazole following multiple (3+) continuous applications at high labeled rates (and above) on bi-weekly intervals during the summer. This should not be a common practice for turf managers, but it was done in the interest of research (I get to do dumb things with products to test the limits!). I have also seen rare cases where tebuconazole caused significant injury to annual bluegrass. In these situations, the product was either applied above the label rate (currently, 0.6 fl. oz./1,000 ft2 is the only labeled rate) or in conjunction with another product that caused stress to the turf.
Figure 1. Comparison of DMI fungicides on annual bluegrass putting greens, using simple ratio vegetative index (RVI). RVI utilizes reflectance values from visible red and near-infrared spectral regions. Higher RVI values correlate to greater turf health. Low and high rates for each DMI as formulated product per 1,000 ft2: Banner Maxx (1, 2), Bayleton SC (0.5, 1), Eagle EW (0.6, 1.2), QP Tebuconazole (0.6 only labeled rate), Tourney (0.28, 0.37), Trinity (0.5, 1) and Triton Flo (0.22, 1.1).
Optimizing performance
Resistance management is an important issue when dealing with DMI fungicides. There are confirmed cases of resistance to dollar spot, anthracnose and gray leaf spot. While the next generation DMIs are new to the market, they are still DMIs. So, rotating from propiconazole to, say, metconazole is not truly a rotation, and it could potentially increase the likelihood of developing resistance. Frequently, when control is short lived, turf managers ask me if they have dollar spot resistance to this group. While resistance to dollar spot is highly possible, the most common reasons for failure are improper spray volume or nozzle selection. As mentioned above, another option is that the active ingredient being used just isn’t as effective as others. The newer DMIs typically aren’t as effective as propiconazole or triadimefon for controlling dollar spot. Spray volume with the DMIs should be somewhere between 1 and 2 gallons per 1,000 ft2 (44–88 GPA). Flood-type nozzles typically
do not provide adequate coverage, even though these products move upward within the plant (acropetally). We recommend using some sort of flat-fan nozzle with moderate drift potential, such as the Turbo TeeJet Induction (TTI) nozzles from Spraying Systems. These types of nozzles provide a good blend of adequate uniform coverage and reduced drift. Finally, the most important means for optimizing performance is by making sound cultural decisions that will increase turf health and reduce likelihood of severe disease outbreaks.
Product pros and cons
As mentioned above, there are pros and cons to each of the DMIs. Each is briefly summarized below.
Propiconazole For years, propiconazole has been one of the most consistent and reliable dollar spot products on the market. Depending on the application rate, it is not uncommon to
expect 21 days or better for controlling dollar spot, even during peak disease season. It is also a good option for numerous other diseases. Compared with other DMIs, propiconazole is typically weaker at controlling brown patch and anthracnose, although some activity should be expected. One of the additional features of propiconazole is its growth regulation of several turfgrasses. In most situations, this regulation results in darker-green coloration and overall improved quality. On golf putting greens, regulation during the summertime has often been described as making greens appear both faster and drought stressed. Some find this highly desirable, while others find it objectionable. One side effect of growth regulation on greens is an increased likelihood of algae encroachment due to a more open canopy. This can easily be remedied by tank mixing with a contact fungicide, such as chlorothalonil or mancozeb. Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council
| 13
continued Cover Story
(p Ban ro n pi er co M na ax zo x Ba le (tr yl ) ia et di on m S ef C on ) E (m a yc gle lo E bu W Q ta P ni (te Te l) b bu u on on az az ol ole e) (m To et ur co n na ey zo l (tr T e) iti rin co i na ty zo l (tr Tri e) iti to co n na Flo zo le )
DMI applied at 2 gal./1,000 ft2 alt TE (0.125 fl. oz./1,000 ft2) Aug. 24, 2011. Virginia Tech G.C.
Figure 2. Comparison of DMI fungicides alone and in rotation with trinexapac-ethyl (Primo Maxx, 0.125 fl. oz./1,000 ft2) on annual bluegrass putting greens using RVI. Higher RVI values correlate to greater turf health. Rates tested are low rates from Figure 1.
Triadimefon
Like propiconazole, triadimefon typically provides great control of dollar spot. Longevity of control may be slightly shorter than propiconazole, but it may have slightly more activity against brown patch. One of the key attributes of triadimefon is that it is one of the most effective active ingredients for managing fairy ring. It is often used in early spring to delay onset of both dollar spot and fairy ring. Also like propiconazole, triadimefon can regulate bentgrasses and annual bluegrass on putting greens, and it can open the canopy for algae development.
Myclobutanil
Myclobutanil is not used as frequently today as it was in the past. This active ingredient is not as effective as propiconazole or triadimefon at controlling dollar spot, but it is probably more useful for controlling brown patch. One of its main uses is for managing spring dead spot of bermudagrass. The regulation mentioned above is often not nearly as distinct with myclobutanil.
In many ways, this active ingredient has similar attributes to the newer DMIs. Myclobutanil is one of the more common active ingredients found in fungicides marketed to homeowners.
Fenerimol
The most common use of fenerimol over the last two decades has been for spring dead spot control on bermudagrass. This active ingredient has been the industry standard over products such as myclobutanil and azoxystrobin. With the availability of tebuconazole and metconazole as comparable alternatives, Gowan Company (manufacturer of Rubigan) announced in September that it will no longer sell fenerimol for use in turf, beginning in 2013.
Metconzole, tebuconazole and triticonazole
Each of these active ingredients has similar attributes for use in turfgrass. Each provides moderate to great control of the three most common diseases: dollar spot, brown patch and anthracnose. These three active ingredients
14 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2012 www.vaturf.org
typically perform similarly for controlling most diseases and impacting turf quality. In most studies at Virginia Tech, metconazole and tebuconazole typically have the highest quality ratings (both visual and with reflectance plant health indices) among all DMIs (Figure 1), with triticonazole usually being closely behind. In several situations (data not shown), triticonazole has outperformed propiconazole considerably after repeat applications. Research at Virginia Tech has shown that triticonazole (Trinity and Triton Flo) suppresses algae, unlike most other DMI fungicides. Tebuconazole is registered for use only on golf courses at this time, with a limitation of six applications in a calendar year. The most common uses on golf courses are for control of anthracnose, spring dead spot and fairy ring. Metconazole does not have restrictions on the label for site use and can be applied up to four times per calendar year at the highest rate (0.37 oz./1,000 ft2). Uses on golf courses are comparable to tebuconazole, and the product is frequently used by lawncare operators as part of their brown patch control programs for commercial and residential properties.
Turf health and quality
We have evaluated each of the DMIs under multiple growing conditions at Virginia Tech for impact on turf quality. The most common focus has been on golf putting greens, since most injury is observed under these circumstances. One study compared each of the turf DMIs at various rates, based on reflectance measurements used to quantify stress prior to symptom development. Fungicides were evaluated alone, when rotated with trinexapacethyl (Primo Maxx, 0.125 fl. oz./
Cover Story continued
1,000 ft2) and when watered into the canopy immediately after application. Reflectance data from visible red and near infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum were collected and used for calculating simple ratio vegetation index values (RVI). Figures 1 and 2 show a portion of data generated from this study. While reflectance measurements were higher with tebuconazole and metconazole, none of the plots were objectionable. In most cases, higher rates actually had higher RVI values, indicating greater health (Figure 1). Alternation with trinexapac-ethyl did not negatively impact the performance of DMIs, and according to these data, it may actually improve quality of Tourney and Trinity.
Summary
This group, as a whole, has many benefits for turf managers. With the newest additions to the class, many diseases are controlled more effectively, with others still being successfully controlled with older chemistry. Over my career, I have evaluated thousands of plots that have been treated with the various DMI fungicides. I could easily count on two hands (possibly even one) the number of times where a normal application of any of these products caused significant injury. I do not recall any situations where objectionable injury occurred on higher-mowed turf, such as golf roughs, lawns or athletic fields. When using common sense, following the label and paying close attention to environmental stresses,
there is very little concern for serious injury from one of these products. This is not to say that serious injury to turf will never occur, but the likelihood is slim. Even with the newer (and typically safer) DMI fungicides, it is probably a good idea to avoid applying high rates to closely mowed turfgrasses when daytime air temperatures exceed 90°F. Additionally, rotation with other fungicide classes is recommended for multiple reasons. Finally, disease control with these fungicides and others will be optimized when the turf is functioning properly. Cultural practices that alleviate stress will allow the fungicides to function properly as they were designed. c
Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council
| 15
Feature Story
Organic Matter Dilution In Programs
By Erik H. Ervin, Ph.D., Professor, Turfgrass Culture and Physiology, and Adam Nichols, Turfgrass Research Associate, Virginia Tech
for Sand-Based Putting Greens in Virginia
the 1990s, USGA Green Section-sponsored research provided Georgia-specific data for cultivation and topdressing recommendations — commonly known as “organic matter dilution” programs — for sand-based greens. USGA agronomists summarized the details of this approach, recommending annual cultivation practices that remove 15% to 20% surface area and incorporate 40 ft3 to 50 ft3 sand/M, with the ultimate goal being to maintain surface rootzone organic matter (OM) at 4% or less. Aggressive organic matter dilution programs are intended to slow the loss of aeration porosity (which subsequently reduces infiltration rates), thereby allowing superintendents to more easily manage their putting greens and lessen the effects of summer bentgrass decline.
Table 1. Treatment details and thatch/mat organic matter percent at the end of the year, 2008–2010. Surface Area Removed (%)
Thatch/Mat (%OM)
#
Treatment Details
March
Sept.
Total
Nov. 2008
Nov. 2009
Nov. 2010
1
Control (sand only)
0%
0%
0%
5.2% a
4.3% a
4.3% ab
2
0.25" id core, 2 passes, Spring & Fall
5%
5%
10%
4.9% ab
3.4% c
3.8% cd
3
Verticut, 3 mm blade, Spring & Fall
11.8%
11.8%
23.6%
5.0% ab
3.9% ab
4.0% bc
0.25" id + verticut, 3 mm blade, Spring;
2.5% +
0.25" id core, Fall
11.8%
2.5%
16.8%
5.2% a
3.7% bc
4.5% a
11.8%
5%
14.8%
4.8% b
3.3% cd
3.3% de
9.8%
9.8%
19.6%
4.8% b
3.0% d
3.1% e
26.6%
5.1% ab
3.3% cd
3.2% e
LSD 0.05
0.38
0.42
0.49
4 5 6 7
0.5" id core, Spring; 0.25" id core, 2 passes, Fall 0.5" id core, Spring & Fall 0.5" id core, Spring; verticut, 3 mm blade + 0.25" id core, 2 passes, Fall
Our research
We conducted our Virginia-specific study on 10-year-old Penn A4 practice putting greens at the Independence Golf Club, near Richmond. Prior to starting the study, analysis revealed a thatch/mat layer (0" to 2" deep) with 5.8% organic matter. Various combinations of small tines (0.25" inside diameter (id)), big tines (0.50" id) and verticutting (3 mm blade) were imposed in late March and early September to provide a range of seasonal surface removal from 0% to 26.6% (Table 1). Tine spacing was 1.33" X 1.5", with a coring depth of 2". Verticutter blade spacing was 1", while depth was 0.75". Heavy sand topdressing of approximately 12 ft3 (1,200 lbs./M) was applied on both days of cultivation, supplemented by four light topdressings of 0.15 ft3 every 4 to 6 weeks between cultivations, for a seasonal total of about 24.6 ft3. To track the recovery rates following cultivation treatments in 2009 and 2010, digital images were taken every 7 to 14 days with a light box and analyzed with SigmaScan software. Linear regression was then used to predict the number of days required for each treated plot to return to 99% cover or a non-disrupted putting surface. Cultural management of these greens were identical to all others on the golf course, receiving preventive pesticide applications, daily mowing at
9.8%
5% + 11.8%
0.125" and annual fertilization of 4.4, 3.3 and 4.3 lbs. N/M in 2008, 2009 and 2010, respectively.
Research results Organic matter dilution
At the end of 2008, only those coring treatments that removed 14.8% to 19.6% (Treatments 5 and 6, see Table 1) significantly reduced %OM relative to the topdressed control. Using smaller tines alone (Treatment 2), verticutting alone (Treatment 3) and combinations of the two (Treatment 4) failed to reduce %OM in 2008. At the end of 2009, all treatments, except verticutting alone, significantly decreased %OM in the thatch/mat layer relative to the topdressed control (Table 1). Coring in spring and fall with 0.5" id tines on a tight spacing to remove approximately 9.8% surface area to a depth of 2" (Treatment 5) resulted in the least OM (3.1%) over the three years. These data imply that verticutting to 0.75" does not remove enough depth of material for adequate organic matter dilution, even though this procedure removes a large amount of surface area (11.8%) with each pass. Between 2009 and 2010, very little change in %OM due to treatments was measured. The only changes of note from 2009 to 2010 were an increase from 3.7% to 4.5% in Treatment 4 (verticutting + small-tine culti-
vation) and a slight increase (3.4% to 3.8%) in Treatment 2 (small tines, 2 passes). Only where large tines were used to remove 14.8% or greater surface area (Treatments 5, 6 and 7) were %OM levels kept at significantly lower levels (3.1% to 3.3%) relative to the topdressed control.
Cultivation recovery rate
The fastest spring recovery (averaged over 2009 and 2010) of 29.5 days was measured for Treatment 3 (verticutting). Large-diameter coring (Treatments 5, 6 and 7) or small-diameter coring + verticutting on the same day (Treatment 4) required 35.5 to 40 days for spring recovery (Table 2). Late summer/early fall recovery data were very similar for cultivation treatments that remained the same as their spring counterpart. In particular, Treatment 3 (verticutting) recovered in only 25.5 days (Table 2), while large-diameter coring alone (Treatment 6) required six fewer days of recovery (40 days vs. 34 days), relative to the spring. Fastest early September recovery of 8.5 days was with Treatment 4, where only 2.5% surface removal occurred.
Quality ratings
The visual quality ratings at various dates in 2008 and 2010 (Table 3) show that the control plots (sand-topdressed only) did not suffer summer decline, as might be expected without core Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council
| 17
continued Feature Story
Table 2. Total estimated days of disrupted putting quality in 2009 and 2010 (averaged) as affected by percent surface removal by various core cultivation and verticutting treatments
#
Treatment Details
Spring %
Fall %
removal
removal
March
Days to 99% cover
Sept.
Days to
Total %
99% cover
removal
Average Disrupted Days
1
Control (sand only)
0%%
0
0%
0
0%
0
2
0.25" id core, 2 passes, Spring & Fall
5%%
32.5*
5%
31*
10%
32
3
Verticut 3 mm blade, Spring & Fall
11.8%
29.5
11.8%
25.5
23.6%
27.5
0.25" id + verticut 3 mm blade, Spring;
2.5% +
0.25" id core, Fall
11.8%
35.5
2.5%
8.5
16.8%
22
9.8%
38.5*
5%
30.5*
14.8%
34.5
9.8%
40
9.8%
34
19.6%
37
9.8%
38.5
41.5
26.6%
40
4
5 6 7
0.5" id core, Spring; 0.25" id core, 2 passes, Fall 0.5" id core, Spring & Fall 0.5" id core, Spring; verticut, 3 mm blade + 0.25" id core, 2 passes, Fall
5% + 11.8%
*Two passes with the 0.25" inside diameter (id) tines resulted in undue tearing, hole overlap and furrowing on the putting surface that served to delay recovery in Treatments 2 and 5 in September. Table 3. Ratings of putting green visual quality at various dates over the three-year trial. Putting Green Visual Quality Rating* 1 to 9 (9 = best) #
Treatment Details
1
Control (sand only)
2 3 4
5 6 7
Total %
July 2008
Sept. 2008
Aug. 2010
Nov. 2010
0%
6.5 ab
7.5 ab
7.1 ab
7.8 a
0.25" id core, 2 passes, Spring & Fall
10%
6.3 b
6.9 c
6.8 b
7.8 a
Verticut 3 mm blade, Spring & Fall
23.6%
6.3 b
7.1 bc
6.6 b
7.5
16.8%
6.3 b
7.3 abc
7.3 a
7.6 ab
14.8%
6.5 ab
7.8 a
6.6 b
7.5 ab
19.6%
6.1 b
7.1 bc
6.8 b
7.5 ab
26.6%
6.8 a
7.8 a
6.8 b
7.4 b
LSD (0.10)
0.4
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.25" id + verticut 3 mm blade, Spring; 0.25" id core, Fall 0.5" id core, Spring; 0.25" id core, 2 passes, Fall 0.5" id core, Spring & Fall 0.5" id core, Spring; verticut, 3 mm blade + 0.25" id core, 2 passes, Fall
removal
*These ratings represent putting green quality either before cultivation treatments or after complete recovery from cultivation.
18 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2012 www.vaturf.org
Cover Story continued
aerification or deep verticutting for three consecutive years. Statistically, the control plots finished with the greatest thatch/mat OM (4.3%), but this 0.5% to 1% increase (relative to the more aggressive treatments) did not result in lower visual quality. These results point to the importance of sand topdressing in diluting OM and in maintaining a high-quality putting green. Would only applying sand-topdressing of at least 24 ft3/M/yr continue to provide acceptable putting green quality at this site near Richmond for another one, three or five years? Unfortunately, we do not have this information and cannot use these data to confidently look into the futture. These results do demonstrate the need, however, for conducting long-term (5- to 15-year) field research trials.
Key points
Our ultimate goal was to determine cultivation treatments that are sufficient to adequately reduce thatch/mat %OM,
Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council
| 19
continued Feature Story
while also disrupting putting surface quality for the least amount of time. Therefore we need to examine data in Tables 1 and 2 to make some conclusions. • The least disruptive treatment in terms of percent surface removal (Treatment 2, 10%) healed relatively quickly (32 days) and reduced thatch/mat OM to an acceptable level of 3.8% after three years. However, the fact that we lost ground between 2009 (3.4%) and 2010 (3.8%) may point to this practice not being sufficient in the long term. • Verticutting alone each spring and fall (Treatment 3) resulted in the second-fastest recovery of any treatment (27.5 days), but failed to significantly reduce OM to a level below the untreated. • Treatment 4 resulted in the fewest average days of disruption over the season (22 days), but finished 2010 with the same amount of OM
(4.5%) as the topdressed control. Verticutting and small-tine coring may heal fast, but appear to be insufficient for OM dilution. • Using large tines (0.5" id) at a close spacing in both spring and fall each year (19.6% surface removal, Treatment 6) worked best in terms of final OM at 3.1%, but required approximately 5 to 15 extra days each season for recovery, relative to the small-tine and/or verticutting treatments. • Finally, being ultra-aggressive by removing 26.6% surface area (Treatment 7) per year did not work in this trial. Recovery time was significantly delayed, without achieving greater OM dilution relative to treatments that removed 15% to 20% surface area.
Summary
Our three years of data indicate what most golf course superintendents already know: “There is more than
20 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2012 www.vaturf.org
one way to skin a cat.” Various coring approaches can be mixed and matched with verticutting and consistent sand topdressing to achieve the goal of OM dilution. Annual removal of 15% to 20% surface area should almost always keep you on the safe side in central Virginia. While verticutting alone provides fast healing, our data indicate that it needs to be combined with at least one annual 10% coring for adequate results. c
Acknowledgements
Many thanks to the following people who contributed in the completion of this project: Dan Taylor, Golf Course Superintendent at Independence Golf Club; Chris Bassett, Smith Turf and Irrigation; Kehua Wang and Derik Cataldi, Virginia Tech graduate students; Brandon Horvath, Ph.D., Assistant Professor at The University of Tennessee-Knoxville; Jason Henderson, Assistant Professor at The University of Connecticut.
Turf Talk
P
By Jeffrey Derr, Ph.D., Professor of Weed Science, Virginia Tech
erennial grassy weeds — including bermudagrass (commonly referred to as wiregrass), dallisgrass, quackgrass and johnsongrass — commonly infest lawns, athletic fields, roadsides and other turf areas, as well as landscape beds. These four weed species are referred to as creeping perennials since they spread vegetatively through rhizomes or stolons, as well as spreading by seed. If left uncontrolled, clumps of these weeds will continue to get larger. There also are clump-type perennial grassy weeds, such as orchardgrass and tall fescue. First, I’ll start with the easy part of this question — controlling perennial grasses in broadleaf ornamentals. Hopefully, I can fill up the space allocated to this article with my answer to this one, so I will not have to answer the harder question: How do I control perennial grasses in turf?
Control in conifers, broadleaf ornamentals and non-grass monocots
This group of plants, which includes trees, shrubs, herbaceous perennials, annual bedding plants and groundcovers, generally has very good toler-
ance to the selective postemergence grass herbicide group. Chemicals in this class include the systemic herbicides clethodim (Envoy Plus), fenoxaprop (Acclaim Extra), fluazifop (Fusilade II, Ornamec Over-The-Top and others) and sethoxydim (Segment). Among this group, fenoxaprop overall is less effective on perennial grasses than the other three herbicides. For perennial grass control, fenoxaprop has a better fit in turfgrass situations than in ornamentals. I often hear, “I sprayed a systemic herbicide, and it looked good for a month, but the weedy grass came back.” Although these products are systemic (and thus move downward into roots and rhizomes), multiple applications will generally be needed for long-term control. For a wellestablished creeping perennial, one application will not provide complete kill of underground plant parts, and uncontrolled buds on rhizomes will send up new shoots. Repeat applications will be needed to completely control underground plant parts. Some of these products, such as Fusilade II, require the addition of an adjuvant, either a crop oil concentrate or nonionic surfactant.
22 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2012 www.vaturf.org
If you’re making applications during hot, humid weather, avoid the use of crop oils, as these could lead to a contact burn on newly developed leaves or flower petals. I generally do not add anything to Segment, since an adjuvant has been built into the formulation, although some people add a surfactant or crop oil. Check the herbicide labels for any landscape cultivars to avoid. For example, certain cultivars of juniper and mondo grass (Ophiopogon) can be injured by overtop applications of fluazifop. Non-grass monocots would include such ornamentals as daylily, liriope, iris, lily and hosta. In these ornamentals, clethodim, fluazifop and sethoxydim can be used to selectively control bermudagrass, johnsongrass or quackgrass. If you want to control tall fescue, though, sethoxydim would be a better choice than fluazifop. In established woody ornamentals, another option for controlling quackgrass, tall fescue and orchardgrass would be a winter application of dichlobenil (Barrier, Casoron). The nonselectives glyphosate (Roundup PROMAX, others) and glufosinate (Finale) could also be
used for perennial grass control, although you must prevent herbicide contact with desired plants. In general, keep the postemergence grass herbicides away from ornamental grasses and turfgrass. The best way to control perennial weedy grasses around ornamental grasses would be careful (shielded, wiper) applications of a glyphosate product. If you are maintaining bermudagrass or other creeping perennial turfgrass species next to an ornamental bed, maintain a killed strip using a postemergence grass herbicide or glyphosate between the turf and the ornamental beds. Spot spray these materials every month or so during the growing season to keep these turfgrasses or any perennial grassy weeds in that turf out of flowerbeds.
Bentgrass in tall fescue — any grass that differs in color or texture from the desired turf could be considered a weed.
Control in tall fescue turf
Probably the most troublesome grass in tall fescue would be bermudagrass. It especially invades under low mowing heights, in drought-stress conditions that place tall fescue into dormancy or during wet summers that lead to a high incidence of brown patch (this disease can thin tall fescue stands, opening the canopy for plants like bermudagrass to creep into the area). Bermudagrass can be suppressed by utilizing a program such as applying triclopyr (Turflon Ester) plus fenoxaprop (Acclaim Extra). Two to three applications in the spring and two to three applications in the fall may be required for acceptable control. Dr. Shawn Askew, my colleague on campus, has looked at incorporating mesotrione (Tenacity) into such a program, since it also will injure bermudagrass and since tall fescue has good tolerance to Tenacity. Tenacity can also be used for nimblewill and creeping bentgrass control in tall fescue. Fluazifop could be used instead of fenoxaprop for bermudagrass suppression, but tall fescue has less tolerance to fluazifop. Proper calibration is needed to ensure that the
Dallisgrass stands out in bermudagrass due to its wider blade.
The wild-type common bermudagrass is often called wiregrass. Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council
| 23
continued Turf Talk proper rate has been applied. The application rate for tall fescue is 3 to 6 fluid ounces Fusilade II or 20 to 24 fluid ounces Ornamec OverThe-Top per acre. For comparison, the use rate is about four times higher in broadleaf ornamentals — 16 to 24 fluid ounces Fusilade II or 64 to 96 fluid ounces of Ornamec OverThe Top per acre in nursery plants. So, expect greater control in orna-
mental beds than in tall fescue due to the difference in application rates. Dallisgrass, quackgrass and orchardgrass can also be suppressed in tall fescue through repeated applications of fluazifop. I have also used fluazifop for control of brome (Bromus spp.) in tall fescue. Fluazifop, fenoxaprop or their combination could be used for johnsongrass management, or you
could make a wiper application of a glyphosate product. Otherwise, you could spray a nonselective like glyphosate and then reseed the treated area for control of these perennial grasses.
Control in Kentucky bluegrass
Bermudagrass can be suppressed/ controlled in Kentucky bluegrass using the triclopyr plus fenoxaprop program discussed above. One difference is that the maximum application rate of fenoxaprop is lower for Kentucky bluegrass than for tall fescue. Fluazifop cannot be used in Kentucky bluegrass. Tenacity can be used for nimblewill and creeping bentgrass control, as well as in bermudagrass-suppression efforts. Chlorsulfuron (Corsair) can be used for tall fescue control in Kentucky bluegrass. I am not aware of a selective control for dallisgrass, orchardgrass or quackgrass in Kentucky bluegrass. There had been uses for sulfosulfuron (Certainty), but those uses are no longer on the Certainty label. You could use spot sprays of glyphosate and then reseed the treated area for control of perennials.
Control in zoysiagrass
In zoysiagrass, cool-season perennial grasses like tall fescue or perennial ryegrass can be controlled with applications of foramsulfuron (Revolver), sulfosulfuron (Certainty), trifloxysulfuron (Monument) or flazasulfuron (Katana). The Katana label also lists control of quackgrass. Another possible option for quackgrass, tall fescue and orchardgrass control in zoysiagrass is through applications of pronamide (Kerb). Kerb is a restricted-use herbicide, however (it cannot be used in residential situations), and it has the potential to move down hillsides where it could injure sensitive grasses. Certain formulations of atrazine are labeled for dormant applications in zoysia, but its use is limited to the Coastal Plain of Virginia. Atrazine 24 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2012 www.vaturf.org
Turf Talk continued will injure certain cool-season grasses like tall fescue, and it is a restricteduse chemical. We utilize the triclopyr plus fenoxaprop combination program for controlling bermudagrass in zoysia. Multiple applications are needed during the growing season. Zoysia may go off color for a period following application. Fluazifop is also a possibility in zoysia, but the application rates are lower than that used in tall fescue. We have suppressed dallisgrass in zoysia through multiple applications of Revolver or Monument. Dallisgrass control improved if MSMA was included in the program. However, most turf uses of MSMA have been discontinued. MSMA can still be used in golf courses and sod farms, but these uses are slated to end in 2013. Celsius, a three-way herbicide combination, can be used in management programs for dallisgrass, johnsongrass and quackgrass. We have been investigating combina-
tions of Celsius and Revolver for improved dallisgrass suppression.
Control in bermudagrass
Cool-season perennial grasses like tall fescue or perennial ryegrass in bermudagrass can be controlled through applications of Certainty, Revolver, Monument or Katana. Tranxit is another option for perennial ryegrass control. Winter applications of glyphosate to dormant bermudagrass would also help control cool-season grasses, as would dormant applications of atrazine, although it is not commonly used. Dallisgrass in bermudagrass can be suppressed using products like Revolver, Monument, Celsius and MSMA, if the site is registered. Glyphosate is also a possibility for dallisgrass suppression, since this weed appears to go dormant about a week later than bermudagrass. Applications during this one-week period should reduce the amount of damage to bermudagrass.
Control in St. Augustine
Bermudagrass in St. Augustinegrass can be suppressed through applications of ethofumesate (Prograss) plus atrazine during the growing season. Cool-season grasses can be suppressed/controlled through the use of products like atrazine, Kerb, Certainty or Celsius. Dallisgrass can be suppressed through applications of Certainty or Celsius.
Summary
Perennial grassy weeds are much more of a challenge in turfgrass situations than in ornamentals beds. Available products may cause some temporary injury to turf, and most can injure ornamentals, so avoid herbicide drift into flowerbeds. Cultural practices that optimize the competitiveness of turf will also assist in the management of perennial grasses. Through multiple applications, possibly over several years, perennial grassy weeds can be managed in both turf and landscape beds. c
Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council
| 25
Applied Research
Better Turf for a Better Game
at Kinlock Golf Club
The
Kinloch Golf Club is a private, parkland-style, 18-hole golf course near Richmond in Manakin-Sabot, Virginia. Kinloch was designed by Lester George and the famed amateur champion Vinny Giles. Originally conceived as a daily-fee facility with warmseason grasses, Kinloch quickly evolved into an awardwinning private golf experience with all cool-season grasses before construction commenced. “[It] is intended first and foremost to be a first-class golf club emphasizing immaculate conditioning, a simple but special clubhouse facility, a small and compatible membership of individual members, a championship golf course and practice facility with service of the highest quality,” states Vinny Giles, one of three principals. Prior to opening in April 2001, Kinloch Golf Club boasted over 100 memberships and was later awarded the “#1 Best Private New Course in America” by Golf Digest magazine. As membership grew, the recognition from major golf publications continued, and Kinloch has played host for many national tournaments. In September, Kinloch Golf Club hosted the 2011 USGA Senior Amateur tournament. Upholding a commitment to the traditions of the game and the quality of world-class golf, Kinloch staff has worked since 1999 to implement an environmental management plan that improves efficiency, conserves
resources and promotes conservation endeavors. In March 2010, Kinloch Golf Club was designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary by Audubon International. “We are all stewards of the environment,” says Peter Wendt, CGCS, golf course manager for Kinloch Golf Club. In early 2001, Wendt and other staff began a soil-remediation project to improve soil conditions throughout the golf course. The red clay soils located in the Piedmont region of central Virginia can hardly be described as an ideal growth medium for turfgrass. Poor water infiltration, lack of organic matter and ease of compaction are just some of the challenges that area superintendents face. In order to improve these soil conditions, Wendt decided to implement a program to incorporate organic matter into the soil. The idea was that the compost would aerate the soil and increase the suitability of the growing environment. After sourcing a local and affordable vendor for compost material, Wendt ordered bulk shipments and stored it on-site in covered bays. Throughout the winter months, the compost was applied to the 96 acres of Kentucky bluegrass rough, using a wide-area broadcast spreader. The entire application process required one staff member and took approximately 32 man-hours. Additionally, in 2003,
26 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2012 www.vaturf.org
By Joshua Conway, Education and Communications Manager, Audubon International
Wendt’s staff began overseeding the rough with turftype tall fescue varieties. “By promoting better plant health and thus improving the ability of the turf to defend against insects, pathogens, heat and drought stress, we are able to reduce our chemical and water use,” relates Wendt. Initially, the benefit of the added compost was minimal. However, “in the years since, we have noticed a dramatic improvement in plant health,” states Wendt. “The addition of the compost has resulted in a more sustainable soil composition, alleviated compaction and led to the development of a deeper root system. In turn, these results have reduced the amount of water needed because the fescue is healthier.” Reduction in disease and natural competition has also reduced the man-hours needed to apply fungicides and herbicides. While soil remediation may not be particularly “sexy,” healthier turfgrass makes the effort worth it, from both a playability and environmental standpoint. “It is also a worthy investment that benefits the bottom line,” states Joellen Lampman, Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program Director. “It’s important to recognize that projects
such as this can take many years to show results. Kudos to Peter and his staff for sticking with the program through the beginning stages when the benefits were minimal.” This article is reprinted with the expressed written permission of Audubon International and was previously printed in the September 30, 2011, issue of the Green Section Record (Vol. 49, #39). Joshua Conway is the Education and Communications Manager for Audubon International. He can be contacted at jconway@auduboninternational.org. For more information on the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, call (518) 767-9051, extension 110. c
Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council
| 27
In Memory
Dave Myers 1943 – 2011
The
VTC was saddened to learn of the passing of long-time VTC member and former VTC board member Dave Myers on November 28, 2011. Dave Myers devoted many years to the advancement of the turfgrass industry. His career included serving as the head of grounds at Woodberry Forest Academy. In addition to ensuring that the trees, shrubs and flowers were pristine, he was in charge of the school’s turf areas, including its golf course and athletic fields. His devotion to the industry prompted him to served as a board member of the Virginia Turfgrass Council. While serving on the board, he was instrumental in the decision to move the annual conference to its present location. Dave was a veteran of the United States Army and served and honored his country during Vietnam. He also served as Republican Party Chair in Greene County for 12 years. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Anne Robertson Myers; his son, Maxwell Myers; and two daughters, Lisa Bazemore and her husband, Tyrone, and Oleta Powers and her husband, Buddy. c 28 | VIRGINIA TURFGRASS JOURNAL January/February 2012 www.vaturf.org
Industry News
Good News from TPI… EPA Announces Plans to Remove 40% Turfgrass Restriction from WaterSense Program
T
urfgrass Producers International (TPI), along with coalition partners, has had success in convincing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to remove the 40% turfgrass restriction in the landscape section of its WaterSense program. The EPA has announced a “Notice of Intent” to remove the restriction from the WaterSense single-family new-home specification, to accommodate for varying regional climate conditions. “Many TPI members may not realize the efforts that have gone into getting this done,” said TPI’s executive director, Kirk Hunter, who was actively involved in meeting with and providing information to EPA decision-makers in Washington. “This is a huge success for TPI and our coalition partners who worked on this for over three years and have repeatedly met with EPA in an effort to remove the turfgrass restriction.” The WaterSense single-family new-home labeling program that enabled a new home to qualify for a WaterSense label had previously contained two options for landscape design: (1) adhere to the waterbudget tool or (2) restrict the use of turfgrass to 40 percent of the landscapable area. With the recent announcement by WaterSense, the only requirement for builders wishing to be eligible for this labeling would be to adhere to the water-budget tool. Hunter went on to say, “Through our coalition efforts, we have also submitted letters and comments regarding
the IGCC (International Green Construction Code) limitation of 40% turfgrass in the landscape, which may have been influenced by the initial guidelines proposed by the EPA that are now going to be removed.” Response from various greenindustry organizations echoed TPI’s enthusiasm over the decision. John Farner, federal affairs director for the
Irrigation Association commented, “This announcement by WaterSense is a huge win… and green industry partners should celebrate.” The official WaterSense “Notification of Intent” to remove the 40% restriction can be viewed at the following location: http://www. epa.gov/watersense/docs/NH_ modification_NOI-final_508.pdf. c
Journal of the Virginia Turfgrass Council
| 29
Index of Advertisers
Calendar of Events
Turf Industry Events January 10–14
STMA Annual Conference & Exhibition Long Beach Convention Center Long Beach, CA
January 11–13
Mid-Atlantic Nursery Trade Show Baltimore Convention Center Baltimore, MD
January 16–19
VTC 52nd Annual Turf & Landscape Conference and Trade Show Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center Fredericksburg, VA
January 19
Pesticide Recertification Fredericksburg, VA
January 25–28
ANLA Management Clinic Galt House Hotel & Suites Louisville, KY
January 30 – February 3
TPI Mid-Winter Conference (Turf Producers Intl.) Scottsdale, AZ
February 6–10
NC State Turfgrass Short Course Raleigh, NC
February 9
Chesapeake Green 2012 – A Horticulture Symposium Maritime Institute and Conference Center Linthicum Heights, MD
February 21
Pesticide Recertification & Turfgrass and Virginia’s Waters Virginia Beach, VA
February 27 – March 2
Golf Industry Show & GCSAA Conference Las Vegas, NV
March 14–16
Training for Category 3B Belmont Golf Course Henrico County, VA
March 20
Pesticide Recertification Laurel Hill Golf Course Fairfax County, VA
May 22
Pesticide Recertification Gypsy Hill Park’s Gymnasium Staunton, VA
June 12
Pesticide Recertification Hampton, VA
June 26 Hampton Roads AREC Turfgrass Field Day and Pesticide Recertification Virginia Beach, VA
January 28–31, 2013 VTC 53rd Annual Turf & Landscape Conference and Trade Show Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center Fredericksburg, VA
Bayer........................................... 3 www.bayerprocentral.com Buy Sod, Inc................................ 5 www.buysod.com Collins Wharf Sod Farm........... 27 www.collinswharfsod.com East Coast Sod & Seed....................................... 11 www.eastcoastsod.com Egypt Farms, Inc............................24 www.egyptfarms.com Ernst Conservation Seeds...........29 www.ernstseed.com Fisher & Son Company, Inc.........19 www.fisherandson.com Kesmac/ Brouwer, Inc.......Inside Front Cover www.kesmac.com Landscape Supply, Inc............ 20 www.landscapesupplyva.com Luck Stone Specialty Products................... 28 www.luckstone.com Mid Atlantic Sports Turf.......... 19 Modern Turf, Inc...................... 28 www.modernturf.com Oakwood Sod Farm, Inc.......... 24 www.oakwoodsod.com Penn State World Campus...... 25 www.worldcampus.psu.edu/ turfgrass Revels Tractor Co. Inc............... 21 www.revelstractor.com Roxbury Farm & Garden Center............................ 5 www.roxburyfarmgarden.com Smith Turf & Irrigation.................. Back Cover www.smithturf.com Southern States Cooperative.... 15 www.southernstates.com The Turfgrass Group............. 7, Inside Back Cover www.theturfgrassgroup.com Woodward Turf Farm, Inc...........30 www.woodwardturf.com
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