News Notes - Summer 2026 - Volume 6 Issue 1

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VOL 6

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ISSUE 1

SUMMER 2026

NOTES

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

5 7 8 9

Executive Director’s Report President’s Message MSU Turf Team Research News — x

x

Sod on Plastic Establishment Practices for Cool-Season Grasses

x

No-Mow May 2025 (Projects 1-6)

x

Impacts of Autonomous Mowing on Dollar Spot on Creeping Bentgrass Fairway Turf

x

Influence of fall mowing height changes and timing change on winter survival

31 32 34 37 38 42 44 46 51 52 57 58

WinterTurf and Nutrient Management Research Update and Proposal for 2026

x

Winter Recovery Management

MTF Membership Application Legislative Day Industry News: Members in The Field — x

Not Exactly a Straight Path to Turf Science: Mike Rabe’s Journey

The 25th LaFontaine Golf Outing Recap 2026 MTF TeeTimes4Turf: Building on Success NCERA Meeting June 2, 2026 MSU Turf Club & MTF Interactions The Recap: 2026 Michigan Turfgrass Conference FIFA & MSU Turf – An unmatched World Cup experience

MSU Turfgrass Field Day 2026 MTF Board of Directors - Election Raising Grass....and Harmon Killebrew’s Dad MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

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MTF Executive Committee PRESIDENT Mr. Scott Rettmann

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mr. Carey Mitchelson

VICE PRESIDENT Mr. Mitchell Hooten

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY Ms. Britney VanderKodde

TREASURER Mr. Christian Koval

PRESIDENT EMERITUS Mr. Dan Mausolf

Upcoming Events

SECRETARY Mr. Adam Palmatier

MTF Board of Directors Mr. Jeff Stickney

2026 Michigan State Turfgrass

FIELD DAY

|

Meijer Gardens REPRESENTING: Turf Services

August 12, 2026

Mr. Robert Bywalec | D & B Landscaping Inc REPRESENTING: Lawn & Maintenance Ms. Diane Mischel

| DeBucks Sod Farm REPRESENTING: Cemetery, Park or Sod

Mr. Adam Palmatier

| Helena REPRESENTING: Commercial Turfgrass Supplier

2027 Michigan Turfgrass

CONFERENCE

Mr. Mitch Hooten | West Michigan Whitecaps REPRESENTING: Sports or Institutional Turf Mr. Craig Moore

January 12-14, 2027 Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort

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Marquette Golf Club REPRESENTING: Northern Michigan District - MiGCSA

Mr. Benjamin Keeler | MSU Forest Akers Golf Courses REPRESENTING: Western Michigan District - MiGCSA

Michigan Turfgrass Foundation

Mr. Doug Ware |

City of Livonia - Golf Courses REPRESENTING: Greater Detroit District - MiGCSA

Mr. Christian Koval

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Target Specialty Products REPRESENTING: Mid-Michigan District - MiGCSA

TEE TIMES 4 TURF

Mr. Scott Rettmann

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Spring 2027

Harrell’s

REPRESENTING: At Large

Mr. Chris Wilczynski

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CW Golf Architecture

REPRESENTING: At Large

Mr. Brian Schweihofer

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Franklin Hills Country Club

REPRESENTING: At Large

Michigan Turfgrass Foundation P.O. Box 27156 Lansing, MI 48909

Phone: +1-517-392-5003 miturfgrass@gmail.com

Mission Statement The mission of the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation is to work in partnership with Michigan State University, supporting ongoing programs in research, education, and extension in the area of professional turfgrass management that will benefit all individuals who manage turfgrasses or derive pleasure from the results of such management.

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www.michiganturfgrass.org

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT CAREY MITCHELSON

Welcome to MTF NewsNotes, featuring updates from the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation and Michigan’s turfgrass community.

This issue highlights several important initiatives now underway at the Foundation.

While each year brings meaningful work for those involved in MTF events, this year has generated strong momentum for new programs, partnerships, and opportunities.

The Board of Directors remains focused on advancing the Foundation’s goals, and this edition reflects the strength and commitment of Michigan’s turfgrass community.

PRESIDENT’S

MESSAGE IN THIS ISSUE 2026 Conference Carey Mitchelson

I

This edition includes a recap of the 2026 Conference, our most successful conference since moving to Mt. Pleasant five years ago. We sincerely thank Curt Boak and Dan Mausolf for continuing to share their time, experience, and support with MTF after completing their Board service.

tNew is with pleasure that the Michigan Turfgrass Boardgreat member Diane Mischel will chair next year’s conference and work with Curt Foundation able to present our Annual Turfgrass and Dan to helponce build again on that is success.

Conference. The decision four years ago to return to East Lansing make the emphasis on education has proven TT4Turf and Update to beThis theyear’s correct choice.

Our speaker line-up is nearly once again TT4Turf reached a new milestone, raising $74,000wellthrough bids on rounded and the topics for your been and planned donated rounds of golf. Thank you consideration to everyone who have participated showed continued support for MTF, Michigan’s turf program, and the golf facilities that make for months. A great deal of debate regarding what our attendees this effort maypossible. be interested in always takes place and the goal is to anticipate This year also MSU Turf Clubinput hats ason antopics auctionduring option. Thank the priorities of introduced the attendees.

Your the you to everyone and who chose this way the to support students.

The hat auction Conference throughout year isturfalways welcome and weraised $1,000 for the Turf Club and will remain part of TT4Turf in future years. look forward to any thoughts you may have. We hope you find Michigan has more than golf facilities, and about 200 courses havelet participated in the Conference suited to800 your expectations and trust you will TT4Turf each of the past three years. The TT4Turf committee, Doug Ware, Ben Keeler, us know your opinions on where we may improve and if we have and Eric Davey—will begin registering courses this season for the 2027 event. effectively planned your time as well.

Looking Many people Ahead are involved with the planning process of the Conference and ithopes starts the day after each the last ends.courses The earlier and The committee to grow donations year session by registering reaching newevent participants.

20Vice-President to 30 courses annually an achievable catalyst of the is our Adding current AmyisFouty.

She goal and could create meaningful new funding opportunities in the years ahead. has set the tone the last three years and always strives to enhance and improve each day of the sessions. Fellow Board members Mark Wildeman and Curt Boak have been under her wing this past year and they will be chairing the Conference for the upcoming years. Many thanks to all of themMTF as they continue a 2026 5 NEWS NOTESto provide | SUMMER conference that we all enjoy and learn from.

LaFontaine Golf Outing and the Vargas Legacy This issue also includes a summary of the LaFontaine Golf Outing. We were pleased that Gordie LaFontaine could welcome MSU’s new Turf Pathologist, Dr. Ruying Wang, at the event.

The outing helped launch the Vargas Professorship five years ago, when MTF announced its commitment to provide funding in honor of Dr. Joe Vargas. Seeing that effort come full circle was meaningful, and we know Dr. Vargas would have been proud. His legacy remains an important part of MSU Turf.

Field Day 2026 This year’s MSU/MTF Field Day will include several new opportunities. In addition to the morning research plot sessions and MDARD credits, the afternoon program will introduce two new concepts after lunch. Agronomic Alley will take place on the HTRC field plots, where vendors may display products and services. Vendor Demonstration Stations will also be available at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center.

Vendors may register for participation. Scan the QR code for more information Vendors who would like to support Field Day as sponsors but cannot attend may register. Scan the QR code for more information Afternoon MDARD credits will also be available through the Sprayer Calibration class at the HTRC. Attendees may register for Field Day. Scan the QR code for more information.

MSU Turf Team and the FIFA World Cup As the FIFA World Cup continues in North America, the MSU Turf Team is receiving worldwide attention for its work to provide high-quality turf for event stadiums. To learn more about the research, preparation, and statistics behind the world’s most viewed sporting event, read the feature story here: The Spartan Science Behind the World Cup | MSUToday | Michigan State University

Student Engagement and Scholarships MTF is also expanding its role in supporting students and young professionals. Through work with MSU Turf students and FFA, the Foundation helps provide scholarships,

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learning opportunities, and connections with industry partners. Thank you to MTF Board members Adam Palmatier and Chris Wilsinski for serving as reviewers for the FFA scholarships.

The Foundation will also increase its support for the MSU Turf Club by helping fund items that strengthen club activities and student opportunities.

Watch for social media updates from interns as they share reports from their summer work locations. Engaging with these posts is especially meaningful to students. We will track responses and award prizes to the submissions with the highest engagement.

Hancock Turfgrass Research Center The Hancock Turfgrass Research Center has long been a leading site for MSU turfgrass research.

Because its work is so consistent and well established, its daily use and impact can sometimes be overlooked.

HTRC Operations Manager Jesse Sholl oversees daily facility use, including securing the equipment needed for research and operations. Michigan’s turf industry benefits greatly from the facility, the Turf Team, and the companies that help support this work.

Spartan Turf Products and many other companies have contributed to the HTRC’s success. To learn more about this support and the work taking place behind the scenes, please see the related feature: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/partnership-drivesturfgrass-excellence-at-msu?utm_source=cc&utm_ medium=email&utm_campaign=extensiondigests This issue also introduces updates on work being conducted at the HTRC. Mike Rabe, featured in the Members in the Field article, is highlighting both planned and unexpected items of interest that show what the Turf Team and HTRC staff are accomplishing.

Sponsors and Donors MTF thanks the individuals, clubs, organizations, and sponsors who support the Foundation and its work on behalf of the MSU Turf Team and MSU Turf students. Your generosity makes many of the program’s outstanding opportunities possible.

www.michiganturfgrass.org

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Dear Michigan Turfgrass Foundation Members, Industry Professionals, and Supporters, It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as the new President of the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation. I am incredibly excited for the opportunity to help lead an organization that has such a meaningful impact on our industry. As a graduate of Michigan State University who has benefited greatly from the program and its leadership throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand how research conducted at Michigan State University has shaped the way we manage our facilities, solve challenges, and continue improving our profession. It is a privilege to now serve an organization that helps make that research possible.

I am fortunate to be surrounded by an outstanding Board of Directors made up of passionate professionals who share a common mission—to support and advance turfgrass research at Michigan State University for the benefit of our entire industry. We are also incredibly fortunate to have an exceptional Executive Director, Carey Mitchelson, whose tireless dedication and hard work keep the Foundation moving forward every day. His commitment, leadership, and countless hours behind the scenes are instrumental to the Foundation’s continued success, and we are grateful for everything he does.

The Foundation is off to an outstanding start this year. Our Annual Michigan Turfgrass Foundation Conference was a tremendous success, with excellent attendance from both industry professionals and vendor partners. The enthusiasm, education, and collaboration displayed throughout the conference reinforced the strength of Michigan’s turfgrass community. Equally exciting was the incredible success of our Tee Times 4 Turf Auction, which raised a record-breaking $73,253—the most funds ever generated through this event.

That achievement is a direct reflection of the generosity and commitment of everyone who donated, bid, sponsored, and participated.

To everyone who supports our events throughout the year, thank you. Your participation is much more than attending a conference or bidding on a tee time—it directly impacts the funding available for critical turfgrass research at Michigan State University. Those investments fuel innovation, provide practical solutions to today’s challenges, and help ensure our industry continues to thrive well into the future. Every contribution, large or small, makes a meaningful difference.

I would also like to recognize Dr. John “Trey” Rodgers III and his outstanding team for the incredible work they have put into preparing the playing surfaces for the FIFA Club World Cup. The fields have looked exceptional and have performed at the highest level, showcasing the expertise and dedication of Michigan State University’s turfgrass program. Seeing MSU on the international stage is a source of pride for our entire industry and a testament to the worldclass work being done right here in Michigan.

As we look ahead, I couldn’t be more optimistic about the future of the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation. With the dedication of our Board of Directors, the leadership of Carey Mitchelson, and our outstanding partners and researchers at Michigan State University, we are well positioned to continue expanding our support for research, education, and the advancement of our profession. Thank you for your continued trust, involvement, and generosity. Together, we are investing in the future of Michigan turfgrass, and I look forward to everything we will accomplish in the years ahead.

Sincerely, Scott Rettmann President Michigan Turfgrass Foundation

MTF NEWS NOTES

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MSU TURF TEAM Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences Trey Rogers, Ph.D. rogersj@msu.edu

Emily Merewitz-Holm, Ph.D. merewitz@msu.edu

Professor, Turfgrass Research - Golf Course Renovations - Sports Turf and Golf Turf Management Programs; Turfgrass Research Telephone: 517-353-0136

Assistant Professor - Plant physiologist; abiotic & biotic stresses of turfgrass and crop species; whole-plant, biochemical, & molecular techniques.

Telephone: 517-353-0203

Nancy Dykema dykema@msu.edu

Sydney Everhart, Ph.D. sydever@msu.edu

Research Assistant/Instructor, Turfgrass Pathology Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences Telephone: 517-353-9082

Professor and Chair Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences Telephone: 517-353-01218

Thomas Nikolai, Ph.D. nikolait@msu.edu Senior Turfgrass Academic Specialist - Golf Course Putting Green mechanical and cultural practices, turfgrass health.

Telephone: 517-353-0133 Kevin Frank, Ph.D. frankk@msu.edu Professor and Turf Extension Specialist Telephone: 517-353-0147

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Dr. Ruying Wang wangruyi@msu.edu Professor and extension with Turfgrass Pathology

Max Helmberger, Ph.D. helmberg@msu.edu Academic Specialist-Teacher Department of Entomology Telephone: 517-432-2668

www.michiganturfgrass.org

Jackie Lyn Guevara guevar13@msu.edu Assistant Professor Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences

RESEARCH NEWS

WinterTurf and Nutrient Management Research Update and Proposal for 2026 Dr. Kevin W. Frank and Eric Galbraith | Michigan State University

I. Long-term nitrogen leaching 1. MTF funding is used for sampling costs and technical salary.

2. Grad students involved: none.

3. Research benefits turf managers understanding of fertilizer environmental fate and efficiency.

4. Project duration: indefinite, July 2026 will mark 28 years of consecutive data collection, this is the longest running turfgrass leaching research in the world and we will continue to apply treatments and collect samples with no end date scheduled.

5. Project Update Since the summer of 1998 leachate samples have been collected from the monolith lysimeters at the HTRC and analyzed for nitrate-nitrogen. July 2025 marked 27 years of consecutive leachate collection and 35 years since turfgrass was established on the lysimeters. The high N rate of 5 lb. N/1000 ft.2/yr was applied in 1998 and concluded following the 2002 season. High levels of NO3-N leaching were measured from the high N rate from 1998-2002. In 2003 the high N rate was reduced from 5 to 4 N/1000 ft.2/yr, and subsequently leachate NO3-N concentrations declined over an approximately 15-year period. After 15 years of treating the high N rate at 4 lb. N/1000

Photo 1. Dr. Mike Kenna, past director of the USGA Green Section Research and Dr. Kevin Frank at the long-term nitrogen leaching lysimeters at MSU.

ft.2/yr, in 2018 we reverted to applying urea at 5 lb. N/1000 ft.2/yr split over 5 applications to two of the lysimeters to determine if the high N rate would once again result in high nitrate-nitrogen concentrations in leachate. The application dates were May 1, June 1, July 1, Aug. 1, and Sept. 1. The remaining two lysimeters were treated with urea at 2 lb.

N/1000 ft.2/yr split over two applications on May 1 and Sept. 1. The turf was mowed at 3 in. and clippings returned to the plots. Lysimeter percolate was collected regularly, volume measured, and a sub sample collected for NO3-N. Leachate was collected from January through December in 2025. The mean NO3-N concentration in leachate for the low and high N rates was 1.2 and 6.0 ppm,

MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

9

RESEARCH NEWS respectively. After 8 years of the 5 lb. N rate, NO3-N concentration in leachate has increased from 1 ppm in 2018 to 6.0 ppm in 2025.

This research will continue to measure nitrogen leaching in a continually managed turfgrass system and provide insight into the effect of fertilizer rates on nitrogen leaching from mature turfgrass stands.

mold incidence, we are also measuring turfgrass quality and tissue nitrogen and potassium levels.

During the winter of 2025-2026 there was more snow mold present in the plots than in previous years (see photo below). Data has been collected and statistical analysis between the two locations and multiple years is being finalized.

Key Points 1.

After eight years of the high N rate, 5 lb. N/1000 ft.2/yr, mean annual nitratenitrogen concentrations have increased from 1 ppm in 2018 to 6.0 ppm in 2025.

2.

Dormant season leaching continues to be a point of concern for the high N rate application.

II. WinterTurf Research Projects 1.

MTF funding is used to complement project costs that are not supported by the WinterTurf grant, including supporting Eric Galbraith, research technician.

2.

Grad students involved: none

3.

Research benefits turf managers in identifying best practices for reestablishment following winterkill, potential effects of fertilizer rate and timing on snow mold incidence, and leaf mulch effects on snow mold.

4.

Studies were completed in 2025 and 2026.

Fertilizer rate, timing, and leaf mulch effects on snow mold There are three different research trials related to snow mold that we have conducted in cooperation with Dr. Koch at the University of Wisconsin. All these trials completed their 3rd and final year of research in 2025.

There are two trials studying the effect of nitrogen and potassium applications on snow mold incidence on a creeping bentgrass fairway. Trial 1 is analyzing the effect of annual rate of nitrogen and potassium on snow mold incidence. Trial 2 is analyzing the effect of timing of the last application of nitrogen and potassium on snow mold incidence. In addition to measuring snow

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Photo: Annual nitrogen and potassium rate effects on snow mold incidence research Photo 2. Annual nitrogen and potassium rate effects on area on March 23, 2026.

snow mold incidence research area on March 23, 2026.

The third trial is researching the effect of different depths of mulched or nonmulched leaves on turfgrass quality, snow mold development, and measures of soil health. Research was initiated in the fall of 2022 at MSU and the University of Wisconsin and concluded in the spring of 2025 (the plots have been marked for future studies and treatments in 2026). Treatments include untreated, mulched and nonmulched leaves at a depth of 2 inches (buried within the turf canopy) or at a depth of 6 inches (fully covering the turfgrass). To date we haven’t seen any effects with respect to snow mold incidence. Common to both locations were that the 6-inch depth of nonmulched leaves caused significant injury to the turfgrass due to smothering, with less injury on the mulched 6-inch depth of leaves. Preliminary data analysis indicates there were benefits to soil health including increases in soil organic matter at the 10 cm soil sampling depth.

The third trial is researching the effect of different depths of mulched or non-mulched leaves on turfgrass quality, snow mold development, and measures of soil health. Research was initiated in the fall of 2022 at MSU and the University of Wisconsin and concluded in the spring of 2025 (the plots have been marked for future studies and treatments in 2026). Treatments include untreated, mulched and non-mulched leaves at a depth of 2 inches (buried within the turf canopy) or at a depth of 6 inches (fully covering the turfgrass). To date we haven’t seen any effects with respect to snow mold incidence. Common to both locations were that the 6-inch depth of non-mulched leaves caused significant injury to the turfgrass due to smothering, with less injury on the mulched 6-inch depth of leaves. Preliminary data analysis indicates there were benefits to soil health including increases in soil organic matter at the 10 cm soil sampling depth.

Late Fall Topdressing as a Practice to Mitigate Winterkill Late fall sand topdressing applications have become a common practice in many regions as a possible deterrent to winterkill. There is little

www.michiganturfgrass.org

if any data from trials to either support or refute the benefit of these applications. In the fall of 2023 and 2024, topdressing applications were made to putting greens at turfgrass research facilities in Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Norway and on a golf course in Oregon to determine the effects of late fall sand topdressing.

The sand topdressing rates applied were none, 3 ft3 sand /1000 ft2 (normal rate), and 6 ft3/1000 ft2 (high rate). Topdressing was applied in a single application after the final mowing of the season and before the first anticipated snowfall. Response variable such as surface temperature, percent winter damage and turfgrass quality were assessed within the fall topdressed plots and were compared to plots that were not topdressed. Data were collected after spring snow melt until complete turfgrass green-up.

Results were mixed across diverse locations, but some commonalities were found among treatments in both years. Surface temperatures were higher for the high topdressing rate treatments which may result in increased biological activity for snow mold pathogens. At the Wisconsin location this was in fact the case with more snow mold on the high topdressing rate treatments in the first year but not the second. At the Oregon location, surface temperature and quality increased with topdressing rate, while winter damage decreased with increasing topdressing rates in the first year. At the MSU location in 2025, ice covered the plot area for approximately 5 weeks from January through February. There was no winterkill observed on the

Photo: Topdressing treatments on Poa annua green at the Hancock Turfgrass Photo 3. Topdressing treatments on Poa annua green at Research Center on March 19, 2025.

the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center on March 19, 2025.

III. National Turfgrass Evaluation Program Trials I managed four NTEP trials at MSU in 2025: fine leaf fescue fairway ancillary traffic, Kentucky bluegrass standard test, Kentucky bluegrass ancillary traffic test, and tall fescue standard test. The results from these trials can be found at www.ntep.org.

IV. Moss control on a creeping bentgrass putting green 1. MTF funding is used to support Eric Galbraith, research technician, that applied

creeping bentgrass green but the Poa annua green had some minor injury. The topdressing plots generally had less injury than the plots that were not topdressed.

III. National Turfgrass Evaluation Program Trials I managed four NTEP trials at MSU in 2025: fine leaf fescue fairway ancillary traffic, Kentucky bluegrass standard test, Kentucky bluegrass ancillary traffic test, and tall fescue standard test. The results from these trials can be found at www.ntep.org.

IV. Moss control on a creeping bentgrass putting green 1.

MTF funding is used to support Eric Galbraith, research technician, that applied treatments, maintained the plot area, and collected data.

2.

Grad students involved: none

3.

Research benefits turf managers in identifying best treatment options for killing moss on a creeping bentgrass green. While cultural and physical controls are useful in the prevention of moss, once established, moss can often be difficult to control. Research has shown iron and copper products, fungicide combinations and baking soda spot treatments as potential means of control. The trial evaluated bi-weekly applications of some of these chemical treatments to determine their effectiveness.

4.

This was a one-year trial however we are considering another year of treatments.

Bi-weekly applications to 4’x4’ plots began on July 15, 2025. Four total applications were made, with the final application going out on August 27, 2025. All treatments were applied with a backpack sprayer calibrated to 63 GPA, using flat fan nozzles, except for the baking soda treatment which was mixed and applied as a spot treatment drench. Treatments are listed in Table 1. Percent (%) moss evaluated before initial treatment and after final application to determine % control. Moss injury MTF NEWS NOTES

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the baking soda treatment which was mixed and applied as a spot treatment drench.

Treatments are listed in Table 1. Percent (%) moss evaluated before initial treatment RESEARCH NEWS and after final application to determine % control. Moss injury was visually rated throughout the trial on a scale of 1-9 (1=no injury, 9=completely dead).

Table 1.1.Treatment Treatment list Table listfor formoss mosstrial. trial.

Trt No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Treatment Name Control Baking Soda Quicksilver Quicksilver Non-Staining Iron Fiesta Daconil Ultrex Manzate

Form Form Rate Conc Type Rate Unit 100WP L L L L WP WP

Appl Code

6oz ai/gal 3fl oz/a 6fl oz/a 6fl oz/1000 ft2 12.6fl oz/1000 ft2 3.2oz/1000 ft2 4oz/1000 ft2

ACE ACE ACE ACE ACE ACE ACE

application on all but the two iron treatments.

During the three rating dates Amt Product Rep in September, after all four to Measure 1 2 3 applications had been made, 101 202 305 moss injury was significantly 18.01 g/mx 102 205 302 highest in the baking soda 0.1491 mL/mx 103 204 307 treatment, followed by the 0.2982 mL/mx 104 207 304 two Quicksilver treatments.

12.99 mL/mx 27.28 mL/mx 6.641 g/mx 8.302 g/mx

105 106 107

201 306 203 301 206 303

V. Future Plans – a.

was visually rated throughout the trial on a scale of 1-9 indicates a high leveldead). of moss control can be achieved with baking soda (1=no Data injury, 9=completely

Long-term nitrogen leaching research will continue indefinitely.

b. We will apply for a second grant cycle spot treatments. Differences in moss control and injury between the two Quicksilver

Data indicates a high level of moss control can be rates are not statistically significant, suggesting that a lower rate of 3 fl. oz/A could ofbefunding from the USDA-SCRI for the achieved with baking soda spot treatments. Differences in sufficient for moderate moss control. Both iron products and the fungicide combination WinterTurf research project. moss control and injury between the two Quicksilver rates treatment did not differ in efficacy and were significantly less effective than the baking are not statistically significant, suggesting that a lower c. One of the results of our past soil testing soda and lower rate of Quicksilver. Moss injury was observed 1 week after initial rate of 3 fl. oz/A could be sufficient for moderate moss application on all but the two iron treatments. During the three rating dates in research projects was that phosphorus control. Both iron products and the fungicide combination and potassium applications had better September, after all four applications had been made, moss injury was significantly treatment did not differ in efficacy and were significantly highest in the baking followed the two Quicksilver treatments.turf color and quality than nitrogen only less effective thansoda the treatment, baking soda andby lower rate of treatments but also had higher amounts Quicksilver. Moss injury was observed 1 week after initial

of moss invasion. In 2025 we investigated different moss control treatments and in 2026 I would like to continue this study and begin a new study on the effects of potassium and phosphorus in combination with nitrogen on turfgrass performance characteristics and possibly moss infestation over time. I would also like to initiate a potassium research study on Poa annua greens as although there is prior research on potassium effects on creeping bentgrass greens there is little research on Poa annua greens.

Table 2. Percent Moss Control from July 15th to

Table 1. Percent25th Moss Control July 15th to September September (afterfrom 4 bi-weekly apps). 25th (after 4 bi-weekly apps). a 83.33 Table 1. Percent Moss Control from ab July 15th to September 25th (after 4 bi-weekly apps). a

60

83.33

ab 60

b c

cd

30.56

29.67

cd

30.56

29.67

cd 16

b c

d d

cd

0

0

Control Control

16

Baking Soda Quicksilver Quicksilver 33 Quicksilver Quicksilver 66 floz/A oz/A fl oz/A oz/A fl fl

Baking Soda

Fiesta

Fiesta

cd cd 13.33 13.33

Non-Staining Daconil Ultrex

Non-Staining Daconil Ultrex Iron + Iron + Manzate Manzate

Table 3. Visual Moss Injury on a 1-9 scale (1=no injury, 9=completely dead). 25th (after 4 bi-weekly apps).

Table 2. Visual Moss Injury on a 1-9 scale (1=no injury, 9=completely dead).

8

Table 2. Visual Moss Injury on a 1-9 scale (1=no injury, 9=completely dead).

7 6

8

5

d. NTEP evaluations will continue for the Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue trials.

Table 3: Plot map and treatment assignment for the moss trial.

Table 4. Plot map and treatment assignment for the moss

trial. ^NORTH

47 3

6

2

15

4 3

2

Baking Soda

Quicksilver 3 fl oz/A

Quicksilver 6 fl oz/A

Non-Staining Iron

Fiesta

Daconil Ultrex + Manzate

1

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www.michiganturfgrass.org

Baking Soda

Quicksilver 3 fl oz/A

Quicksilver 6 fl oz/A

Non-Staining Iron

Fiesta

Daconil Ultrex + Manzate

Photo 1. July 15, 2025 (pre-treatment).

PROJECT NAME:

PHOTO July 2025 (pre-treatment).

Photo 1. July1.15, 202515, (pre-treatment).

Sod on Plastic Establishment Practices for Cool-Season Grasses John N. Rogers, III, Ryan Bearss, Jackie Guevara, and Evan Rogers Michigan State University February 2025

PHOTO 2. August 15. 2025 with plot numbers (after 3 bi-weekly treatments).

Photo 2. August 15. 2025 with plot numbers (after 3 bi-weekly treatments).

101

102

103

104

105

106

107

202

201

204

203

205

206

207

307

306

304

302

305

How the MTF funding will be used to support project(s): Supporting funds will allow the Rogers’ lab team to continue conducting research for improving Michigan-grown sod products.

301

303

Background of the study: Sod grown on plastic is a method of sod production where turfgrass is seeded or sprigged into a thin layer of growing media (sand) over plastic sheeting.

Benefits of growing SOP IV. Future Plans – a. Long-term nitrogen leaching research will continue indefinitely. b. We will apply for a second grant cycle of funding from the USDA-SCRI for the WinterTurf research project. c. One of the results of our past soil testing research projects was that phosphorus and potassium applications had better turf color and quality than nitrogen only treatments but also had higher amounts of moss invasion. In 2025 we investigated different moss control treatments and in 2026 I would like to continue this study and begin a new study on the effects of potassium and phosphorus in combination with nitrogen on turfgrass performance characteristics and possibly moss infestation over time. I would also like to initiate a potassium research study on Poa annua greens as although there is prior research on potassium effects on creeping bentgrass greens there is little research on Poa annua greens. d. NTEP evaluations will continue for the Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue trials.

• Complete control of the growing medium, preventing soil layering issues.

• Allows for injury-free sod harvest • Farm-to-field ready solution • Production time is reduced by 66% • Facilitates sod production on non-arable lands (e.g., concrete, parking lots).

Project update: Study # 1: The Growth and Rooting Characteristics of Kentucky Bluegrass Sod Harvested from Various Production Systems In Spring 2023 and 2025, research was conducted at the Hancock

MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

13

RESEARCH NEWS Turfgrass Research Center, East Lansing, MI to evaluate the growth and rooting characteristics of ‘HD Sports 2.0’ Kentucky Bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) 48 mm thick-cut, big-roll sod, grown conventionally and over plastic. Treatments were arranged as a randomized complete block design with four levels of sod [sod on plastic (SOP), root-sheared sod on plastic (RSOP), conventionally grown sod (CS), conventionally grown sod recovered over plastic (CSOP)] and four replications. At time of harvest, sod on plastic and conventionally grown sod treatments were 6-months and 18-months mature, respectively.

SOP, RSOP, and CSOP treatments were harvested and delivered to East Lansing, MI on the week of 24 April 2023 and 2025. SOP and CSOP treatments were maintained on plastic until trial initiation. RSOP treatments were placed over 20 cm of a USGA root zone and left to root for one month. CS treatments were harvested 30 May 2023. On 31 May 2023, RSOP treatments were sheared from their modules using a sod knife and all treatments were transplanted to 90 x 90 x 20 cm plastic rooting modules filled with a USGA root zone. Sub-samples were immediately cut from each treatment and tested for tensile strength and total non-structural carbohydrates. The remaining sod was subjected to rooting strength and root system architecture evaluations, bi-weekly.

Key Points Learned to Date: • OP treatments consistently outperformed conventional sod treatments • OP rooted 2x faster than conventional sod treatments, with 40% stronger rooting • SOP tensile strength was 60% higher • SOP resulted in 50% more carbohydrate reserves relative to the conventionally grown sod treatment

These benefits can be negated when thatch and organic matter accumulate, creating shear points at the root zone-sod interface. The objectives of this research were to: i) evaluate strategies for thatch and organic matter management of mixed-species cool-season sod grown on plastic and ii) evaluate the contributions of clippings to the aforementioned. Research was conducted in spring-fall 2024 at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center, East Lansing, MI on 3.8 cm sand-based sod on plastic, seeded with a 84% Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.),16% perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) mix. Treatments were arranged as a strip-split plot design with three strips of cultivation [box raking (BR), vertical mowing (VM), BR+VM], conducted at two frequencies [weekly, biweekly], each split into two levels of clipping management [clippings collected, clipping not collected]. All treatments were compared to a non-cultivated control where clippings were collected or not collected. Treatments were evaluated weekly for visual turfgrass quality, volumetric water content, surface hardness, and monthly for thatch-mat depth, organic matter, and tiller density.

Key Points Learned to Date: • Weekly vertical grooming or raking both effectively reduced organic matter accumulation, without sacrificing turf density.

• Weekly cultivation of any method alone significantly improved rotational resistance.

• For divot resistance, plots groomed and raked on a weekly basis were the only treatments to not outperform the noncultivated control

Study # 2: Strategies for optimizing hybrid,

Grad Student(s) Involved:

carpet-mat hygiene of cool-season mixes grown on plastic during establishment

Ryan Bearss, Evan Rogers, Jackie Guevara

Hybrid carpet-mat systems provide improved traffic tolerance of athletic fields subjected to excessive wear.

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:

ges:

PROJECT 1 NAME:

Project Images:

No-Mow May 2025 Thomas Nikolai, Eric J. Galbraith, Mike Rabe Michigan State University February 2026

How the MTF funding will be used to support project(s):

imental setup for comparing four sod systems. The second experimental MTF funding allowed our team to evaluate the Figure 2025.

1. Experimental setup for comparing four sod ated Spring effects of “No-Mow May”, or more directly, how perimental setup for comparing four sod systems. The second experimental systems. The second experimental run will be initiated.

nitiated Spring 2025.

does allowing a typical home lawn to grow unimpeded for the month of May compared to a lawn mown on a regular schedule? Data collection included percent weeds during and after May, as well as differences in turf quality when the No Mow turf was finally mowed.

We intend to duplicate this study in 2026 and publish it in a scientific journal as well as disturb to the public via trade magazines.

Methods: This trial began in early May 2025.

Mower Height of Cut (HOC)was set to 3.5”.

Control plots were mowed twice a week throughout the trial period. As implied, no-mow plots were not mowed in May with the same mow schedule as the control plots initiated on June 2nd. No-mow plots had reached an average height of 6.75” by the first mow on June 2nd.

Project 1 update:

Figure 2. Image of the hybrid hygiene testing site. The of the hybrid hygiene The secondexperimental experimental run will be The on June 2nd stunted the turfgrass experimental run willsite. be initiated. age of second the hybrid hygienetesting testing site.

The second run will bemowing

ng 2025. pring 2025.

and weeds in no-mow plots leading to a decrease in turf quality and percent weeds.

Clippings remained on plots to mimic typical home lawn conditions. Decreases in weed populations were initially observed on no-mow plots, but weed populations returned to levels similar to mowed plots by early August.

3

3

Fewer weeds in no-mow plots were most likely due to the combination of higher turf height during May followed by a shock effect from the June mowing which was accompanied by significant decreases in turf quality. Turf

MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

15

Project 1 update: The mowing on June 2nd stunted the turfgrass and weeds in no-mow plots leading to a decrease in turf quality and percent weeds. Clippings remained on plots to mimic typical home lawn conditions. Decreases in weed populations were initially observed on no-mow plots, but weed populations returned to levels similar to mowed plots by early August.

RESEARCH NEWS

Fewer weeds in no-mow plots were most likely due to the combination of higher turf quality on no-mow plots was poor throughout June, height during May followed by a shock effect from the June mowing which was and began to level out inby end the accompanied by significant decreases turfthe quality.

Turf of quality on month. no-mow plots was poor throughout June, and began to level out by the end of the month.

Figure 1. Percent Dandelions 2025

Figure 1. Percent Dandelions 2025

80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

5/1/2026

5/16/2025

6/3/2025 No Mow

Figure 2. Percent Clover 2025 Figure 2. Percent Clover 2025

7/2/2025 Mow

1

Figure 35 2. Percent Clover 2025 35 Figure 2. Percent Clover 2025 30 30 35 25 25 30 20 20 25 15 15 20 10 10 15 5 10 05 5/1/2026 5/16/2025 6/3/2025 7/2/2025 05 5/1/2026 5/16/2025 No Mow 6/3/2025 Mow 7/2/2025 0 5/1/2026 5/16/2025 No Mow 6/3/2025 Mow 7/2/2025 Figure 3. Percent Plantain 2025 No Mow Mow Figure 3. Percent 2025 7 Figure 3. Percent Plantain Plantain 2025 6 7 Figure 3. Percent Plantain 2025 56 7 45 6 34 5 23 4 12 3 01 2 5/1/2026 5/16/2025 6/3/2025 7/2/2025 01 5/1/2026 5/16/2025 No Mow 6/3/2025 Mow 7/2/2025 0

5/16/2025 6/3/2025 Mow 7/2/2025 No Mow Figure 4.5/1/2026 Post-Mow Quality Ratings 2025 7 No Mow Mow Figure 4. Post-Mow Quality Ratings 2025 6 Figure 4.

Post-Mow Quality Ratings 2025 7 Figure 4. Post-Mow Quality Ratings 2025 5 67 4 56 3 45 2 34 1 23 0 12 6/2/2025 6/9/2025 6/16/2025 6/23/2025 01 No Mow Mow 6/2/2025 6/9/2025 6/16/2025 6/23/2025 0

6/2/2025

6/9/2025

8/1/2025

6/16/2025 Mow 6/23/2025 No Mow No Mow 2

Grad Student(s) Involved: NA Benefit Group: This research will primarily benefit

the home lawn industry. There is always debate on the effects that new lawn care trends have on the health of the turf and this research helps to answer some of those questions. After analyzing the results from this trial, home lawn owners can ask themselves if potential momentary decreases in visual weeds are Grad Student(s) Involved: NA Grad Student(s) Involved: NA worth the significant decrease in turf quality during Benefit Group: This research will primarily benefit the home lawn industry. There is Benefit Group:onThis willnew primarily benefit thehave homeonlawn industry.

There the month ofresearch June. always debate the effects that lawn care trends the health of the turfisand always debatehelps on the new trends After have on the health the turf and this research to effects answerthat some of lawn thosecare questions. analyzing the of results from this this helps to answer some of those questions. analyzing the results from this trial,research home lawn owners can ask themselves if potentialAfter momentary decreases in visual trial, home lawn owners can ask themselves if potential momentary decreases in visual weeds are worth the significant decrease in turf quality during the month of June. weeds are worth the significant decrease in turf quality during the month of June.

Project Images: Project Images: Image 1. May 7, 20257, (12025 week un-mowed) Image 1. May (1 week un-mowed) Image 1. May 7, 2025 (1 week un-mowed)

Project Images:

8/1/2025 8/1/2025

8/1/2025

Image 2. June 2, 2025 (1 month un-mowed) Image 2. June 2,month 2025un-mowed) (1 month un-mowed) Image 2. June 2, 2025 (1

8/1/2025

8/1/2025 8/1/2025

3 3

Image 3. June 2, 2025 (Post-Mow) Image 3. June 2, 2025 (Post-Mow)

6/30/2025

6/30/2025 6/30/2025

Mow

2 2

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Image 4. June 12, 2025 (10 days post-mow)

www.michiganturfgrass.org

Image 4. June 12, 2025 (10 days post-mow)

Image 4. June 12, 2025 (10 days post-mow)

Expected Results and Methods: This trial

began in late fall 2023 to test the resilience of greens height turf to daily double rolling during the cold winter months to gather data on the effects carried into shoulder seasons as well as during summer months. TDR and surface temperatures were recorded in early spring when snow was not present. Daily double rolling continued throughout the growing season and greenspeed ratings, disease ratings and soil samples were collected.

Image 3. June 2, 2025 (Post-Mow)

Image 5. June 25, 2025 (3 weeks post-mow)

Image 4. June 12, 2025 (10 days post-mow) 4

Data collected during 2023-2024 supports past research showing that daily rolling significantly increases greenspeed and decreases dollar spot.

Although not statistically significant, we saw a general shift from rolled plots having a worse visual color in April to having a better visual color during green up in May of 2024. TDR analysis shows rolledplots holding more moisture and spring temperature readings show rolled plots being significantly colder than unrolled plots.

Project 2 update:

4

PROJECT 2 NAME:

Data from 2025 was similar to 2024. Every rating date showed significantly faster greens on double rolled plots compared to control. Temperatures were significantly cooler on rolled greens as were volumetric moisture content reading obtained with a TDR. Green-up ratings in 2025 were phenomenal in terms of plot differences. Rolled plots appeared deteriorated from post-snowmelt into early-April. By mid-April, rolled plots took on a richer, darker green color compared to the control plots and they were consistently more health looking into late June.

Effects of Season Long Double Rolling on Turf Health, Disease and Spring Green Up (2023-2026) How the MTF funding will be used to support project(s): MTF funding allowed my

team to evaluate turf tolerance to daily double rolling including during the winter months to study shoulder season effects including early spring green up, decreases in disease control, customer satisfaction and overall turf and soil health as daily double rolling continues throughout the year.

There were also benefits to disease control in rolled plots. Although not statistically significant, there were fewer dollar spots on rolled plots. All three rating dates during a brown patch outbreak in July and early August showed statistically significant decreases in percentage brown patch on rolled plots. Plots have been double rolled daily this fall/winter when snow is not present and surface temperature readings will be taken as soon as snow cover is gone. We hope to get some good spring green up differences again this year. I would prefer to continue this study for one more year and engage the new turfgrass faculty hire Dr. Wang.

MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

17

on a richer, darker green color compared to the control plots and they were consistently more health looking into late June.

There were also benefits to disease control in rolled plots. Although not statistically significant, there were fewer dollar spots on rolled plots. All three rating dates during a brown patch outbreak in July and early August showed statistically significant decreases in percentage brown patch on rolled plots.

Plots have been double rolled daily this fall/winter when snow is not present and surface temperature readings will be taken as soon as snow cover is gone. We hope to get some good spring green up differences again this year. I would prefer to continue this study for one more 1. year and engage the new turfgrass faculty Dr. Wang.

Table Spring Color Ratings (1-9 hire scale; 1=worst,

RESEARCH NEWS

5=acceptable, 9=best) 2025

Table 1. Spring Color Ratings (1-9 scale; 1=worst, 5=acceptable, 9=best) 2025 7

6.5

Image 1. March Image 1. March 5, 2025 5, 2025 Image 1. March 5, 2025

6 5.5 5 4.5 4 3.5

3

2/25/2025 3/18/2025 4/22/2025 4/29/2025 5/6/2025 5/13/2025 5/20/2025 6/3/2025 6/13/2025 6/19/2025

No Rolling

2x Daily Rolling

Table 2. Dollar Spot Disease Pressure (Number of Dollar Spots) 2025 Table 2. Dollar Spot Disease Pressure (Number of Dollar Spots) 2025

Image 2. April 28, 2025

Image 2. April Image 2. April 28, 202528, 2025

350 300

Table 2. Dollar Spot Disease Pressure (Number of Dollar Spots) 2025 250 350 200 300 150 250 100 200 50 150 0 100

6

6/30/2025

7/14/2025

50

7/22/2025

7/29/2025

No Rolling

0

8/15/2025

9/4/2025

9/25/2025

9/4/2025

9/25/2025

Rolling Daily

7/14/2025 7/22/2025 7/29/2025 8/15/2025 Table 3.6/30/2025 Brown Patch Disease Pressure (Percent Plot Cover) 2025 60 No Rolling Pressure Rolling Daily Table 3. Brown Patch Disease (Percent Plot Cover) 2025 50 Table 3. Brown Patch Disease Pressure (Percent Plot Cover) 2025 60 40

Image 3.

2025 Image 3. 14, May 14, 2025 Image 3. May May 14, 2025

50 30 40 20

8

8

30 10 20 0 10 0

7/11/2025

7/29/2025

No Rolling 7/11/2025

Grad Student(s) Involved: NA

8/5/2025

Rolling Daily

7/29/2025

No Rolling

8/5/2025

Rolling Daily

Benefit Group: This research will benefit golf courses. Rolling has become a staple practice on many Involved: golf courses Grad Student(s) NAdue to research funded primarily by the MTF in the 1990’s, but it is not typically done in the colder months for fear of damaging NAthe turf. Investigation into winter/early spring rollingwill andbenefit its effects springRolling green up proveauseful Benefit Group: This research golfon courses. haswill become stapleto courses looking kickstart thedue playing season.funded Benefits to disease control could practice on manytogolf courses to research primarily by the MTFby inrolling the 1990’s, research will benefit add itanother crucial preventative tool formonths superintendents to use.

I anticipate running this but is not typically done in theThis colder for fear of damaging the turf. golf Investigation studywinter/early for one morespring year and get and Dr. Wang involved and earn her scientific into rolling its effects on spring green upawill prove publication. usefulon to courses.

Rolling has become a staple practice courses looking to kickstart the playing season. Benefits to disease control by rolling could many due to research funded add anothergolf crucialcourses preventative tool for superintendents to use.

I anticipateprimarily running this study for one more year and get Dr. Wang involved and earn her a scientific publication.

Grad Student(s) Involved: Benefit Group:

by the MTF in the 1990’s, but it is not typically done in the colder months for fear of damaging the turf.

7 Investigation into winter/early spring rolling and its effects on spring green up will prove useful to 7 courses looking to kickstart the playing season.

Benefits to disease control by rolling could add another crucial preventative tool for superintendents to use. I anticipate running this study for one more year and get Dr. Wang involved and earn her a scientific publication.

Image 4. July 202524, (dollar spot pressure) Image 4.24, July 2025 (dollar spot pressure) Image 4. July 24, 2025 (dollar spot pressure)

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Image 5. July 29, 2025 (brown patch pressure)

Image 5. July 29, 2025 (brown patch pressure)

Project Duration/Future Research: This project will continue through 2026 with intent of scientific publication and trade journal publications.

This

Project Duration/Future Research:

project will continue through 2026 with intent of

Project 3 Name:publication Effects of Double Rolling Fertility Rates on Bentgrass Greens scientific andandtrade journal publications.

How the MTF funding will be used to support project(s): Funding has allowed our team to evaluate the effects of daily rolling combined with different fertility rates on turf speed, firmness and soil volumetric water content. Funding will also be used to analyze soil and tissue samples in the fall. The hypotheses were that rolling would decrease dollar spot more than nitrogen content and that increased n rates do not result in slower green speeds.

PROJECT 3 NAME:

Expected Results and Methods: In 2024 we ran a short trial in the summer season from mid-June to mid-August looking at the combination effects of rolling and fertility on a bent green. This research showed rolling increases surface firmness and soil water content while an increase in fertility decreased surface firmness and soil water content.

Effects of Double Rolling and Fertility Rates on Bentgrass Greens

We expected to see similar results in 2025 but did not know to what extent either factor would contribute to any differences. We made weekly foliar Urea applications during a three-month trial period (beginning in mid-June) and rolled twice daily.

How the MTF funding will be used to support project(s): Funding has allowed Project 3 update: In 2025, we found significantly faster greenspeed and higher soil

our team evaluate the toeffects of One daily moisture contentto on rolled plots compared un-rolled plots. ratingrolling date at the end of the season showedwith the rolled plots with highest fertility significantly hadturf the highest combined different fertility rates on volumetric water content of all treatments. One rating date in mid-July showed the rolled

speed, firmness and soil volumetric water content.

Funding will also be used 10to analyze soil and tissue samples in the fall. The hypotheses were that rolling would decrease dollar spot more than nitrogen content and that increased n rates do not result in slower green speeds.

Project 3 update: In 2025, we found significantly faster greenspeed and higher soil moisture content on rolled plots compared to un-rolled plots. One rating date at the end of the season showed the rolled plots with highest fertility significantly had the highest volumetric water content of all treatments. One rating date in mid-July showed the rolled plots with lowest fertility significantly had the lowest Trufirm ratings and fastest greenspeed measurements of all treatments. Our data suggests rolling is much more impactful on speed, firmness and soil moisture content than fertility rates. Differences in these metrics from fertility rates present, butandminimal plots with lowest fertility significantly had theare lowest Trufirm ratings fastest plots with lowest fertility significantly had theOur lowest fastestmore greenspeed measurements ofto all treatments. dataTrufirm suggestsratings rollingand is much when compared rolling. greenspeed measurements of all treatments. Our data suggests rolling is much more

impactful on speed, firmness and soil moisture content than fertility rates. Differences in impactful on speed, firmness and soil moisture content than fertility rates. Differences in these metrics from from fertility fertility rates rates are arepresent, present,but butminimal minimalwhen whencompared comparedtotorolling. rolling. these metrics

Table 1. Soil Moisture Content (TDR) Readings 2025

Table 1. Soil Soil Moisture Moisture Content Content (TDR) (TDR)Readings Readings2025 2025 Table 1.

35 30

30

25

25

20

20

15

15 10

10 5

5

0

0

Rolling 0.15 #N

No Roll 0.15 #N

Table 2. Trufirm Readings (higher = softer) 2025 Rolling 0.15 #N No Roll 0.15 #N

Rolling 0.3 #N

No Roll 0.3 #N

Rolling 0.3 #N

No Roll 0.3 #N

Rolling 0.3 #N

No Roll 0.3 #N

Rolling 0.3 #N

No Roll 0.3 #N

660 Table 2. Trufirm Readings (higher = softer) 2025

640 2. Trufirm Readings (higher = softer) 2025 Table 620 660

600

Expected Results and Methods: In 2024 we ran a short trial in the summer season from midJune to mid-August looking at the combination effects of rolling and fertility on a bent green. This research showed rolling increases surface firmness and soil water content while an increase in fertility decreased surface firmness and soil water content.

We expected to see similar results in 2025 but did not know to what extent either factor would contribute to any differences. We made weekly foliar Urea applications during a three-month trial period (beginning in mid-June) and rolled twice daily.

640

580

620

560

600

540

580

520

560 500 540 480 520 500 480

Rolling 0.15 #N

No Roll 0.15 #N

Rolling 0.15 #N

No Roll 0.15 #N

11

11

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RESEARCH NEWS Table 3. Greenspeed Measurements (in inches) 2025 Table 3. Greenspeed Measurements (in inches) 2025 12 10

Project 3 Duration/Future Research: This trial ran for two years and after a third we will get it published, with the help of Dr. Wang, in a refereed publication and then in trade journals.

8 6

PROJECT 4 NAME:

4 2

Effects of pelletized maple leaf mulch on Poa annua in Agrostis stolonifera fairways

0

Rolling 0.15 #N

No Roll 0.15 #N

Rolling 0.3 #N

No Roll 0.3 #N

Grad Student(s) Involved: NA

Grad Student(s) Involved: NA

Benefit Group: This research will benefit golf courses, who are often trying to keep benefit golf through fertility rates high for healthierThis turf butresearch are also tryingwill to maintain greenspeeds rolling. Data on the effects of these two variables on greenspeed, soil moisture and disease courses, who are often trying to keep fertility rates control will be extremely useful.

Benefit Group:

high for healthier turf but are also trying to maintain greenspeeds through rolling. Data on the effects of these two variables on greenspeed, soil moisture and disease control will be extremely useful.

Project 3 Images: Project 3 Images: Project Images: Image 1. June Image 1.3June 4, 2025 4, 2025 Image 1. June 4, 2025

12

How the MTF funding will be used to support project(s): Support funding will allow researchers

to evaluate the effects of pelletized maple leaf mulch on Poa annua control when applied to fairway height turf in winter. We also want to look at whether the mulch will have any effect on disease, particularly snow mold over the winter months.

Methods: An experiment was established at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center, East Lansing, MI in the winter of 2023/2024. Soil temperature and volumetric water content data was gathered throughout the winter and spring. Soil surface temperatures were shown to be significantly higher on mulched plots, likely due to the dark color Project 4 Name: Effects of pelletized leafthe mulchsun. on Poa 1000 annua in Agrostis stolonifera absorbing more heat maple from grams of fairways sand cornmeal snow mold inoculum was applied to How the MTF funding will be used to support project(s): Support funding will allow the entire trialtheon November 19,leaf2024. grams researchers to evaluate effects of pelletized maple mulch on1350 Poa annua control when applied to fairway height turf in winter. We also want to look at whether the mulch (10L volume) of maple mulch pellets were applied to will have any effect on disease, particularly snow mold over the winter months. each plot on November 20, 2024.

Methods: An experiment was established at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center, East Lansing, MI in the winter of 2023/2024. Soil temperature and volumetric water content data was gathered throughout the winter and spring. Soil surface temperatures were shown to be significantly higher on mulched plots, likely due to the dark color absorbing more heat from the sun. 1000 grams of sand cornmeal snow mold inoculum was applied to the entire trial on November 19, 2024. 1350 grams (10L volume) of maple mulch pellets were applied to each plot on November 20, 2024.

Project 4 update:

Photos show the snow mold disease pressure from inoculation was severe in the late winter/early spring.

Project 4 update: Photos show the snow mold disease pressure from inoculation was Image 2. September 25, 2025 Image 2. September Image 2. September 25, 2025 25, 2025

severe in the late winter/early spring. We saw a remarkable decrease in Poa annua on plots treated with pellets after the mulch had broken down during green-up in 2025 (see figure 2).

Image 1. Fairway Maple Mulch Pellets Trial After Snow

Mold Infection in March 2025 at Hancock Turfgrass

Image 1. Fairway Maple Mulch Pellets Trial After Snow Mold Infection in March 2025 at Research Center, Hancock Turfgrass ResearchEast Center,Lansing-MI. East Lansing-MI.

Project 3 Duration/Future Research: This trial ran for two years and after a third we will Project 3 Duration/Future This ran forpublication two years and get it published, with the helpResearch: of Dr. Wang, intrial a refereed andafter thenainthird tradewe will get it published, with the help of Dr. Wang, in a refereed publication and then in trade journals. journals.

VOL 6 ISSUE 1 www.michiganturfgrass.org

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Image 2. Fairway Maple Mulch Pellets Trial after spring green-up in May 2025 at Hancock Turfgrass Research Image 2. Fairway Mulch Pellets Trial after spring green-up in May 2025 at Hancock Center, EastMaple Lansing-MI.

Image 5. Pellet applied on plots December 8th, 2025 Image 5. Pellet applied on plots December 8th, 2025

Turfgrass Research Center, East Lansing-MI. Image 2. Fairway Maple Mulch Pellets Trial after spring green-up in May 2025 at Hancock Turfgrass Research Center, East Lansing-MI.

Project Duration/Future Research: This will be the second full year of data from this trial using snow mold inoculum. We are hoping to see similar results in Poa annua control We saw a remarkable decrease Poa annua this spring.

To determine how the inoculum may have in contributed to the Poaon annua

plots treated with pellets after the mulch had 16 broken down during green-up in 2025 (see figure 2).

Image 3. Pellets for applications on December 8th, 2025

Image 3. Pellets for applications on December 8th, 2025 Image 3. Pellets for applications on December 8th, 2025

15 15

Image 4. Pellet for applications on December 8th, 2025 Image 4. Pellet for applications on December 8th, 2025

Image 5. Pellet applied on plots December 8th, 2025

Project Duration/Future Research: This

will be the second full year of data from this trial using snow mold inoculum. We are hoping to see similar results in Poa annua control this spring. To determine how the inoculum may have contributed to the Poa annua control, we have set up an additional trial this winter with 4 treatments: An untreated control, SM inoculum only, Pellets only, and SM inoculum + Pellets. Our additional trials should provide insight into how important each factor is in the Poa annua control we are seeing.

Grad Student(s) Involved: NA Benefit Group: The Earth. Currently there are

very few viable options for controlling Poa annua in bentgrass. While these exact methods are not practical, this research could benefit golf courses by providing potential future avenues for Poa annua control on bentgrass fairways and possibly greens. Based upon these results Dr. Nikolai has secured a grant from the National Turfgrass Foundation (out of Canada) with Dr Eric Patterson.

100% of those funds will be used in Dr. Pattersons’ lab to identify the naturally occurring compounds in the tree leaves.

MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

21

RESEARCH NEWS Figure 1. Percent soil Volumetric Water Content (TDR 350, Average of 10 readings per plot) taken on weekly Urea

Figure 1: Percent soil Volumetric Water Content (TDR 350, Average of 10 readings per treated plots 2025. plot) taken on weeklyin Urea treated plots in 2025.

PROJECT 5 NAME:

a a a a a ab b b b b a of 10 readings per b b Figure 1: Percent soil Volumetric Water Content (TDR 350, Average b b c plot) Urea treated plots in 2025.

- -on- weekly 20 taken 25

Effects of weekly sprayed Urea rates on greens height turf How the MTF funding will be used to support project(s): Support funding will allow

researchers to evaluate the effects of weekly spray applications of Urea to greens height turf at various high rates. Recommended rates of annual Nitrogen have ranged from the 8 or more pounds N/M of the historical past to the leaner 1-4 pounds N/M commonly advised in the modern era. Golf courses typically keep rates low to lessen environmental impacts, decrease maintenance costs and increase green speeds. We are looking to test the effect higher Urea rates have on soil moisture levels, turf firmness, green speed and organic matter. This is good information for presentations and educational purposes.

Expected Results and Methods: We expect

to see similar results to what we saw in 2023 and 2024. As Urea rates increase, soil moisture, turf firmness and greenspeeds should decrease. Higher rates should also lead to an increase in soil organic matter content. We measured soil organic matter content by sampling 2-inch-deep plugs with a 1-inch diameter probe. The sample cores were dried at 170C for 48 hours and weighed. They were then combusted at 440C for 5 hours and re-weighed.

The dry oven weight minus the combusted weight gave us the organic matter content.

25 15

a a

- - - -

20 10

b b b

a

b b c

15 5 10 0 5

6/13/2025

7/4/2025

8/4/2025

8/11/2025

9/3/2025

Control

Urea 0.15#

Urea 0.3#

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0 Figure 2: Turf firmness measurements (Trufirm, 8/11/2025 Average of 6 readings per plot) taken on 6/13/2025 7/4/2025 8/4/2025 9/3/2025 AVERAGE weekly Urea treated plots in 2025.

Figure 2. Turf Control firmness measurements Urea 0.15# Urea 0.3# (Trufirm, Urea 0.6# Average of a

720

6 readings per plots in a a plot) taken on weekly Urea treated 2025.

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Figure 3. Turf greenspeed measurements (Stimpmeter, shown as greenspeed difference in inches from Control) takeninon weekly Figure 3: Turf measurements (Stimpmeter, shown as difference inches from Control) taken on weekly Urea plots in 2025.

Urea treated plots intreated 2025.

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This experiment was established at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center, East Lansing, MI in July of 2023, so we have been applying these rates and collecting data for over two years now. Plots came out of the winter dormancy in early 2025 still quite dark green from prior years applications. Data from 2025 indicated statistically significant decreases in VWC, Firmness and greenspeed as Urea rates are increased. We found no significant differences in soil organic matter during either sampling date in 2025.

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Project 5 update:

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Figure 4. Soil organic matterUrea content (grams) sampled from Urea 0.15# 0.3# Urea 0.6# Urea treated plots in 2025.

Figure 4: Soil organic matter content (grams) sampled from Urea treated plots in 2025.

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(plots at the end of(plots the atseason) Image 2. September 25, 2025 the end of the season)

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19 Project Duration/Future Research: With

PROJECT 6 NAME:

over 2 years of consistent data, this trial is a great candidate for publication. We may continue treatments and ratings into 2026 with additional soil tests. Future research in this area may focus on combinations of Nitrogen rates with other factors.

One example is our Urea Rates/Rolling trial.

Comparing capillary hydroponic and variable depth rootzones for sustainable putting green management.

Benefit Group: This research benefits turfgrass

students for educational purposes and may be helpful to golf course superintendents and green committee members by providing an insight into Project 5 Duration/Future Research: With over 2 years of consistent data, this trial is a great for publication.

We may continue treatments and ratingsand into 2026 thecandidate impact wide range of Nitrogen rates thewith additional soil tests. Future research in this area may focus on combinations of Nitrogen corresponding effects onUrea turf and playability. rates with other factors. One example is our Rates/Rolling trial.

Fertility inputs are a common discussion topic Benefit Group: This research benefits turfgrass students for educational purposes and among professionals, and this research gives food may be helpful to golf course superintendents and green committee members by providing for thought. an insight into the impact wide range of Nitrogen rates and the corresponding effects on turf and playability. Fertility inputs are a common discussion topic among professionals, and this research gives food for thought.

Image 1. March 4, 2025 (plots coming out of winter)

Image 1. March 4, 2025 (plots coming out of winter)

Image 2. September 25, 2025 (plots at the end of the season)

How the MTF funding will be used to support project(s): Funding will support

the project through labor in specialized maintenance and care. Each plot is walk mowed and rolled to replicate golf course maintenance conditions.

Methods: Christopher Wilczynski, American

Society of Golf Course Architects, drafted 6 greens with identical undulations and slopes of 1.5, 3, and 5%. Each green was constructed 11 m x 11 m separated by a concave buffer zone 6 m wide east to west and 3.5 m wide north to south to negate the possibility of runoff or overhead irrigation drifting from one green to another (Figure 1). All six research greens were constructed with sand particles conforming to USGA specification.

The site was seeded with T1 creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) on 15 June 2022 and was grown in with overhead irrigation. Construction included block style irrigation system with heads on each corner of each green. Each CHS includes a waterproof liner divided into 2 equal sections with a 55-gallon control basin MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

23

RESEARCH NEWS buried beside the green connected to feed pipes that protrude to the middle of each section. The control system pumps water back and forth between sections every four hours, and the control basin also houses a valve that controls an adjustable water table. The VDR greens diverges from USGA construction recommendations by decreasing the rootzone depth at the top of slopes (8–10 inches) and increasing it in low lying areas (14-16 inches).

Maintenance practices include mowing six times per week at 3 mm, rolling 3 times per week, and sand topdressing and foliar fertility once a week.

Prior to study initiation irrigation triggers were determined by combining visual observations and volumetric moisture content (VMC) measurements with a TDR350. Greens displayed visible wilting at 7% VMC, therefore 8%VMC became the irrigation trigger. VDR returned 80% relative daily evapotranspiration via overhead irrigation while CHS system was met by setting auto fill when the water table fell below 20 cm below the surface of the lowest spot. CHS greens only received overhead irrigation following sand topdressing, fertility, and fungicide applications receiving the same volume of irrigation as VDR on those occasions.

Soil moisture has been monitored since 2023 at 7.5 cm, with a handheld TDR 350 across the greens surface in a 1.5 m x 1.5 m grid to map uniformity of moisture distribution.

Surface firmness was measured with a USGA GS3 in a drop tester. Six readings were taken in the high areas and six in the low areas of each plot’s surface. Additionally, the data collection method for surface firmness and surface organic matter accumulation was modified, adding a location factor within plots, surface organic matter (SOM) was measured following OM246 protocol (USGA, 2024) with three samples taken from high areas and three in the low areas of each plot’s surface.

Other data collection included green speed measurements with a USGA Stimpmeter, soil testing, drainage water testing, clippings yield, and visual rating of pests and drought stress.

Project 6 update: In 2025, CHS greens required 55% less irrigation water compared to VDR greens. In 2023 and 2024 moisture at a 7.5 cm depth in CHS was less uniform across the plot than VDR (Figure 2) and Surface firmness did not differ between treatment. In 2025 location affected surface firmness on all five data collection dates and there was a significant interaction between location and data treatment on three fivemeasurements dates (Table Surface Other collection included greenof speed with a1).

USGA Stimpmeter, soil testing, drainage water testing, clippings yield, and visual rating of pests and drought firmness resulted in greater penetration in the LOW Other data collection included green speed measurements with a USGA Stimpmeter, soil stress. areas of CHS followed by the LOW areas in VDR. SOM testing, drainage water testing, clippings yield, and visual rating of pests and drought Project update: In 2025, CHS greens required 55% less irrigation water compared did not differ significantly between plots but there was to VDR stress. greens.

In 2023 and 2024 moisture at a 7.5 cm treatment depth in CHS was lesslocation uniform across the significant interaction between and Project update: In 2025, required 55% water compared toIn VDR plot than VDR (Figure 2)CHS andgreens Surface firmness didless notirrigation differ between treatment. withlocation the highest SOMfirmness measured inin the LOW areas oftherethewas a greens.

In 2023 and 2024surface moisture at a 7.5on cmall depth CHScollection was less uniform across 2025 affected five data dates and CHS. measurements did not significantly in plot thanSOM VDR (Figure 2)between and Surface firmness notdiffer differonbetween significant interaction location anddid treatment three oftreatment. five datesIn(Table 2025 location affectedresulted surface firmness onpenetration all five data(Table collection dates andofthere a 1).

Surface firmness in greater in the LOW areas CHS was followed by other locations across treatments 2). significant interaction between location and significantly treatment on between three of five dates the LOW areas in VDR. SOM did not differ plots but(Table there was 1).

Surface firmness resulted in greater penetration in the LOW of CHS SOM followed by significant interaction between treatment and location withareas the highest measured in the not differ significantly between plots but there waslocations the LOW LOWareas areasinofVDR. CHS.SOM SOMdid measurements did not differ significantly in other Table 1. interaction Effect ofbetween location and treatment on significant across treatments (Table 2). treatment and location with the highest SOM measured in surface firmness (inches) acrossdiddates assignificantly in other locations the LOW areas of CHS. SOM measurements not differ measured a USGA GS3 in a Table 1. Effect by of location and treatment ondrop surfacefixture, firmness across treatments (Table 2). (inches) 2025. across dates as measured by a USGA GS3 in a drop fixture,1.2025.

Table Effect of location and treatment on surface firmness (inches) across dates as measured by a USGA GS3 in a drop Date 2025.1 2 3 4 5 fixture, Location CHS Date 1 HIGH 0.408 a† Location CHS LOW HIGH LOW HIGH LOW HIGH

0.500 d 0.408 a† VDR 0.500 d 0.442 b VDR 0.463 c 0.442 b

2

0.417 a

3

0.422 a

4

5 0.415 a 0.412 a

0.475 c 0.491 c 0.459 b 0.498 d 0.417 a 0.422 a 0.415 a 0.412 a 0.475 c

0.418 a

0.491 c

0.426 a

0.459 b

†Means LOW followed 0.463 by c the0.454 0.451 b same 0.448column b 0.456 c samebletter in the do not

differ significantly (α≥0.05)

†Means followed by the same letter in the same column do not

Tablesignificantly 2 Effect of location differ (α≥0.05)and treatment on surface organic matter as measured by OM246 methods, 2025.

Table 2. Effect of and location treatment on surface Table 2 Effect of location treatmentand on surface organic matter as measuredorganic

by OM246 matter as measured by OM246 methods, 2025.. methods, 2025.

Treatment HIGH LOW CHS Treatment

5.62 HIGH

VDR

5.93

VDR CHS

5.93 5.62

a† a

| ISSUE 1

a† a

9.96 LOW 9.96 7.31

†Means followed by the same letter do not differ significantly (α≥0.05)

†Means followed by the same letter do not differ significantly (α≥0.05)

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0.435 b

0.454 b 0.451 b 0.448 b 0.456 c 0.418 a 0.426 a 0.419 a 0.435 b

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0.498 d

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www.michiganturfgrass.org

7.31

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Image 1. Research site of CHS and VDR greens at Hancock

Image 1. Research site of CHS and VDR greens Hancock Turfgrass research Center at Michigan Turfgrass research Center atatMichigan State University, East State University, East2025.

Lansing, MI, 2025.

Lansing, MI,

the greens have not been core cultivated as part of an organic matter control program. With SOM levels above 5% aggressive core cultivation may become necessary to return SOM to an acceptable range. The current irrigation schedule within the CHS greens is set to transfer the water every 4 hours, this is very frequent irrigation. Optimizing the frequency could lead to more uniform moisture retention, better SOM distribution and improved surface firmness.

Summary Points: • CHS greens required 55% less irrigation than VDR greens while maintaining comparable turf quality, green speed, and clipping yield.

Figure 2. Moisture map comparing VWC as taken with a TDR-350 in CHS and VDR greens at a depth of 7.5 cm.

2025..

• Location within the greens had a measurable effect on firmness across all dates, and a significant interaction between treatment and location was observed on three of five dates, with the highest firmness consistently in low areas of CHS. • SOM did not differ overall between CHS and VDR but showed a significant interaction with treatment and location, with low areas of CHS accumulating the most SOM, indicating emerging spatial variability as the CHS greens mature.

23

Grad Student(s) Involved: Michael Rabe wrote this update, and he earned his Master’s degree performing research on this site since construction.

Benefit Group: I (Dr. Nikolai) am very hopeful Across the first two years of the trial, the most 23 less consistent results indicate CHS greens required irrigation, whereas VDR greens maintained greater moisture uniformity. Additionally, during the first two years of the trial there was no difference between treatments in regard to clipping yield, greens speed, or surface firmness. Into the third year of the trial (2025) this remains true for irrigation water applied, moisture uniformity, greens speed, and clipping yield. As the greens matured organic matter levels have increased resulting in noticeable differences between the high and low areas of the CHS greens. To date

that results from this study will lead to the USGA including the Variable Depth Rootzone (VDR) method as part of their putting green construction recommendations. I see that as a huge kudos to the MSU program and MTF Funding given the VDR was the brainchild of Dr. PE Rieke with construction of the first VDR site funded primarily by the MTF. I also believe that the hydroponic system will continue to advance due to this research and will ultimately lead to enhanced irrigation conservation on golf courses across the world. The committee on the MTF have shaped the way turfgrass is cared for in the USA and across the world.

MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

25

Expected Expected Expected Results Results Results andand Methods: and Methods: Methods:

RESEARCH NEWS Dollar Dollar Dollar spot spot spot is the is the ismost the most most economically economically economically damaging damaging damaging disease disease disease of of cool-season of cool-season cool-season turfgrasses, turfgrasses, turfgrasses, particularly particularl particula o

bentgrass bentgrass bentgrass (Agrostis (Agrostis (Agrostis stolonifera). stolonifera). stolonifera).

Treating Treating Treating large large large areas areas areas of fairways of of fairways fairways with with with fungicides fungicides fungicides is very is very is costly. very costly. costly.

Research Research Resear co Michigan Michigan Michigan State State State University University University hashas shown has shown shown that that irrigation that irrigation irrigation applied applied applied at night at at night night cancan significantly can significantly significantly reduce reduce reduce dollar dollar dollar spot spot sp co PROJECT NAME: that that applied that applied applied in the in in the morning. the morning. morning.

TheThe mechanism The mechanism mechanism forfor this for this phenomenon this phenomenon phenomenon hashas been has been been hypothesized hypothesized hypothesized butbut isbut not is not isfully not fulluf evaluate mowing strategies and implement integrated disease However, However, However, other other other management management management practices, practices, practices, such such such as as mowing as mowing mowing implemented implemented implemented at at night, at night, night, have have have notnot been not been been evaluate evalua eval management utilizing an autonomous mower, fungicide spot spot management. spot management. management.

Nighttime Nighttime Nighttime mowing mowing mowing may may impact may impact impact leafleaf moisture leaf moisture moisture or or guttation or guttation guttation formation, formation, formation, potential potential potential contribu contri con programming, and resistant creeping bentgrass cultivars to in indisease indisease disease suppression, suppression, suppression, thereby thereby thereby reducing reducing reducing fungal fungal fungal activity. activity. activity.

Autonomous Autonomous Autonomous mower mower mower technology technology technology presents prese pre manage dollar spot pathogen populations that are insensitive opportunity opportunity opportunity to to overcome to overcome overcome challenges challenges challenges on on golf on golf courses, golf courses, courses, such such such as as labor as labor labor shortages shortages shortages and and environmental and environmental environmental conce conc to some classes of fungicides. minimize minimize minimize disruption disruption disruption of of play. ofplay. play.

TheThe study Thestudy study aims aims aims to to evaluate toevaluate evaluate mowing mowing mowing strategies strategies strategies andand implement andimplement implement integrat integ int Objective 1: Identify best management practices for creeping mowing management management management utilizing utilizing utilizing an an autonomous an autonomous autonomous mower, mower, mower, fungicide fungicide fungicide programming, programming, programming, andand resistant and resistant resistant creeping creeping bentgrass bentgra bentg frequency, timing, and fungicide application strategy on manage manage manage dollar dollar dollar spot spot pathogen spot pathogen pathogen populations populations populations that that are that are insensitive are insensitive insensitive to to some to some some classes classes classes of of fungicides. of fungicides. fungicides.

Dr. Ruying Wang, Nancy Dykema dollar spot severity and turfgrass quality.

PSM Department, MSU Objective Objective Objective 1: Identify 1: 1: Identify Identify best best management best management management practices practices practices forfor mowing for mowing mowing frequency, frequency, frequency, timing, timing, timing, andresistance and fungicide and fungicide fungicide application applicatio applica Objective 2: Evaluate creeping bentgrass cultivar and fungicide application strategy under daily autonomous dollar dollar dollar spot spot severity spot severity severity andand turfgrass and turfgrass turfgrass quality. quality. quality.

How the MTF funding willObjective be mowing.

Objective Objective 2: 2:Evaluate 2:Evaluate Evaluate creeping creeping creeping bentgrass bentgrass bentgrass cultivar cultivar cultivar resistance resistance resistance andand and fungicide fungicide fungicide application application application strategy strategy strateu used to support project: autonomous autonomous autonomous mowing. mowing. mowing.

Impacts of Autonomous Mowing on Dollar Spot on Creeping Bentgrass Fairway Turf

Methods: The MTF funds will be used for technical and Methods: Methods: Methods: undergraduate support for setting up and Objective 1: A study with four replications will be established Objective Objective 1: 1: 1: running the research trial, includingObjective sample at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center (HTRC), East A Astudy study with with with four four four replications replications replications willwill be will be established be established established at at theatthe Hancock the Hancock Hancock Turfgrass Turfgrass Turfgrass Research Research Research Center Center Cent (H collection and isolation, setting up and A study Lansing, MI, using the following parameters: Lansing, Lansing, MI,MI, using MI, using using thethe following the following following parameters: parameters: parameters: maintaining the Kress autonomousLansing, mower, making treatment applications based on the Main: Main: Main: Timing Timing Timing Sub: Sub: Sub: Frequency Frequency Frequency Sub-sub: Sub-sub: Sub-sub: Fungicide Fungicide Fungicide timing set forth in the trial, maintaining the 2:00 2:00 2:00 AMAM (early AM (early (early morning) morning) morning) Twice Twice Twice perper week per week week 14-day 14-day 14-day calendar calendar calendar schedule schedule schedule study site, rating the study, data analysis, 7:00 7:00 7:00 PMPM (dusk) PM (dusk) (dusk) Daily Daily Daily Threshold-based Threshold-based Threshold-based and report-writing, among other tasks. (>5(>5 infection (>5 infection infection centers centers centers perper plot) per plot) plot) 12:00 12:00 12:00 PM PM (midday) PM (midday) (midday) Smith-Kerns Smith-Kerns Smith-Kerns model model model Expected Results and Methods: NoNo fungicide No fungicide fungicide Dollar spot is the most economically Plots Plots Plots will will measure will measure measure 36 36 × 36 36 × 36 × ft 36 for ft ft for main for main main plots, plots, plots, 9 × 9 12 × 9 12 × ft 12 for ft ft for sub-plots, for sub-plots, sub-plots, and and 2 and × 2 6×2ft6× for ft6 ft for sub-sub-plots. for sub-sub-plots. sub-sub-plots A KA damaging disease of cool-season Plots will measure 36 x 36 ft for main plots, 9 x 12 ft for autonomous autonomous autonomous mower mower mower (donated) (donated) (donated) willwill be will be used be used used to to mow to mow mow plots plots plots at at 0.5at 0.5 inches 0.5 inches inches at at theat the timings the timings timings listed listed listed above. above. above.

Fluaz FluF turfgrasses, particularly on creeping sub-plots, and 2 x 6 ft for sub-sub-plots. A Kress KR237 bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera). Treating oz/1000 oz/1000 oz/1000 sq sq ft)sq ft) willft) will be will be applied be applied applied using using using a CO₂-pressurized a CO₂-pressurized a CO₂-pressurized boom boom boom sprayer sprayer sprayer with with with flatflat fan flat fan orfan or air-induction or air-induction air-induction nozzles nozzle nozz ca autonomous mower (donated) will be used to mow plots large areas of fairways with fungicides is2.22.2 deliver deliver deliver gal 2.2 gal ofgal of water of water water perper 1000 per 1000 1000 ft² ft² atft² the at at the timings the timings timings listed listed listed above. above. above. at 0.5 inches at the timings listed above. Fluazinam (0.5 fl very costly. Research conducted at Michigan oz/1000 sq ft) will be applied using a CO2 -pressurized boom State University has shown that irrigation sprayer with flat fan or air-induction nozzles calibrated to applied at night can significantly reduce deliver 2.2 gal of water per 1000 ft2 at the timings listed dollar spot compared to that applied above. in the morning. The mechanism for this phenomenon has been hypothesized but Objective 2: A split-plot randomized complete block design is not fully understood. However, other study with four replications will be established at the management practices, such as mowing HRTC. The main plot factor will consist of three creeping implemented at night, have not been bentgrass cultivars: ‘L-93’, ‘Declaration’, ‘Flagstick’ (resistant), evaluated for dollar spot management. representing varying degrees of susceptibility. Sub-plots Nighttime mowing may impact leaf will include four fungicide management strategies: a 14-day moisture or guttation formation, potential calendar-based application schedule, a threshold-based contributing factors in disease suppression, approach (>5 infection centers per plot), the Smith–Kerns thereby reducing fungal activity. predictive model (Smith et al., 2018), and a non-treated Autonomous mower technology presents a control. Main plots will measure 9 x 12 ft, with fungicide unique opportunity to overcome challenges treatment plots of 2 x 6 ft. All plots will be mowed daily at on golf courses, such as labor shortages and 0.5 inches using a Kress KR237 autonomous mower. environmental concerns, and to minimize disruption of play. The study aims to 26

VOL 6

| ISSUE 1

www.michiganturfgrass.org

has begun.

Grad Student(s) Involved. None Benefit Group: Golf course superintendents and other golf turf managers.

Pictures included: Pictures included:

Field maintenance, data collection, and statistical analysis A moderate nitrogen fertility program (1.5–2.0 lbs N per 1000 ft2²per year distributed in monthly applications) will be used to maintain turf quality while ensuring adequate disease pressure.

Irrigation, weed management, and insect control will be applied uniformly across all treatments as needed.

Data collection and statistical analysis

1. Photo showing dollar spot in a creeping bentgrass fairway.

1. Photo showing dollar spot in a creeping bentgrass fairway.

• Dollar spot incidence and severity (weekly ratings, digital image analysis)

• Turf quality (visual ratings on a 1–9 scale)

• Fungicide inputs (number and cost of applications)

https://gopropower.com/product/kress-robotik-kr237-mower/

• Canopy reflectance (NDVI), surface

2. Kress KR237 autonomous mower at work.

temperature, and soil moisture will be monitored to assess microclimatic influences on disease development.

https://gopropower.com/product/kress-robotik-kr237-mower/

https://gopropower.com/product/kress-robotik-kr237-mower/

• Treatment x fungicide program; cultivar

2. Kress KR237 autonomous mower at work.

x fungicide program) will be subjected to analysis of variance using a mixed model.

Project 6 update: This is a new project initiated in the late fall of 2025, and updates will be provided once initial data collection has begun.

Grad Student(s) Involved: None Benefit Group: Golf course superintendents and other golf turf managers.

3. Dew removaland and mowing patterns in response to autonomous mowing treatments.

3. Dew removal mowing patterns in response to autonomous

mowing treatments.

Estimated project duration: two seasons; funding requested for year 1.

3. Dew removal and mowing patterns in response to autonomous mowing treatments.

EstimatedEstimated project duration:project two seasons;duration: funding requested for year 1. two seasons; funding

requested for year 1.

MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

27

RESEARCH NEWS MTF Research Proposal 2026 Dr. Emily Holm

MTF funding is requested for graduate student support, facility fees, plot fees, and consumable costs for the following projects:

PROJECT NAME:

Influence of fall mowing height changes and timing of the change on winter survival of annual bluegrass putting greens _______ Student: Ruilin Miao

Project Description: In theory for perennial species, the accumulation of sugars from photosynthetic leaf tissues that can go into storage as starches is very important for winter survival and the quantity stored could be influenced by mowing height. The carbohydrates are largely transported from the leaves or root system and stored in crown or other overwintering structure. Theoretically, if annual bluegrass is allowed to develop more leaf surface area for photosynthesis, more carbohydrates could be stored and used for regrowth in the spring; however, annual bluegrass’s unique genetics and flowering capacity calls into question whether annual bluegrass will benefit from increased mowing heights and extra storage carbohydrates. Golf course superintendents may be reluctant to raise cutting heights of putting greens due to slower green speeds and the demand to maintain optimal playing conditions as long into the fall as weather permits play. Typically, if superintendents

28

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raise cutting heights at all it is when play is declining.

Raising the mowing height would be a viable and costeffective practice to adopt. But first, superintendents need more information on at what level and on approximately what date the mowing height needs to be raised to see any increase in winter survival.

Thus, the objective of this study is to determine the effect of mowing height on winterkill survival of annual bluegrass putting greens. We hypothesize that raising mowing heights in September from a 0.125inch standard height to higher levels of cut will reduce winterkill associated with ice cover on annual bluegrass putting greens.

Methods: Research plots at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center of annual bluegrass putting greens will be mowed at 0.125 inch mowing height until the following treatments with 4 replications begin: Mowing height treatments: Height 1: 5,10,12,15, always mow 0.125 inch for 9 weeks. Height 2: 7,9,13,20, mow 0.125 at start, 0.150 for week4, 0.175 for week 5 and 0.200 in all remaining weeks. Height 3: 3,8,16,19, mow 0.125 at start, 0.150 for week 2, 0.175 for week 3 and 0.200 in all remaining weeks. Height 4: 1,6,14,17, always mow 0.200 for 9 weeks. Turfgrass quality, normalized difference vegetative index, canopy height, root length, and root biomass will be measured in plots on a weekly basis starting in the late summer, through fall mowing treatments, and in the spring for winter survival ratings.. Turf plugs 4 inch in diameter will be taken from each plot in mid-November prior to soil freezing and brought into a low temperature growth chamber (-4°C).

Growth chamber methods. For ice treatment, plants will be misted under low temperature to develop an ice layer as in Figure 1. Plants will be exposed to two ice treatments 1) no ice 2) ice cover (1.27 cm deep).

Plants will be sampled at 0, 20, 40 and 80 days of ice cover. Lights in the chamber will be set to simulate an overcast winter day in Michigan (200 μmol m-2 s -1 with 10 h day length). Thus, a total of 128 turf plugs will be taken (4 replications x 4 mowing height treatments x 2 ice treatments x 4 sampling dates). On a given sampling day, turfgrass plugs will then be cut in half. Half of the plugs will go towards a regrowth assay in a greenhouse (plants will be de-acclimated for one week in a refrigerator prior to transferring to

www.michiganturfgrass.org

the greenhouse) and percent regrowth will be documented weekly or on an as needed basis.

Half of the turfgrass plug will be used for ice stress tolerance characteristics.

Expected results — Enhanced

uses controlled condition and field conditions to determine the efficacy of novel spring management practices on turfgrass survival of severe winter conditions.

Objectives and Expected results:

recommendations regarding putting greens care will be the major outcome of this project. We expect mowing height to significantly influence winter survival of annual bluegrass.

Objective 1 – Quantify water uptake rates of crowns and chlorophyll damage of plants with and without ice encasement and in response to spring warming (deacclimation) and ABA treatments.

Benefit Group — The benefit groups include

Hypothesis – Ice encasement will cause more rapid water uptake compared than without ice encasement and an interrupting warming treatment will exacerbate this effect.

ABA to promote stomatal closure, inhibit growth, and limit water uptake will reduce water absorption of crown tissue. Crown survival could be promoted by delayed water uptake.

golf courses and turfgrass scientists.

Estimated project duration — 2 years (initiated in summer 2024-2026).

PROJECT NAME:

Winter recovery management strategies for cool-season turfgrasses _______

Student: Ruilin Miao

Project Description: Winterkill damage of perennial turfgrasses on golf courses and other turf areas is costly to repair and detrimental to the success and sustainability of the turfgrass industry. Maintaining mature turfgrass areas is critical to reducing environmental impacts, which is difficult with climate change induced seasonal fluctuations and severe weather.

Therefore, research to determine post-winter management strategies to promote perennial turfgrass plant survival and release from winter dormancy is critical. Light and water are two major factors associated with plant death during the winter to spring transitional period, but little research has been performed to evaluate spring turfgrass management strategies to reduce plant stress associated with these factors. Our research

Objective 2 – Identify the effect of varying light intensities during ice and during spring recovery from ice encasement on annual bluegrass survival and physiological properties.

Hypothesis – Since minimal levels of photosynthesis could occur under illuminated ice and plants would be acclimated to light, we hypothesize that recovery will be promoted. The shock associated with darkness under ice encasement followed by sudden light exposure could cause photoinhibition and irreversibly damage crown tissue.

Objective 3 - Test sustainable, novel turfgrass spring treatments for post-winter protection and identify whether the treatments moderate annual bluegrass responses to water and light following winter in field and controlled conditions Hypothesis – Protection from light and moderated temperatures by shading turf with either powder or a cloth following winterkill stress could reduce irreversible damage caused by photoinhibition and promote turfgrass crown survival.

Methods Objective 1 - Turfgrass plugs (4” diameter) of annual bluegrass will be collected from the field, exposed to cold acclimation temperature regime and then treated with 0 or 50 d of 1) ice encasement (Figure 1) 2) no ice encasement 3) ice melt + warm period exposure (premature de-acclimation) 4) warm exposure only. De-acclimation temperature and duration

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RESEARCH NEWS

soluble in water) as a wet application 3) talc treatment (more methods will be used as in Hoffman et al., (2014). Following winter treatments plants will hydrophobic compared to kaolin clay) 4) a shade cloth treatment for 5 days 5) shade cloth for 10 days and 6) no treatment. Timing be de-acclimated gradually and treated with of these application will be made based on weather predictions or without ABA (100μM; Wang et al., 2003) and may be made on an as needed frequency. Light incidence and tetralone-ABA (0.5 g·L-1 as in Wang et al. in the field and under the shade cloths will be tracked. Shade (2025); this rate may be modified with trial). cloths will be pinned down to turf plots. Digital image analysis Leaf and crowns will be excised from half of will be performed to monitor coverage of the white powder. the plant and tested in vitro to measure the Duration of treatment persistence on the leaves will be tracked moisture content and rate of water uptake and normalized difference vegetative index, chlorophyll content, of tissue during soaking (Wang et al., 2023) o turf quality and crown viability (triphenyl tetrazolium chloride and tissue will be saved in a -80 C freezer for method) will be measured on field plots during the fall and spring cuticle analysis. The remaining intact plant and under the shade cloths will be tracked. Shade cloths will be pinned down to turf plots. seasons until plots are fully recovered. will go towards recovery in a greenhouse Digital image analysis will be performed to monitor coverage of the white powder. Duration of where light incidence, photochemical health treatment persistence on the leaves will be tracked and normalized difference vegetative index, (OJIP parameters including Fv/Fo; Lootens —crown The benefit golfchloride courses, chlorophyllBenefit content, turfGroup quality and viability groups (triphenylinclude tetrazolium method) will measured on fieldfields, plots during the fall and spring seasonsscientists until plots are fully recovered. et al., 2004), chlorophyll content (using be not athletic homelawns, and turfgrass since the destructive meter), chlorophyll ratios (chl project outcome is new knowledge of turfgrass winter recovery Benefit group groups include golf courses, athleticand fields, homelawns, and turfgras a, chl b, chl, carotenoids), malondialdehyde that- The canbenefit be used in management, research, breeding scientists since the project outcome is new knowledge of turfgrass winter recovery that can be used content to indicate lipid peroxidation, green purposes.. in management, research, and breeding purposes. tiller counts, and digital image analysis for Estimated duration — 2 years (2025-2027) percent green cover will be measured. Estimated project duration – project 2 years (2025-2027) Supplemental to funding from Project GREEEN Supplemental funding from Project GREEEN Objective 2 - Annual bluegrass plugs will Figure 1 — Ice encasement treatments in controlled growth be treated as described above and exposed encasement treatments in controlled growth usingsheeting pots dipped in paraffin chambers using pots dipped in paraffin waxchambers and acetate to varying light conditions during winterFigure (ice 1 – Ice wrapped around the rim. wax and acetate sheeting wrapped around the rim. or no ice) in growth chamber conditions or following winter as a factorial experimental design (high 1000, med 500, low 100 μmol m-2 s-1). Growth chambers will be set to the desired light levels and light incidence will be monitored with a light meter at canopy height. While ice will reduce actual incidence of light plants are receiving, this would be uniform for all plants under the ice and not limit interpretation. Recovery, photochemical health, and plant tissue will be harvested and preserved for health analysis as described in objective 1.

Figure 2: 2025 spring Figure 2 —recovery 2025 and protective treatment test of two levels of Kaolin clay and mesh spring recovery and putting greens shade covers on annual bluegrass

Objective 3 - Preliminary growth chamber experiments of annual bluegrass will test for any toxicity and resolve application issues and rates needed for good coverage prior to field treatments. Subsequently, a two-year field study at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center will be performed to evaluate spring protective effects of 1) kaolin clay dry application 2) a product called Surround (NovaSource WP Crop Protectant, more

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protective treatment test of two levels of Kaolin clay and mesh shade covers on annual bluegrass putting greens

www.michiganturfgrass.org

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LEGISLATIVE DAY

LANSING – House Judiciary Chair Sarah Lightner (R-Springport), like a lot of people, found golf was a wonderful and safe way to be outside during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it pushed her interest in the game and industry to a new level.

“It’s not just something the elite do,” she said Wednesday at the 18th Legislative Golf Day at the Capitol.

“All of us do it. It’s funsies, and you can get a lot of business done on the golf course, too. Then I want to highlight all the charitable giving that a lot of you in the industry give back to our communities. It’s huge. You know the statistics, over 60,000 employees at your courses, and over 800 courses in our state … the economic impact that last year was over $6 Billion and almost $2 billion of that in wages and benefits. Golf is super huge for our state.”

Lightner visited with golf course owners and operators, executive directors, and presidents from the Michigan Golf Alliance member organizations, and delivered the state government’s proclamation declaring June as Michigan Golf Month.

“Rep. Lightner is a perfect representative for us to engage with because she loves golf, understands the impact of our industry

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Among the messages the representatives of those groups delivered:

and realizes almost all of the golf courses in Michigan are small businesses that need support from our legislature,” Jada Paisley, executive director of the Michigan Golf Course Association, said.

“We need to thank Kelli Saunders of the Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) for setting up the visit from Rep. Lightner. Our Michigan Golf Alliance leaders were impressed with the opportunity to discuss the industry with her.”

Saunders, vice-president of policy and engagement at SBAM, said Lightner truly understands the golf industry.

“She’s an avid golfer and her view and understanding of the industry is really top tier in the way she explains the social aspect, the physical benefits and recognizing how golf courses give back to their communities,” she said.

“Her comments were really authentic, and because she engages in the industry herself in her free time, she has a firsthand perspective on the impact.”

After hearing tips on what to present from Lightner, the golf leaders dispersed to share the industry’s messaging by visiting the offices of each state legislator and inviting them and their staff members to lunch and dessert in tents on the Capitol building’s front lawn.

The Golf Association of Michigan (GAM), Greater Michigan Chapter CMAA, Michigan Golf Course Association (MGCA), Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association (MiGCSA), Michigan Section PGA and Michigan Turfgrass Foundation (MTF) form the Michigan Golf Alliance.

• The Michigan golf industry contributes $6.1 billion to the state’s economy, supports 61,000 jobs with $1.795 billion of wage and benefits income and more than $821 million in state and local taxes, and has a charitable impact of over $110 million annually.

• Michigan has over 850 golf courses that are part of over 700 facilities, almost all of which are classified as small businesses.

• Michigan’s golf provides 92,200 professionally managed acres of green space in Michigan serving as wildlife sanctuaries, and the facilities practice several environmental impact programs.

• More than 1.85 million golfers travel to Michigan for golf and spend more than $1 billion annually with non-residents playing about three of every 10 rounds in the state each year.

• Almost 80 percent of Michigan golf facilities have active junior, women’s, disabled or military golf programs to provide greater access to the game’s affordable recreation.

“The Michigan Golf Alliance created this day to let our legislators know who we are and as their constituents what is important to us,” Paisley said. “Today was a great success once again.”

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Members in The Field

Mike Rabe,

Assistant Manager at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center

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NOT EXACTLY A STRAIGHT PATH TO TURF SCIENCE:

MIKE RABE’S

JOURNEY www.michiganturfgrass.org

M

ike Rabe’s journey into the world of turf science is as unique as it is inspiring. Growing up in the small town of Saline, Michigan, and attending Saline High School, Rabe never envisioned a career in academia or research.

His story took a significant turn when he was offered an opportunity to work on a golf course under the guidance of his uncle, Tom Welsh, a golf professional and owner of a golf course management company in Livonia.

had the opportunity to spend an afternoon shadowing Dye as he reviewed construction progress on the back nine. “On the third day of my internship I got to meet Pete Dye and walk around while he was giving the construction manager notes through the entire back 9 of the golf course, it was incredible” Although the long hours and transient lifestyle of a golf course architect were not for him, the experience proved to be invaluable.

Mentored by superintendents, Alex Piotrowski, Ryan Maxwell, and Doug Ware at Golf Livonia, Rabe was drawn to their passion for the profession. He also found the visible, day-to-day improvements to the golf course especially rewarding. What began as a summer job soon developed into a genuine interest in turf management and set him on the path toward a career in the industry.

Upon returning to Michigan, Rabe took a position at Eagle Eye Golf Club and continued his education, eventually earning a bachelor’s degree from MSU in 2020. His academic journey didn’t stop there; an exciting opportunity arose to join the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center at MSU as an Assistant Manager. “Its a good position to be in as a grad student, I have this job at the turf center, I get to see all of the projects going on at the turf center, not every grad student gets that level of involvement.”

Eager to gain experience in the field, Rabe relocated to Florida and worked his way up to golf course mechanic.

During this time he realized the immense value of structured learning. This revelation led him back to Michigan, where he enrolled in the two-year turf program at Michigan State University (MSU). During this time, Rabe explored his interest in golf course architecture through an internship at Keswick Club, a full renovation designed by Pete Dye. While working on the project he

Encouraged by Dr. Thom Nikolai, Rabe pursued a master’s degree, focusing his research on comparing sub-ground and overhead irrigation systems—a project that drew on his construction experience from his internship with Dye. Now, as he embarks on his Ph.D. under the guidance of Dr. Ruying Wang,

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INDUSTRY NEWS Rabe is set to delve even deeper into turf science, continuing to explore variable depth, Capillary Hydroponic system root zones, among other intriguing projects.

Innovating the MSU Turfgrass Website Beyond the turf fields, Mike Rabe has been instrumental in modernizing the digital presence of the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center and the MSU Turfgrass Research program. The initiative to update the website (canr.msu. edu/turfgrass) alongside Jesse Sholl, Manager of the Turf Research Center, was propelled by the increasing demand for information, notably following press interest in the World Cup development program from Dr. Trey Rogers’ lab at MSU. Rabe says, “Dr. Rogers had suggested the creation of a fact sheet that could be easily consumed by the masses.

In development of this fact sheet it became apparent that the structure for a webpage was there.” Not only does the information on the website inform outsiders of the goings on at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center it can serve as a valuable link to those Michigan Turfgrass Foundation and Michigan Turfgrass Industry members who may not be able to attend field day or the annual conference where this information is normally disseminated.

Updating the website was far from a simple task. Rabe had to familiarize himself with MSU’s content management system (dotCMS) and its accessibility standards. These standards required content to be structured for compatibility with assistive technologies, including screen readers and keyboard navigation. Images needed descriptive alternative text, documents had to be reformatted into accessible web content, and page layouts were carefully organized using proper heading structures to ensure information could be easily located and understood by all users. This can be labor intensive to upload each image from multiple documents and add alternative text. To streamline the process, Rabe embraced modern technology, employing AI to assist in coding with Python. This innovative approach enabled him to convert formatted microsoft word files to HTML efficiently, while adhering to accessibility standards, significantly reducing the time required for the update.

The revamped website now offers an interactive experience, providing detailed information about ongoing research and projects at the Turfgrass Center. It serves as a crucial resource for those interested in the World Cup turf developments, Michigan Turfgrass Foundation members, and the broader turfgrass community. Moreover, Rabe has taken the initiative to enhance the center’s connection with its supporters by recording and sharing videos and photos with the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation, who then share on their social media channels (Facebook @MITurfgrass and Instagram @michiganturfgrass), further promoting the groundbreaking research conducted at the facility.

Mike Rabe’s contributions to the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center and the MSU Turfgrass program highlight his dedication to advancing turf science and fostering community engagement. His journey from working at a golf course to becoming a pivotal figure in turf research at MSU exemplifies the power of passion and determination in shaping a meaningful career.

CANR.MSU.EDU/TURFGRASS

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The 25th LaFontaine

GOLF OUTING RECAP

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he 25th annual LaFontaine Golf Outing was a fantastic success, with 23 teams enjoying their time at the Coyote Preserve Golf Club, which was in excellent condition. The event wrapped up just as the rain started to fall—perfectly timed!.

Event Highlights: Michigan Turfgrass Foundation President, Scott Rettmann, kicked off the reception following the golf event by recognizing the MTF board members present, including Diane Michel, Adam Palmatier, Christian Koval, Ben Keeler, Robert Bywaleck, Doug Ware, and former board member Jeff Holmes.

Chris Koval (Chair) w/ LaFontaine Flight Champions

He also recognized the members of the MSU turf team who were present: Jesse Sholl, Ryan Bearss, Nancy Dykeman, Dr. Jackie Guevara, Dr. Kevin Frank, and Mike Rabe.

LaFontaine Golf Outing Chair, Christian Koval, expressed gratitude to every attendee and extended a special acknowledgment to the Coyote Preserve staff. This included the Osburn family, General Manager Jason Raney, Superintendent Eric Briel, Chef David, and the entire team.

Mike Rabe provided an update on the recent social media developments from the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center.

Chris Koval (Chair) w/ Vargas Flight Champions

Dr. Jackie Guevara shared news about the MSU Turf Club and their recent interactions with the MTF. Gordie LaFontaine expressed gratitude to everyone present and gave a brief overview of the Vargas Endowment and the MTF’s purpose. He introduced Dr. Ruying Wang, an MSU Turfgrass Pathologist.

Dr. Wang thanked the attendees, the MSU Turf Team, and the MTF.

Golf Awards LaFontaine Flight Winners: -14 Brett Roberts, Scott Micher, Tyler Cooper, Kris Kalil Vargas Flight Winners: -8 John Borak, Dan Bywalec, Robert Bywalec, Jeff Thomas Ladies Flight Winners: Nancy Dykema, Jackie Guevara, Diane Mischel, Ruying Wang Closest to the Pin: #6 Nick Wessner, #8 Erwin Mac, #12 Dale Simpson, #14 Colin Giles, #17 Brett Roberts

Chris Koval (Chair) w/ Ladies Flight Champions

Longest Drive: Men - Kevin Peck, Women - Diane Mischel Skins: #16 Faria group, #17 Roberts group View the 2026 LaFontaine Golf Outing photo gallery: https://photos.app.goo.gl/pSNWAp6dUJnrMr4F7 MTF NEWS NOTES

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2026 MTF TeeTimes4Turf: Building on Success Supporting Turf Research and Students 2026 MTF TeeTimes4Turf:

For more than 60 years, the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation (MTF) h research, supported the Michigan State University (MSU) Turf Progra the next generation of turf professionals. MTF has also provided ess and resources for research laboratories at the Hancock Turfgrass Re MSU’s campus.

Supporting Turf Research and Students

BUILDING ON SUCCESS

TeeTimes4Turf Impact For more than 60 years, the Michigan TurfgrassFundraising Foundation (MTF) has advanced turf One State of MTF’s most successful efforts is TeeTimes4Turf research, supported the Michigan University (MSU) Turf fundraising Program, and invested annual onlineMTF golf has auction where participants bid on donated tee tim in the next generation of turf professionals. also provided essential equipment 200 golf courses.

For more than 14 years, TT4Turf has been central and resources for research laboratories at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center on of the MSU Turf Program, contributing more than $50,000 each yea MSU’s campus.

exceeded expectations, closing with $74,000 in bids on more than 2

TeeTimes4Turf Fundraising Impact Looking Ahead to 2027

One of MTF’s mostThe successful efforts is TeeTimes4Turf TT4Turffundraising Committee extends its sincere thanks to every course t (TT4Turf), an annual online golf auction where participants bid on donated year’s event. As we look to 2027 and beyond, we are setting new go tee times from more than 200 golf For more thanfor 14 the years, TT4Turf participation andcourses. strengthen support MSU Turf Team and its has been central to MTF’s support of the MSU Turf Program, contributing more than $50,000 each year.

This year’s event exceeded expectations, Michigan is home to more than 800 golf courses and has more publ closing with $74,000 in bids on more than 200 items. other state. To help reach courses that may not yet be familiar with

encourage previous donors who are able to register early for the 20

Looking Ahead to 2027 registration helps the committee:

• Identify additional courses interested in supporting turf research

The TT4Turf Committee extends its sincere thanks to every course supported • Share the registration process withthat new participants this year’s event. As we look to 2027 and beyond, we are setting new goals to expand • Build momentum for another successful year participation and strengthen support for the MSU Turf Team and its students. Michigan is home to more than 800 golf and has TT4Turf more public courses than any If courses you supported in 2026, please takeother a moment to register state. To help reach courses that may not be familiar with TT4Turf, we encourage Michigan is yet unquestionably a leader in the golf industry, and this ev previous donors who are ablethat to register earlycontinue. for the 2027 event. Early registration leadership helps the committee: • Identify additional courses interested in supporting turf research

Register here now!

REGISTER HERE NOW!

• Share the registration process with new participants • Build momentum for another successful year If you supported TT4Turf in 2026,, please take a moment to register now for 2027. Michigan is unquestionably a leader in the golf industry, and this event proudly helps that Sincerely, leadership continue.

Sincerely, Doug Ware TT4Turf Chairman

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Doug Ware TT4Turf Chairman Eric Davey

Eric Davey TT4Turf Committee Ben Keeler

TT4Turf Committee

TT4Turf Committee

www.michiganturfgrass.org

Ben Keeler TT4Turf Comm

2026 TT4Turf Participating Clubs: Alpena Golf Club Alpine Golf Course American Dunes Golf Club - Grand Haven, Michigan Apple Mountain Golf Course Arbor Hills Golf Club Arrowhead Golf & Grill Atlas Valley Country Club Avon Oaks Country Club Barton Hills Country Club Battle Creek Country Club Bay City Country Club Bay County Golf Course Beacon Hill Golf Course (Brentwood) Bedford Valley Golf Club - Gull Lake View Resorts Bee Tee Golf Club Bellaire Centennial Golf Club Belvedere Golf Club Birchwood Farms Golf & Country Club Blythefield Country Club Boyne Resorts - Highlands Brentwood Golf Club & Banquet Center Briar Ridge Golf Course Brookshire Inn & Golf Course Bucks Run Golf Club Cadillac Country Club

Cadillac Country Club Calderone Golf Club Canadian Lakes Royal Golf Course Cascade Hills Country Club Catawba Island Club - Ohio!

Cherry Creek Golf Club City Of Livonia - Fox Creek City Of Livonia - Idyl Wyld City Of Livonia - Whispering Willows College Fields Golf Club (2) Country Club of Detroit Country Club of Jackson Country Club of Lansing Country Oaks Landscape Supply Coyote Golf Club Coyote Preserve Golf Club Crystal Downs Country Club Crystal Mountain - Betsie Valley Course Dearborn Country Club Duck Lake Country Club Dunham Hills Golf Club Eagle Eye Golf Course Eagle Glen Golf Course Eastern Hills Golf Club Edgewood Country Club

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2026 TT4Turf Participating Clubs: — Continued

Egypt Valley Country Club - Ridge Course Egypt Valley Country Club - Valley Course Elk Rapids Golf Club Farmington Hills Golf Club Farmington Hills Golf Club Fellows Creek Fieldstone Golf Club Flint Golf Club Forest Akers - East Golf Course Forest Akers - West Golf Course Forest Lake Country Club Gaylord Golf Club (2) Great Oaks Country Club Greystone Golf Club & Banquet Center Groesbeck Golf Course Grosse Ile Golf & Country Club Gull Lake Country Club Gull Lake View Resorts - EAST Gull Lake View Resorts - WEST Hankerd Hills Golf Course Hawk Hollow Golf Course Highland Meadows Golf Club Hilltop Golf Course Huron Hills Golf Course - City of Ann Arbor Indian Run Golf Club Indian Trails Golf Course Indianwood Golf & Country Club - “New” Course Indianwood Golf & Country Club - “Old” Course Kent Country Club Lakelands Golf and Country Club Lakes of Taylor Golf Course Leslie Park Golf Course - City of Ann Arbor Lincoln Golf Club Links at Crystal Lake (2) Links at Gateway LochenHeath Golf Club Lochmoor Club Lost Lake Woods LYNX Golf Course Manistee National Golf & Resort Marquette Golf Club - Greywalls Marquette Golf Club - Heritage Meadowbrook Country Club Metamora Golf and CC Michigan Turfgrass Foundation - Donations (3)

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Midland Country Club Milham Park Golf Course MSU Turf Club Hats - (25) Mt. Pleasant Country Club (2) Mystic Creek Naperville Country Club North Kent Golf Club Oak Lane Golf Course Oak Pointe Country Club - Championship Course Oak Pointe Country Club - Honors Course Oakhurst Golf & Country Club Oakland University - RS Sharf Course or University Course Olde Mill Golf Club Paint Creek Country Club Petoskey-Bay View Country Club Pilgrim’s Run Golf Club Pine Knob Golf Club Pine River Country Club Pine View Golf Course Pineview Highlands (2) Players Golden Passbook to Michigan Golf - NORTH Players Golden Passbook to Michigan Golf - WEST Plum Hollow Country Club Prestwick Village Golf Club Radrick Farms Golf Course Railside Golf Club Red Run Golf Club Redwater Golf (2) Riverview Highlands Rush Lake Hills Golf Club Rustic Glen Golf Club Sage Run Golf Club Sweetgrass Golf Club Saginaw Country Club Salem Hills Golf Club Scott Lake Golf & Practice Center Shanty Creek Shenandoah Country Club Spring Lake Country Club Spring Meadows Country Club St. Ives Golf Club at Tullymore Golf Resort Stoatin Brae Golf Club Stonehedge ‘North’ Stonehedge ‘South’ Sugar Loaf “The Old Course”

www.michiganturfgrass.org

Crestview Golf Club Eldorado Golf Course Glenhurst Golf Course Harbor Point Golf Club Hidden River Golf and Casting Club Highpointe Golf Club Ostego Club - The Classic Ostego Club - The Tribute Pierce Lake Golf Course Polo Fields Golf & Country Club Sanctuary Lake Golf Course The Links at Hunters Ridge Wabeek Country Club

New TT4Turf Clubs

2026

Tam O’Shanter C.C. Taylor Meadows Golf Club The Bear @ Grand Traverse Resort & Spa The Cardinal - at Saint John’s The Chief Golf Course The Classic Fox - Fox Hills The Dream The Dunes Club The Emerald Golf Course (2) The Falls at Barber Creek The Fortress The Golden Fox - Fox Hills The Legacy by Arthur Hills The Majestic at Lake Walden (2) The Meadows Golf Club The Medalist Golf Club The Moors Golf Club The Nightmare The Orchards Golf Club The Quest Golf Course The Strategic Fox - Fox Hills The Wyndgate Country Club Timber Ridge Golf Club Timber Trace Golf Club Timber Wolf Golf Club Timber Wolf Golf Club TPC of Michigan Traverse City Golf & CC Treetops Resort - Traditions Course True North Golf Club Tullymore Golf Resort Twin Lakes Golf & Swim Club Walnut Creek Country Club Warwick Hills Golf & Country Club West Michigan White Caps Game 4tix (2) Western Golf & Country Club Westshore Golf & Country Club Westwynd Golf Course Whispering Pines Golf Club Whitmore Lake Golf Links Woodside Golf Course Wuskowhan Players Club 2026 New TT4Turf Clubs Captains Club Country Oaks Landscape Supply

Captains Club Country Oaks Landscape Supply Crestview Golf Club Eldorado Golf Course Glenhurst Golf Course Harbor Point Golf Club Hidden River Golf and Casting Club Highpointe Golf Club Ostego Club - The Classic Ostego Club - The Tribute Pierce Lake Golf Course Polo Fields Golf & Country Club Sanctuary Lake Golf Course The Links at Hunters Ridge Wabeek Country Club

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NCERA MEETING

June 2, 2026

T

his spring, the MTF, along with industry partners D&B Landscaping and SiteOne, hosted several of the nation’s leading turfgrass researchers at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center. The North Central Extension and Research Activity (NCERA) meet each year at a different institution in the region to discuss current research, extension, and teaching efforts.

NCERA-221, a multistate research project titled “Turfgrass and the Environment,” brings together university researchers, extension specialists, and scientists from the North Central United States. Its goal is to advance sustainable, environmentally responsible turfgrass management practices that reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides, water, and fertilizers.

MSU last hosted the meeting in 2009. This year’s event included activities at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center and a social gathering at the University Club, giving attendees time to connect and share stories.

As one of the hosts, Dr. Frank welcomed guests—and took the opportunity to sell a few MSU Turf Club hats.

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www.michiganturfgrass.org

The Turf Team and MTF thank D&B Landscaping and Site One for their support of this event.

In addition to the MSU Turf Team, attendees included: Dr. Tyler Carr - Ohio State University Dr. Mark Carroll - Maryland Amanda Folck - Nebraska Dr. David Gardner - OSU Brynn Johnson - OSU (Grad Student) Dr. Doug Karcher - OSU Dr. Quincy Law - Iowa State Dr. Deying Li - North Dakota State Dr. Alex Lindsey - Kansas State

Brian Miller - OSU (Grad Student) Dr. Aaron Patton - Purdue Geoff Rinehart - Maryland Dr. Derek Settle - Chicago District Golf Association Shehbaz Singh - Chicago District Golf Association Dr. Doug Soldat - Wisconsin Dr. Adam Thoms - ISU

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MSU Turf Club & MTF Interactions

Upcoming MTF Events Involving the MSU Turf Club Field Day: August 12, 2026 MSU students will assist with setup and registration, meet attendees, and gain a firsthand look at how MTF and MSU work together.

MTF Conference: January 12-14, 2027 From L-R John Hawkins (Treasurer) / Gabe Schneider (President) / Hayden Larabee (Vice President) Jared Callahan (Social Media MGR)

Since September 2025, the MTF and MSU Turf Club have worked to strengthen their partnership and identify opportunities that benefit both organizations. MTF has long supported MSU students through scholarships and classroom engagement with Dr. Rogers, and is now exploring additional ways to support the Turf Club’s needs and initiatives.

Several efforts are underway to build on shared goals between MTF and MSU students. Highlights include:

MSU Turf Club and TT4Turf MSU Turf Club - TT4Turf & NCERA Meeting The MTF TT4Turf Online Golf Auction has for 14 years has raised statewide awareness of MTF. This year, MSU Turf Club hats were sold through the auction site. In addition during the June NCERA meeting on campus. These events helped raise $1,200 for the Turf Club.

MSU Turf Club and LaFontaine Outing A raffle at the LaFontaine Outing, generously supported by Dan Bywalec of D&B Landscaping, raised an additional $740.

Thank you to everyone who purchased hats or supported the Turf Club at the outing.

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Scholarships remain a Conference highlight.

This year, MTF is developing a new opportunity for students, parents, and attendees to connect during the event. More details will follow.

Students will also support the Wednesday Vendor Show. We encourage attendees to support them as they continue their education and professional development.

MSU Student Icebreaker (TBD) Each fall, turf industry partners gather at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center to connect with students. MTF plans to add new elements this year to make the event even more meaningful; details are being discussed.

Student Internships and Social Media Highlights From July 6–24, 2026 MSU student interns created short social media videos about their internship sites and responsibilities. Videos will be posted, with likes tallied on August 24, 2026.

Students with the most likes will be awarded prizes from the MTF. Students are posting on Instagram and tagging MTF: @michiganturfgrass; PSM: @msu_psm; IAT: @msuiat_el; and Dr. Guevara: @jackofallturf. This first-year effort will be reviewed and refined for future internships.

MSU Turf Club and MTF

Zachary Flink

Every process has a starting point, and the MTF would like to recognize Past Turf Club President Zachary Flink for initiating this effort. Zachary approached MTF Executive Director Carey Mitchelson after a seminar in one of Dr. Rogers’ classes to express his interest in strengthening the Turf Club for future students and to seek suggestions. Several meetings in 2025 led to a foundational plan that is now being implemented by the new Turf Club Executive Committee. The MTF looks forward to supporting current Turf Club President Gabe Schneider as he advances these initiatives and pursues additional collaboration opportunities with the MTF.

MTF Scholarship Chair Mitch Hooten & 2026 MTF Robert Hancock Awardee Zachary Flink

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The Recap: Michigan Turfgrass Conference

95TH MICHIGAN TURGRASS CONFERENCE January 13-15, 2026 Soaring Eagle Casinno and Resort, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan

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Carey Mitchelson (MTF)

T

Dr. David Gilstrap (MSU)

Adam Ikamas (MiGCSA), John Fulling CGCS, Jeff Holmes (MTF-Awards Chair)

he Michigan Turfgrass Foundation (MTF) expresses its sincere gratitude to everyone who attended the 2026 MTF Turf Conference, held from January 13 to 15 at the Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort. This year marked the fifth consecutive conference at this venue, and the event saw record-breaking participation in every category. With a total of 531 attendees and guests, the conference experienced an unprecedented level of engagement. MTF extends special thanks to all vendors, sponsors, and auction donors whose contributions were vital to the success of the event.

The vendor show was nearly at full capacity, featuring 58 vendors who occupied 99% of the available spaces, demonstrating strong support from the industry. The silent auction was another highlight, with a record-breaking 42 donated items. The auction raised $12,000, which will be used to support the Michigan State University Turf Program. MTF also acknowledges the over 20 sponsors whose generous support made the event possible.

A new addition to this year’s conference was the Opening Reception, held in the Events Hall.

Hundreds of participants attended and celebrated key achievements in the turfgrass community.

During the reception, John Fulling, CGCS,

was presented with the MTF Meritorious Service Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions. Additionally, MTF honored Dr. David Gilstrap, a retiring professor, for his many years of dedicated service to both the turf industry and Michigan State University.

The conference was expertly coordinated by two past MTF presidents, Curt Boak and Dan Mausolf (LIC, CSP, ASM), with guidance from Dr. Kevin Frank for the 26th consecutive year.

The organization deeply appreciates their ongoing efforts to maintain and improve the quality of the event. Planning has already begun for next year’s conference, which will once again take place at Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort. Save the dates for January 12–14, 2027, and join us for another outstanding gathering of turfgrass professionals.

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2026 Student Awards — Continued

2026 MSU Turf Student Awards As the educational sessions concluded on Day 1, Dr. Rogers presented what he often calls “his favorite day of the year” when he hosted parents and family to the presentation of scholarships and awards to the deserving MSU Turfgrass students.

(L-R) Mitch Hooten (MTF) Awardee: Isobelle Brasher

sher

Isobelle Bra

holar

r Sc n W. Krame MTF Norma ardee Aw

(L-R) Mitch Hooten (MTF) Awardee: Zachary Flink

(L-R) Mitch Hooten (MTF) Awardee: Anthony Welch

Zachary Fli

nk MTF Robert H ancock Memo rial Scholarship A wardee (L-R) Mitch Hooten (MTF) Awardee: Aubree Faulkner

(L-R) Mitch Hooten (MTF) Awardee: William MacNellis

Anthony Welch

Nellis William Mac

MTF Kenyon T. Payne Outstanding Student Award

E

Creek SA MTF Shanty Scholarship

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Aubrey F

aulkner MTF Sports and Comme rcial Turf Scholarship Awardee

Michigan State University Awards

MSU - Tuck and Becky Tate Scholarship Awardees (L-R) Dr. Jackie Guevara (MSU), Awardees: Owen Dodge, Zachary Flink, Robert Knapp

MSU - Hal and Mark Vogler Awardees

(L-R) ) Dr. Jackie Guevara (MSU), Awardees: Gage Cheedie & Brandon Czarnowski

Charles and Frances Osterman Scholarship

(L-R) Dr. Jackie Guevara (MSU), Awardees: Gabriel Schneider, Patrick Neustadt, Joshua Powe, Adam Marcotte, Maxwell Irelan, Kevin Topolinski, Ryan Gonyea, Dr. Trey Rogers (MSU)

MSU - Billy Olsen Family Scholarship (L-R) Dr. Jackie Guevara MSU), Awardee: Gage Koso, Dr.Trey Rogers (MSU)

2026 MSU Turfgrass Student Awardees Dr. Rogers, Favorite Day of the Year

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State Association Awards

Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association Awards

(L-R) Jared Milner (MiGCSA), Awardees: Isobelle Brasher, Ryan Gonyea, Kevin Topolinski, Nick Michalek (MiGCSA Scholarship Committee)

Michigan Sports Field Managers Association & National Sports Fields Managers Association James Watson Award (L-R) Mitch Hooten (MSFMA), Awardee: Aubree Faulkner

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America issued 23 awards Nationally in 2025. In an amazing reflection of the Michigan State Turf Program MSU Students received 10 of those awards. This included the Mendenhall Award which was awarded to Dan Miller. This award is the top honor in the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) Scholars Competition, recognizing outstanding undergraduate students pursuing careers in golf course management or related turf management fields. Congratulations to all the award winners and the MSU Turf Team for their guidance of these fine young students.

National Awards

Samuel I. Russell Foundation Awards

Super Scratch Foundation Scholarships

(L-R) Awardees: Dan Miller & Steel Yonish, Dr. Trey Rogers (MSU)

(L-R) Awardees: Jack Judge, Joshua Kares, Robert Knapp, Brendan Phillips, Dr. Trey Rogers (MSU) Not pictured: Andrew Dorland

Golf Course Superintendents Association of America - Mendenhall Award (L-R) Awardee: Dan Miller, Steve Hammon (GCSAA)

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Trans–Miss Golf Association Turfgrass Scholarships

(L-R) Awardees: Owen Dodge, Evan Kluwe, Dr.Trey Rogers (MSU) Not pictured: Seth Knutson

GCSAA Scholarship Awardees (Multiple winners)

(L-R) Awardees: Robert Knapp, Owen Dodge, Isobelle Brasher, Dan Miller, Evan Kluwe, Brendan Phillips, Patrick Neustadt, Gabe Schneider, Steve Hammon (GCSAA) Not pictured: Seth Knutson, Maxum Verle

www.michiganturfgrass.org

FIFA & MSU TURF –

One scientist’s quest to grow the perfect World Cup grass | CNN

World Cup history will be made on this grass. These scientists have spent decades perfecting it We designed the turf for soccer’s biggest World Cup ever – here’s how we created the same playing experience across 3 countries

The to get perfect grass into Cup stadiums Post For anyone who may16 have World missed the excitement, we are pleased to Washington share highlights from media Anquest unmatched World Cup experience

and other sources that showcased the work of MSU and Tennessee and revealed the expertise behind creating immaculate FIFA-caliber playing surfaces. And for those who already feel proud to f you have ever wondered why the MSU TurfweProgram be Spartans, encouragematters, you to explore the links and see the full scale of this extraordinary The MSU FIFA crew project.have The MSU Turf reason Team’s work is a powerful example of excellence in action, and Dr. Rogers this story shows exactly why Spartans every to be (L-R Elijah Delaney, Ryan Bearrs, Dr. Jackie Guevara, Evan and his team have given all of us another reason to celebrate Spartan achievement.

I

The MSU FIFA crew

Pitch perfect: Developing natural grass for the World Cup CBS News

global spotlight years of dedication: work on t One scientist’s quest was to grow the perfect World Cup grass | MSU CNN Turf Team once again proved why its expertis inThe the industry. quest to get perfect grass into 16 World Cup stadiums -

proud. This summer, MSU Turf earned international recognition Rogers, Zachary Flink, Dr. Trey Rogers, Jake Kilby, Jesse Sholl) as the World Cup united fans around the globe for the world’s (L-R Elijah Delaney, Ryan Bearrs, Dr. Jackie Gueva premier sporting event. Behind that global spotlight was years of Jake Kilby, Jesse Sholl) dedication: work on the playing surfaces began five years ago, and to his remarks and to a special day celebrating the people, the MSU Turf Team once again proved why its expertise, leadership, World Cup history will be made on this grass. These scientists have spent decades perfecting it If you have wondered the MSU Turf Progr expertise, and ever Spartan pride behindwhy this remarkable and commitment set the standard in the industry.

The quest to get perfect grass into 16 World Cup stadiums Washington Post Spartans milestone. have every reason to be proud. This sum Why World Cup 2026 Grass Travels 1,000 Miles in Refrigerated the Cup united fansplayed around the globe for th WhyWorld is the FIFA World Cup being on grass?

Trucks - Business Insider

The World Cup’s Playing Surface Took 5 Years To Perfect When FIFA set out to create the best playing surfaces in World Cup history, it turned to Dr. John Sorochan of the University of Tennessee. After joining the effort, Dr. Sorochan contacted his mentor, MSU’s own Dr. Trey Rogers, to serve as co-principal investigator. Together, they built an exceptional team capable of meeting FIFA’s most demanding standards. Across three countries, shifting climates, diverse stadium designs, and countless logistical challenges, their work delivered at the highest level. The result was extraordinary: MSU and Tennessee helped create world-class playing surfaces praised as being among the finest ever prepared for the event.

World Cup grass in NFL stadiums stirs debate over field surface ESPN World Cup grass fields have NFL players asking why they still play on turf How FIFA is engineering natural grass for the 2026 World Cup | Scientific American Michigan State University has proudly celebrated the MSU Turf Team and this outstanding program for a achievement that brought distinction to the University on a worldwide stage. Their work represents the very best of Spartan innovation, collaboration, and leadership, and it will stand as a landmark accomplishment for MSU. To honor this success and amplify the well-earned recognition, MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz will attend Field Day at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Facility on August 12th, 2026. We look forward

Washington Post

Why World Cup 2026 Grass Travels 1,000 Miles in

World Cup history will be made on this grass. These scientists have spent decades perfecting it grass for the Wo Pitch perfect: Developing natural We designed the turf for soccer’s biggest World Cup ever –

The World Surface Took 5across Years To P here’s how weCup's createdPlaying the same playing experience 3 countries

When FIFA set out to create the best playing surfa For anyone who may have missed the excitement, we are Sorochan of the University of and Tennessee.

After join pleased to share highlights from media other sources that showcased the own work ofDr. MSU and Rogers, Tennessee and mentor, MSU’s Trey to serve as co revealed the expertise behind creating immaculate exceptional team capable of meeting FIFAFIFA’s most caliber playing surfaces. And for those who already feel shifting climates, diverse stadium designs, proud to be Spartans, we encourage you to explore the and co atlinks theandhighest level. was extraordinary: see the full scale The of thisresult extraordinary project. The MSU Turf Team’s work is a powerful example of excellence playing surfaces praised as being among the fines

in action, and Dr. Rogers and his team have given all of us anotherCup reasongrass to celebrate Spartan achievement.

World in NFL stadiums stirs debate ove Student view: From the country club to the FIFA World Cup

World Cup grass fieldsState have NFL players asking w 2026 | MSUToday | Michigan University

MSU turfgrass center stagenatural at FIFA World Cupfor 2026 | 2026 How FIFA istakes engineering grass the MSUToday | Michigan State University

Michigan State University MTF 50 years of impact at MSU has proudly celebrated for a achievement brought distinction to the U Celebrating the Michiganthat Turfgrass Foundation’s 50 years of impact at MSUthe - Alumni Friendsof Spartan innovation, co represents very& best landmark accomplishment for MSU. To honor this recognition, MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz will MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

51

MESSAGE FROM THE MTF

MSU Turfgrass

FIELD DAY 2026 There are two research tours for attendees to choose from in the morning; Golf turf Education tour and the Lawn Care/Athletic field Education tour (2 hrs and MDARD credits).

moisture management. Current studies on creeping bentgrass that validate data collected from satellite imagery will also be presented.

After lunch take in Agronomic Alley and attend Vendor demonstrations and/or attend a Sprayer calibration lab (2 Hrs and MDARD credits).

Annual bluegrass weevil in Michigan: ID, monitoring, and management – Dr. Max

MORNING RESEARCH TOUR MDARD pesticide recertification credits: 2 credits Category 3A, 6 Calibration workshop: Credits 2 Category 3A, 3B, 6, Comm CORE

Turfgrass physiology – Dr. Emily Holm

Morning Research Tour GCSAA Educational Points 0.20 Calibration workshop Educational Points 0.20

Register With the MTF MORNING RESEARCH TOURS

Golf Turf Research Tour (9 - 11 am) Disease identification and management strategies for golf turf – Dr. Ruying (Wrennie) Wang and Nancy Dykema. Major diseases on golf turf will be identified and discussed, including cultural and chemical management strategies for anthracnose and dollar spot.

Research evaluating best management practices for dollar spot using a weather-based prediction model and autonomous mowing technology will be highlighted.

Evaluating wear tolerance on putting greens – Dr. Thom Nikolai will discuss a trial that examines the impact of traffic and tank mixes with and without pesticides on weeds and diseases and the possibility of increasing wear tolerance on putting greens.

Satellite Imagery Technology in Turfgrass Management - Dr. Jackie Guevara will discuss the potential of satellite imagery technology for turfgrass management, particularly on nutrient and soil

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Helmberger. Learn how to identify the newly introduced annual bluegrass weevil and learn the unique tricks for monitoring and controlling it with optimal insecticide selection and timing.

www.michiganturfgrass.org

will discuss the latest winterkill and heat/ drought related physiology projects. The effects of altering mowing heights in the fall and application of plant growth regulators on turfgrass survival under ice encasement will be presented.

Linking Soil Moisture Variability to Root Disease Complexes on Sand-Based Putting Greens – Mike Rabe and Dr. Ruying (Wrennie) Wang. Root diseases are one of the most difficult pathogens to manage. Previous research on sloped putting greens, revealed that take-all patch was more severe in some areas than others. This project combines drone-based remote sensing with field sampling to investigate how differences in soil moisture influence disease development.

Novel methods for managing organic matter accumulation on putting greens – Dr. Kevin Frank. Golf course superintendents have used numerous cultural practices to mitigate organic matter accumulation in putting greens including sand topdressing, and

several mechanical removal processes. Recently, products containing the laccase enzyme have been commercially developed to manage organic matter accumulation, other reported benefits are acting like wetting agents in reducing localized dry spot. Trials have been conducted at MSU the last three years to determine the effectiveness of reducing organic matter accumulation.

Lawn and Athletic Fields Turf Research Tour (9 – 11 am) Effect of irrigation timing on disease incidence in lawn height Kentucky bluegrass – Mike Rabe and Dr. Ruying (Wrennie) Wang. Lawn irrigation scheduling is a seldom thought about topic amongst homeowners. Typically, homeowners defer to trusted professionals for their irrigation scheduling. Research conducted in 2011 and 2012 on golf course fairways showed that infrequent irrigation increased incidences of dollar spot. This project applied the same methodology to the home lawn.

Attendees will learn about the impact of irrigation scheduling on home lawn quality and disease incidence.

The effects of repeated Trinexapac-ethyl applications on traffic tolerance and recovery of Kentucky bluegrass – Ryan Bearss and Dr. Trey Rogers. Plant growth regulators are commonly applied to turfgrass systems to reduce vertical growth and mowing requirements. Applications are often scheduled according to growing degree days; however, this approach can make integration into existing weekly or bi-weekly spray programs challenging. Accordingly, research was conducted to identify weekly trinexapac-ethyl rates that could safely reduce clipping yield while maintaining turfgrass quality and allowing uninhibited recovery from simulated traffic.

Pain in the grass: New online tool to help you identify perennial grasses – Dr. Erin Hill. Come join Dr. Erin Hill in the weed garden to learn about MSU’s new perennial grass ID tool to help you or your clients with our most common lawn offenders. In addition to focusing

on grasses, there will be plenty of other specimens available in the garden to test your weed ID skills and the opportunity to ask diagnostic questions. Proper identification is key to selecting the proper herbicide for control.

Autonomous mowing frequency – Zach Flink and Dr. Trey Rogers. Zach Flink will discuss how mowing frequency influences mixed turfgrass stands maintained at a higher height of cut. Evaluating twice weekly and six-times weekly schedules with field measurements and satellite imagery used to assess turfgrass quality, density, weed encroachment and spatial uniformity.

Pesticide trials and mechanical spot spraying – Dr. Thom Nikolai. Dr. Nikolai will discuss tank mixing herbicides to extend pre-emergent weed control and intelligent boom spaying to target weeds and diseases to reduce the amount of pesticides applied by blanket/ broadcast spraying.

Common lawn pests: What you need to know – Dr. Max Helmberger. Learn how to identify, monitor, and combat common lawn pests such as chinch bugs, billbugs, and scarabs/white grubs. Discussion will include management with and without insecticides, insecticide selection, and application timing.

Afternoon Session 1:30-3:30 pm Ride-On Sprayer/Spreader Calibration: Jesse Sholl.

From simply understanding the output of your ride-on spreader/sprayer to some ideas to get more value from them make this workshop great opportunity for all levels of applicator experience. Today’s products have lower application rates and enhanced formulations. Which nozzles and deposition patterns will perform better with them? Are you guessing, or knowing your rotary spreader’s overlap? Remember: Michigan Standards for pesticide use require “pesticide application equipment shall be properly calibrated”.

MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

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Vendor Registration

FIELD DAY — Continued monstrations:

VENDOR DEMONSTRATIONS Baroness ULM272 Autonomous Five-Gang Fairway Mower will be on display at the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation Field Day. The ULM272 has been touring the U.S. since the GCSAA Conference & Trade Show in February and has been operating internationally since 2019, with more than 100 units currently in the field. Built on the proven Baroness LM2700 platform, the ULM272 features a Kubota engine, Baroness cutting units, and RTK GPS guidance with multiple built-in safety redundancies.

The current Teach & Map program allows an operator to drive the route once, then the mower repeats it autonomously. The 7/30/26, 12:11 PM ULM272 can also travel between fairways and reverse on its own.

Stop by to see the ULM272 in person and learn more about autonomous fairway mowing. “#MichiganTurf #MTFFieldDay #Baroness #AutonomousMowing

#GolfCourseMaintenance Jim Roland Michigan Turf Equipment 734.323.8790 miturfequip.com https://outlook.cloud.microsoft/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHY...

HELENA Rx360 and Injection Systems “Helena Michigan Specialty Our People, Products and Knowledge provide a complete solution. With our full range of services, portfolio of products and national footprint, we understand the needs of professional and specialty Timber Wolf Turfsuccess is our success, so customer satisfaction industries.

Your is our top priority. This is why Helena Michigan Specialty chooses to support MTF and all its members. We look forward to growing our business with them.

r Agronomic Alley:

Our expertise has evolved with the needs of the customers we serve. Whether you’re a sod farmer or forester, professional sports field manager, nursery grower, lawncare operator, or golf course manager, it’s our goal here in Michigan and across the country is to make your job easier and to provide more

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value through our products, with all the major manufactures and AI servicesRx360® is the most advanced turf management program on the market, designed to help turf and plant managers use their inputs in a more efficient and cost-effective manner using innovative technology. Rx360 provides an accurate picture of environmental variabilities by selecting the most representative sampling locations. After analysis, recommendations are made by experienced professionals to address these variabilities across your facility and can easily be turned into app-ready controller files for both traditional and variable rate application methods.

Rx360 users can manage their facilities in ways not previously possible or available using other systems.

Fertigation and Injection Enhance your course, field or nursery, Helena offers fertigation and injection services to increase productivity of turf and ornamental applications.

Helena’s advantage to fertigation, compared to applying fertilizer with conventional ground application equipment, is the ability to apply nutrients to plants where and when they need it with the least amount of disruption to the soil. We use precision technology like the Helena Injector, which is designed to promote better absorption of irrigation water. Our systems can inject a variety of materials, and we offer systems with storage and agitation capabilities in an easy-to-use platform, saving you money and time.

Adam Palmatier Turf and Ornamental Specialist, Branch Manager 616-340-9557 Adam Lafrance Turf and Ornamental Specialist, Territory Manager 517-257-9263 Avery Rugg AGRIntelligence Technician 517- 677-1429

www.michiganturfgrass.org

Vendor Demonstrations: Timber Wolf Turf Equipment — New & Used Golf & Turf Equipment Timber Wolf Turf, Inc. is a certified Trimax Mowing Systems dealer specializing in both new and used golf and turf equipment, serving golf course superintendents, groundskeepers, and turf managers across Michigan and beyond. The Trimax Snake sets the standard for trailed rotary mowing, trusted by many of the most prestigious golf courses and turf farms worldwide. Its cutting system, studied by the Sports Turf Institute of New Zealand, delivers a finish comparable to cylinder mowers while offering the versatility and reliability of Trimax’s renowned rotary design.

3 of 6 Gordie LaFontaine Phone/Text: 616‑292‑1305 gordierva@gmail.com Website: timberwolfturf.com

Register for the 2026 MSU Turf School Register for the 2026 MSU Turf School

We are passionate about technology, so don’t hesitate to contact us to explore its transformative impact on golf course operations.

Driven by passion for golf, in 2021, we have started our dedicated R&D for SkimTurf™ Management with the vision of empowering golf courses to focus on the most valuable aspect of data-driven practices: fact-based decision-making. Powered by our in-house AI models, we have created an all-inone platform enabling daily, satellite-based, noninvasive monitoring of turf conditions on the entire golf course. Frequent diagnostics (humidity levels, nutrient content,vegetation) are complemented with a 7/30/26, 1 comprehensive suite of reports, course diaries and alerts accessible via a web or mobile application.

SkimTurf™ empowers golf courses for data-driven agronomy, which in turn leads to precise operations, savings and top playing conditions. In collaboration with turf scientists, we meticulously prepared data during three growing seasons in experimental turf fields.

Training and building SKIM’s AI backbone required more than 70,000 satellite images and drone images, 7,000 visual assessments, 5,000 on-site measurements, 9,000 laboratory results, +31,000h research effort and +32,000h programming.

By harnessing the power of AI and multi-spectral analytics, golf courses can now take more data driven decisions and achieve precision turfgrass management.

Frederic Paczkowski, GM 1-610-234-7210 https://www.skimturf.com/

MTF NEWS NOTES

| SUMMER 2026

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FIELD DAY — Continued

VENDOR DEMONSTRATIONS

Training For Your Team We make sure your crew understands how to operate, monitor, and get the most out of the system.

Ongoing Support From Clesens Local, Responsive Service - When you need help—you’re working with the local team that knows your property and your business.

Michael Mumper Clesens Sales Representative (708) 259-4354 Mmumper@Clesens.com

7/30/26, 12:11 PM

At Clesens, we don’t just sell robotic mowers­—we help you transform how your turf is maintained.

Whether you manage a golf course, sports field, municipality, or commercial/residential property, labor challenges, rising costs, and expectations for pristine conditions are only increasing. Kress autonomous mowing systems offer a powerful solution—but the real difference is who you partner with to implement them.

That’s where Clesens comes in.

..................................

Kress robotic mowers are industry-leading—but technology alone isn’t enough.

When you work with Clesens, you get:

Professional Site Evaluation We assess your property layout, turf types, and usage patterns to design the right solution.

Customized System Design Every installation is tailored—no “one-size-fits-all” approach.

Flexible Financing Options We offer financing solutions that make it easier to implement robotic mowing without a large upfront capital investment—helping you align payments with operational savings and budget cycles.

Seasonal Optimization - We help adjust mowing schedules, patterns, and performance throughout the season to match growth rates and conditions.

Service & Maintenance - From blade changes to troubleshooting, we keep your fleet running at peak performance.

FireFly’s Autonomous Mowing Platform (AMP), a fully connected system that enables frequent enhancements through software updates and added features.

Over the past year, the AMP-L100 robotic fairway mower—cutting a 100-inch swath with five reel cutting units—received multiple upgrades now improving operations at golf courses and other sites across North America.

Recent advancements include Path Linking for continuous autonomous operation across multiple mow areas, autonomous mowing of up to 25 acres per charge, exclusion zone mapping for sensitive areas, customizable mowing patterns, and built-in Starlink connectivity.

Justin 651-802-9252

Expert Installation & Setup From boundary setup to optimization, we ensure your system performs from day one.

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www.michiganturfgrass.org

2026 MTF Board of Directors –

Election The Michigan Turfgrass Foundation is grateful for the individuals who serve on its Board of Directors and help advance the Foundation’s mission of funding the MSU Turf Program. Each elected member may serve up to three three-year terms—a significant commitment of time and energy. MTF is fortunate to have many industry leaders willing to take on this responsibility. This year, three members of the Board of Directors have reached their term limits, and we thank them for their service to the industry.

The outgoing board members are Jeff Holmes, Dan Mausolf, and Brad Lazroff. Jeff Holmes is one of the rare individuals to serve two separate terms as a Director; his knowledge and mentorship during his second tenure were greatly appreciated. Dan Mausolf not only served as President of the MTF Board of Directors, but also contributed in nearly every available capacity, strengthening the Foundation through his leadership and straightforward approach.

Brad Lazroff completed his full nine-year term, including service as President during his final term in 2025–26.

Our membership selected one incumbent and three newly elected individuals to serve as MTF Board Members. Incumbent Adam Palmatier of Helena, representing Commercial Turfgrass Supplier, will continue serving on the board and will guide several committees. Newly elected board members include Ben Keeler of Forest Akers Golf Course, representing the Western Chapter – MiGCSA; Diane Mischel of DeBuck’s Sod Farm, representing Cemetery, Parks & Sod; and Robert Bywalec of D&B Landscaping, representing Lawn Maintenance.

The Foundation is fortunate to have so many leaders willing to share their insight and time in support of the Michigan State University Turfgrass Program.

Thank you to all Directors who have generously given their time to the Foundation.

Jeff Holmes

Dan Mausolf

Adam Palmatier

Ben Keeler

Brad Lazroff

Robert Bywalec

MTF NEWS NOTES

Diane Mischel

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Dr. Emily Merewitz-Holm

Dr. Kevin Frank

MTF - Supporting MSU Turf Research since 1957

Raising Grass....and Harmon Killebrew’s Dad. Dr. Kenyon T. Payne

For those unfamiliar with “The Killer” or “Hammerin’ Hank,” Harmon Killebrew played Major League Baseball for 22 years, from 1954 to 1975, and was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984. His notoriety may be less familiar today, but this quote caught my attention as I looked for the right way to describe the MSU Turf Program in its current form and the meaningful recognition it has received. With FIFA World Cup attention, ongoing research, the arrival of Turf Pathologist Dr. Ruying Wang, and many other developments, MSU’s Turfgrass Program is gaining well-deserved visibility close to home. MSU has always provided a distinctive setting for the Turf Program, and the exceptional work of the Turf Team should not be taken for granted simply because excellence has become expected.

I am certainly proud of Michigan State University, even while acknowledging the ups and downs that come with any institution, administration, or athletic program. Coach Izzo’s program offers a useful comparison because it reflects the same larger lesson found in — Harmon Killebrew’s Dad Killebrew’s quote: the work is not only about results on the surface, but about developing people. In that spirit, the Turf Team’s work is not simply about raising grass; it is about preparing students to lead with knowledge, discipline, resilience, and confidence. The turf industry has also helped many women become leaders, and MSU can take great pride in producing graduates— men and women alike—who help make the industry stronger while advancing the science and craft of turfgrass management.

My father used to play with my brother and me in the yard. Mother would come out and say, ‘You’re tearing up the grass’; ‘We’re not raising grass,’ Dad would reply. ‘We’re raising boys.’

Michigan State University has a great deal to be proud of in the Turf Program, and the university highlights much of that work in this article: https://msutoday.msu.edu/news/2026/07/spartans-behind-your-favoritemichigan-golf-courses. For everyone who takes pride in this industry, this recognition is a refreshing and important moment. It is also a reminder that the Turf Team’s impact extends beyond raising grass; it raises the people who come to MSU prepared to make the industry better for all.

Dr. James Beard

Dr. Thom Nikolia

— Carey Mitchelson

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www.michiganturfgrass.org

Dr. Trey Rogers

Dr. Joe Vargas, Dr. Kevin Frank, Dr. James Crum, Dr. Emily Merwitz-Holm

Dr. Ruying Wang, Dr. Paul Rieke, Nancy Dykema Dr. Joe Vargas

Dr. David Gilstrap, Dr. Thom Nikolia

MTF NEWS NOTES

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NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. Postage PAID Lansing, MI Permit No. 689

P.O. Box 27156 Lansing, MI 48909-7156 www.michiganturfgrass.org

Phone: 517-392-5003 miturfgrass@gmail.com

Robert W. Hancock Turfgrass Research Center 2026 Field Day Stops Mount Hope 2

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Weed Area 10 11 12

6 19

Sports Field Research

20

Low Input Fine Fescue NTEP

Golf Tour 9:00 – 11:40 AM (Group starts at #1) 1. Satellite Imagery Tech. – Dr. Jackie Guevara (9:00) 2. Novel Methods for Organic Matter Management – Dr. Kevin Frank (9:20) 3. Disease Management Strategies – Dr. Wrennie Wang & Nancy Dykema (9:40) 4. WinterTurf and Physiology Research – Dr. Emily Holm (10:00) 5. Wear Tolerance on Putting Greens – Dr. Thom Nikolai (10:20) 6. Soil Moisture and Root Diseases – Mike Rabe & Dr. Wrennie Wang (10:40) 7. Annual Bluegrass Weevil – Dr. Max Helmberger (11:00) 8. Intelligent Boom Spraying Weeds – Dr. Thom Nikolai (11:20) Lawn/Athletics Tour 9:00 – 11:00 AM (Group 1 starts at #9, Group 2 starts at #10) 9. Autonomous Mowing Frequency – Zach Flink & Dr. Trey Rogers (9 & 10:40) 10. Irrigation Timing & Diseases – Mike Rabe & Dr. Wrennie Wang (9 & 9:20) 11. Intelligent Boom Spraying Weeds – Dr. Thom Nikolai (9:20 & 9:40) 12. Plant Diagnostics: Tour the Weed Garden – Dr. Erin Hill (9:40 & 10:00) 13. Lawn Insects – Dr. Max Helmberger (10:00 & 10:20) 14. PGRs Effect on Traffic Tolerance – Ryan Bearss & Dr. Trey Rogers (10:20 & 10:40)