MPSFMA NEWS - FALL 2025

NEWS Volume 15, No. 3

Fall 2025

JOEY FITZGERALD, FITZGERALD, Bryan Bryan Rock Rock Products, Products, giving giving aa hands-on hands-on mound mound re-building re-building JOEY demonstration at at the the 2025 2025 MPSFMA MPSFMA Community Community Service Service Project Project in in Andover Andover in in October October demonstration

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

By Trenton Waters MPSFMA President Minnesota Sodding Company

Dear MPSFMA Members, Partners, and Friends, As we close out another successful season—and mark the completion of my past two years serving as your president - I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each of you. Our association continues to grow in strength, purpose, and community because of your dedication. Whether you are a longtime member, a new face, or one of our valued vendors, your support has been essential to the success of the MPSFMA. To our Vendors: Thank you for your unwavering partnership. Your expertise, resources, and commitment make everything we do possible. Your participation has elevated our workshops, events, and field days, and we are truly grateful for your role in advancing our profession.

To our Board Members: Your leadership, time, and passion over the last two years have been nothing short of exceptional. Thank you for the energy you bring to every meeting, the behind-the-scenes work that often goes unseen, and your continued drive to move our association forward. It has been an honor serving alongside you.

This year was one of activity, engagement, and growth. Together we celebrated a full calendar that strengthened our professional community: Spring Workshop: A strong kickoff to the year, filled with learning, shared challenges, and the chance to reconnect with colleagues from around the region.

Golf Event: A great day of camaraderie, networking, and (for some of us!) surprisingly good golf.

Fall Workshop: Another well-attended event featuring valuable education, hands on learning and new ideas to bring back to your facilities.

Community Service Project: One of the most meaningful parts of our year. Thank you to all who volunteered their time and talents to give back to our local communities.

Field Day at Target Field and the University of Minnesota – A season highlight that showcased two premier facilities and gave members the opportunity to learn directly from industry-leading grounds teams.

These events continue to define the culture of the MPSFMA—collaborative, supportive, and committed to elevating the profession.

I encourage each of you to stay engaged, stay curious, and continue pushing our industry forward.

FALL 2025 MPSFMA NEWS 3

Please consider applying for Field of the Year and Groundskeeper of the Year. These awards are more than recognition—they help highlight the exceptional work being done across our state and inspire others to reach higher.

Ask questions. Share ideas. Get involved. Your voice and participation matter, and they help ensure the MPSFMA remains a strong and vibrant association.

Thank you again for an incredible season and for the support you’ve shown over the past two years. It has been a privilege to serve you.

With Gratitude,

Trenton Waters Trenton Waters MPSFMA President

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2,019,791 RESEARCH FUNDS SINCE 2003

Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation Donates $82,500 Towards Minnesota Turf and Grounds Research for 2025

By Dominic Pierre MTGF President

The MTGF exists to serve you. We understand the pressures you face: Rising material costs, shifting environmental regulations, labor concerns, and the constant pursuit of sustainable practices. That’s why I’m eager to hear from you and from our allied associations. What programs would make the biggest difference for your organization?

Which educational seminars or hands-on workshops would help your crew sharpen their skills? Are there scholarship opportunities, research grants, or regional networking events you’d like to see prioritized? Your insights will guide our strategy as we strive to add tangible value, strengthen professional bonds, and foster the next generation of turf and grounds leaders.

Please reach out and share your thoughts. You can contact me directly at dominic.pierre@unioncem.org,

MINNESOTA TURF & GROUNDS FOUNDATION FUNDING 2025 2024 2023 2022 2020 RESEARCH DOLLARS FROM 2001-2002 TURFGRASS SCIENCE RESEARCH PROGRAM SUPPORT 45,000 45,000 35,000 45,000 50,000 TROE CENTER OPERATIONS TROE CENTER BUILDING PRE-DESIGN DR. ERIC WATKINS RESEARCH BRAD PEDERSEN LANDSCAPE PROGRAM UM FOREST RESOURCES AND PLANT PATHOLOGY PROGRAMS 50,000 DR. GILlMAN TREE RESEARCH / DUTCH ELM DISEASE DUTCH ELM DISEASE / ELM RESISTANCE MECHANISMS DR. ROBERT BLANCHETTE DED / MSA SUPPORT 15,000 9,500 7,500 5,700 UM YOUTH ENGAGEMENT IN ARBORICULTURE 12,500 9,500 7,500 9,300 UM CONSERVATION UM ELM SELECTION UM PRUNING UM ESP RESEARCH BOB MUGAAS / UMORE PARK TECHNICIAN ARBORETUM TURF & GROUNDS RESEARCH UM HELP LINE ECONOMIC IMPACT STUDY NATIONAL TURF RESEARCH INSTITUTE GRABOWSKI / MALVICK WHITE MOLD RESEARCH DR. JUZWICK OAK WILT STUDY DR. WALKER MINERALIZABLE NITROGEN STUDY DR. KRISTINA WALKER | UMN CROOKSTON 10,000 6,000 5,000 SAM BAUER CONVERSION TO LOW-INPUT TURFGRASS BAUER & ORSHINSKY PLANT DEFENSE MARY MEYER 10 PLANTS THAT CHANGED MINNESOTA UM FELLOWSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND ORSHINSKY PATHOLOGIST POSITION TREE TRUST - GRAVEL BEDS TREE TRUST - GREEN TEENS OTHER

or, as always, connect with our Executive Director, Jeff Turtinen, at turtinen@mtgf.org. Together, we will build on a legacy of excellence in Minnesota’s turf and grounds community, ensuring that our green industry remains vibrant, innovative, and deeply connected. Thank you for your commitment, your craftsmanship, and your passion. I look forward to working alongside each of you in the seasons ahead.

It’s time to register for the January 20-22 Northern Green being held again at RiverCenter and Roy Wilkins Auditiorium in Saint Paul. Go to www.northerngreen.org to register.

Your MPSFMA membership includes membership to the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation, a group of seven allied associations in the turf and grounds industry.

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

65,000

65,000

60,000

60,000

70,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 47,000 37,114 60,500

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004

49,715

60,000

30,000

2,750 4,077 13,000 10,000 20,000 20,000 15,000 15,000 12,000 15,000 10,000 26,000 10,415 7,400 10,000 10,000

20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 9,625 10,000 10,000 10,000 25,000 21,056 20,000 20,000 20,000 15,000 11,000 17,000 5,000

7,250 9,975 6,250 5,500 5,500 3,500 900

3,500

2,000

3,000 15,733 10,518 500 10,000 10,000 5,000

10,000

5,000

3,540 3,250 5,000

2,000

2,000

500

3,000

5,000 4,000 4,000 5,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 65,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 15,000 1,198

TOTALS 82,500 70,000 50,000 65,000 100,000 106,250 134,715 120,000 120,000 110,000 89,000 110,790 85,000 76,000 71,014 138,000 38,113 75,508 89,095 118,500 81,056

TOTAL DOLLARS SINCE 2001 = $2,019,791

FALL 2025

MPSFMA NEWS 5

40 Exhibitors, 255 Attendees Attend Fall Workshop at Brackett’s Crossing

innovative solutions for all seasons

Rachel Giblin, Trees and Me, giving a hands-on pruning demonstration with her husband Chad Giblin.

SPRAY TECHNOLOGY SPECIALISTS

The MPSFMA Fall Workshop attracted 40 tabletop vendors and more than 250 attendees. The Fall Workshop featured imformative talks and a well-known Keynote Speaker, WCCO’s Mike Max. The day’s agenda began with networking and vendor time between 7:00 and 8:00 am followed by opening remarkes by MPSFMA Vice President Marshall Syvertsen, City of Edina.

Adam Thoms, SFMA President, Iowa State University Turfgrass talked about the current status of the SFMA and the foreseeable future. Thoms also gave a presentation on Plant Soil Interactions.

Dominic Petrella, University of MN Turfgrass offered an update of the UMN Turfgrass Extension program.

Katie Farber and Cole Larson, Bolton and Menk, gave a Salt Symposium overview; salt reduction strategies from education, and winter maintenance and research.

After the aforementioned sessions, another networking and vendor time took place followed by an Italian Pasta Lunch Buffet.

Keynote Speaker Mike Max engaged the audience with a fiery, motivational type of speech and patiently answered many questions from the crowd afterwards.

The afternoon featured a membership roundtable with the focus on trail snow removal, treatment and sharing what works around the various facilities.

Rachel and Chad Giblin gave an outdoor pruning demonstration near the 18th green of Brackett’s Crossing Country Club’s course.

turf/sports

GPS, HYDROSEEDING, LAWNCARE, ETC.

TRUCK SKIDS, COMPACT, MIXING, ETC.

Ben Boeding, CSFM, Reinders Inc., hosted the Membership Roundtable on trail snow removal and treatment.

FALL 2025

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MPSFMA NEWS 7

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2025 FALL WORKSHOP

Cole Larson, left, and Katie Farber, Bolton & Menk, giving a salt symposium overview and reduction strategies.

Keynote Speaker Mike Max WCCO Sports Adam Thoms, Iowa State University Turfgrass and current SFMA President spoke about the SFMA and Plant Soil Interactions.

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x x x x x Chad Giblin, Trees and Me, offered great pruning information to MPSFMA members during an outdoor demonstration with his wife Rachel.

FALL 2025

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MPSFMA NEWS 9

If you’re looking to elevate the image and quality of a facility by offering the most efficient ball field maintenance program, then the Ventrac is the right tool for the job. Achieve unmatched field leveling, weed control and a perfect finish on the ballfield with Ventrac’s Ballpark Renovator and Groomer.

Call us today to learn how Ventrac's Ballpark Renovator and Groomer can help you achieve that perfect finish!

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2025 FALL WORKSHOP

FALL 2025

MPSFMA NEWS 11

Midwest Groundcover express blower service now offering blown in natures plus tamarack engineered wood fiber.

blown in playground surfacing experts new playground installation • We offer removal of existing playground equipment, boarders and surfacing • installation of drainage sand & pea gravel • installation of drain tile & fabric barrier • blower truck installation of ipema certified engineered wood fiber, rubber mulch, sand & pea gravel playground surfacing

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Sports Field Manager of the Year - Award Application PURPOSE To recognize a Sports Field Manager for their professional ability and contribution to the sports field industry in Minnesota.

To show gratitude to an individual for their efforts in leading the sports field industry into the future by creating safe, quality fields for athletes of all ages. The Minnesota Parks and Sports Field Managers Association wishes to promote excellence in management of sports fields for the citizens and athletes of Minnesota. If you feel you are one of the best Sports Field Managers in the state, please apply.

CRITERIA •Involved in a management role in the sports field industry (Does not need to be Head Groundskeeper or Parks Supervisor) •Engaged in regular professional development activities •Level of contribution by the field manager to the sports turf industry •Displays outstanding performance in any one of several key categories, suggested but not limited to:  Community contribution and outreach  Commitment to professional development  Environmental stewardship  Health and safety  Project management  Workplace improvements  Other •Previous recipients may re-apply if all requirements are met DIRECTIONS Please type or print clearly all information requested below. In addition to this award application, each nomination must be accompanied with a minimum of five (5) digital photos of the field/facility, summary of maintenance practices, and number of grounds employees.

NOMINATION FORM Name: Name of school, park district, or agency: Address:

City:

Phone #

State:

Zip:

Email:

Reference name: Reference phone number: Please provide a letter of explanation on why you should be recognized as MPSFMA Sports Field Manager of the Year. Supplementary information detailing why you meet the criteria and the particulars of why you should be considered for the Sports Field Manager of the Year Award.

I certify that the information in these nomination papers is true, current and complete. I understand that nomination materials may be used for publication in the MPSFMA News Magazine, website, and at the Annual Meeting.

Signature of nominee Mail all nomination materials to:

FALL 2025

Trent Waters 1 Twins Way Minneapolis, MN 55403

Email all nomination material to: Trent Waters trentonwaters@twins.com Please have the nomination form/materials submitted by October 31, 2025

MPSFMA NEWS 13

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2025 COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT The 2025 MPSFMA hands-on Community Service Project to place on two fields at Andover High School on October 5 where mound work, edging and aeration took place.

Joey Fitzgerald, CSFM, Bryan Rock Products, along with Luke Wittrock, University of Minnesota, showed the 25 other volunteers what it takes to re-build a mound.

Sizeable groups from the City of Owatonna and the City of Edina were greatly appreciated along with all of the volunteers that day.

Luke Wittrock, University of Minnesota, above, and Joey Fitzgerald, Bryan Rock Products, on the left, gave step-by-step advice on how to properly re-build a mound.

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Landscape • Greenhouse • Lawn Care • Turf • Winter Equipment FALL 2025

MPSFMA NEWS 15

L AW N C A R E + S P O RT S T U R F

PROFESSIONAL QUALITY. FOR PROFESSIONAL RESULTS. COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT APPLICATION Does Your Baseball/Softball/Soccer/Football Field or Playground Need to be Renovated?

The Minnesota Park and Sports Turf Managers Association has the answers! We will select a field from entries submitted and provide the labor for the renovation project. Some materials will be donated or provided at a reduced cost. Volunteers from your organization will be needed to perform the renovation project as well as to care for the field after the renovations are complete.

POSSIBLE RENOVATION IDEAS + Seeding + Sodding + Topdressing + Aerifying + Mounds + Homeplate + Skinned Areas + Irrigation Repair + Grass Areas + Field Layout ENTER YOUR FIELD BY COMPLETING THE FORM BELOW

APPLICATION DEADLINE IS JUNE 1, 2024

Organization: _______________________________________________________________________ Name of Field: ______________________________________________________________________ Address of Field: ____________________________________________________________________ User groups (numbers, ages, sports) _____________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ What do you want done to your field? ____________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Why is the project needed? Safety issues? Field issues? _____________________________________ Whether a rough-and-tumble pro football field or high-use municipal fields, we know __________________________________________________________________________________ you need it green, pristine and resilient. Our experienced sales team can help you achieve green space youafter need with our extensive product availability, exceptional Who will do the the regular maintenance completion? _______________________________________ service, research-based solutions and data-driven insights. __________________________________________________________________________________ What is the window of time for renovation? ________________________________________________ What is the field's history? (age, maintenance, irrigation, uniqueness, etc.) _______________________ Contact info of person doing current maintenance: Field Maintenance Contact: ____________________________________________________________ CONTACT YOUR HERITAGE PPG REP TO AMVAC • Aquatrols • Bayer • BASF • BioSafe SEE HOW WE CAN DELIVER FOR YOU. CellPhone: ______________________________Email: _____________________________________ BioWorks • Civitas • Control Solutions • Corteva Nick Wilz Envu • FMC • Grigg • MGK • Nufarm • PBI Gordon MPSTMA Member Sponsor (not mandatory for submission) _________________________________ 612.719.7680 ProPeat • Redox • Sepro • Syngenta nick.wilz@heritageppg.com E-MAIL photos to: jeff.turtinen@mpsfma.org or mail to: Minnesota Park and Sports Field Management Association P. O. Box 617, Wayzata, MN 55391 © Call Mike McDonald CSFM at (612) 328-5812 with questions about this project.

COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT APPLICATION Does Your Baseball/Softball/Soccer/Football Field or Playground Need to be Renovated?

The Minnesota Park and Sports Turf Managers Association has the answers! We will select a field from entries submitted and provide the labor for the renovation project. Some materials will be donated or provided at a reduced cost. Volunteers from your organization will be needed to perform the renovation project as well as to care for the field after the renovations are complete.

POSSIBLE RENOVATION IDEAS + Seeding + Sodding + Topdressing + Aerifying + Mounds + Homeplate + Skinned Areas + Irrigation Repair + Grass Areas + Field Layout ENTER YOUR FIELD BY COMPLETING THE FORM BELOW

APPLICATION DEADLINE IS JUNE 1, 2024

Organization: _______________________________________________________________________ Name of Field: ______________________________________________________________________ Address of Field: ____________________________________________________________________ User groups (numbers, ages, sports) _____________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ What do you want done to your field? ____________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Why is the project needed? Safety issues? Field issues? _____________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Who will do the regular maintenance after completion? _______________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ What is the window of time for renovation? ________________________________________________ What is the field's history? (age, maintenance, irrigation, uniqueness, etc.) _______________________ Contact info of person doing current maintenance: Field Maintenance Contact: ____________________________________________________________ CellPhone: ______________________________Email: _____________________________________ MPSTMA Member Sponsor (not mandatory for submission) _________________________________ E-MAIL photos to: jeff.turtinen@mpsfma.org or mail to: Minnesota Park and Sports Field Management Association P. O. Box 617, Wayzata, MN 55391

FALL 2025

Call Mike McDonald CSFM at (612) 328-5812 with questions about this project.

MPSFMA NEWS 17

COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT

On the left is MPSFMA Vice President, Marshall Syvertsen, City of Edina, along with current MPSFMA President Trent Waters, Minnesota Sodding Company, at the beginning of the Community Service Project in Andover.

18 MPSFMA NEWS

FALL 2025

MANAGED TURF SOLUTIONS

ramyturf.com • 800-658-RAMY

It starts with the seed!

Since 1932, the Ramy family has provided the upper Midwest with some of the highest quality seed materials available anywhere and we always will. We are here as a partner, not just a supplier, because we know it’s your success that will allow our success.

Seed – Fertility – Chemistry – Erosion

NORTHERN GREEN OUTDOORS

GREEN INDUSTRY BOWLING FUNDRAISER MNLA won the Grand Championship at the 4th Annual Green Industry Bowling Tournament on December 4th at Flaherty’s Arden Bowl in Arden Hills.

Over 50 members of MTGF, MNLA and MPSFMA attended the fundraiser which ended with a Bakers Round showdown between industries for the championship.

It was another successful holiday event filled with cheer, good food, and a friendly competition. Participants played two games using 5-person teams. First Place Team honors went to Plaisted Companies with a score of 916. Second place honors went to MPSFMA, with a score of 835.

The two advancing first round winners of the final 4 teams, then in the Championship game in favor of MNLA vs. MTGF. Again, Plaisted Companies team won the Grand Championship.

The collaborated Scholarship fundraiser was a great success! With the help of many sponsors, and generosity of participants, the Green Industry Bowling Tournament is once again able to award two co-sponsored scholarships to promising students.

Special thanks to the following sponsors: Bryan Rock Products, Frost Inc., Magic Turf.

Minnesota Sodding Company, MPSFMA, Pioneer Athletics, Plaisted Companies, Reinders Inc., Rock Hard Landscape SupJoe Heilberger rollend a 216, 269 for high score. ply, and The Tessman Company.

Super Ticket Cash Winner: Elizabeth Wynne, Lowest Score: Ryan Barthel, Rock Hard Landscape Supply (67) 20 MPSFMA NEWS

Group photo of the Bakers Round contestants from Plaisted Companies dressed in black and a MPSFMA group consisting of Ben Boeding, CSFM, Ed Tietel, Jason Goehring, Mike McDonald, CSFM, and Derek Hollanitisch.

Second Place: Team Mike Zwisler, Roger Weinbrenner, Nate Williamson, Marshall Mullenbach, Joe Heiberger, and Tom O’Hearn, (835) First Place Team: John Foss, Will Foss, Sue Craig, Jenny Schwab, Troy Schwab, Plaisted Companies (916) Highest Score Joe Heilberger (269) Baker Round Green Industry Masters Cup Second Place: Roger Weinbrenner, Joe Heilberger, Marshall Syvertsent, MullenBach, Tom O’Hearn (197) Baker Round Green Industry Masters Cup First Place: John Foss, Will Foss, Sue Craig, Jenny Schwab, Troy Schwab, Plaisted Companies (235).

The event raised enough to fund another $2,000 turf scholarship for 2026.

FALL 2025

Support the MTGF in Its Mission to Help Fund Green Industry Research and Youth Engagement!

Turf and grounds professionals in Minnesota and beyond have benefited greatly from innovative research funded by the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation.

Since 2001, we have donated over $1.75 million to the University of Minnesota (this is over $88,000 per year!). This funding has helped build strong applied research programs focused on turf and landscape management. The ongoing support from the MTGF has given these research programs a foundation from which to seek larger grants that generate new approaches to landscape management that help sustain our industry. Unfortunately, this past year has created a challenge for the MTGF as our primary revenue sources, Northern Green, which is a joint effort between MTGF and the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association, was not

held in person and therefore did not generate sufficient income from which to make our annual donations for research.

To continue our important role in support of turf and grounds research, we are asking for donations from individual MTGF members. In a normal year, you would’ve contributed to our efforts by attending the Northern Green, where you would have learned from leading horticultural educators, visited with vendors on the impressive trade show floor, and networked with your fellow green industry professionals. This year, you can have a positive impact by making a donation to help the MTGF continue our mission of funding research, outreach, and education for the turf and grounds professionals.

Proud Turfgrass Seed Supplier of Minnesota

We hope you see this as an investment, one that will bring great returns in the form of new knowledge, more sustainable practices, and forward-looking approaches to maintain green spaces.If you are a member of one of seven allied associations, you automatically are considered member of the MTGF. MTGF has no membership fees associated with being a member or vendor member. However, you receive the full benefits through the mission of the MTGF. The MTGF Board is made up of two individuals from each of the seven allied associations plus two vendor members. The seven MTGF allied associations are:

s Bee Lawn Seed Mixture s Sod Quality (yellow tag) Kentucky Bluegrass Blend s Native Grass & Wildflower Seed s Erosion Control Products s Fertilizer s Creeping Bentgrass Seed s Fine Fescue Seed s Custom Seed Mixing

+ Minnesota Association of Cemeteries + Minnesota Educational Facilities Management Professionals + Minnesota Golf Course Superintendents' Association + Minnesota Park and Sports Field Management Association + Minnesota Society of Arboriculture + Minnesota Sod Producers + Minnesota Turf Seed Council

Established 1992

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QUALITY SERVICE ACCURACY

LEARN MORE:

952-944-7105 or 800-545-8873

Paul Kubista: pkubista@twincityseed.com Andy Keating: akeating@twincityseed.com James Wolfin: jwolfin@twincityseed.com

www.twincityseed.com FALL 2025

Funding provided by the MTGF through your participation has been able to leverage millions of more dollars for turf and grounds research. The ramification was felt when the MTGF had to decide to put a hold on research grant funding for 2021 in hopes that we can return to normal in time for the 2022 funding season. Your attendance at the 2024 Northern Green helps is key. The Green Industry as a whole has been rewarded year after year through the research dollars granted by the MTGF and we are now asking for extra help to be able to continue this same success.

Please visit the MTGF website (www.mtgf.org/donations) where you can find additional information on how you can donate to additional turf and grounds research.

MPSFMA NEWS 21

Play is the Beginning Of something wonderful, vibrant and unique. It teaches us and challenges us to be better. It connects us – to ourselves, each other and to our communities. With play as the beginning, anything is possible.

Join Our Movement at funplaygrounds.com

Proud Representative of

© BCI Burke Company 2023

The impressive bowling scores by the winning Plaisted Companies team and the MPSFMA team during the Bakers Round at the 2025 Green Industry Bowling Fundraiser!

FALL 2025

MPSFMA NEWS 23

Covers That Make the Difference MASTER BRAND ING

From our supreme lightweight raincovers right to the classic vinyl ones, there are cover models and accessories to meet your specific needs.

EVERGREEN™ turf covers outsmart mother nature. Exclusive color lace coatings provide proven results.

FOOTBALL FIELD COVERS are made of superior strength material, providing protection from rain or snow.

TARPMATE™ AIR roller is a revolutionary An INFLATABLE FIELD COVER allows storage and handling system for field for ongoing field maintenance during covers. 2-3 people can roll out or roll up a inclement and extreme cold weather.

100’ wide cover.

100 Westmore Dr., 11D, Rexdale, ON M9V 5C3 3909 Witmer Rd., Niagara Falls, NY 14305

1-800-387-5808 Tel: +1-416-745-1811 • Fax: +1-416-742-6837 www.covermaster.com • info@covermaster.com

TURFCO|MPSFMA FIELD OF THE YEAR APPLICATION CRITERIA

2026

+ Active Member of MPSFMA + Located in the State of Minnesota. + Resourcefulness of staff, budget, maintenance practices, challenges in management of field. + Condition and aesthetics of the athletic field. + Number and type of games and/or events. + Previous recipients may re-apply if all requirements/applications are met.

Information Requested (use additional sheet if necessary) + School, Park District or Agency owning this Field: + Name of Field / Complex: + Street Address: + Age of Field: + Type of Field (Baseball, Football, Soccer, Lacrosse, etc.): + Natural Grass or Synthetic Turf? + Size of Field in acres: + Overall Maintenance Acreage: + Annual Maintenance Budget for this Field: + Number of full time staff employed to maintain field: + Number of seasonal staff employed to maintain field: + What type of irrigation? __ Automatic __ Manual __ Both __ None + Does your field have sports lighting? + Type of equipment used to maintain your field: + Type of maintenance program you employ (fertilization, aeration, topdressing, seeding, etc.): + How many months or days of the year is your field used? + Number of games played on your field or throughout your facility: + Besides sports, what other type of events are held on your field? + What special maintenance challenges have you encountered? + Why do you think your field is one of the best?

Signature: ____________________________________________ ___________ Date: ______________________ Note: Typing in Signature is accepted. I certify that the information on this form and in the accompanying entry is accurate to the best of my knowledge. I understand that no material will be returned and may be used for publication and promotional purposes.

Send completed entries and photos to: MPSFMA, P.O. Box 617, Wayzata, MN 55391 Or email to: jeff.turtinen@mpsfma.org

FALL 2025

www.mpsfma.org

MPSFMA NEWS 25

Consider a Career in Sports Field Management Managing sports fields as a career is a rewarding and significant occupation. Join a profession that is growing and will endure as long as there are sports!

This is an ideal career if you: (just be interested in one or more of the following and you are a solid fit for this profession!) s Enjoy the outdoors s Are involved in sports and want to stay involved s Consider yourself a sports fan s Want to use emerging technology such as drones, GPS, robotic equipment, and hi-tech turf apps s Care about protecting the environment s Interested in the art and science of creating and main-

taining beautiful and safe fields for athletes s High School, Vo-Tech or University education programs in agriculture, landscaping design or maintenance How to Pursue s Traditional education s Attend a 2-year or 4-year collegiate program majoring in turfgrass management s Non-traditional: s Take SFMA 101 on-line FREE Certificate Course (just need to be a student member at $30). Go to sportsfieldmanagement.org. Students have one year to complete the course; some students finish it in one week! Each student who completes the course will receive a certificate of course completion. Achieving the certificate will prepare you to start a career at a sports field. s Local College or University online Certification in Sports Field Management . s Online Certification at non-local College or University. s Apprentice at a sports field.

Job Outlook There are more than 50 million acres of turfgrass in the United States, and the green industry is projected to be a $147 billion dollar industry. The environmental horticulture industry, which includes the turfgrass industry, is one of the fastest growing segments of the nation’s agricultural economy with an estimated 1,964,339 jobs. It is estimated that there are more than 1 million sports fields in the United States. With more than 300 professional facilities, 3,500 colleges & universities, 7,800 parks and recreation districts, and 20,000+ school districts, jobs in the sports field management profession are abundant.

Salary The average starting salary for a first assistant is $44,000.

MPSFMA The Minnesota Park and Sports Field Management Association is an affiliated chapter of the national professional association, Sports Field Management Association (SFMA).

Its more than 2,700 members oversee facilities at schools, colleges and universities, parks and recreational facilities, and professional sports stadiums. Sports include football, baseball, soccer, lacrosse, softball, rugby and horse racing.

SportsfieldManagement.org; @FieldExperts

26 MPSFMA NEWS

SPRING 2025

fALL 2025

MPSFMA NEWS 27

It’s time to register for the upcoming Northern Green which is set for January 20-22 at the RiverCenter in Saint Paul. The participating vendors are maxed out on the Trade Show floor as 95% of available space has been allocated.

This event is hosted by the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) and the Minnesota Turf

28 MPSFMA NEWS

and Grounds Foundation (MTGF).

The MTGF donates most all its proceeds from this event yearly towards turf and grounds research in Minnesota and primarily at the University of Minnesota.

For more information or to make plans to register, go to www.northerngreen.org.

FALL 2025

www.NorthernGreen.org www.NorthernGreen.org

NORTHERN GREEN 2026

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO 1

Our venue is the Saint Paul RiverCentre and the Roy Wilkins Auditorium & Exhibit Hall (175 West Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102). There are many options for parking and dining nearby.

The most convenient parking (if you meet vehicle height restrictions) is in the RiverCentre Parking Ramp on 150 West Kellogg Blvd. This ramp is located directly across the street from Saint Paul RiverCentre and is connected via skyway.

There are many other parking options as well, indicated on the map below with a blue box:

P

= Skyway = Tunnel

2

Access into the RiverCentre is: C

A From the Parking Ramp Skyway B Along the street level of Kellogg Ave.

C From the Rice Park entrance

(between the Ordway and Herbie’s on the Park)

Signs will point you to

REGISTRATION to pick up your badge and begin your day!

REGISTRATION

A B

B

Kellogg Boulevard

3

The Saint Paul RiverCentre is a cashless venue. Please plan accordingly if you need to purchase food or beverage.

www.NorthernGreen.org

B

PRE-REGISTER TODAY AND $AVE! Register on or before January 13 to receive your best price for all Northern Green 2026 tickets. Go to www.NorthernGreen.org and click on REGISTER NOW today!

1 2 3

Members of the following associations receive a $20 discount: MNLA, MGCSA, MPSFMA, MAC, MASMS, MSA, MTA, and MTSC.

2026 Northern Green registration badges generously supported by:

Save 10% more when registering 10 or more people for a 1-Day educational pass or greater! Not valid for Student or Trade Show Only passes. Valid only for pre-registration completed online with all registrants entered in one registration.

NORTHERN GREEN

Worried about a snow event on a show date? We’ve got you covered with our “Snow Insurance” Rate Lock! Pay $30 now and lock in the pre-registration rate for your onsite registration! Offer only available for Northern Green on Tuesday & Thursday,

must be purchased during pre-registration dates. Choice of registration must still be RATE LOCK and selected. If ticket holder cannot attend show, the $30 payment is non-refundable.

Missed the deadline? If you miss the Jan. 13 pre-reg. deadline, you must register onsite Jan. 20-22, and pay the onsite rates.

Pre-conference? To attend Monday’s pre-conference sessions (PLT or Pest. Recert.) you MUST pre-register before Jan. 13.

Where do I pick up my badge? When you register by January 2, your badge will be mailed to you in advance.

If you register between January 3-13, you must print a badge at the Self-Check-In kiosk onsite.

Other questions?

1 33

Hotels for Northern Green

Book Now!

A limited number of discounted room rates have been secured for Northern Green 2026 at the hotels below. We encourage you to book your rooms early to ensure you get the ideal room and rate for your circumstances. Space and discounted rates are limited at each hotel, so book early to get your 昀rst choice. Note: Prices at most hotels will go up after December 19, 2025.

Book early for the best rates.

HAMPTON INN & SUITES 200 7th Street W, St. Paul, MN 55102 Rate: $119 (single/double rate) Reservation Line: 651-224-7400 Parking: Self parking not available. Valet: $25.

THE SAINT PAUL HOTEL 350 N Market Street, St. Paul, MN 55102 Rate: $169 (standard room) Reservation Line: 651-292-9292 or 800-292-9292 (Ask for the 2026 Northern Green rate) Online Reservation Link under “code type” choose “group/block” and enter 3154776.

Parking: Self parking not available.

Valet: Rates vary (call for information).

NG26 Hotels half page.indd 1 www.NorthernGreen.org

HOLIDAY INN ST. PAUL DOWNTOWN 175 West 7th Street, St. Paul, MN 55102 Rate: $129 (single/double rate) Reservation Line: 651-225-1515 (ask for the Northern Green group rate) Parking: Onsite parking in connected ramp ($21+tax per day).

Offsite parking directly across the street (prices vary).

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT 150 Smith Ave N, St. Paul, MN 55102 Rate: $129 (single rate) Reservation Line: 651-204-4050 (identify yourself as a Northern Green participant) Parking: Self parking not available. Valet: $35.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS CANDIDATES

2026

CANDIDATES for MPSFMA Board of Directors

General Member Representative Cole Hagberg ISD #272 | Eden Prairie Schools

2ND Vice President Justin Holmberg St. Paul Academy & Summitt School

Commercial Member Representative Ben Johnson Van Wall Equipment

Commercial Member Representative Nick Wilz Heritage PPG

General Member Representative Kyle Johnson ISD #622 | North St. Paul

General Member Representative Josh Sweno National Sports Center

MTGF Representative Jason Goehring City of Plymouth

Vote @ www.mpsfma.org Results finalized at the January 7th Annual Meeting at North End Community Center in Saint Paul

P. O. Box 617, Wayzata, MN 55391

GOLF CHAMPS

Two members of the three-peat winning foursome were the City of Robbinsdale’s Matt Leonard and Joe Ulrich.

(Not pictured: Andy Nauer and Jack Scheber

Peter DeVries 952-797-4669 pd@tinymobilerobots.com www.tinymobilerobots.com

GOLF TOURNAMENT RUNNER-UPS Jeff Turtinen, Roger Weinbrenner CSFM, and Mike McDonald CSFM (not pictured: Greg Brodd)