MPSFMA NEWS - WINTER 2024-25

NEWS Volume 14, No. 4

Winter 2024-2025

FIELD OF THE YEAR

SAINT FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY SOFTBALL FIELD

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

By Trenton Waters MPSFMA President Minnesota Twins Baseball Club

2025 JANUARY 21-23 NORTHERN GREEN SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA

Dear MPSFMA Members: MARCH 6 MPSFMA SPRING WORKSHOP It is both an honor and a privilege to address you as President of this remarkU OF NORTHWESTERN | ST. PAUL able association. As we reflect on the strides we’ve made over the past year, I am ROSEVILLE, MINNESOTA filled with gratitude for your dedication, passion, and unwavering support. ToJUNE 25 gether, we have not only achieved great milestones but also laid the foundation for MPSFMA | UMN FIELD DAY TROE CENTER even greater accomplishments in the future.

FALCON HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA Our shared vision has driven us to push boundaries, overcome challenges, and AUGUST 21 create meaningful change in our field. The strength of our community lies in the MPSFMA GOLF TOURNAMENT collective efforts of each member, and I am continually inspired by the creativity, OAK GLEN GOLF COURSE STILLWATER, MINNESOTA collaboration, and commitment that you bring to the table.

Looking ahead, we have an incredible lineup of events and initiatives that will OCTOBER COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT help us grow as professionals and strengthen the connections within our vibrant (Site and Date to be determined) community.

OCTOBER 7 One of the most anticipated events on our calendar are our Spring NORTHERN GREEN OUTDOORS ALDRICH ARENA and Fall Workshops. These workshops provide an excellent opportunity to MAPLEWOOD, MINNESOTA deepen our knowledge, exchange ideas, and gain hands-on experience with the latNOVEMBER 19 est trends and technologies in park and sports field management. Whether you’re MPSFMA FALL WORKSHOP seeking new insights or honing your skills, these workshops are essential for stayBRACKETT’S CROSSING C.C. LAKEVILLE, MINNESOTA ing ahead in our field.

DECEMBER 4 Our UMN Field Day is another event you won’t want to miss. We’ll exGREEN INDUSTRY BOWLING fUNDRAISER plore the University of Minnesota, dive into best practices, and learn from experts FLAHERTYS ARDEN BOWL ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA in the industry. It’s always a great day for networking and professional development, as well as a chance to see innovative approaches in action.

We’re also excited to announce our annual MPSFMA Golf Tournament will be held at Oak Glen Golf Course in Stillwater on August 21st. This is a favorite among many of our members. This event is not only a fantastic opportunity to relax and enjoy some friendly competition but also a chance to build relationships and support the mission of MPSFMA. We encourage everyone to come out, enjoy the day and make lasting connections with fellow professionals.

In addition to our professional development events, we’re proud to highlight our Community Service Project with the support of Toro and the Minnesota Twins. This year, we’ll come together to give back to our local communities by working on a hands-on project that improves our parks and recreational spaces. It’s a wonderful way to make a tangible difference while strengthening our bonds as an association.

These events, and so much more, are a testament to the passion, dedication, and collaborative spirit that defines MPSFMA. I encourage each of you to take full advantage of these opportunities to learn, connect, and give back. We are presented with exciting opportunities to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact.

AT THE SURFACE OF HUNDREDS Let us continue to work together to build on the legacy we have created and make a difference in the lives of those we serve. ToOF MINNESOTA SPORTS PROGRAMS gether, we will continue to advance the field of parks and sports field management and ensure our spaces are well-maintained and accessible for all.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to MPSFMA. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events!

PROUD SUPPORTER

LEADING CHOICE IN MINNESOTA

With appreciation and optimism,

Trent Waters

Trent Waters President Minnesota Park and Sports Field Management Association

WINTER 2024-2025

昀eldturf.com

MPSFMA NEWS 3

The Magic’s in the Details!

We pride ourselves on our work, and let the results speak for themselves!

Athletic Field Maintenance • • • • • •

Turfgrass Maintenance

Field reconstruction Lip removal Infield grading/detailing Infield weed control Pitching mound construction Consulting

• • • • • •

Turfgrass stripping Grading & soil preperation Seeding & sodding Aerating Top dressing Fertilizing & spraying

(612) 900-5295 Jerrod Brunelle Jerrod@magicturf.com

www.magicturf.com

MPSFMA SPONSOR LISTINGS AMINORGANIX AminOrganix provides the fastest acting, safest and longest lasting amino acid-based natural granular and liquid fertilizers available today for sports turf and golf. AminOrganix fertilizers contain no manures or fillers. Instead, they are formulated with only FDA feed-grade ingredients including amino acids, multiple protein sources and carbohydrates that stimulate bacteria, mycorrhizae and other beneficial soil microbes for improved soil and plant health. AminOrganix fertilizers feed up to 150 days and increase root mass and depth reducing water use and grass stress.

BOLTON & MENK INC. Community infrastructure solutions. We believe all people should live in safe, sustainable, and beautiful communities. We take pride in our ability to provide technical planning, urban design, and engineering solutions to make that happen.

Contact: Mike Reiber 612-718-1089 mreiber@aminorganix.com

CUSHMAN MOTOR COMPANY, INC. Cushman Motor Company is an independent family owed business. We’ve been supplying our customers with vehicles, tractors and other types of equipment. We’ve evolved into a multi-faceted supplier of industrial grade equipment to customers throughout the Midwest. Cushman Motor Company is an authorized distributor of 4X4 tractors manufactured by Ventrac, Steiner and Holder companies. We sell Cushman, Columbia, Vantage and Westward brand vehicles along with Ryan, Billy Goat and Fleet grounds care products.

Rob Beachy 612-861-6171 rbeachy@aminorganix.com www.aminorganix.com BERG TURF Berg Turf is owned and operated by an SFMA Certified Sports Field Manager with a focus on infield renovation/laser grading, aeration, topdressing and seeding services. With a depth of knowledge and experience on many aspects of infield construction, Berg Turf offers services from edging to amending infield skin profiles to laser grading. Aeration services include subsurface air injection with an Air2G2 aerator or linear decompaction with an Imants Shockwave, both of which cause minimal surface disruption for immediate return to play. For interseeding and new seeding projects the Vredo line of seeder is used. It’s ground driven slicing design allows for extremely accurate seeding rates at a quick pace while consistently resulting in some of the best germination rates in the industry.

Steve Berg 507-577-9423 steve@bergturf.com twitter: @BergTurf BRYAN ROCK PRODUCTS Based in Shakopee, Minnesota, family owned and operated Bryan Rock has provided quality limestone products for contractors, government agencies, asphalt production and ready mix concrete operations since 1941. We operate several limestone quarries that provide our clients with aggregate to Minnesota and the Midwest, but we're also the leading producer of ball diamond aggregate Nationwide.

Eric Bryan 952-239-8854 ericb@bryanrock.com www.bryanrock.com

WINTER 2024-2025

Jay Pomeroy 763-544-7129 jpomeroy@bolton-menk.com www.ajainc.net

Mike Benson 612-333-3487 mike.benson@cushmanmotorco.com Steve Scanlan 612-333-3487 steve.scanlan@cushmanmotorco.com www.cushmanmotorco.com DH ATHLETICS We are commited to offer top quality products including but are not limited to the following: Porta Flex portable fencing, sports nets & custom netting from Carron Nets and Douglas, Bolco, Hollywood, Magnetic Safety bases, maintenance supplies, Diamond Dry, Dugout Covers, benches, and portable pitching mounds from Portolite and True Pitch. We want to be your source for all Athletic Field and Court Supplies.

Matt Mangulis 507-339-5004 matt@dhalthletics.com www.dhathletics.com EC GROW Serving the Midwest with plant nutrients to maintain healthy turfgrass & ice melt for a safe and manageable winter season.

We strive to ensure the products we produce meet or exceed established standards by clearly defining expectations and holding each other accountable. We believe customer relationships are critical to our success and that maintaining the highest ethical and moral standards is paramount in cultivating those relationships.

Nate Mezera 608-306-0052 nmezera@ecgrow.com www.ecgrowproturf.com

MPSFMA NEWS 5

ORDER EARLY PAY LATER SPORTS FIELDS EARLY ORDER PROGRAM

SEPT 1 - FEB 15, 2025 At SiteOne®, we have all the sports fields maintenance products you need to create a Home Turf Advantage in 2025. And if you stock up on game-changing products between Sept 1st and Feb 15th, 2025, you can take advantage of Early Buy Discounts and Extended Payment Terms.

Scan the code or visit SiteOne.com/EOP for a complete list of offers, dates & terms

PLUS GET

2X POINTS on eligible

*Visit SiteOne.com/EOP for exclusions

products*

Not a Member? Sign up for free and learn more at SiteOne.com/Partners

Jim O’Neill 612-710-1718 jim@ecoworkssupply.com Geoff Jordan 218-213-2390 geoff@ecoworkssupply.com Darin Van Helden 612-201-0661 darin@ecoworkssupply.com www.ecoworkssupply.com FIELD TURF With over 20,000 installations worldwide, FieldTurf has been the surface of choice for over 20 years. We’re trusted at every level, from professional franchises (NFL, MLS, CFL, MLB, and more); NCAA Division I, II and III programs; to schools & municipalities.

FieldTurf is more than just a turf company. We are the pioneers of today’s generation of artificial turf and the innovators for tomorrow’s cutting-edge sports surfaces. Our fields have paved the way for little league dreamers, local school heroes, college rising stars and professional sports icons. FieldTurf is the most trusted name in artificial turf. Not only do we install the cutting-edge sports surfaces, but we also offer proper maintenance that will not only keep your field looking and playing at its best, but first and foremost it will provide your athletes with a playing surface that will assist them to perform at the peak of their abilities.

Matthew Cole 216-339-5393 matthew.cole@fieldturf.com Cody Gustafson 847-340-8113 cody.gustafson@fieldturf.com FOREVER LAWN MINNESOTA ForeverLawn Minnesota provides unparalleled expertise and the highest quality, natural-looking synthetic grass for residential and commercial properties in Minnesota. Offering 5 different markets of the finest artificial grass alternatives, ForeverLawn Minnesota is a family owned and operated company, located in Lakeville for the past 18 years.

Ken Rost 612-508-8660 ken@frostserv.com Cassie Roos 800-621-7910 cassie@frostserv.com www.frostserv.com GERTENS WHOLESALE & PROFESSIONAL TURF SUPPLY Gertens Wholesale offers turf products and landscape supplies including annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, evergreens, custom mulches, natural stone, wall stone and pavers. Custom blending of turf grass seed mixes, fertilizers, chemicals, infield conditioners, mound clay and erosion control products. We offer ArborJet injection equipment and related solutions.

Matt Krey 651-361-8500 mkrey@gertens.com www.gertens.com/wholesale

innovative solutions for all seasons

Doug Daniel 612-868-9615 doug@ecoworkssupply.com

FROST INC. Frost Inc provides advanced spray technology products and services for the golf and turf care industry. Frost leads the market in GPS spray control systems and variable rate mapping services.

Popular products include full package application equipment, chemical handling/mixing systems, and a variety of other unique products. Frost’s goal is to make spraying more accurate, more efficient, and a safer experience for the applicator and everyone else involved!

SPRAY TECHNOLOGY SPECIALISTS

ECO WORKS SUPPLY Eco Works Supply (EWS) is a regional distribution company that operates in Minnesota, Arizona and Florida. We supply the turf industry with liquid and granular fertilizers, mostly organic based. We also have a line of traditional granular fertilizer and are capable of custom blending granular fertilizer to specific requirements. Also providing soil testing services, and crew and event clothing. We believe in giving back to the industry we serve and are sponsors and active members of the MTGF, MPSFMA, MGCSA, GCSAA, MPGCMA, and Cactus and Pine GCSA.

turf/sports

GPS, HYDROSEEDING, LAWNCARE, ETC.

Kelby Johnson 612-210-4869 kelby@mn.foreverlawn.com Troy Johnson 612-210-1946 troy@mn.foreverlawn.com www.mn.foreverlawn.com

WINTER 2024-2025

TRUCK SKIDS, COMPACT, MIXING, ETC.

frostserv.com (800) 621-7910

ice/lawn

MPSFMA NEWS 7

JANUARY 21—23, 2025 Saint Paul RiverCentre W W W. NORT H ER NG R E E N.ORG | I N F O @NORT H E R NGR E E N.ORG | 6 51- 6 3 3-498 7

M O N D A Y Pre-Conference Sessions: PLT Relicensure and Pesticide Recerti昀cation will be available on Monday, January 20 at the Saint Paul RiverCentre.

TUESDAY, JAN. 21 Community day for these Villages with a full day of focused education.

From trends to business strategies, 昀nd everything you need to thrive!

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 22 Dedicated trade show day!

THURSDAY, JAN. 23 Community day for these Villages with a full day of focused education, plus the trade show will be open in the morning!

Water/ Irrigation

Golf

Landscape/ Hardscape Contractor

Management Path

TRADE SHOW

BLOCK PARTY

9:00am-3:30pm

Turf, Grounds, & Snow Management

3:30pm-5:30pm

Tree Care/ Arborist

Garden Center/ Grower

Landscape Design/Landscape Architecture

Professional Gardening Services

Management Path

TRADE SHOW 9:00am-12:00pm

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR GENEROUS NORTHERN GREEN 2025 SUPPORTERS:

HARTMAN COMPANIES, INC. Hartman Companies specializes in sports field slit drainage; irrigation and grading with 40+ years of experience. Our methods of drainage installation keep disruption to a minimum. Drain today, play tomorrow.

Josh Eykyn josh@hartmancompanies.com Dan Kelzer dan@hartmancompanies.com www.hartmancompanies.com HERITAGE PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS GROUP Heritage PPG is a nationwide distributor of professional turf products. Heritage PPG is an industry leader with a wide variety of sports turf products tailor made to fit your needs, such as granular fertilizer, high performance grass seed, Foliar fertilizer, a large selection of Heritage PPG proprietary products, herbicide, insecticide and fungicide from major brands. With years of sports field experience, your local sports turf expert can help you find the right products to help your fields stand up to the riggers of a season and look great in the process. You can count on us to take care of you and your turf.

KROMER COMPANY Kromer Company is a highly specialized US manufacturer of athletic fiield maintenance equipment with 40+ years of experience in the field. Our innovative and adaptive line of durable equipment is designed to prepare your natural / synthetic fields efficiently and cost effective. We understand that time is money. Lining fields, painting logos, grooming, spraying, disinfecting, removing the paint from synthetic fields is what we help you do. Discover why so many stadium operators, colleges and universities, pro sports teams, high schools, municipalities and the U.S. Government trust our equipment to get the job done.

Al Hentges 763-743-0431 al@kromerco.com Rachel Hentges 763-743-0431 rachel@kromerco.com www.kromerco.com

Kevin Leeper Phone: 651-315-4397 kevin.leeper@heritageppg.com www.heritageppg.comHLS OUTDOOR Professional contractors and municipalities experience access to an unmatched on-hand inventory of the highest quality Irrigation, Landscape, & Outdoor Lighting products in the Minnesota market.

MAGIC TURF, INC. Magic Turf (formerly Town & Country Landscaping) is a professional Minnesota contractor that specializes in installing, refurbishing, and maintaining athletic fields and high-use turfgrass areas for Cities, Schools, Colleges, Athletic Associations, and other high level Organizations. We partner with our valued clients to come up with the appropriate projects and programs for each situation individually. Our goal is to assist our clients in providing safe, functional, and professionally maintained fields and spaces for their athletes and all others utilizing these areas. Our experience and specialized equipment allow us to perform fine-grading, infield edging & detailing, pitching mound construction & maintenance, unsafe infield lip removal, GPS/Laser grading capabilities, seeding, over-seeding, sodding, aeration, top dressing, fertilizing, spraying (turf health & infield weed control), soil corrections, customized turf health programs, and much more!

Mike Friederichs 612-599-6101 michael.friedrichs@hlsoutdoor.com

Jerrod Brunelle 612-900-5295 jerrod@magicturf.com

Jeff Laterell 612-791-4643 jeff.lastterell@hlsoutdoor.com

Herb Koch 612-260-1880 herbjr@magicturf.com

Chad Redman 952-529-8903 chad.redmann@hlsoutdoor.com www.hlsoutdoor.com

Will DuCharme 612-600-0112 will@magicturf.com

Nick Wilz Phone: 612-719-7680 nick.wilz@heritageppg.com

HUNTER INDUSTRIES Hunter sales managers are trusted field partners dedicated to supporting the professional irrigation market. Hunter is dedicated to connecting our customers with trusted irrigation professionals who are knowledgeable of our products and their proper usage.

We create innovative, high-quality solutions for the irrigation, outdoor lighting and custom molding industries.

Jessie Brunelle 763-464-0880 jessi@magicturf.com www.magicturf.com

Steve Pallas 651-216-8652 steve.pallas@hunterindustries.com Eric Simmons 612-374-0244 eric.simmons@hunterindustries.com www.hunterindustries.com

WINTER 2024-2025

MPSFMA NEWS 9

NORTHERN GREEN 2025

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 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.

B

MIDWEST GROUNDCOVER EXPRESS BLOWER SERVICE We use only the highest quality mulches, which are all natural virgin wood fibers. Our variety of mulches is ideal for playground surfacing, providing excellent shock absorption that offers a beautiful appearance, cost efficiency and easy installation.

Justin Crandall 763-274-9829 midwestgroundcover@gmail.com www.midwestgroundcover.com MIDWEST MACHINERY CO. Midwest Machinery Co. strives to equip and support the agricultural, consumer, and commercial markets of Minnesota and Wisconsin. They are a dealership with a passion for assisting their customer base with products, knowledge, and support. Midwest Machinery progressively trains its employees and their customers on the leading technologies in our industry to deliver the highest value with integrity at the highest ability.

Doug Erickson 507-645-4886 derickson@mmcjd.com www.mmcjd.com MINNESOTA EQUIPMENT Dating back to 1916, Minnesota Equipment has proudly served our local communities and agencies. We are primarily a John Deere, Toro, Ariens/Gravely, and Stihl dealer but carry many other lines to compliment those products. You will find a friendly sales, parts, and service team at each of our 4 metro locations.

Keeping our customers progressing at a high level is a top priority of ours. We pride ourselves on going the extra mile and look forward to proving that. Check us out at minnesotaequipment.com or feel free to give us a call!

Shane Fisher Phone: 763-204-1171 shanefisher@mnequip.com Eric Brunelle Phone: 612-590-0443 ericbrunelle@mnequip.com www.mnequipmentsolutions.com MINNESOTA SODDING COMPANY Established in 1993, MSC is a commercial sod and seed contractor, with an added focus on essential maintenance services.

From large commercial installations, complete field replacements, repair and restoration work, MSC has extensive experience in all aspects of sports turf, including synthetic turf maintenance. Let our STMA Certified Sports Turf Managers on staff help you maximize your maintenance budget and make your facility safe, resilient and beautiful. The long list of both natural and synthetic turf services we provide, makes us a valued partner on premier professional, collegiate, K thru 12 and municipal facilities throughout the Midwest. Our state-of-the-art robotic field layout service is a “must see.” Machine controlled 3D grading is capable of bringing your ballfields to the next level. Visit us at www.mnsodco.com or give us a call and let’s see how we can improve your venue!

MOR GOLF Located in Lakeville, we are the Club Car dealer for the Twin Cities. We are also a certified Husqvarna dealer and Grasshopper dealer. MOR Golf and Utility can provide you with the latest and greatest in golf carts and outdoor power equipment. From chainsaws and leaf blowers to zero-turns and snow blowers we have everything for your yard!

Drew Ekstrom Phone: 612-360-4791 drew@morgolfmn.com www.morgolfmn.com MTI DISTRIBUTING, INC. MTI is the leading supplier of products and services to the green industries through a combination of exceptional products and superior service. We are in the business of providing landscape beautification solutions to golf courses, schools, municipalities, landscape contractors and independent dealers.

Bill Brookhart 763-592-5600 brookhart@mtidistributing.com Bob Frank 763-592-5727 bob.frank@mtidistributing.com Larry Gorman 763-592-5720 larry.gorman@mtidistributing.com Jeff Drake jeff.drake@mtidistributing.com www.mtidistributing.com PBI GORDON, INC. PBI Gordon, Inc. provides a robust line of herbicides, insecticides and other products in the turf & ornamental management industry.

Chris Quinlan 651-260-6300 cquinlan@pbigordon.com www.pbigordon.com PETERSON COMPANIES, INC. Over the years, we have built a solid reputation as one of the Upper Midwest's premier park and turf contractors. We have this reputation because of our willingness to accept any challenge, our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work and our foresight to seek out the latest technology to incorporate into our practices. From massive excavation projects to sophisticated, commercial irrigation systems, we have experts and resources to get the job done right.

Dan Slepica 651-368-0217 slepica@petersoncompanies.net www.petersoncompanies.net

Roger Weinbrenner, CSFM 651-301-9004 rweinbrenner@mnsodco.com www.mnsodco.com

WINTER 2024-2025

MPSFMA NEWS 11

PIONEER ATHLETICS Pioneer Athletics is a developer and manufacturer of synthetic and natural grass field marking paint and striping equipment.

Pioneer supplies high schools, universities and professional athletic organizations.

Tom O’Hern 612-518-1107 tohern@pioneerathletics.com www.pioneerathletics.com PLAISTED COMPANIES, INC. / PEAT INC. Plaisted Companies mining reserve is located in Elk River and offers the most complete line of sand and gravel products available in the Upper Midwest. We offer more than 200 unique and innovative products. And because we have our own fleet of tandems, tri-axels, Super 7s, trucks and pups, and semi-end dumps we continue to strive to be the standard for responsive delivery options in the five-state area. From Mulch, Black Dirt, Boulders, Landscape Rock, Allan Block Retaining Wall Block, Keystone Retaining Wall Block and Borgert pavers, Plaisted Companies has everything from start to finish for your landscaping needs.

Brian Thunberg 763-450-9145 bthunberg@plaistedcompanies.com Scott Thayer 000-000-0000 sthayer@plaistedcompanies.com www.plaistedcompanies.com PORTOLITE PRODUCTS Proudly handcrafted in the USA. Portolite has set the standard in Portolite Pitching Mounds is a family-owned and operated business based in Minnesota. We have set the standard in lightweight, durable, portable pitching mounds since 1992. Portolite Pitching baseball mounds and softball mats are in use at thousands of high schools, colleges, and park and recreation departments across the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia.

Chad Hoppe 612-716-5174 chad@portolite.com www.portolite.com PROFESSIONAL TURF AND RENOVATION Professional Turf & Renovation, Inc. (PTR) was started in 1982 by John Hopko, a Penn State graduate in turfgrass management.

With 50 years of experience in the turfgrass industry, PTR has grown to offer a complete line of services to meet the needs of today’s natural and synthetic turf facilities. Our services and fleet of equipment includes the latest advances in the industry. From precision slit seeders, custom fertilizer and herbicide programs, synthetic turf maintenance, robotic painters, laser grading equipment, deep tine and linear aeration, and more. Throughout the years we have been members and supporters of the MPSFMA, MGCSA, MASMS, MnIAAA and the MTGF.

RAINBIRD CORPORATION Rain Bird Corporation is a privately held company founded in 1933 during the agricultural boom in California. Rain Bird has produces and offers the industry’s broadest range of irrigation products for farms, golf courses, sports arenas, commercial developments around the world.

Andy Gangl 651-356-5689 agangl@rainbird.com www.rainbird.com RAMY TURF PRODUCTS Ramy Turf specializes in turf, native grass/forbs, wildlife and forage seed. Ramy also mixes/blends to the specifications of MnDOT, BWSR, DNR, NRCS and other agencies as well as custom blending for specific site requirements or per customer guidelines. Additionally, Ramy offers high quality fertilizers, erosion control options, geotextiles, and more.

Sam Bauer 612-205-4428 sam@ramyturf.com Joel Chambers 507-382-2225 joel@ramyturf.com Ryan Danielson 612-998-6739 ryan@ramyturf.com www.ramyturf.com REINDERS, INC. Reinders is a 5th generation family-owned distributor of turf care products featuring competition-grade grass seed from DLF & Landmark, DuraEdge soils and amendments, EC Grow, The Andersons & NatureSafe fertilizers, and many chemical brands from manufacturers like PBI Gordon, Nufarm, Syngenta, Corteva, QualiPro, BASF, Envu and Albaugh. The Company also sells a complete line of winter products, spreaders, sprayers, landscape tools and irrigation products. Reinders leads with quality products designed for sports turf and general grounds use and supports their use with unwavering support, tailor-fit management programs and site visits via a network of 28 technical sales reps located at 12 locations in 11 states. Online ordering, account management, product info/labels and access to companywide inventory are available 24/7 at www.reinders.com.

Joe Churchill 612-790-7333 jchurchill@reinders.com Ben Boeding CSFM 612-710-0170 bboeding@reinders.com www.reinders.com

Andy Hopko Phone: 763-370-5186 andy@proturfmn.com www.proturfmn.com

WINTER 2024-2025

MPSFMA NEWS 13

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!

4830 Azelia Ave N Suite #100 Brooklyn Center, MN 55429 1-800-362-3665 www.mtidistributing.com

ROCK HARD LANDSCAPE SUPPLY Rock Hard Landscape Supply is your first choice for landscape supplies in the Twin Cities area. Conveniently located in Burnsville on Highway 13, we are easily accessed by either 35W or Hwy 169. Our ideal location and extensive delivery options serve the entire south metro and beyond. Providing superb customer service and deliver quality landscape products at reasonable prices.

Kim Gaida 952-895-7408 kgaida@rockhardmn.com www.rockhardlandscapesupply.com SAINT CROIX RECREATION COMPANY St. Croix represents BCI Burke Play Equipment, Pilot Rock, Coverworx Shelters, Most Dependable Fountains & Wabash Valley which are all on the state contract and are manufactured in the Midwest saving time in the purchasing process and money in freight. Best part of St. Croix Recreation is our customer service!

Chris Johnsen Phone: 651-430-1247 cj@stcroixrec.com Hannah Johnsen Phone: 651-430-1247 hannah@stcroixrec.com Mike Basich mb@stcroixrec.com Keegan Hartwick keegan@stcroixrec.com Johnnie Johnson jj@stcroixrec.com www.funplaygrounds.com SMSC ORGANICS RECYCLING FACILITY / DAKOTA PRAIRIE COMPOSTING Owned and operated by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) -the SMSC Organics Recycling Facility recycles organic waste into high-quality compost, compost blends, mulch, top dressing, and more. In operation since the fall of 2011, the facility is part of the SMSC’s Dakota tradition of caring for the earth.

Their new composting facility, Dakota Prairie Composting, will open in the fall of 2024.

Dustin Montey 952-233-9192 Dustin.Montey@shakopeedakota.org Erin Skelly 952-233-9194 Erin.Skelly@shakopeedakota.org Jenny Appenzeller 952-233-9189 Jenny.Appenzeller@shakopeedakota.org www.shakopeedakota.org

SiteOne® LANDSCAPE SUPPLY SiteOne® Landscape Supply has all the seed, fertility, control and field maintenance products to take care of your playing fields all season long. Game-changing agronomic solutions maintain optimal performance and keep players safe. With expert advice, consultation and training, SiteOne can help improve your crew’s productivity and manage turf stress to prevent issues long-term.

Craig Hendrickson 763-297-0838 chendrickson@siteone.com Mark Nelson 763-274-9956 mnelson2@siteone.com Ryan Popp 612-384-9889 rpopp2@siteone.com Chet VanSloun 612-263-2279 cvansloun@siteone.com Brandon Young 612-749-3172 byoung@siteone.com www.siteone.com THE TESSMAN COMPANY The Tessman Company is a trusted wholesale distributor proudly serving the green industry since 1950. With over seven decades of experience, we are committed to providing high-quality products and exceptional service to lawn care professionals, sports turf managers, landscapers, golf courses, greenhouses, and nurseries.

Our extensive product portfolio includes premium turf and greenhouse fertilizers, specialized chemicals, top-tier grass seed, landscape supplies, grower soils, plastics, and a wide range of other essential products tailored to meet the needs of our diverse clientele. Additionally, we are a reliable supplier of ice-melting solutions, ensuring year-round support for our customers. At The Tessman Company, we are dedicated to delivering innovative solutions and fostering long-term partnerships to help our customers thrive in the green industry.

Mike Zwisler 720-231-5582 mzwisler@tessmanseed.com Tom Thul 651-755-8394 tthul@tessmanseed.com www.tessmanseed.com TINY MOBILE ROBOTS Tiny Mobile Robots is offering a better way to paint athletic fields.

Revolutionizing the efficiency and precision of line marking for sports fields, TinyMobileRobots' solutions ensure accuracy, speed, and consistency every time. Say goodbye to hours of field layout before the intramural season, with TinyMobileRobots, field painting doesn’t have to be a pain.

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

WINTER 2024-2025

MPSFMA NEWS 15

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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top dressing services We also offer top dressing

new playground wood fiber installation services. Including ipema certified discount for new installation playgrounds only. discount only applies to new customers new playgrounds. $250 off full price. save up to 50% off playground company pricing.

engineered wood fiber, rubber mulch, sand & pea gravel.

contact us today for your free estimate

we provide free onsite safety surfacing consulting & assessments in the metro area.

Contact Justin - 763-274-9829 midwestgroundcover@gmail.com www.midwestgroundcover.net

TURFCO MANUFACTURING CO. As maintenance practices have changed and grown, so has our product line. Your topdressing program is likely tailored to your specific needs and conditions. Our expansive product line ensures that we have the right topdresser and material handler for your specific program.

TWIN CITY SEED COMPANY Twin City Seed offers: House Mixtures; Nursery & Garden Center Mixtures; Turf Grasses; MN DOT ; Mixtures; WI DOT Mixtures; Golf Course and Sports Turf Mixtures; Forage Mixtures, and Native & Specialty Mixtures. Also offering: Organic Fertilizer; General Fertilizer; Water Soluble Fertilizer, and Seed Treatment.

Greg Brodd 763-785-1000 gbrodd@turfco.com www.turfco.com

Paul Kubista 952-944-7105 pkubista@twincityseed.com

TURFWERKS Turfwerks is the place our clients turn to for all their golf course and turf care needs. From selling new and used equipment, as well as financing entire course fleets, we are able to fully service all of your needs as a one-stop shop. Sales, parts & service from one great company.

Nick Sherer 612-308-0102 nsherer@turfwerks.com www.turfwerks.com TURF TANK Turf Tank, the world’s best-rated autonomous line marking robot, is offering you the chance to see its innovative technology in action, right on your own field! Turf Tank is helping sports managers from over 3,000 organizations make their jobs easier, faster, and more accurate, giving them the flexibility to paint their fields with just a few clicks on a tablet. They’re excited to show you how this technology can transform your field marking process, too. Turf Tank will visit your facility and paint one of your fields.

Representing Minnesota and Wisconson.

Charles Adams 651-491-9454 charles.adams@turftank.com www.turftank.com

Andy Keating 612-790-0561 akeating@twincityseed.com VAN WALL EQUIPMENT Van Wall is proud to be your John Deere Golf and Sports Turf equipment dealer. Our commitment to your business goes beyond the green and yellow of John Deere. We are committed to bringing you the best products in the industry. The products you need to get the job done. All with industry leading parts and service support you have come to expect from Van Wall. Give us a call today to learn more about our available inventory and support services!

Travis Dykstra 515-422-7220 travis.dykstra@vanwall.com Ben Johnson 612-747-7308 ben.johnson@vanwall.com Tim VanLoo (SW MN) 515-820-7140 tim.vanloo@vanwall.com Nate Canier (SE MN) 563-320-8377 nate.canier@vanwall.com www.vanwall.com

2025 SPRING WORKSHOP KEYNOTE SPEAKER TIM LAUDNER, a local kid from Brooklyn Park who played catcher for the Minnesota Twins then evolved into a television sportscaster. Registration for the Spring Workshop is available at www.mpsfma.org.

WINTER 2024-2025

MPSFMA NEWS 17

LEADING AMINO ACID FERTILIZER IN TURF Tested up to 34% better among all organics at ISU*

9-3-7

Organic Fertilizer No manures, made to FDA feed grade standards

• Continuous feeding for 115-150 days • Uniform color across the turf • 27 amino acids safe for wildlife • 7 organic nitrogen, 7 phosphorus, and 7 potassium sources • Calcium, magnesium, sulfur, carbon, and all essential micronutrients • Proprietary formulation keeps nutrients available longer in root zone • Organic nutrients control leaching even in extreme weather

t to r y a p S e l o e Wh rksho Get th l 2024 Wo l the Fa

www.aminorganix.com • FDA feed ingredients ensure safety in application and play SATISFACTION GUARANTEED AminOrganix® Inc. Distributors of AminOrganix products for Turf and Ornamentals 863-825-4494

3800 American Blvd W Ste 1500 Bloomington, MN 55431 www.aminorganix.com *Up to 34% growth per unit N than all organics tested at Iowa State University

St. Francis Varsity Softball Field Wins Turfco | MPSFMA Field of the Year The St. Francis High School Varsity Field was the winner of the 2024 Turfco | MPSFMA Field of the Year.

Nate Williamson accepted the award from Turfco representative Greg Brodd and MPSFMA President Trent Waters at the MPSFMA Annual Meeting on January 8th at CHS Field in St. Paul.

“This field was in rough shape three years ago and I think with what our crew has done short staffed and over 120 acres to maintain outside of this field during the week. I think the results of this hard work speak for itself. Surrounding communities and programs continue to ask to rent our field because it truly the best natural softball surface in the Mississippi 8 conference.

When all those things are taken into account along with what has been improved in a short amount of time, I believe it is one of the best high school fields in the state,” said Williamson.

Greg Brodd, left, Turfco Manufacturing and MPSFMA President Trent Williamson, Minnesota Twins, right, presented the Turfco | MPSFMA Field of the Year award to Sports Turf Manager Nate Williamson, St. Francis Area Schools, at the 2025 MPSFMA Annual Meeting at CHS Field in St. Paul where Williamson also was elected 2nd Vice President by the membership.

Fargo, ND

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Landscape • Greenhouse • Lawn Care • Turf • Winter Equipment WINTER 2024-2025

MPSFMA NEWS 19

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 APRIL 15, 2023

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

WINTER 2024-2025 MPSFMA NEWS 21

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

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 WINTER 2024-2025

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 23

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

CHS FIELD PROVIDED A GREAT SETTING FOR THE 2025 MPSFMA ANNUAL MEETING Home of the Saint Paul Saints Minor League Baseball Club.

WINTER 2024-2025

MPSFMA NEWS 25

Covers That Make the Difference Our lightweight EVERGREEN™Turf Covers produce a greenhouse type effect that allows your turf to breathe and retain the right amount of heat and moisture.

MASTER BRANDING

RAINCOVERS, from our supreme lightweight ones right to the classic vinyl types, there are models and accessories to meet your specific needs.

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

TARPMATE™ AIR roller is a revolutionary storage and handling system for field covers. 2-3 people can roll out or roll up a 100’ wide cover.

An INFLATABLE FIELD COVER allows for ongoing field maintenance during inclement and extreme cold weather.

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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

2025

+ 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

WINTER 2024-2025

www.mpsfma.org

MPSFMA NEWS 27

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

28 MPSFMA NEWS

WINTER 2024-2025

2024 HERITAGE PPG | MPSFMA SPORTS FIELD MANAGER OF THE YEAR NATE WILLIAMSON, St. Francis Area Schools (center), accepted the Award at the MPSFMA Annual Meeting on January 8, 2025, at CHS Field in St. Paul. Williamson was also elected as 2nd Vice President of the Minnesota Park and Sports Field Management Association. Also pictured are Nick Wilz, Heritage PPG (left), and MPSFMA President Trent Waters, Minnesota Twins (right). Nominations for the 2025 sports field manager of the year are accepted throughout the year. Go to www.mpsfma.org for more info.

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WINTER 2024-2025

MPSFMA NEWS 29

Williamson, O'Hern, Larson and Boeding Elected to MPSFMA Board of Directors More than 70 members attended the January 8, 2025 MPSFMA Annual Meeting at CHS Field in Saint Paul. Thanks to host Marcus Campbell, head turf manager at CHS Field, and his staff for creating a great atmosphere for the meeting. The MPSFMA had its closest ever Board of Directors election as three of four categories were within a few votes. President Trent Waters, Vice President Marshall Syvertsen and Past President Derek Hollanitsch will continue in their positions for 2025. New on the MSPSFMA Board are:

Marcus Campbell and his staff answered a variety of questions from the membership. Lunch was served and the membership was in no hurry to leave CHS Field. The 2025 Board of Directors are:

2025 Board of Directors President: Trent Waters, Minnesota Twins Vice President: Marshall Syvertsen, City of Edina 2nd Vice President: Nate Williamson, St. Francis Area Schools

2nd Vice President Nate Williamson, Saint Francis Area Schools

Past President: Derek Hollanitsch, City of Saint Paul General Member Representatives: Luke Wittrock, University of Minnesota Kyle Larson, Minnesota Vikings

General Member Representative Kyle Larson, Minnesota Vikings Commercial Member Representative Tom O'Hern, Pioneer Athletics

Commercial Member Representatives: Paula Sliefert Tom O'Hern, Pioneer Athletics

MTGF Representative Ben Boeding CSFM, Reinders, Inc. MPSFMA member Nate Williamson had himself a day!

Besides being elected by the membership as 2nd Vice President, he also won the Sports Field Manager of the Year Award sponsored by Heritage PPG (Nick Wilz), along with winning the Field of the Year Award sponsored by Turfco Manufacturing (Greg Brodd).

MTGF Representatives: Mark Kruse CSFM, City of Lakeville Ben Boeding CSFM, Reinders, Inc. Treasurer: Roger Weinbrenner CSFM, MSC Executive Secretary: Jeff Turtinen

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w Granular Fertilizer w Liquid Fertilizer w Soil Amendments w Crew Clothing w Compost & Mulch w Grass Seed wTerraMax (Tazo B) Products w Turf Marking Paints w Synthetic Turf w Athletic Field Covers w Netting w Pitching Mounds w Batting Mats w Pitching Machines w Sports Accessories

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30 MPSFMA NEWS

WINTER 2024-2025

FOUR BOWLING FUNDRAISERS HAVE RAISED MORE THAN $10,000 FOR TURF SCHOLARSHIPS

GREEN INDUSTRY BOWLING FUNDRAISER RAISES MORE FUNDS FOR A TURF SCHOLARSHIP The 4th Annual MTGF/MNLA Green Industry Bowling Fundraiser took place at Flaherty's Bowl in Arden Hills on December 5. Event organizer Paulette Sorenson indicated that three previous events have been successful enough to award Turf Students scholarship money. Including this year, the Green Industry Bowling Fundraiser has raised more than $10,000 for Turf Scholarships. Sorenson and Mike McDonald are the driving forces of this fundraiser.

This year’s Baker Round Green Industry Masters Cup winning team was from Wilson Nurseries and consisted of Andy Wilson, Cal Inman, Steve Mielke and Matt Gorzlancykl. Playing with this foursome, was MPSFMA Vice President Marshall Syvertsen, City of Edina.

The Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation is a group of Green Industry professionals belonging to one of MTGF’s Allied Associations: Minnesota Association of Cemeteries, Minnesota Park and Sports WILSON NURSERIES WINS 4TH ANNUAL GREEN INDUSTRY BOWLING FUNDRAISER BAKER ROUND MASTERS CUP! From the left, are: Andy Wilson, Cal Inman, Steve Mielke and Matt Gorzlancykl.

Playing with this foursome, on the far right, is current MPSFMA Vice President Marshall Syvertsen, City of Edina.

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Field Management Association, Minnesota Turf Association, Minnesota Golf Course Superintendents’ Association, Minnesota Society of Arboriculture, Minnesota Facility Management Professionals, Minnesota Turf Seed Council and the University of Minnesota Turfgrass Extension.

The Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association consists of Green Industry Professionals in Landscape & Hardscape Design & Install, Garden Services & Landscape Management, Garden Centers, Nursery & Greenhouse Growing, Irrigation & Water Management, and Arboriculture & Tree Services.

The 2025 Green Industry Bowling Fundraiser will take place on December 4 at Flaherty’s Arden Bowl in Arden Hills.

Participate as an individual (you will be put on a team) or make up your own 5person team. Sponsoring inquiries should be directed to Paulette Sorenson, fundraising coordinator. Questions about the tournament format should be directed to Mike McDonald.

Go to www.northerngreen.org to register for the December 4th event.

MPSFMA NEWS 31

P. O. Box 617, Wayzata, MN 55391

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