MTGF CLIPPINGS - SPRING | SUMMER 2025

MTGF Clippings OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MINNESOTA TURF AND GROUNDS FOUNDATION VOL. 33, NO. 1 SPRING | SUMMER 2025

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WHAT TO KNOW NOW:

1

SAVE THE DATE! October 7, 2025

2

SAME VENUE! Aldrich Arena + Grounds (1850 White Bear Ave, Maplewood, MN 55109)

3

FREE PARKING! There are large parking lots onsite, and over昀ow parking across St. Paul Rd at Woodland Hills Church.

4

LUNCH IS PROVIDED!

NORTHERN GREEN SET JANUARY 20-22, 2026 AT RIVERCENTER IN SAINT PAUL The Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation promotes the Green Industry in Minnesota through support of research, education & outreach at the University of Minnesota and elsewhere

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

The Business of the MinnesotaTurf and Grounds Foundation

The MTGF Exists to Serve You

By DOMINIC PIERRE President Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers President Dominic Pierre MAC Union Cemetery Vice President Mark Kruse MPSFMA City of Lakeville Secretary/Treasurer Tom Redmann MASMS Consultant Treasurer Steve Balfany MTA Balfany Farms Ex-Officio Sam Bauer MPSFMA Ramy Turf Directors

MASMS

Tracy Closson Northfield Schools

MGCSA

Chris Aumock MGCSA

MGCSA

Jason Scharfencamp MGCSA

MPSFMA

Ben Boeding Reinders, Inc.

MSA

Hannibal Hayes Davey Research Group

MSA

Graham Wessberg City of St. Louis Park

MTA

Bryan Lawrence Rocket Turf & Nursery

MTSC

Brent Benike Northern Excellence Seed Vendor Representative Jim O’Neill Eco Works Supply Vendor Representative James Wolfin Twin City Seed Company University of Minnesota Turfgrass Extension Dr. Eric Watkins University of Minnesota University of Minnesota Turfgrass Extension Jon Trappe Ph.D. University of Minneso University of Minnesota Dept. of Forest Resources Ryan Murphy University of Minnesota Executive Director Jeff Turtinen 763-703-4983 turtinen@mtgf.org P. O. Box 617 Wayzata, MN 55391

www.mtgf.org

Greetings MTGF Members, It is both an honor and a privilege to step into the role of President of the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation. For those of you whom I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting, I’m Dominic Pierre: Secretary-Treasurer of the Minnesota Association of Cemeteries and the superintendent at Union Cemetery on the east side of Saint Paul. My daily work—overseeing the health of turf, the precision of plantings, and helping grieving families through the aesthetics of our cemeteries—has given me a profound respect for the challenges and triumphs that define our green industry. I am excited to bring that perspective to the MTGF Board and, together, cultivate an even stronger foundation for professional growth across our state.

As many of you know firsthand, the life of a turf and grounds professional is marked by long hours, unpredictable weather, and the relentless pace of a season that never quite pauses. From spring’s first green-up through the lush days of summer and into the fallen leaves of autumn, we’re on call— mowing, trimming, fertilizing, draining, and tree care. It’s backbreaking work, yes, but it’s also deeply gratifying to see a lawn thrive, a landscape come to life, and a community take pride in its green spaces. In my own work at Union Cemetery, I witness every day how high-quality turf and well-maintained grounds can comfort grieving families, uplift neighborhood aesthetics, and honor our shared history.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to every superintendent, technician, installer, landscape architect, and seasonal crew member who pours sweat and skill into Minnesota’s parks, campuses, cemeteries, athletic fields, and residential communities.

Your expertise fuels our collective success, and your dedication during this peak season does not go unnoticed. Whether you’re battling dry spells, juggling staffing shortages, or racing against the clock to prepare for an important community event, please know that your efforts form the green backbone of our state’s infrastructure and quality of life.

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, 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.

Warm regards,

Dominic Pierre

Dominic Pierre President Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation

2 MTGF CLIPPINGS - SPRING | SUMMER 2025

www.MTGF.org

Inside this Issue of MTGF Clippings: 2 2 5 7 10 14 19 19 20

President’s Message: The MTGF Exists to Serve You

By Dominic Pierre

ADVERTISING COMPANIES SUPPORTING THE MTGF MISSION

MTGF Allied Association Calendar Birches and the Borer: By Ryan Murphy MTGF Funding: Trees, Youth Engagement MTGF Funding: Golf & Sports Turf Management Program MTGF Funding: TROE Center Operations & Research Sofie Aspaas Receives MTGF|MNLA Foundation Scholarship MTGF Funded Research Reaches $2,019,791 Support the MTGF’s Mission

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2025 MTGF ALLIED ASSOCIATION CALENDAR MSA MASMS MGCSA MPSFMA MPSFMA MASMS MGCSA MPSFMA MGCSA MGCSA MAC MSA MGCSA MGCSA MTGF MASMS MSA MASMS MASMS MPSFMA MASMS MASMS MGCSA MASMS MASMS MASMS MTGF www.MTGF.org

June 16-17 June 24-25 June 25 June 25 June 25 June 27 August 4 August 21 August 25 September 9 September 16-18 September 18 September 22 October 6 October 7 October 22 October 30 November 12 November 14 November 19 November 20 November 21 December 2-3 December 10 December 18 December 19 January 20-22

Decay-Testing, Biology and Biomechanics Workshop, St. Paul MASMS Custodial Grounds & Maintenance Days, White Bear Lake Brainerd Exposure - The Classic @ Maddens MPSFMA Night Out at Twins Game UMN Field Day - TROE Center, Falcon Heights MASMS Custodial Grounds & Maintenance Days, Owatonna Southwest Exposure - Springfield GC MPSFMA Scramble - Oak Glen GC, Stillwater Northeast Exposure - Pokegama GC MGCSA Championship - Highland National GC, St. Paul MAC Annual Convention MSA Tree Climbing Workshop The Scramble - St. Croix National GC Wee One - Oak Ridge CC, Hopkins Northern Green Outdoors - Aldrich Arena, Maplewood Northwest Chapter Meeting: Hampton Inn, Bemidji MSA Fall Conference, Plymouth Metro Chapter Meeting: Bunker Hill Event Center, Coon Rapids Northern Chapter Meeting: Arrowwood, Brainerd MPSFMA Fall Workshop - Brackett’s Crossing CC, Lakeville West Chapter Meeting: Lakes Country Service Coop, Fergus Falls Southern Chapter Meeting: SCSC, Mankato The Mega - St. Croix National GC Metro Chapter Meeting - Mall of America, Bloomington Northwest Chapter Meeting: Hampton Inn, Bemidji Northern Chapter Meeting: Timberlake Lodge, Grand Rapids Northern Green, RiverCenter, St. Paul SPRING | SUMMER 2025 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 3

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Birches and the Borer

By Ryan Murphy Department of Forest Resources | University of Minnesota

The first tree I ever they have been shown to be learned to identify was exceedingly more susceptible surely the paper birch. I to bronze birch borer. This still recall trips to a family mechanism of host susceptibilcabin in Wisconsin where ity to an unrecognized pest is they grew naturally and the the same one currently unfoldaccompanying urge to peel ing with emerald ash borer. away the papery outer Ash species endemic to the layer of bark (probably as native range of emerald ash kindling for our intricately borer are generally only killed prepared fires). off when stressed or already in Minnesota is home decline; however, our native to five native birch ash lack the defenses inherent species; yellow birch in the Asian ash species.

(Betula alleghaniensis A 20-year study on the Britt.), heart-leaved birch resistance of various birch (B. cordifolia Regel), river species to bronze birch borer is Birch species are often planted as clumps for aesthetics. birch (B. nigra L.), paper reported by Nielsen et al. 2011.

This can lead to issues in the future due to stem compression and inclusions which may result in decline or failure. birch (B. papyrifera Marsh.), This study looked at seven and bog birch (B. pumila L.). All of these birches are relatively commonly planted birch species including paper birch, tall trees excepting bog birch, which is a multi-stemmed ‘Whitespire’ gray birch, river birch, European white birch, shrub. Identifying birches in natural stands may be confound- downy birch, monarch birch and Szechuan birch. After the ed by the fact that these species have the ability to hybridize if young seedlings were established, the plot was inoculated growing near each other. Birches have the characteristics of with bronze birch borer by introducing infested logs. an early successional species, possessing an ability to grow on The results of the study are telling. Within eight years disturbed sites with a rather strong aversion to shade, espeof planting, all European white birch, downy birch and cially paper and river birch. Yellow birch and heart-leaved Szechuan birch had died, additionally, monarch birch mortalbirch both have an increased tolerance for shade compared to ity was 88%. Conversely, after 20 years, the native North the others. River birch as its name implies is usually found American birches showed much higher resistance with 25% naturally occurring on flood plains and can be commonly mortality in paper birch, 27% mortality in Whitespire gray found along the Mississippi in Southwestern Minnesota. birch and only 3% mortality in river birch. It was noted by the As it is with any good story, our hero (the birch) researchers that most mortality of gray and paper birch would not be complete without its rival, the bronze birch occurred following a severe drought. The cause of mortality in borer (Agrilus anxius). Bronze birch borer is a Minnesota river birch was not attributed to bronze birch borer as no evinative flat headed borer. It is related to two other well-known dence of colonization within river birch was ever observed pests, two-lined chestnut borer and emerald ash borer. during the 20-year study. Furthermore, this study showed Bronze birch borer injures birches in much the same way as that paper birch and gray birch both tolerate a certain level of its other borer relatives affect their host trees. After adults bronze birch borer infestation as 100% of these trees had laremerge, they will feed for a short time on leaves before matval colonization. ing and laying eggs on the outer bark. Larva will hatch from Admittedly, the results of this study were perhaps extreme the eggs and chew through the bark and begin feeding on the due to the artificial inoculations of the plot. However, those water and nutrient conducting tissues of the host tree. This planting near naturally occurring birch stands may want work feeding creates galleries which disrupt the flow of water and under the assumption that bronze birch borer populations are nutrients within the tree, leading to decline and possibly already present. Furthermore, try and choose a planting site death. where stress from drought can be mitigated either through Birch species vary in their susceptibility to bronze inherent site characteristics or artificial water supplementabirch borer. Our native birches have the capacity to tolerate tion. And if you want nothing to do with bronze birch borer at a certain level of infestation. Bronze birch borer tends to all, go with river birch (though light infestation has been become a major issue when trees are suffering from some observed on river birch growing in alkaline soils). other stressor such as drought or growing in soils with higher References: Lloyd J. and Hahn J. Bronze birch borer and twolined chestnut borer in pH. Minnesota. University of Minnesota Extension. Found online 12/1/2017 at lt;https:// www.extension.umn.edu/garden/insects/find/bronze-birch-borer/> Due to the popularity of birch as a landscape tree, Nielsen D., Muilenburg V. and Herms D. 2011) Interspecific Variation in Resistance non-native birch species from both Asia and Europe have of Asian, European, and North American Birches (Betula spp.) to Bronze Birch been introduced to the nursery trade. While these species may Borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae). Environ.Entomol. 40 (3): 648-653 be desirable for their growth characteristics and aesthetics, www.MTGF.org

SPRING | SUMMER 2025 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 5

2025 MTGF DONATION: $27,500 2025 University of Minnesota Proposal to MTGF for Teaching, Research, and Outreach Programs at University of Minnesota Departments of Forest Resources & Plant Pathology Principal Investigators: Ryan Murphy | Alicia Coleman University of Minnesota Department of Forest Resources Benjamin Held | Robert Blanchette University of Minnesotata Department of Plant Pathology Cooperators: Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation and Minnesota Urban Foresters and Arborists Urban and forested areas are invaluforestry and arboriculture, technical Support from MTGF continues able resources that bring many benefits to tree climbing, and methods of rope access to be critical in providing staff and student Minnesota communities. However, tree used to safely enter and explore tree salary support, equipment acquisition, canopy cover is dwindling due to invasive canopies. and development of novel research threats like Dutch elm disease and emermethodologies at the UMN Urban Forestry ald ash borer as well as environmental 2025 Anticipated Outcomes Outreach & Research Lab stressors like successive years of ● Ten species of tree will be studied for drought, burdening the resources for hardiness and transplantability. In addiand the UMN Elm Selection Program forest management in the landscape. tion to planting new trees, existing trees Sustained efforts are crucial to restore and previously planted in the landscape will be preserve canopy to provide a sustainable future urban forest for identified and added to a database for long term observation. both residents and land managers. We aim to accomplish these ● Youth Tree Climbing experiences will be conducted on and tasks by researching tree diseases and pests, assessing tree off UMN St. Paul Campus (3-5 events) which will provide professpecies performance, providing meaningful professional ontinusional rope access arboriculture experiences to over 100 youth. ing education, and conducting outreach with youth to help recruit the next generation urban foresters, arborists, and scienMaterials & Methods tists. The long term support of MTGF to the Departments of Adaptive Novel Tree Species for Minnesota: Tree pests and Forest Resources and Plant Pathology has created many opportu- disease are an ecological and economic risk for land managers. nities for growth in the areas of academic research and outreach Tree epidemics such as Dutch elm disease and emerald ash borer to industry professionals, school-age youth, and others. We are have resulted in greater awareness about the benefits of a diversirequesting funds to accomplish this work through continued gen- fied tree species mix. Hardiness zone maps were recently updateral support of the Urban Forestry Outreach & Research Lab as ed pushing the Twin Cities area into Zone 5, originally Zone 4. well as the University of Minnesota Elm Selection Program.

This theoretically opens up the possibility of planting new species with Rationale, Benefits to Grounds Managers historical ranges which were further south. Furthermore, a Continued development of high-quality instruction, research, number of studies have forecasted the ways in which global cliand outreach programs to grounds managers, arborists, and mate change will affect the forests and woodlands of Minnesota, school-age youth increases the value and investment in urban and these researchers have published experimental protocols to and community forests statewide. Additionally, research and further study how impacts in cities affect broader landscape workshop programming provided by University of Minnesota fac- changes over time (e.g. the North American Adaptive Silviculture ulty and staff throughout Minnesota help to engage our commufor Climate Change [ASCC], with an experimental urban forest nities and enhance the benefits of urban natural resources. site in Saint Paul). Research like this has inspired expert groups, like UMN Extension, to develop lists of climate change-adapted Objectives tree species for a range of land managers to plant trees that are 1. UMN Urban Forestry Outreach & Research Programs expected to grow and persist in uncertain futures, including (UFOR) the investigation of the potential migration of new-to-region 2. University of Minnesota Elm Selection Program (UMESP) species. However, much of this work has not yet occurred in the 1. UMN Urban Forestry Outreach & Research Programs context of city forests and metropolitan regions, and the survival 2025 UFOR Objectives: and health of climate adapted trees across core cities and metro● Expand the local knowledge of novel tree species for MN politan areas has not been critically studied. Given the complicatland managers and residents in partnership with UMN ed history of pests and pathogens in cities of Minnesota, we also Extension. Adaptable tree species are being studied around the have anecdotal evidence that land managers are reluctant to state for their performance in Minnesota’s managed landscapes. plant too many unfamiliar tree species. Communities of Through the support of MTGF, we will be able to purchase researchers and practitioners would benefit from an empirical and plant trees of novel species in collaboration with land manunderstanding of perceived resilience and risk for large-scale tree agers to increase the available palette of selections to create more planting decisions across different cities and urban ecosystems of resilient landscapes.

Minnesota. This project aims to expand on nationally and locally● Continue the support of youth outreach, engagement, and relevant research and theoretical frameworks applied to urban recruitment programs in the metro as well as the exploration of forests and city tree planting conditions (Brandt and programs that reach K-12 kids in greater Minnesota. This includes development of skills and knowledge related to urban (Continued on Page 8) www.MTGF.org

SPRING | SUMMER 2025 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 7

MTGF Funding(Continued from Page 7) This project aims to expand on nationally and locally-relevant research and theoretical frameworks applied to urban forests and city tree planting conditions (Brandt and Windmuller-Campione 2020, Hobbie et al. 2021) and will be guided by the following research questions: 1. What are the characteristics of climate change vulnerability, resistance, resilience, transition, and inaction of currently inventoried urban forest stock across ecoregions and urban areas of Minnesota?

2. How well do “climate ready” urban trees perform across site types, cities, and ecoregions of Minnesota? We will observe and plant novel species in managed landscapes.

3. How are self-reported tree selection decisions related to stewardship behavior, tree knowledge, and tree preferences in the context of lesser-known species across site types and management actors? Species of interest for this work include but may not be limited to: bitternut hickory, mockernut hickory, shagbark hickory, eastern redbud, common persimmon, Osage orange, American sycamore, sassafras, northern pecan, post oak, chinkapin oak, and bald cypress. Youth Engagement in Arboriculture (YEA): The Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation has been critical to the sustainability of the YEA program. Funding from MTGF supports hiring contracted professional arborists and UMN technical staff to provide handson instruction in professional arboriculture techniques in a safe and fun environment to youth and young professionals entering the green industry. MTGF Funding is also an important part of maintaining a collection of safe tree climbing equipment; including ropes, helmets, harnesses, rigging equipment, and other essential personal protection equipment and first aid.

In 2025, YEA will once again be collaborating with the University of Minnesota’s Youth Programs to provide a week-long climbing experience for participants. Additional climbing events will be conducted at various municipal Arbor Day events, the MN Festival of Trees / Tree Climbing Championships, and with other developing partner groups such as the Girl Scouts.

2024 YEA Climbing Events ● UMN Youth Climbing Camp - 28 participants ● Festival of Trees / MN Tree Climbing Championships in Maple Grove, MN - 83 participants ● Increasing Diversity in Environmental Careers Program at the Conservation Corps of Minnesota and Iowa - 15 Participants 2. University of Minnesota Elm Selection Program (UMESP) Objectives 1) Continue to identify putatively resistant elms in the Minnesota landscape, clonally propagate, and screen for DED resistance. 2) Study mechanisms of resistance in resistant trees.

3) Maintain elm research plots for long term resistance screening and for non-native resistant species.

Materials & Methods Every year our database of survivor elms across the state continues to grow as community engagement has steadily increased. This is a valuable tool as these trees are a source of potential scion material for clonal propagation and DED screening purposes. Collections and propagation are done using traditional methods and we continue developing enhanced propagation techniques. However, the main method used is grafting, because it quickly produces fast growing seedlings that can be planted in the field for future screening. We also currently 8 MTGF CLIPPINGS ~ SPRING | SUMMER 2025

have a large collection of elms (over 100 selections) that were propagated from survivor elms in areas of heavy disease pressure from across the state and will continue to propagate them to numbers suitable for trials. Screening is done by inoculating elm selections with the DED pathogen, Ophiostoma novo-ulmi. In late spring when earlywood is being formed, an injection is made using a quantified concentration of spores of a lab grown culture of the pathogen into the tree via a small drill wound in the main stem. Ratings take place beginning four weeks post inoculation using an 11 point scale where 0=no wilt and 11=complete wilt and continue into the next and following growing seasons.

2025 Anticipated Outcomes We continue to add additional selections from Minnesota to our collection of elms for DED screening and have several selections showing resistance to first round inoculations. A large field trial completed in 2022 consisted of 15 new selections with 7 selections having six or more reps. Ratings from last growing season show 13 selections with a rating of 3 or lower (0=no wilt and 11=complete wilt). Many of the selections from this trial are also duplicated in a second block that will be inoculated in the late spring of this year as well as new selections totaling 20.

Propagations have continued that include new selections as well as selections showing resistance. Selections that have survived previous inoculations will be propagated for a future study with additional replicates. These selections exhibited symptoms but were able to effectively wall off the pathogen and survive one year from inoculation. Studies and refinement of propagation methods will also continue through the spring and summer of 2025.

Funding from MTGF supports research on the potential of nonnative elm species in Minnesota. While our primary goal remains the development of Dutch elm disease (DED)-resistant American, rock, and red elms, certain non-native elm selections have demonstrated strong assistance to DED. We maintain a collection of these promising selections, which offer potential for specific landscape applications due to both their disease resistance and desirable growth forms.

In addition to our nursery on the St. Paul campus, we manage an elm trial plot at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. This site serves as a valuable testing ground for evaluating the performance of non-native elm varieties. Moving forward, we will continue to expand and maintain this collection, with a particular focus on selecting and propagating Ulmus parvifolia genotypes and advancing trials of Ulmus ‘Rebella’ for use in Minnesota landscapes. www.MTGF.org

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2025 MTGF DONATION: $10,000 2025 University of Minnesota | Crookston Proposal for Funding Support for the Golf and Sports Turf Management Program Principal Investigator: Kristina S. Walker, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Agronomy University of Minnesota | Crookston Agriculture & Natural Resources Department The purpose of this grant proposal is to in their interest area. Projects initiated by Dr. Walker teaches courses in several secure funding from the Minnesota Turf the student do not have grant funding to programs including Agronomy, Horticulture, and Grounds Foundation for the Golf and support their efforts. The University of Soils, and Golf and Sports Turf Management Sports Turf Management Program at the Minnesota does offer an Undergraduate at the University of Minnesota Crookston.

University of Minnesota Crookston. This Research Opportunities Program (UROP) She advises undergraduate students from gift would support the undergraduate turf to fund student research projects. It is all three program areas. She is the program management students and the turfgrass extremely competitive as it is open to all U lead for the Golf and Sports Turf Management. management program in three key areas: of M undergraduate students and only She coaches the turf students in the annual teaching, research, and outreach. The goal provides up to $300 in expenses/supplies GCSAA Turf Bowl and the SFMA Student is to provide current students with handsfor the proposed project. Additional fundChallenge. She is also the advisor to the Turf on learning experiences through teaching ing is needed to help initiate and manage Club. Dr. Walker has been at the University and research while also recruiting future the non-grant-funded projects involving of Minnesota Crookston for 16 years. students into turfgrass management undergraduate students. Below is a list of through outreach and enrichment research projects that undergraduates have activities. Retaining current and future either worked on with me or have initiated students in the green industry is the joint mission of the MTGF themselves. Ten undergraduate students have participated in and the University of Minnesota. these projects. Only 3 projects were funded through the U of M UROP. Rationale 1. Water conservation practices and nitrogen fertility for the The University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC) Golf and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions on creeping bentgrass putSports Turf Management Program is requesting support funding ting greens (https://doi.org/10.3390/grasses3030016) from the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation. This funding 2. The effects of cultivation practices and fertilizer use on the would go directly to the turfgrass program to support undergradmitigation of greenhouse gas emissions from Kentucky bluegrass uate student activities and turfgrass management program initiaathletic field (https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080869) tives in three areas: teaching (education), research, and outreach 3. Shade and nitrogen fertilizer effects on greenhouse gas (extension). There are currently 12 students in the Turf emissions from creeping bentgrass putting greens Management Program and 12 students in the Horticulture (https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080832) Program which includes an environmental landscape emphasis (6 4. The effects of fertilizer sources and site location on greenstudents). house gas emissions from creeping bentgrass putting greens and Kentucky bluegrass roughs Teaching https://doi.org/10.3390/grasses2020008) The Crookston campus of the University of Minnesota is 5. Using agronomic data to minimize the impact of field condiknown throughout the state as a teaching institution. Our focus is tions on player injuries and enhance the development of a risk on undergraduate students and providing hands-on experiences management plan (football and soccer; 2 students; in the classroom, lab, and field. These high-impact practices https://doi.org/10.3233/JSA-200538) within our courses cost money to provide our students with these 6. The determination of soil organic matter in calcareous soils: experiences. The hands-on experiences we provide give our How it impacts nitrogen fertilization and turfgrass cultivation graduates an advantage when applying for jobs within the management practices in turf (2 students) green industry. These experiences also help us retain these stu7. Low input turfgrass management strategies on reducing dents on our campus and in the turf or green industry. The expewear and soil compaction on Kentucky bluegrass athletic fields riential learning practices we provide include but are not limited 8. Organic fertilizer applications on pumpkin development and to: productivity 1. Use of equipment and technology in the lab and/or field.

2. Field trips to golf courses, sports fields and facilities, lawns, Ongoing Projects and turf businesses (both local and regional) 1. Incorporating Sulfur-Based Fertilizers in Annual Turfgrass 3. Trips to conferences (regional and national) for educational Fertility Programs to Suppress Typhula Blight and Microdochium sessions, networking, trade shows, and competing in the annual Patch 2. The Effects of Cultivation Practices and Topdressing Use Turf Bowl (GCSAA) and Student Challenge (SFMA) on the Mitigation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Creeping Bentgrass Putting Greens Additional support for these students Research could lead to more undergraduate students pursuing graduate The research conducted on the Crookston campus is carried degrees in turfgrass management. One of these UROP students out by undergraduate students alongside a faculty mentor. We went on to earn his Master’s degree in Soil and Crop Sciences currently have no graduate programs on our campus. Research from Texas A&M University. includes current faculty projects (1-5 have all been published) or projects designed and implemented by the student or students (Continued on Page 10) 10 MTGF CLIPPINGS ~ SPRING | SUMMER 2025

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MTGF Funding(Continued from Page 10) Outreach Outreach to the community and young people has never been more important to the future of our industry than now. It is not just about recruiting students to UMC but also about recruiting people into the green industry. Employment opportunities exist, but there are not enough students to fill open turf positions in the industry. I am constantly engaging with folks in the community or with young people through outreach activities to share my experiences (why I went into turfgrass management or being a female in our industry) and teaching about turfgrass management. Listed below are both past events and planned outreach events. Supplies for these activities cost money. While registration fees or the university covers most costs, some are not. One example is last summer’s Adventure Camp where I purchased 5 soccer balls, 5 tape measures, and 10 orange safety cones.

1. Agriculture and Natural Resources Activities Day (UMC) 2. Adventure Camp (CREST-Center for Rural Education in Science and Technology) 3. Exploration Days (Turf and Horticulture) 4. 4-H Forage/Grass Education Session 5. College in the Classroom (UMC) 6. Career Day (City of Crookston) 7. X-Camp (UMC) 8. AG Academy (UMC, summer 2025) 9. 4-H Camp (UMC, summer 2025) 10. EnviroSTEM Camp (UMC, summer 2025) 11. County Fairs (Regional)

Research 1. Expenses-sample analysis in the lab 2. Supplies-seed, topdressing, fertilizer, paint, stakes, string, renting equipment, gas chambers, anchors, vials, syringes Outreach 1. Supplies-soccer balls, tape measures, orange cones, seed, potting mix (examples) Anticipated Outcomes/Results Recruiting prospective students through outreach and retaining current students through teaching and research initiatives is key to preserving the future of the green industry in Minnesota and elsewhere. Support from the MTGF would greatly impact the Golf and Sports Management Program at UMC and our students.

Deliverables 1. Offering UMC students more hands-on learning experiences in their courses.

2. The ability of our students to network with industry professionals.

3. More visibility of UMC students at green industry events.

4. Increased numbers of undergraduate students doing applied research in their field.

5. Improved recruitment and retention of turfgrass management students at UMC and within the green industry.

Potential Benefits to Turf and Grounds Professionals Supporting student activities and turfgrass management initiatives through teaching, research, and service at UMC can lead to the recruitment and retention of students in the turfgrass profession especially here in Minnesota. Currently, there are not enough turfgrass management students to cover the open turfgrass positions in Minnesota. The mission of the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation is to promote the green industry in Minnesota through support of research, education, and outreach at the University of Minnesota and elsewhere. Currently, the Crookston campus is the only U of M campus in the system with undergraduate students. While the MTGF has consistently supported research on the Crookston campus, additional support is needed for our students and our program.

Objective 1. Support undergraduate student activities and turfgrass management initiatives at the University of Minnesota Crookston in the following areas: a. Teaching b. Research c. Outreach (Extension) Materials and Methods Below is a more detailed list of examples of current or proposed expenditures to the turf management program in teaching, research, and outreach.

Teaching 1. Equipment and Technology-verticutter and nutrient meters 2. Field Trips-university vehicle rental 3. Trips to conferences-hotel and airfare 4. Turf Bowl and Student Challenge-study materials for the library (textbooks and identification tools) www.MTGF.org

"I want to extend a congratulations to the University of Minnesota-Crookston Turf Bowl Team that competed in the Student Challenge at the National SFMA Conference on January 15th , 2025 in Palm Springs, California. It was great to see a team from Minnesota compete in the Student Challenge,” said MPSFMA President Trenton Waters and added “this achievement is a testament to your passion and commitment to excellence in the turf management field. The experience you've gained will undoubtedly serve you well as you continue your journey in the turf management field. Keep up the amazing work and continue to represent the U of M Crookston with pride. The future of turf management is in great hands with talented teams like yours."

SPRING | SUMMER 2025 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 13

2025 MTGF DONATION: $45,000 2025 University of Minnesota Turfgrass Science Research Program Support Principal Investigators: Dr. Eric Watkins | Jon Trappe, Ph.D. | Dr. Dominic Petrella University of Minnesota Turfgrass Science We are proud of the partnership the diversity of sod production through We are proud of the partnership between the University of Minnesota sustainable turfgrass adoption. This new between the University of Minnesota Turfgrass Science Program and the project, a collaborative effort with Kansas Turfgrass Science Program and the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation.

State, Purdue, and Rutgers, aims to idenMinnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation.

Since 2001 nearly $2 million dollars has tify best practices for establishing and Since 2001 nearly $2 million dollars has been donated to the University of growing low-input turfgrass sod, and also been donated to the University of Minnesota from the MTGF. In return, we exploring approaches to develop new culMinnesota from the MTGF. In return, have conducted research to increase ecotivars that can more quickly produce harwe have conducted research to increase nomic efficiency for turf managers and vestable sod. In addition, we will work economic efficiency for turf managers improve the ecological sustainability of with Professor Chengyan Yue at UMN to and improve the ecological sustainability turfgrass landscapes. This request includes help identify ways to better inform and of turfgrass landscapes. $45,000 of general support to continue educate consumers about low input sod. our research and outreach activities in the ● USDA Specialty Crop Research next year. MTGF funding is essential to Initiative: $8,000,000. WinterTurf: A maintain staff and land at the Turfgrass Research, Outreach and holistic approach to understanding the mechanisms and mitigatEducation Center on the St. Paul campus. Ongoing projects are ing the effects of winter stress on turfgrasses in northern clioutlined below, and include improving turfgrass winter stress tol- mates. This project, led by our team, involves researchers in 7 erance, improving turfgrass shade tolerance, conserving irrigastates and Norway, and aims to increase our understanding of tion inputs, and implementing new technologies for data-based winter stresses of turfgrass, while providing new solutions for decision making. turfgrass managers. This is the largest federal grant ever awarded to a turfgrass research project; our success in leading this project Rationale for Research would not be possible without the years of support from MTGF Over the years we have leveraged support from MTGF to proand other allied organizations. Current work in Minnesota is cure millions of dollars in support from other funding sources. aimed at improving perennial ryegrass for winter stress survival The list of funding successes is extensive, ranging from the and determining ice encasement thresholds for annual bluegrass Minnesota Department of Transportation to the United States survival. This work is resonating with turfgrass managers worldDepartment of Agriculture. Each funded proposal benefits the wide. membership of the MTGF and amplifies the dollars invested. In ● Minnesota Department of Transportation. $275,928. recent years, we have leveraged MTGF funding to obtain addiRegional optimization of roadside turfgrass seed mixtures phase tional research grants, including: 3: Assessing long-term performance and creating a web-based ● Metropolitan Council. $418,997. Reducing water use on decision tool. This project is evaluating the long-term performTwin Cities lawns through assessment, research, and demonstraance of multi-species mixtures on 14 roadside sites around the tion. This is new funding as of January 2025 that is a continuastate. This project is delivering valuable information to public tion of a long-term collaboration aiming to reduce water use on agencies making decisions about turfgrass seed for roadsides and lawns in the Twin Cities. For this new funding, we will be helping us learn about optimized mixtures for low-input landexpanding our efforts to educate Twin Cities residents about lawn scapes such as parks, cemeteries, and home lawns. For example, water conservation, including expanding a program we call we have found that as the number of turfgrasses in a mixture “Lawn Leaders” whereby Master Gardeners from around the increases, there is an increase in functional green cover of a turf region host lawn education events at their homes/lawns/garages. area, along with a reduction in weeds and exposed soil. Through Our team trains these Master Gardeners to lead demonstrations this work we are also starting to see the value of buffalograss use that help residents solve lawn challenges such as clogged irrigafor some low-input applications. tion nozzles, weed problems, seeding new lawns, fertilizing prop● United States Golf Association: $10,000. Examining the erly, etc. We are also beginning to work with townhouse associaimpact of light quality on creeping bentgrass putting green light tions on best practices for reducing water on their grounds. requirements. Previous research has developed light requirement Finally, we will be working with the Minnesota Board of Water threshold (i.e. Daily Light Integral [DLI] thresholds) to help golf and Soil Resources (BWSR) to provide consumers and profescourse superintendents make decisions on shaded greens. sional turfgrass managers with state-recommended turfgrass However, this research never took into consideration changes seed mixtures for lawn water conservation. We will accomplish in light quality that occur under shade. With this seed funding this by testing a series of species mixtures at four sites in the from USGA we will examine how much light requirement threshTwin Cities and then work with BWSR and turfgrass seed venolds change when the ratio of red to far-red light is reduced on dors to develop a list of recommended species ratios for approved shaded field plots. We also have continuing projects in turfgrass mixtures. This will be very valuable for defining seed mixtures in breeding, bee lawn establishment, soil moisture sensors, early projects that go out for bid and also provide general consumers spring creeping bentgrass establishment, dormant seeding best with easy-to follow seed mixture recommendations using an practices, breeding grasses for improved shade tolerance, turfexisting, trusted public entity (BWSR). grass stress physiology, and more. Benefits of Research to Turf ● USDA Agricultural Marketing Service: $477,952. Increasing and Ground Managers.

(Continued on Page 16) 14 MTGF CLIPPINGS ~ SPRING | SUMMER 2025

www.MTGF.org

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MTGF Funding(Continued from Page 14) Ongoing projects are outlined below, and include improving turfgrass winter stress tolerance, improving turfgrass shade tolerance, conserving irrigation inputs, and implementing new technologies for data-based decision making.

Rationale for Research Over the years we have leveraged support from MTGF to procure millions of dollars in support from other funding sources.

The list of funding successes is extensive, ranging from the Minnesota Department of Transportation to the United States Department of Agriculture. Each funded proposal benefits the membership of the MTGF and amplifies the dollars invested. In recent years, we have leveraged MTGF funding to obtain additional research grants, including: ● Metropolitan Council. $418,997. Reducing water use on Twin Cities lawns through assessment, research, and demonstration. This is new funding as of January 2025 that is a continuation of a long-term collaboration aiming to reduce water use on lawns in the Twin Cities. For this new funding, we will be expanding our efforts to educate Twin Cities residents about lawn water conservation, including expanding a program we call “Lawn Leaders” whereby Master Gardeners from around the region host lawn education events at their homes/lawns/garages. Our team trains these Master Gardeners to lead demonstrations that help residents solve lawn challenges such as clogged irrigation nozzles, weed problems, seeding new lawns, fertilizing properly, etc.

We are also beginning to work with townhouse associations on best practices for reducing water on their grounds. Finally, we will be working with the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) to provide consumers and professional turfgrass managers with state-recommended turfgrass seed mixtures for lawn water conservation. We will accomplish this by testing a series of species mixtures at four sites in the Twin Cities and then work with BWSR and turfgrass seed vendors to develop a list of recommended species ratios for approved mixtures. This will be very valuable for defining seed mixtures in projects that go out for bid and also provide general consumers with easy-to follow seed mixture recommendations using an existing, trusted public entity (BWSR). ● USDA Agricultural Marketing Service: $477,952.

Increasing the diversity of sod production through sustainable turfgrass adoption. This new project, a collaborative effort with Kansas State, Purdue, and Rutgers, aims to identify best practices for establishing and growing low-input turfgrass sod, and also exploring approaches to develop new cultivars that can more quickly produce harvestable sod. In addition, we will work with Professor Chengyan Yue at UMN to help identify ways to better inform and educate consumers about low input sod. ● USDA Specialty Crop Research Initiative: $8,000,000. WinterTurf: A holistic approach to understanding the mechanisms and mitigating the effects of winter stress on turfgrasses in northern climates. This project, led by our team, involves researchers in 7 states and Norway, and aims to increase our understanding of winter stresses of turfgrass, while providing new solutions for turfgrass managers. This is the largest federal grant ever awarded to a turfgrass research project; our success in leading this project would not be possible without the years of support from MTGF and other allied organizations. Current work in Minnesota is aimed at improving perennial ryegrass for winter stress survival and determining ice encasement thresholds for annual bluegrass survival. This work is resonating with turfgrass managers worldwide.

16 MTGF CLIPPINGS ~ SPRING | SUMMER 2025

● Minnesota Department of Transportation. $275,928.

Regional optimization of roadside turfgrass seed mixtures phase 3: Assessing long-term performance and creating a web-based decision tool. This project is evaluating the long-term performance of multi-species mixtures on 14 roadside sites around the state. This project is delivering valuable information to public agencies making decisions about turfgrass seed for roadsides and helping us learn about optimized mixtures for low-input landscapes such as parks, cemeteries, and home lawns. For example, we have found that as the number of turfgrasses in a mixture increases, there is an increase in functional green cover of a turf area, along with a reduction in weeds and exposed soil. Through this work we are also starting to see the value of buffalograss use for some low-input applications. ● United States Golf Association: $10,000. Examining the impact of light quality on creeping bentgrass putting green light requirements. Previous research has developed light requirement threshold (i.e. Daily Light Integral [DLI] thresholds) to help golf course superintendents make decisions on shaded greens.

However, this research never took into consideration changes in light quality that occur under shade. With this seed funding from USGA we will examine how much light requirement thresholds change when the ratio of red to far-red light is reduced on shaded field plots.

We also have continuing projects in turfgrass breeding, bee lawn establishment, soil moisture sensors, early spring creeping bentgrass establishment, dormant seeding best practices, breeding grasses for improved shade tolerance, turfgrass stress physiology, and more.

Benefits of Research to Turf and Ground Managers We have active projects that impact all types of turf and grounds managers. Our work in seed production improvement, both through breeding and agronomics, has a major impact on the practices used by members of the Minnesota Turf Seed Council. Research on the improvement and use of fine fescues is important for many types of turf managers, especially those among the Minnesota Association of Cemeteries, Minnesota Park and Sports Field Managers Association, and Minnesota Facility Management Professionals. Ongoing studies to understand turfgrass shade stresses are relevant to the Minnesota Society of Arboriculture. We have several recent and upcoming experiments to support sod production efficiency and the Minnesota Turf Association. Finally, we work closely with the Minnesota Golf Course Superintendents Association to address challenges of particular importance to golf course superintendents such as precision turfgrass management and winter stress mitigation. Our (Continued on Page 17) www.MTGF.org

MTGF Funding(Continued from Page 14) extensive work on dormant seeding has utility across a range of turfgrass management situations. To improve access to turfgrass research generated by our team, we organized three field daysduring 2024, including one focused on winter stresses in on April 11, 2024; one targeted for parks and sports field managers on June 26, 2024; and one for homeowners on August 15, 2024.

Our series of field days reached public parks and school grounds managers, municipal water agencies, lawn care operators, sod farmers, product sales representatives, Master Gardeners, and homeowners. These were successful, and we will continue to hold three to four field days for various audiences in 2025.

Objectives The objectives of our program are to increase economic efficiency for all turf managers in Minnesota, improve the ecological sustainability of our turfgrass landscapes, and protect Minnesota’s natural resources. We do this through research in the areas of breeding and genetics, turfgrass management, plant physiology, and social science. Materials and Methods (Current Projects) and Anticipated Outcomes We have dozens of active projects benefiting multiple turfgrass stakeholder groups.

Outcomes from these projects include improved best management practices, data-driven solutions for difficult turfgrass challenges, new turfgrass cultivars, and new prediction models to guide turfgrass manager decision making.

Publication of Results We regularly publish our results as blog posts, scientific research papers, and magazine articles aimed at professional turf and grounds managers. We also post brief research updates on our blog (turf.umn.edu). We present our work to other researchers at national conferences. Whenever possible, we publish scientific papers in journals that can be open access, thereby allowing all Minnesota stakeholders to access our work without having to pay.

Summary of 2024 outreach and Extension Outreach to turfgrass stakeholders is of primary importance for our program. From turfgrass seed producers in the very northern reaches of the state, to golf course superintendents along the state’s southernmost border, our reach is extensive. We devote considerable time and resources to this work.

Mass Media In addition to direct instruction, Jon Trappe also served as an expert in 18 mass media interviews or guest appearances that included local (WCCO Radio, WCCO-TV, KSTP-TV, FOX9), regional (Star Tribune, MN Daily, PBS Prairie Yard and Garden, WCMU), or national (Axios, This Old House, and Martha Stewart Living) organizations reaching hundreds of thousands of people.

Our team also provides content for online accessibility, including creating permanent Extension webpages and writing timely pieces of content for turf-related newsletters, including Clippings Magazine, Hole Notes, Lawn Care Newsletter (UMN Turf - 1489 subscribers) and Yard and Garden News (UMN Extension - 8,000 subscribers).

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www.MTGF.org

SPRING | SUMMER 2025 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 17

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SHOW YOUR SUPPORT BY ATTENDING THE NORTHERN GREEN JANUARY 20-22 IN SAINT PAUL

Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation Has Donated $2,019,791 For Green Industry Research Since 2003 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

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004

65,000

65,000

60,000

60,000

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

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

Sofie Aspaas Receives MTGF|MNLA Foundation Scholarship for 2025 One student in the Turf Management program at University of Minnesota – Twin Cites recently received a scholarship sponsored by the Minnesota Turf and Grounds (MTGF) Foundation, and Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) Foundation. The scholarship recipient is Sofie Aspaas (Hurston, Texas).

This scholarship was designed by MTGF and MNLA Foundation joint fundraiser for turf management scholarships.

The scholarship program recognizes superior students enrolled in horticultural and turf management studies programs in area colleges and universities. The purpose of the scholarship is to help grow future leaders in the www.MTGF.org

nursery and landscape industry and strives to Improve the environment by investing in research and education.

Sofie is very passionate about nature and our environment. “I chose landscape architecture as my major because it allows me to study a wide range of subjects relating to the environment, including sustainability, horticulture, environmental policy, and more, while getting creative opportunities to solve environmental issues through design. These factors also led me to begin my work with the UMN Turfgrass Science Program as a research assistant.” Sofie will graduate in 2026 and plans to start her career as a landscape designer and planner in the Twin Cities for public works and parks.

SPRING | SUMMER 2025 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 19

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.

Make a Point of Attending the Northern Green in St. Paul January 22-24, 2025 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.

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 received this issue of MTGF Clippings in the mail, you are a member of one of seven allied associations, which makes you a member of the MTGF. MTGF has no membership fees associated with being a member or vendor member.

However, you have received 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: + 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 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. Thank you for your consideration.

To donate: www.mtgf.org/donations If you are a member of one of these Associations then you are a MTGF member!

20 MTGF CLIPPINGS ~ SPRING | SUMMER 2025

www.MTGF.org

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT OF MTGF’S MISSION TO FUND TURF & GROUNDS RESEARCH AND CONTINUED OPERATIONS AT TROE CENTER BY DONATING TO THE MINNESOTA TURF AND GROUNDS FOUNDATION! MTGF DONATION Name: _______________________________________________________________________ Company: _____________________________________________________________________ Donating in the name of: _________________________________________________________ Email Address: _________________________________________________________________ __ $25 __ $50 __ $100 __ $200 __ $500 __$1,000 __ $2,500 __ $5,000 __ Other

Donation amount: $ _________________ The mission of the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation is to promote the green industry in Minnesota through support of research, education and outreach at the University of Minnesota and elsewhere. The MTGF pursues its mission in various ways. One of these is an annual "Call For Proposals," titled the "MTGF Research Gift Program," whereby researchers, instructors and outreach faculty and staff involved in turf and grounds work may submit requests for unrestricted gifts to support their activities. As a 501(c)(3) corporation, funding approved by the MTGF will not be subjected to overhead or other indirect charges or costs. The dates for submission, review and approval may change on an annual basis as well as the protocol stipulated for the submission of gift requests.

SUPPORT RESEARCH, DONATE & SEND CHECK TO: Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation, P. O. Box 617, Wayzata, MN 55391 or donate online at www.mtgf.org/donations www.MTGF.org

SPRING | SUMMER 2025 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 21

P. O. Box 617 Wayzata, MN 55391

RETURNING OCT. 7, 2025!

Expanding the impact of Northern Green with an annual event OUTDOORS! Visit exhibitor booths, operate equipment, and participate in interactive and hands-on events happening throughout the day. Get your in-season questions answered as you connect with colleagues and forge valuable connections.

WHAT TO KNOW NOW:

1

SAVE THE DATE! October 7, 2025

2

SAME VENUE! Aldrich Arena + Grounds (1850 White Bear Ave, Maplewood, MN 55109)

3

FREE PARKING! There are large parking lots onsite, and over昀ow parking across St. Paul Rd at Woodland Hills Church.

4

LUNCH IS PROVIDED!