NORTHERN GREEN SET JANUARY 14-16, 2020 @ MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER
MTGF Clippings OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MINNESOTA TURF AND GROUNDS FOUNDATION SPRING / SUMMER 2019 VOL. 27, NO. 1
University of Minnesota Youth Engagement In Arboriculture
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.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT The Business of the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers President Matt Cavanaugh Rush Creek GC, MGCSA
By MATT CAVANAUGH President Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation
Vice President Jamie Bezanson Highland GC, MGCSA Treasurer Steve Balfany Balfany Farms, MTA Secretary/Treasurer Sam Bauer Bauer Turf Ex-Officio Manuel Jordán Heritage Shade Tree Consultants, MSA Directors MASMS Tom Redmann Tom Redmann Consulting MASMS Tracy Closson Northfield Schools MAC Dave Kemp The Catholic Cemeteries MAC Dominic Pierre Union Cemeteries MSA Kent Honl Rainbow Treecare, MSA MPSTMA Joe Churchill Reinders, Inc. MPSTMA Paul Griffin City of Woodbury MGCSA Michael Sonnek Royal Golf Club MTA Bryan Lawrence Rocket Turf & Nursery MTSC Brent Benike Northern Excellence Seed MTSC Richard Magnusson Magnusson Farms Vendor Representative Jim O’Neill EcoWorks Golf Supply Vendor Representative Andy Keating Twin City Seed Company UM Representative Chad Giblin University of Minnesota UM Representative Dr. Eric Watkins University of Minnesota UM Representative Brian Horgan Ph.D. University of Minnesota
Who cares? Or, who cares. The same two words with a different meaning. The first, with the question mark, can be used to gauge the mood of an audience. “Who cares among the current readers that the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation is composed of seven allied associations within the Green Industry in Minnesota?” The second being used as the all too familiar dismissive phrase showing a lack of interest in something. “You forgot to rake the bunker. Who cares.” In this busy world we live in it can be very easy to resort to the phrase version of “who cares.” I often have too much going on with work, family, church and house projects around this dump of a house that I purchased with great regret as I look at a new stain in my kitchen ceiling that just formed from a leaking second story shower, “who cares.” Life generally does not leave much time for extras. I may not use it verbally on a daily basis, but I know my thoughts and actions can very much promote the “who cares” phrase. The seven allied associations of the MTGF continues to care in the form of grants given toward industry research. The MTGF model continues to be unique in the country. With continued industry support, the MTGF was again able to provide funds to the University of Minnesota Turf program and more specially the Turfgrass Research and Outreach Education (TROE) Center operations. The University of Minnesota continues to be in a class of its own with turfgrass research. The continued support by the industry has allowed Eric Watkins, Brian Horgan and team to produce valuable turfgrass information for our area. This support has also provided the resources to seek out USDA grants for larger scope projects like lower input turfgrass species such as fine fescues and now hopefully a multistate/multi-national project that will attempt to shed more light on winter injury within our turfgrass systems. The Urban Forestry, Outreach, Research & Extension (UFORE) Nursery Lab will also continue work funded by the MTGF. Gary Johnson, Chad Giblin, Robert Blanchette and Benjamin Held with the UFORE Lab and Plant Pathology actively work to promote youth engagement in arboriculture through educational programs and hands-on tree climbing classes throughout the summer. Elm selection continues to be a big part of the UFORE lab to screen for Dutch Elm resistant trees. The lab will also continue with conservation retrenchment pruning to retain large, mature and damaged trees. This work uses cutting edge methods and new technology to keep these valuable specimens within the landscape. The University of Minnesota-Crookston with Dr. Kristina Walker and Dr. Eddie Walker will also continue their work in Agronomic Field Safety Assessment for Sports Fields. This much needed work, supported by the MTGF, is tackling one of the most difficult turfgrass areas to manage, sports fields, due to the intense traffic (wear and compaction) they receive by players on a regular basis. Due to high expectations regarding player safety by players and coaches, field safety and maintenance checklists need to be developed specifically for sports turf fields. So, who cares? These individuals, programs and the research detailed above care. Financial support is always great, but participation and showing that you, as individuals, care about the efforts being completed is equally important. As industry professionals, continue to look for your association offerings in terms of education. Be on the lookout for Field Days, Turf Field Trips, Pruning Workshops, Chainsaw Safety Classes, and shoot, even Pesticide Recertification. Be the one who can say “I care” when someone passively says, “who cares.” Sincerely,
* * * * Executive Director Jeff Turtinen 952-239-5168 jeff.turtinen@mtgf.org P. O. Box 617 Wayzata, MN 55391
www.mtgf.org
Matt Cavanaugh Preside nt Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation 2 MTGF CLIPPINGS ~ SPRING / SUMMER 2019
www.MTGF.org
The Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation, a non-profit organization, is a partnership of seven turf- and grounds-related associations and the University of Minnesota. Members of the following associations are also considered members of the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation. 4 4 4 4
Minnesota Minnesota Minnesota Minnesota
Society of Arboriculture Association of Cemeteries Park & Sports Turf Managers Association Educational Facilities Management Professionals
4 Minnesota Sod Producers 4 Minnesota Turf Seed Council 4 Minnesota Golf Course Superintendents’ Association
MTGF CLIPPINGS - TABLE OF CONTENTS 2
President’s Report: The Business of the MTGF - Matt Cavanaugh, Rush Creek Golf Club
5
Youth Engagement in Arboriculture at the U of MN - Voth, Cotton, Giblin, Nelson and Randazzo, UM Department of Forest Resources
9
2020 MTGF Master Class: A Plant Out of Place
11
2020 Northern Green
12
How Your Personal History Impacts Your Communication - Kit Welchlin
14
MTGF Continues to Support the Minnesota Green Industry
17
MTGF Donates $106,250 Towards 2019 Research
18
Member Spotlight: Matt Cavanaugh, MTGF President
19
2019 Turf Field Trip: Lawn Care Showcase
ABOUT THE COVER: The Youth Engagement in Arboriculture program (YEA) helps secure the prospects of urban forests as it seeks to inspire young people to learn more about trees and even pursue careers caring for them. (See article on Page 5)
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SPRING / SUMMER 2019 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 3
Athletic Field • Construction • Re-Construction • Maintenance Golf Course • Tee Construction • Re-Construction
Our KORO TOPMAKER removes by stripping the face of the field sod or existing turf. The sod or turf is then loaded into a truck and hauled off-site. This process is better for a field’s future when making corrections versus roto-tilling existing sod or turf back into the ground. • Sodding • Seeding • Over Seeding • Laser Leveling • Grading • Spraying • Aeration • Fertilizing • Detailing • Consulting
MIKE BRUNELLE 612-817-5296 magicturfs@msn.com
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Youth Engagement in Arboriculture By Lydia Voth Alissa Cotton, Chad Giblin, Laura Nelson and Monica Randazzo University of Minnesota, Department of Forest Resources Trees are an extremely valuable resource, but who is going to take care of them in the future? A deep appreciation for and enjoyment of trees cultivates a desire and sense of duty to protect them. Many children love to climb trees, but few give them a second thought when it becomes time to decide what to be when they grow up. The Youth Engagement in Arboriculture program (YEA) helps secure the prospects of urban forests as it seeks to inspire young people to learn more about trees and even pursue careers caring for them. YEA provides unique opportunities for kids to learn by doing in a setting not commonly offered elsewhere, while striving to diversify the field by intentionally serving underrepresented groups and communities of color. The Department of Forest Resources at the University of Minnesota implemented YEA in 2016 to educate youth anywhere from elementary school to high school about arboriculture and urban forestry. Funding is provided by grants from the Minnesota Turf & Grounds Foundation, the Minnesota Society of Arboriculture, the USDA Forest Service, and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. In 2018, YEA programs received volunteer support from local tree care professionals, hosting arborists from City of Saint Paul, Four Seasons Tree Care, Jubert Tree Care, Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, Northeast Tree, Rainbow Tree Care, SavATree, and Vineland Tree Care. A major highlight of YEA are its tree climbing field trips and camps. Both on the ground and high in
YEA INSTRUCTOR Chad Giblin (left) leads a young climber on her first ascent.
the treetops, youth are engaged in thrilling experiences that improve their knowledge and their physical abilities. Each workshop provides opportunities for kids to climb trees like professional arborists. While undertaking fun and rewarding challenges, they learn about proper safety and communication, as well as about academic and career paths that involve trees and tree care. Games involving the rigging and suspension systems allow youth to work and learn in teams, and each person is given personal instruction from an expert during their chances to ascend trees. All events maintain full compliance with the Standard for Safety Requirements for Arboricultural Operations (ANSI Z133) and coordinate with ISA Certified Arborists® to ensure that safety and expertise are prioritized. YEA shines through its accessibility; there is no basic degree of skill or fitness necessary to participate in any activity. Kids of all levels have equal opportunities to have fun and learn. A variety of techniques are taught, which also gives participants a chance to discover their personal strengths. In addition to climbing events, YEA has hosted field trips on a myriad of topics, such as remote sensing, dendrology, nursery production systems, and tree propagation. Another exciting facet of YEA is the Arbor Month Poster contest, carried out in conjunction with the City of Saint Paul. This contest aims to actively engage children in Arbor Day/Arbor Month participation. Every spring, third grade students in elementary schools throughout Saint Paul learn about Arbor Month and the importance of trees. They then create posters following an annual tree theme; in 2018, it was “My Favorite Tree.” (Continued on Page 7) SPRING / SUMMER 2019 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 5
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Youth Engagement in Arboriculture -
2018 Field Day Sponsors
(Continued from Page 5)
Next Field Day - Aug. 2020
The posters are judged by Saint Paul’s Tree Advisory Panel (TAP), with the top three students receiving recognition at their schools. The first place student and poster are honored at a special Arbor Day ceremony at the winning school, where a city official makes an Arbor Day Proclamation and everyone gets to help plant a tree. Through this, kids are given a chance to get outside of the classroom and make a lasting mark on their world. The 2018 ceremony was held at Capitol Hill Elementary School, where a Korean maple was planted in honor of the first place winner.
UMN Undergraduate Student Amanda Stear (left) coaches a youth climber
Over 1,200 youth between second and twelfth grade participated in YEA programming in 2018, with nearly 100 hours dedicated by University and municipal staff at these partnering schools: • Capitol Hill Elementary School • Como Park Elementary School • Eastern Heights Elementary School • Four Seasons A+ Elementary School • Great River School • Highland Park Elementary School • Highwood Hills Elementary School • Hmong College Preparatory Academy • L’Etoile du Nord Elementary School • Mississippi Creative Arts Elementary School • Twin Cities German Immersion School In addition to these schools, a group of Minnesota 4-Hers were given an introduction to urban forestry in a summer workshop. YEA also partnered with UMN Rec and Wellness Youth Program summer camps for two weeks of tree climbing camps for 10-12 year olds and 12-15 year olds. These camps were a special chance for youth to begin a week with the very basics of tree ascension and end with the ability to fly through the canopy with creative and challenging courses set up for them to follow. Many young people have never heard of urban forestry or its plethora of benefits before coming to a YEA event, but through their participation they receive a new perspective of natural resources and exhilarating memories that they will bring into their futures. A huge thank you to all the staff and volunteers that made YEA such as success in 2018! (Continued on Page 8)
www.MTGF.org
SPRING / SUMMER 2019 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 7
Youth Engagement in Arboriculture (Continued from Page 7)
Volunteers: • Caius Anderson, Northeast Tree • Noah Buraglio, City of Saint Paul • Gabe Cesarini, Jubert Tree Care • John Elward, Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board • Ian Freeburg, SavATree • Kyle Henning, Rainbow Tree Care • Daniel Jovanovich, Rainbow Tree Care • Tom Madison, City of Saint Paul • Karl Mueller, City of Saint Paul • Charlie Perington, Four Seasons Tree Service • Danielle Ringle, Northeast Tree • Rod Rodman, Four Seasons Tree Service • Lydia Voth, City of Saint Paul • Brian Volz, Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board UMN Staff: • Chad Giblin • Laura Nelson • Brian Luedtke • Kiley Mackereth • Monica Randazzo • Mike Bahe • Alissa Cotton • Jack Faje • Tracy Few • Danny Heinze • Amanda Stear • Dalton Uphoff • Lydia Voth • Graham Wessberg Equipment Donations and Support: • DMM • Sherrill Tree • TreeStuff • Wesspur Tree Equipment
ECO WORKS SUPPLY Athletic Fields & Golf Courses Organic, Natural and Bio Products
www.ecoworkssupply.com Also Supplying: Jacklin Seed and Field Marking Paints w Granular fertilizer w Liquid fertilizer w Soil Amendments w Crew Clothing w Environmental Pest Controls w Water Treatment w Conservation Products w TerraMax w (Tazo B) Products w Soil Testing & Analysis w Synthetic Turf w Athletic Field Covers w Pitching Mounds w Batting Cage Mats w Injection Systems w Irrigation Head Leveling
Member of the MTGF, MGCSA and MPSTMA
8 MTGF CLIPPINGS ~ SPRING / SUMMER 2019
Jim O’Neill 612-710-1718
Doug Daniel 612-868-9615
Geoff Jordan 218-213-2390
Scott Patterson 952-300-5419
www.MTGF.org
MTGF MASTER CLASS AT NORTHERN GREEN
A PLANT OUT OF PLACE Tues., Jan. 14, 2020 MTGF event are: Trees: Gary Johnson University of Minnesota, Department of Forestry Invasive Plants: Dave Hanson, MnDOT, Vegetation Management Turf: Sam Bauer, Bauer Turf Consulting Herbaceous Plants: Mary Meyer, University of Minnesota,
The Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation will host its 2020 Master Class on Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at the Northern Green. If you are working in the green industry you have likely heard the term “a plant out of place” or in layman’s terms, a weed. This can mean
many things to many people, but for many plants it can just be wrong place, wrong setting, wrong choice. Are you using the best plant for the situation? This educational event will take a look at the many landscapes within the green industry that you
www.MTGF.org
deal with including the true weeds, but also the plants you may be using correctly or incorrectly. From trees, to herbaceous, turfgrass and a buckthorn mass, we will take a look at the many different versions of “a plant out of place.” Main topics and speakers for the
Department of Horticultural Science. * * * * (Editor’s Note: Master Class and Northern Green registration will soon be available at www.northerngreen.org.)
SPRING / SUMMER 2019 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 9
The Northern Green is anually hosted in January at the Minneapolis Convention Center by the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation and the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association. This event is held regardless of weather conditions. For the past 15 years, the Northern Green (Expo) has avaraged 6,505 attendees for the 3-day event with 54% of those being the main decision makers which includes owners, managers, superintendents and designers.)
Member Discount To receive member pricing, you must be a member of of MNLA, MGCSA, MPSTMA, MAC, MASMS, MSA, MTA, or MTSC. (Membership discounts cannot be credited after you have submitted a registration form.) Not a Member? Non-member rates are available, but you’ll save if you join before you register. Visit www.MNLA.biz or www.MTGF.org for membership information and rates. Begin your networking now by following @NorthernGreenMN and #NorthernGreen on Twitter. Payment and Deadlines
2019 Attendees by Industry Segment Arborist ........................................................... 5% Cemetery ......................................................... 1% Flower Grower................................................. 3% Garden Center ................................................. 11% Gardening Services .......................................... 2% Golf Course ...................................................... 8% Hardscape Installer ......................................... 13% Irrigation Contractor ....................................... 7% Landscape Contractor ...................................... 21% Landscape Designer ......................................... 16% Landscape Management .................................. 15% Nursery Grower ............................................... 6% Parks/Recreation ............................................ 10% School Grounds ............................................... 4% Snow & Ice Management ................................ 14% Sod Grower ...................................................... 1% Sports Turf ....................................................... 4% Tree Care Services ............................................6% (Editor’s Note: In the figures above, attendees were asked to “check all that apply” and consequently the percentages add up to greater than 100. Figures represent the percentage of nonexhibitor attendance.)
Northern Green will refund 100% of registration fees for cancellation requests received by December 23, 2019. There will be no refunds for no-shows or for cancellations received after December 23, 2019. (Editor’s Note: More information is available at www. northerngreen.org)
Check or credit card payment must accompany paper registration. Name badges will be mailed to those who register by December 19th – no waiting in line! Those who register between December 20th and January 3rd will receive an email with their badge information. Bring this with you to the show and print off your name badge at one of our Self Check-In kiosks in the Registration Center. Registrations post-marked on or before January 3rd are eligible for pre-registration rates. After January 4th, registration is available on-site only beginning January 14th. Mail paper registrations to: Northern Green, 1813 Lexington Avenue North, Roseville, MN 55113, or Fax to 651.633.4986. Payment must accompany registration. www.MTGF.org
SPRING / SUMMER 2019 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 11
How Your Personal History Impacts Your Communication By KIT WELCHLIN M.A., CSP Professional Speaker and Author
Each generation had significant events during their formative years. Different life experiences create generational sub-cultures. A culture that has been shaped by the values, standards, and policies of one generation isn’t necessarily going to be compatible with the next generation. Throw in a big dose of technology and the friction gets worse. The generations are different and for good reason. It is sometimes hard to measure the general impact that these historical events have had on our personal and professional values and concerns. But I do know this; our personal history does have an impact on our priorities and expectations today. This article will help you recognize how events have shaped attitudes, the differences in career goals, the different preferences for rewards, the unique challenges for work and life balance, and the choices of communication channels. Defining Events Certain events and trends have affected the way each generation sees the world. Veterans or Traditionals experienced the Great Depression and World War II. So, they don’t spend money freely and patriotism is very important to this oldest generation. Baby Boomers, grew up during the Vietnam Era, the Civil Rights Movement, and Women’s Liberation. This generation experienced being change agents and believe individuals can make a difference. Generation Xers grew up with Watergate and corporate lay-offs. Gen Xers may not be able to fully trust government institutions or big business. Xers grew up in single-parent homes and are self-reliant and are independent. Millennials or Generation Y grew up with school violence, terrorism, and multiculturalism. So, Millennials have a concern for personal safety and expect diversity in the workplace. Different Career Goals The oldest generation, the Veterans or Traditionals, expected to work in the same industry and enjoy life-time employment with the same organization. Baby Boomers like a good challenge. The Baby Boomers go to work to make change and to make a difference. Baby Boomers work hard and strive to stand out and to be recognized for their contribution. Generation Xers expect their jobs and career path to be interrupted at times. Xers want keep moving forward by developing a wide variety of skills that keep them employable. Gen Xers believe that you need to plan your career, or you might not have one. The Millennials would like variety in their jobs. They would like to work in customer service one day, maybe operations another, and volunteer for service projects the next. Millennials or Gen Y want a variety of activities, not just in the short term, but in the long-term, too. This youngest generation will experience possibly a dozen career changes in their lifetime 12 MTGF CLIPPINGS ~ SPRING / SUMMER 2019
with multiple jobs in between. Each generation appears to have different career goals. Recognizing and respecting the differences will go a long way in recruiting and retaining the finest talent of each generation. Different Reward Systems The Veterans or Traditionals rely on their own personal appreciation of a job well done. This generation expected to work hard and to enjoy a pension or a defined retirement plan as a reward for loyalty. Baby Boomers like to be recognized with rewards such as money, office space, or job title. Boomers like visible rewards such as awards, parking spots, expense accounts, and unique personalized treatment. Public recognition is a great reward to Boomers. For Generation Xers, the best reward would be freedom. Autonomy and independence is most appreciated. Providing Gen Xers with flexibility to balance their personal and professional lives is a wonderful reward for this generation. For Millennials or Gen Y, the best reward is recognizing the meaning of their work, understanding the mission of your organization, and the real, positive impact their work has on people’s lives. Sure, they like the perks, the money, and the benefits, but they are also interested in the impact. Of course, these are generalities, and individuals within each generation are different, however, with a little thoughtfulness we can make a minor adjustment in the reward programs to make them just a little bit more rewarding. Balance Issues Veterans and Traditionals struggle with the transition to retirement with an uncertain meaning or value. They have worked their whole lives demonstrating on-time attendance and the feeling of being needed to complete the tasks. Often, members of this generation aren’t retiring to something, just from something. The Baby Boomers feel stretched. Boomers have aging parents, and adult children, and find it hard to have time for balance. As Baby Boomers start to consider retirement, they want to retire to something, rather than from something. Boomers may start a non-profit, a consultancy, or a foundation to lead and to feel meaning in their lives. Generation Xers focus on finding balance now. They want to balance life and work now rather than when they retire. Gen Xers prefer results-oriented work environments rather than clock watching workplaces. Xers will negotiate start-time and end-time schedules to acquire the work/life balance they seek. Millennials or Gen Y seek employers that offer tremendous flexibility so they can attempt to balance all of their activities. They were busy as kids with all sorts of before-school and after-school opportunities and interests and they would like that to continue. Millennials want flexible hours to juggle their schedules. Balance is an issue in today’s work world. Balance is a challenge for everybody. At work, openly discuss work/life balance, create a menu of alternatives, and support each other’s choices. (Continued on Page 13)
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Generations in the Modern Workplace
Communication (Continued from Page 12)
Different Communication Channels Have you noticed that when you call the youngest generation on the phone they don’t call you back? Some younger coworkers claim, “I don’t do phones.” Each generation seems to have a strong preference in how they would like to connect and communicate. These different channels of communication need to be considered when trying to effectively interact with a different generation. The Veterans and Traditionals would like a message in the form of a handwritten note or meet face toface, maybe for breakfast or lunch. When it comes to the Baby Boomers a quick phone would work well, or face-to-face interactions in their office. Generation Xers would prefer a short email with an attachment. Be sure that the correspondence is brief, scannable, and with bullet points. This generation doesn’t need to meet face-to-face. If you stop by their office, don’t linger, don’t break stride. Finally, you may have more success connecting with Millennials or Gen Y by sending a text message, or heck, you may want to take a picture and send an Instagram. If you want your coworkers to respond to your requests, you have to follow the Platinum Rule: Do unto others as they would like to be done unto. Reach them through the channel of communication they choose. * * * * (Editor’s Note: Kit Welchlin, M.A., CSP, is a professional speaker and author and can be found at www.welchlin.com.)
www.MTGF.org
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SPRING / SUMMER 2019 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 13
Founded in 1993, Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation Continues to Support the Minnesota Green Industry The Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation (MTGF) was formed in 1993 as a non-profit organization. It is partnership of seven turf and grounds related associations and the University of Minnesota. As a member of one or more of the following MTGF allied associations, you are also considered a member of the MTGF. The MTGF requires no annualndues but will accept donations. The MTGF allied associations include: + Minnesota Association of Cemeteries + Minnesota Golf Course Superintendents’ Association + Minnesota Association of School Maintenance Supervisors + Minnesota Sod Producers + Minnesota Parks and Sports Turf Managers Association + Minnesota Society of Arboriculture + Minnesota Turf Seed Council Mission of the MTGF The mission of the MTGF is to promote the green industries in Minnesota through support of research, education and outreach at the University of Minnesota and elsewhere. The MTGF is committed to supporting professionalism within turf and grounds industry by encouraging continued growth of each allied association; encouraging the exchange of knowledge among members of the turf and grounds industry through educational conferences, workshops, seminars, trade shows and field days; supporting relevant turf and grounds research, education and outreach at the University of Minnesota and being pro-active in environmental, regulatory and public policy matters as they affect the turf and grounds industry. University of Minnesota Partnership The MTGF is not formally connected with the University of Minnesota. However, one of its primary goals is to support and be advisory to the development of turf and grounds research, education and outreach programs at the University of MInnesotas College of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences and the Department of Horticulture Science. The MTGF played a major advisory role in the planning and development of the University of Minnesota, Turf and Grounds Research and Outreach Center and currently helps fund operating costs. To date, the MTGF has funded more than 1.6 million dollars towards turf and grounds research in Minnesota. Membership Any association engaged in the development, care and maintenance of public or private grounds is eligible to become an allied association member of the Foundation subject to approval of the MTGF Board of Directors. Individuals or businesses may become regular Foundation members by joining one (or more) of the member allied associations best suited to their needs and interests. There are no membership fees associated with either allied association membership or regular membership. However, if an individual or business subscribes to the mission and purpose of the Foundation but is not a member of an allied association, they 14 MTGF CLIPPINGS ~ SPRING / SUMMER 2019
are eligible for affiliate membership. Affiliate membership is subject to Board approval and does carry an annual membership fee as established by the Board of Directors. Those interested in membership should contact our business office for further information. Educational Opportunities The MTGF sponsors educational events throughout the year which include the Northern Green which is held annually in January at the Minneapolis Convention Center. This is a relatively large expo with educational sessions, several national presenters and hundreds of exhibitors involved in a trade show. Each year, on the first day of the Northern Green, the MTGF hosts a Master Class all day session focusing on current issues concerning the Minnesota Green Industry. Throughout the year, the MTGF helps sponsor pruning workshops in all corners of Minnesota. In the fall, on even-numbered years, the MTGF hosts a Field Day at TROE Center and the UFORE Nursery & Lab in St. Paul where arborists and turf managers get together to see first handthe latest research and projects that are going on at the University of Minnesota. Commercial vendors help sponsor the event by purchasing space for booths and equipment. In November, the MTGF co-hosts a Pesticide Recertification session with the MNLA as a last chance for individuals to recertify for the calendar year. Member Communication The MTGF newsletter, Clippings is published semiannually with one issue in the spring and one in the fall. This newsletter is intended to inform all MTGF members of the latest turf and grounds research being conducted at the University. It is also a means of getting information out to the membership about important happenings within the foundation as well as the other allied associations. In fact, allied associations are encouraged to utilize this newsletter to announce their upcoming events, educational meetings and other topics of interest to the turf and grounds industry. Foundation Organization At present, the MTGF consists of a Board of Directors comprised of two representatives from each allied associations, two vendor representatives from the turf and grounds industry and two University faculty representatives involved in turf and landscape research and/or education. In addition, there are four officers: president, vice-president, recording secretary and treasurer. In 1998, the Board established an Executive Director position to help oversee and manage the day-to-day Foundation operations as well as help plan, coordinate and conduct the educational events during the year. The Board meets six times annually to review and conduct the Foundation’s business. Contact The Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation mailing address is P. O. Box 617 Wayzata, MN 55391. MTGF Executive Director Jeff Turtinen may be reached at 763-703-4983 or email jeff.turtinen@mtgf.org. More information is available at www.mtgf.org. www.MTGF.org
MTGF FUNDING THROUGH THE YEARS MINNESOTA TURF & GROUNDS FOUNDATION FUNDING RESEARCH DOLLARS FROM 2001-2002 TURFGRASS PROGRAM SUPPORT TROE CENTER OPERATIONS TROE CENTER BUILDING PRE-DESIGN DR. ERIC WATKINS RESEARCH BRAD PEDERSEN LANDSCAPE PROGRAM DR. GILlMAN TREE RESEARCH / DUTCH ELM DISEASE DED / ELM RESISTANCE MECHANISMS DR. ROBERT BLANCHETTE DED / MSA SUPPORT UM YOUTH ENGAGEMENT IN ARBORICULTURE 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. WALKER FIELD SAFETY ASSESSMENT STUDY 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
65,000
65,000
60,000
60,000
49,715
60,000
30,000
2015
2014
70,000 50,000
20,000 20,000
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
50,000 50,000 47,000 37,114
60,500
15,000 15,000 12,000 15,000
2008
10,000 26,000 10,415
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
20,000 20,000 9,625 10,000 20,000 20,000 11,000 2,750 4,077
20,000 10,000 25,000 20,000 17,000 13,000
20,000 7,500 10,000 20,000 21,056 15,000 5,000 5,000 10,000
7,400 10,000
10,000
2,500
3,500
3,500
2002 2001 27,500 26,570
7,250 9,975 6,250 5,500 5,500 900
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
10,000 10,000
5,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 10,000
65,000
10,000 15,000 1,198
TOTALS 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 35,000 27,500 26,750 TOTAL DOLLARS SINCE 2001 = $1,650,516
Your Twin Cities Professional Turf Supply Destination
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gertenswholesale.com | P: 651-450-0277 | F: 651-450-9380 | E: wholesale@gertens.com Eagan Location 1980 Seneca Road Eagan, MN 55122
www.MTGF.org
Loretto Location 6265 County Rd 19 Loretto, MN 55357
Elk River Location 906 Hwy 10 Elk River, MN 55330
Inver Grove Heights Location 5500 Blaine Avenue Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076 SPRING / SUMMER 2019 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 15
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Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation Donates $106,250 for Green Industry Research in 2019 The Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation (MTGF) is proud to announce that it is donating $106,250 towards Minnesota Turf and Grounds research. Since 1992, the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation has donated $1,650,516 towards turf and grounds research since 1993.
In March, the MTGF Board of Directors approved four funding requests at its March Board Meeting. The Board approved a donation of $65,000 towards TROE Center operations
at its March Board Meeting. The Board feels the continued research at TROE Center is very beneficial for Minnesota turf managers. The MTGF Board approved a MTGF donation of $34,475 towards Teaching, Research, and Outreach Programs at the Urban Forestry, Outreach, Research & Extension (UFore) Nursery and Lab. The funds will go towards Youth Engagement ($7,250); Conservation ($9,975); UM Elm Selection ($6,250); UM ESP Research ($5,500), and Pruning ($5,500). For a second year, the MTGF Board approved a $5,000 for students at the University of Minnesota/ Crookston to continue to work on a Pre-Game Agronomic Field Safety Assessment for Sports Fields: Future Implications of Risk Management. Field safety is a concern. This research and information will benefit sports field managers. The mission of the MTGF 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. For more information about the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation, go to www.mtgf.org or contact the MTGF Business Office at 763-703-4983 or email Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation Executive Director Jeff Turtinen at jeff.turtinen@mtgf.org.
THE GREEN INDUSTRY E XPERIENCE WHERE YOU...
M I N N E APOLIS AP CONVE NTIO ON C E NTE R
JAN. 14 16
C O N N E C T + G R O W AT N O R T H E R N G R E E N 2 0 2 0 www.MTGF.org
SPRING / SUMMER 2019 ~ MTGF CLIPPINGS 17
MTGF MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MATT CAVANAUGH President Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation When you began your career how did you come to understand aspects of the industry? It’s all about experience. School is a good foundation, but it’s all about getting your hands dirty and doing the work in this business. I do a lot of my own research as well. Don’t just go out and spread fertilizer, understand what you are spreading and how it works. What experiences in your career prepared you for leadership of the MTGF? The easy answer is all of it, but I’ve had the unique experience of several different positions within the industry. Assistant Golf Course Superintendent, Sales Rep with PBI-Gordon and Research Scientist at the University of Minnesota. There was also a short stint as a Head Grounds Manager at a local school district, but I don’t want to talk about that. This has allowed me to see many different parts of the industry which bodes well for an organization that represents seven different associations. What are your current responsibilities at work? As an Assistant Superintendent at Rush Creek Golf Club, my main duties are crew management. I’m also highly skilled at digging holes so I tend to do that a lot as well. How did you first become involved in turf management? I wanted free golf so I obtained a summer job at the Bridges Golf Course in Mounds View, MN. The course is now a Medtronic parking lot. What specific challenges do you face because of your position at work? Lots of play at the golf course means divots and ball marks. Dealing with labor issues is a distant second. What significant changes have happened that have changed the way you do things at work? The very different roles within the industry have really changed the way I work. Because I’ve seen many different sides of the business and have seen how there are many different ways to manage, I’m much more relaxed in my day to day work life. 18 MTGF CLIPPINGS ~ SPRING / SUMMER 2019
What specific job responsibilities do you find most satisfying? Blowing leaves off a fairway in the fall. Instant gratification.
Is Social Media been a positive or negative at work? For the most part a positive. There is so much information being shared within the industry that I think everyone should take a look at social media in some aspect. I have a personal account in which I’m all business (@CavanaughTurf) and a work account in which I’m mostly goofy (@RushCreekTurf). For some reason that seems backwards. What are your passions and interests outside the workplace? Being goofy with my two boys, hanging out on the boat and doing way too many projects around the house. I purchased a dump in the slums of Maple Grove three years ago. Any certifications, awards, etc.? I’ve never won anything in my life. I’m a second place hero. What are important issues facing the Green Industry today? Labor and pay. They go hand in hand in my opinion. What do Golf Course Superintendents need for them to be successful today? People. It’s all about the right people. I don’t care about fertilizer, fungicides or equipment. It’s all about people. Good reason(s) for a young person to consider a golf course maintenance career? Calluses on your hands. You’ll be able to grab a hot plate with your bare hands. What’s your favorite maintenance task that you still enjoy performing? I love mowing fairways. However, I only get on one a few days a year when I volunteer at the TPC Twin Cities and the 3M Open.
How do you think the profession and industry will change in the next 10 years? The industry is pretty slow to change. There is always a different way of doing things in terms of plant care, but not much of it is new. It’s just a different spin on the same routine. For me, the change will come in pay. I think the industry will hit a breaking point and realize that pay will need to increase to attract young people into the industry. Any tricks of the trade that you’d like to share? I’ll have to stick with what I know which is grass. Don’t over think it. It’s grass. Water, sun and fertilizer at the right time. Stick with that. Don’t complicate it. Also, lime is a total waste of time. Homeowners love their lime. What changes if any are you considering or implementing at your course this year? Incentivizing the collage and high school individuals. If you are on time and work a specific amount of days, you’ll get paid more. I’m sick of caring if you don’t show up for work. I’m trying to reward positive behavior instead of punish bad behavior. Good advice from a fellow superintendent this past winter. Are you married? Yep, seventeen years this summer. Do you have kids? Two boys. Seven and Five. They are monsters. Who would be included at the table if you could dine with anyone, living or dead? Family and friends. I’ve never been interested in celebrities or history. If you were a pro athlete, where do you envision yourself? I’m going solo on this one. Water skiing pro tour. Advice? Don’t take yourself too seriously. In terms of myself, I grow grass and dig holes for a living and I’m okay with that. www.MTGF.org
PRESORTED U.S. Postage PAID Permit #32324 Twin Cities, MN
P. O. Box 617 Wayzata, MN 55391
MTGF ALLIED ASSOCIATIONS MTGF CLIPPINGS ADVERTISERS Spring / Summer 2019 3
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