The Groundsman December 2018

THE

GROUNDSMAN WWW.IOG.ORG

DECEMBER 2018 £4.00

ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE IN GROUNDS MANAGEMENT

TECH UPDATE

Chemical-free solutions for fighting disease page 34

IOG INDUSTRY AWARDS

THE 2018 WINNERS page 14

A LIFE IN TURF

Peter Dury: winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award

NO TIME TO WASTE Award-winning groundsman Dave Fellowes is ready for Rotherham UFC’s next challenge

INS IDE

SALTEX 2018 HIGHLIGHTS ESSENTIAL WORK FOR JANUARY PRODUCT SHOWCASE: NEW LAUNCHES FROM SALTEX

Contents REGULARS

December 2018 SALTEX SHOWCASE

05 Welcome

Building for the future

A round-up of the best new products on display page 41

06 Update

The latest news from the IOG and the world of turf care

13 GaNTIP: Update

Improving conditions at Chadderton FC

33 Award sponsor

GrassMaster’s masterstroke

38 SALTEX 2018 review

A look back at the highlights of this year’s show

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41 Product showcase

A round-up of the most exciting new products on show at SALTEX 2018

49 Tools & guidance

Maintenance and weather

FEATURES 14 IOG Industry Awards

Celebrating the very best in groundscare

26 Peter Dury

The worthy winner of the IOG Lifetime Achievement Award

ON THE COVER

38

Dave Fellowes of Rotherham United FC

30 Rotherham UFC

The award-winning grounds team is ready for its next challenge

34 Tech update

Chemical-free alternatives for fighting disease

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THE GROUNDSMAN

Editorial address: 28 Stratford Office Village, Walker Avenue, Wolverton Mill East, Milton Keynes, MK12 5TW t: 07785 293077 Managing editor Karen Maxwell e: kmaxwell@iog.org t: 01908 552987 Features editor Colin Hoskins e: editor@iog.org t: 07785 293077 Product editor Charlie Lyon e: charlie.lyon@jamespembrokemedia.co.uk t: 01225 337777 IOG membership and general enquiries t: 01908 312511 e: membership@iog.org Magazine subscriptions Sue Fernandes t: 01908 312511 e: accounts@iog.org Subscriptions £72 UK, £82 Europe, £112 rest of world Publisher James Houston Head of design Simon Goddard Advertising Jasper Keeling e: jasper.keeling@jamespembrokemedia.co.uk t: 0203 859 7097 Published by James Pembroke Media The Groundsman is published monthly by the Institute of Groundsmanship. All material is copyright of the Institute of Groundsmanship and may not be reproduced without permission. The publishers do not accept responsibility for any advertisement appearing in the journal and cannot be held liable for editorial omissions or errors. The views expressed in the journal are not necessarily those of the Institute of Groundsmanship.

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Welcome

Contributors

Building for the future

Karen Maxwell Managing editor

Inside this month’s edition, we reflect on the recent SALTEX show and IOG Industry Awards, two events that showcase the innovation and talent the industry has in abundance. It’s pleasing to see the exhibition come alive each year, witnessing, as I do, the build up from the early hours of Monday morning then, for us at the IOG, a full-on 48 hours supporting and delivering both events. By the Friday, we then see the same space that was filled with 300 exhibitors and 9,000 plus visitors occupied by people with hi-vis jackets dismantling the stands, and we begin the cycle for next year’s events on October 30-31. We are already discussing new features and content to add to the show while the team is busy reviewing what worked and discussing any areas that may need improving.

Colin Hoskins Features editor

It’s a similar process with the awards; we regroup and look at the event’s strengths and weaknesses then start the process for next year. What is really important to us is to challenge everything and to work for continual improvement. Talking of which, during this year’s awards evening, we announced the new IOG Prospectus. This brochure, a first for the industry, explains the IOG’s Pitch Grading Framework – a set of standards to help grounds staff at all levels – as well as the qualifications, training courses and advisory services available to help support your career development and future opportunities.

Ian Mather Brewster Regional pitch advisor

The IOG Prospectus offers something for everyone; a blended learning system that allows access to IOG courses in the workplace, the classroom or online, to enable everyone to enhance their skill set and knowledge to help improve playing surfaces at every level.

John Dempsey Course manager, Royal Curragh Golf Club

From its inception in 1934, the IOG’s motto of ‘Through Training to Service’ has been at the heart of our ethos, and this commitment to training is illustrated by the thousands of grounds people who train with us each year, as well as the many who undertake IOG qualifications. We are passionate about continual skills development to ensure grounds staff throughout the UK are recognised for their professionalism.

We despatched an email about the IOG Prospectus during the awards evening and had a massive number of click-throughs. We have received very positive feedback and promise to keep listening to your comments to further enhance this helpful resource and to ensure we keep ‘serving you through the seasons’.

Chris Bennett SALTEX press officer

Now, as we approach the end of another year, the IOG extends festive greetings to the industry and, to all those who will be working during this Christmas, we offer our thanks and appreciation.

Marc Vercammen General manager, GrassMaster Solutions

Geoff Webb Chief Executive The Institute of Groundsmanship KEEP IN TOUCH

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Update

READ MORE

IOG NEWS

Read all the latest news and updates, and discover what members are entitled to www.iog.org

THE LATEST HEADLINES FROM THE IOG AND THE INDUSTRY COURSE GUIDE

SCHOOLS PARTNERSHIP

IOG announces the definitive guide to training and education THE NEW IOG Prospectus is the definitive guide to IOG Training and Education, detailing the many training courses and qualifications available from the institute. The 44-page booklet outlines the qualifications, training courses and advisory services available to help support individual career development and future opportunities.

Also included is an ‘at-a-glance’ career roadmap showing how all the different options dovetail to create progression pathways. In addition, there is an explanation of the IOG’s Pitch Grading Framework – guidelines that match pitch-quality standards with the skills required to maintain them at every level, from volunteer grassroots playing surfaces needing introductory certification, through to foundation degrees for professionals at elite stadia.

A host of IOG training courses are outlined, for winter pitches, cricket, bowls, racecourses, warm season grasses, reinforced pitches and artificial surfaces, as well as ‘general’ and bespoke courses.

“The IOG is committed to encouraging skills development ”

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GOAL DIFFERENCE SPORTS EQUIPMENT DESIGNER and manufacturer Mark Harrod has renewed its partnership with the English Schools’ Football Association (ESFA). The firm will supply 7-a-side goals for the ESFA’s Danone Nations Cup U11 national finals. Teams compete within the ESFA’s small schools, schools’ cup, girls’ schools and inter-association (district) competitions. The events involve thousands of children and the winning team receives Premiership tickets.

RUGBY CUTS The qualifications offered by the IOG include: • Technical Awards, Certificates and Diplomas in turf surface maintenance • Certificate in sustainable turf management • Professional Certificate and Diploma in turf surface management • Professional Certificate in turf surface consulting • Supervisor Management Level 3.

Commenting on the launch of the IOG Prospectus, chief executive Geoff Webb said: “The IOG is committed to encouraging continual skills development and is passionate about supporting those wanting to learn how to improve playing surfaces at every level of the sporting spectrum.

“Thousands of grounds people train with us each year, as well as the many who undertake IOG qualifications, and the IOG Prospectus now provides an easy-reference guide for everyone involved.”

Find the IOG Prospectus in the Learning area of the website (www. iog.org/learning), under Training and Qualifications, or call 01908 312511 or email learning@iog.org for a hard copy.

RFU SLASHES FUNDS THE RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION (RFU) has cut investment in the sport by £13 million after a financial report revealed revenue for the English game has fallen for a second year. The governing body has predicted “growing uncertainty” and “challenging times” ahead after declaring an operating loss of £30.9m for the year.

GLOBAL BRAND

JOHN DEERE IN TOP 100 JOHN DEERE HAS again earned a spot among the world’s most valuable brands in an annual ranking completed by leading brand consulting firm, Interbrand. John Deere is now ranked 88th in the Best Global Brands research announced in October 2018, moving up four spots from a year ago. Interbrand estimates the John Deere brand to now be worth approximately $5.4 billion (£4.2 billion), a 12 per cent increase on last year.

U P D AT E

GRASSROOTS GAME

KKP to deliver 330 local plans THE FA HAS commissioned the consultancy firm KKP to deliver the 330 local football facility plans (LFFPs) needed for the FA National Football Facilities Strategy. The facilities are part of the National Football Facilities Strategy (NFFS), a 10-year strategy to change the landscape of football facilities in England and the benefits they provide.

KKP will be managing the process of local engagement, consultation and LFFP production, which will be delivered between now and mid-2020 – over four tranches of local authorities.

LFFPs will set out a 10-year vision for football facilities in each local authority. They will identify projects to deliver (and partners with which to work) and form an investment portfolio for most local schemes that require funding; 90% of all community football investment will then be driven by LFFP content.

Importantly, the FA is broadening its focus so these plans include commitments to social, recreational and other forms of football .

The IOG’s GaNTIP has been involved in this initiative and will be supporting it in the coming months and years.

“LFFPs will set out a 10-year vision for football facilities”

KPP will be responsible for delivering the football facilities England needs

ICL BEGINS NEW SEAWEED RESEARCH

The ICL research team has started work

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TEMPORARY HOME

WEMBLEY EXTENSION TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR FC has been given permission to continue playing its home matches at Wembley until its new stadium is ready – but at a reduced capacity.

Spurs was due to move into its new White Hart Lane stadium in September, but the project has suffered construction delays.

The club initially agreed to continue playing at Wembley until the end of the year.

They can now play there indefinitely but with a reduced capacity of 51,000.

STADIUM VISION

FIGHTING DISEASE

ICL HAS JOINED forces with Royal Holloway, University of London on a four-year research project that will look in detail at the effects of seaweed products on turf grass plant parasitic nematodes.

Research has already begun into how plants and the soil microbiota respond to ICL’s SeaMax seaweed

NEWS

application, and plant parasitic nematodes will be added into the study.

Alan Gange, professor of microbial ecology at Royal Holloway, said there are reports that some seaweed products or extracts contain chemicals that can protect plants against pests and diseases.

“We think that when the right seaweed is applied to a grass plant it could change the resistance of the plant to disease and insect attack,” he explained.

“Someone asked me if we are creating antibiotics for plants and in a way, that is indeed what we are trying to do – we are trying to harness the plant’s natural resistance mechanism and improve it.”

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BERNABÉU REDEVELOPMENT REAL MADRID PRESIDENT Florentino Pérez has revealed that work on a £344.7m redevelopment of its Santiago Bernabéu stadium will start soon.

The renovation will increase the venue’s capacity by more than 5,000 to around 90,000.

There will also be improvements to fan experience, the technology infrastructure and broadcasting facilities as well as hospitality areas.

Pérez said the work will result in the venue becoming “the best stadium in the world”.

NEW PARTNERSHIP

SPORT ENGLAND AID A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN Sport England and financial adviser Grant Thornton has led to the development of a new programme of online workshops aimed at helping grassroots sports clubs to better manage their finances.

There will be topics covered such as ‘Future fitting your finances’, and all content and workshops will be made available to access via Club Matters, a website run by Sport England offering sports clubs free practical resources. twitter.com/the_iog

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MOVERS & SHAKERS Meet the people taking on new challenges in the industry

1 SUSANNA DINNAGE PREMIER LEAGUE

JOHN DEERE

SUSANNA DINNAGE HAS been named as the new chief executive of the Premier League, replacing Richard Scudamore.

Dinnage joins from media organisation Discovery, where she was the global president of the Animal Planet channel.

Scudamore, 59, is stepping down after 19 years in charge.

“I am excited at the prospect of taking on this fantastic role. The Premier League means so much to so many people,” said Dinnage, who will begin her new job early in 2019.

MICHAEL GREY AND BRIAN D’ARCY

Susanna Dinnage

2 STEVE BROWN

RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION

Steve Brown

STEVE BROWN HAS announced he will step down as CEO of the Rugby Football Union (RFU) after just 14 months in the role.

Brown’s shock decision comes just days after former CEO Francis Baron claimed that the governing body was “in a perilous financial position” despite recording healthy revenues.

Brown first joined the RFU in 2011 and was chief financial officer, chief officer business operations, and managing director of England Rugby 2015 before being appointed CEO in September 2017.

He is set to leave the RFU at the end of the year.

JOHN DEERE HAS appointed Michael Grey as its new strategic account manager for turf and other non-agricultural equipment, replacing Brian D’Arcy.

Working from the John Deere HQ at Langar, near Nottingham, Michael is now responsible for maintaining existing and developing new relationships with strategic and key account customers throughout the UK and Ireland.

Michael studied Agricultural Business Management at Reading University and joined John Deere in January 2012 as an area aftermarket manager. He was promoted to territory manager for central and southern England in 2015 before taking up his new role at the beginning of October.

Brian has recently been promoted to the post of product manager for compact and utility tractors in Region 2 (Europe, CIS, North Africa and the Near & Middle East), based at Deere’s European HQ in Mannheim, Germany.

3 LIZ NICHOLL UK SPORT

UK SPORT CHIEF executive Liz Nicholl has announced she will step down from the role next summer to “focus on family and other interests”.

A former international netball player and championship director of the 1995 World Championships, Nicholl was CEO of England Netball before joining UK Sport in 1999. She started as director of elite sport before progressing to COO, then took the CEO reins from John Steele in 2010.

During her nine years as CEO, Team GB has achieved historic performances at successive Olympic Games.

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8 THE GROUNDSMAN December 2018

Michael Grey (right) and Brian D’Arcy Liz Nicholl

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U P D AT E

NEWS

U P D AT E

NEWS

NEWS

The John Lyon grounds team

EQUIPMENT UPDATE

TIME-SAVING TECHNOLOGY TWO NEW KIT arrivals for a busy Middlesex grounds team are saving up to five working days a month. The Wiedenmann Terra Spike GXi8 HD and the Wiedenmann Super 500, delivered in October, are significantly reducing time spent on aeration, collecting and scarifying, the team has said.

Chris Lynch, grounds manager at John Lyon School, Harrow-on the-Hill and his two assistants, Mark Chandler and Joe Naughton now have breathing space to tackle different projects. The site, at Sudbury Fields in North West London, has four full-size football pitches, three junior size pitches, four training zones and three cricket squares. On any given afternoon, up to 200 pupils and PE staff from the

independent boys’ day school make full use of the playing facilities.

“With our previous aerator, we could expect to cover all 28 acres, minus the cricket squares, in five to six working days, said Chris Lynch. Now with the GXi8 HD, the sports fields with the cricket squares included can be done in less than three days.

“We’re also saving at least two days a week with the Super 500. Just the other week all pitches were raked quite roughly to take out dead grass.

Lots of material came out. We took the Super 500 across and in one pass it picked everything up. I was beyond impressed. All 28 acres collected with one pass in just over two days.” www.wiedenmann.co.uk

MONEY SAVER

STMA conference discount IOG MEMBERS ARE eligible for discounted entry to the annual STMA Conference & Exhibition, which will take place in Phoenix, Arizona, USA from 22–25th January 2019.

The conference offers an opportunity for delegates to network, attend seminars and handson workshops and learn about the latest technology in groundscare.

You can also join a tour of college and municipal sports facilities in the area.

The discounted entry price is US$375 (£331), compared to the full price of US$505 (£445). You can take advantage of the lower price by visiting www.stma.org and adding the 2019 conference to the shopping cart and using the promotional code: ConfReg-2019STMAafflOrg.

DIARY DATE

NORTHUMBERLAND FA NATURAL TURF PIP EDUCATION NORTHUMBERLAND FA, with help from GaNTIP regional pitch advisor Ian Powell, will be hosting a Pitch Improvement Programme (PIP) educational event at the Close House Hotel and Golf Resort, in Newcastle Upon Tyne on 21 February 2019.

This event, which will run from approximately 10am to 4pm and includes lunch and refreshments, will include a keynote address from IOG CEO Geoff Webb, funding advice from The Football Foundation’s Adrian Morris and Mark Woodhall from Northumberland FA and practical advice from Ian Powell (above), as well as practical turf care demonstrations, including: 1 Cutting & Mowing – Greenlay 2 Deep Aeration – Wiedenmann 3 Pre/Post Match Slitting – Dennis Sisis 4 Line Marking – Fleet Line Marking 5 Over Seeding – Rickerby’s/ Redexim Charterhouse.

The cost is £10. Visit https:// eventspace.thefa.com/FALearning to book your place, or for more information, email: andrew. cook@northumberlandfa.com

www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 9

PRODUCT UPDATE

S H OWC A S E

Discover drainage and estate management products on page 39

The latest developments in batteries, irrigation, brushcutting and more

3 WATERPROOF CONNECTIONS RAIN BIRD

RAIN BIRD HAS introduced the DBM10 quick connect wire connector for low-voltage irrigation connections up to 30 volts. Designed for residential and small commercial applications, it provides a waterproof connection with a simple twist-on-wire nut that is fast and easy to use, negating the need to strip or pre-twist the wires.

The DBM10 is UV, impact and flame resistant. www.rainbird.eu

4 ATTILA PEDESTRIAN BRUSHCUTTERS ETESIA

1 ALPHA BATTERIES

New batteries have boosted the Alpha range

PELLENC

PELLENC HAS LAUNCHED an ‘on-board’ battery range.

The Pellenc Alpha range includes two new batteries, P260 and P520, which can be directly fitted to tools or to a new harness. The Helion Alpha hedge trimmers and Excelion Alpha grass strimmer are two tools that use the latest on-board batteries.

The Helion Alpha’s on-board battery makes it a tool that’s always ready to use and very compact for work that lasts up to six hours.

The Pellenc Excelion Alpha, with the Alpha 520 on-board battery, is a compact tool that is always ready to use for work and lasts 3.5 hours. www.pellencuk.com

2 CS-4510ES CHAINSAW ECHO

THE ECHO CS-4510ES rear-handle chainsaw packs a real punch with its 45cc two-stroke stratified scavenging engine and the powerto-weight ratio makes it more powerful yet lighter than previous models. It offers a better output of 2.3kW and yet weighs in with a dry weight of just 5.0kg. The Stage II emission-compliant engine is one of ECHO’s new platforms. www.echo-tools.co.uk

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ETESIA UK HAS unveiled two new Attila pedestrian brushcutters for 2019.

The new Etesia AK60 and AH75 have been designed to work in the toughest conditions, clearing vegetation from a variety of sites – long grass, weeds, bracken and brambles. Ease of operation and manoeuvrability ensure total efficiency and high output. www. etesia.co.uk

3 I-80 SPRINKLER

HUNTER INDUSTRIES

ENGINEERED FOR SPORTS turf, the I-80 is built with a robust, dirttolerant gear drive that offers the highest torque output of any rotor in the commercial sphere, and extends a radius range from 11.3-29.6m.

It features a wide range of dualtrajectory, wind-fighting nozzles for efficient working. www. hunter industries. com

By Ian Mather Brewster Key account manager, ECB; regional pitch advisor, North West Region

IMPROVING PLAY A joint collaboration has resulted in improved conditions and a reduction in the number of cancelled games at Chadderton FC

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ork by the Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme (GaNTIP) in conjunction with The FA’s Pitch Improvement Programme (PIP) and the Football Foundation means Chadderton FC has not only avoided losing games through waterlogging but has also seen more games played on its improved pitch.

I initially carried out a PIP visit to Chadderton FC, based in Oldham, Greater Manchester, in January 2017. The pitch – which is used for North-West Counties League Division One matches – was in average condition but looking tired. All maintenance is by dedicated volunteers who look after mowing and marking out; renovations and other work is done by contractors. My recommendations included: Scarification Decompaction Drill seeding Initiating a fertilisation programme Instigating an annual renovation programme.

The club had received some investment from a third party with support from the Football Foundation and, with guidance from myself, it decided to invest in the playing surface. Thatch removal and the working in of sand topdressing was the main aim, to improve the playing surface and increase playability.

“More games were played last year, including end-ofseason finals”

Investment in the playing

The club employed a sports turf consultant and sourced three quotes to carry out the work. The project started in July/August 2018 and comprised: Stripping existing vegetation and organic surface matter to approximately 25mm deep Cultivating exposed topsoil to around 75-100mm Importing 300 tonnes of a quality 70:30 blend sports rootzone and amelioration with existing topsoil Spreading a 6-9-6 pre-seed fertiliser Seeding initially with four passes using dwarf perennial ryegrass sports mix Initial establishment and three months’ maintenance.

GOOD RESULT

The club delayed any home games until October 2018, allowing the pitch to establish. No matches were postponed due to waterlogging during the 2017-18 season.

A follow up visit in early September 2018 found the pitch in good condition following the end-of-season renovation, which the club will carry out annually.

Post-match maintenance is carried out by the dedicated volunteers, and the pitch is mowed twice a week. More games were played last year, including end-of-season finals, which has seen an end to the need to play a lot of postponed games at the end of the season.

It has been a pleasure to work with the club. This is a another good example where the link with PIP, the Football Foundation and the GaNTIP has improved playability and where recommendations have been taken up and will continue to provide the club with a quality playing surface.

Visit www.iog.org for more details about the Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme

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INDUSTRY AWARDS

EVERYONE’S A WINNER!

Almost 700 leading groundscare experts from the UK and Europe celebrated the grounds profession at the annual IOG Industry Awards

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elebrating its 10th anniversary, this year’s sell-out event recognised leadership, innovation and outstanding achievement across every aspect of groundscare – from grassroots pitches to professional stadia.

The prestigious awards ceremony also celebrated the quality of groundscare achieved in public and private sports venues, and highlighted the progress of young and student grounds professionals as well as entrants’ environmental considerations.

The night was attended by almost 700 grounds people from the professional and volunteer sectors, as well as dignitaries from the governing bodies of sport and influential sports administrators, who were all there to honour the expertise, dedication and passion of the industry.

INDUSTRY AWARDS

S A LT E X REVIEW

Look back at the events at SALTEX page 38

Almost 700 people attended from all levels of the profession

The glittering awards ceremony was an excellent opportunity to network

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INDUSTRY AWARDS

IOG AWARD WINNERS 2018 The GrassMaster Solutions Lifetime Achievement Award Peter Dury

Unfortunately, ill health prevented Peter from attending the awards ceremony, but his wife, Brenda, and sons, David and Peter Junior, collected the award on his behalf from GrassMaster Solutions sales manager Alex Stead (second right) and ECB pitches consultant Chris Wood (far right).

See pages 26-29

Outstanding Leadership of the IOG

David Teasdale, IOG chair 2009-2019

David has played a key role in instigating change for the better at the IOG by leading the board with a clever blend of determination and focus. His achievements include: Successfully moving SALTEX to the NEC Supporting the creation of the Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme and the evolution of the Young IOG Playing a pivotal role in transforming the governance of the IOG board to meet modern standards and expectations Opening many doors to key decision makers Being a driving force for ensuring that groundsmanship is recognised as a great and noble profession among sports governing bodies and national government.

David (left) receives his award from IOG chief W

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INDUSTRY AWARDS

IOG AWARD WINNERS 2018 Outstanding achievement in sports turf Steve Prinn and Carl Pass

Steve spent 24 years lecturing in turf grass at Askham Bryan College, helping in the education of about 1,500 students. He now works as an independent consultant specialising in sports surface management.

As well as a host of City & Guilds accreditations, Steve also holds a Master’s degree in sports turf and turf grass management.

Carl is head of Premier Pitches, a company that works at all levels of the game on pitch renovations and reconstructions, as well as aeration, fertilisation, seeding and spraying. Throughout, he says, the aim is to create the very best playing surfaces and to enhance the standards that can be expected from natural grass pitches.

Toro Most Promising Sports Turf Student of the Year Matthew Skingle, Coventry City FC

Matthew (left) receives his award from Reesink Turfcare UK’s national account manager, Alastair Rowell.

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Steve (centre) and Carl (right) receive their awards I W

INDUSTRY AWARDS

IOG AWARD WINNERS 2018 1

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Rigby Taylor/Top Green Young Grounds Person of the Year John Wright, Southampton FC John (centre) receives his award from Rigby Taylor’s executive chairman Chris Clark (right) and Top Green’s marketing manager Stephen Alderton.

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AMS Volunteer Sports Grounds Team/Person of the Year Crowborough RFC, East Sussex AMS director Philip Sear (second left) presents the award to the Crowborough RFC team members in attendance.

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National Governing Bodies’ Community Sports Club Grounds Team/Person of the Year Stanningley Sports & Amateur Rugby League Club, Leeds IOG chair David Teasdale (far right) presents the award to the Stanningley team.

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Public Sector Sports Ground Team of the Year Gavin Jones (Aspire Defence, Project Allenby/Connaught), Surrey The Gavin Jones team collect their award from IOG chairman elect David Carpenter (far right). www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 19

INDUSTRY AWARDS

IOG AWARD WINNERS 2018 5

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Bowling Grounds Team/ Person of the Year Burleys (Crouch Bowling Club, East Sussex) Burleys’ contract manager Mark Taverner (left) receives the award on behalf of Hadrian Lear, head of fine turf, and Robert Moth and Chris Williams.

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SCH Supplies Best Managed Artificial Surface of the Year Scotstoun Stadium, Glasgow The Scotstoun Stadium team collect their award from The Football Association’s facilities investment manager Mark Pover (centre).

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Ransomes Environmental and Ecology Strategy Award Forest Green Rovers FC, Gloucestershire The Forest Green team receive their award from Ransomes’ senior director of international sales, Alan Prickett (far right).

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National Governing Bodies’ Professional Multi-Sports Ground/Facility Team of the Year Bath Recreation Ground Bath Rec’s grounds manager Dave Cobb (left) receives the award from Dean Potter, technical advisor, Football Foundation.

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INDUSTRY AWARDS

IOG AWARD WINNERS 2018 9

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Headland Amenity Professional Cricket Grounds Team of the Year Warwickshire CCC, Edgbaston The Warwickshire CCC team receive their award from Headland Amenity’s UK regional manager for sports turf, Alex Hawkes (second left) and professional cricketer Oliver Hannon Dalby (far right).

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CubCadet INFINICUT Professional Tennis Courts Grounds Team/ Person of the Year Devonshire Park, Eastbourne The Devonshire Park team led by head groundsman Danny Negus (third left) receive their award from Infinicut director John Coleman (third right).

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John Deere Professional Horse Racing Grounds Team of the Year Lingfield Park Racecourse, Surrey The Lingfield Park team collect their award from John Deere’s divisional sales manager Chris Meacock (third left).

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ICL/Syngenta Professional Rugby Football League Grounds Team of the Year Leeds Rhinos (Leeds Rugby) The Leeds Rhinos team collect their award from ICL UK sales & development manager Ed Carter (third left) and Syngenta’s UK business manager Daniel Lightfoot (far right).

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INDUSTRY AWARDS

IOG AWARD WINNERS 2018 13

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Kubota Professional Rugby Football Union Grounds Team of the Year Scottish RFU (BT Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh) The Scottish RFU team receive their award from Kubota dealer manager Colin Hennah (third left).

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SISGrass Professional Football Grounds Team of the Year (English Leagues 1 & 2, National League, National League North/ South, Scottish Championship & Leagues 1 & 2, Ireland & Wales Professional Leagues) Rotherham United FC SIS Pitches director Phil Blackwell (centre) presents the Rotherham UFC award. See pages 30-31 16

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SGL Professional Football Grounds Team of the Year (Premier, Championship and Scottish Premier League) Leicester City FC The LCFC grounds team collect their award from SGL technical sales engineer Tom Grafen (fifth left, standing) and service engineer Josh Haycocks (eighth left, standing).

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Redexim Charterhouse/ Kubota University/College Grounds Team of the Year University of Leicester Redexim Charterhouse business development manager Curtis Allen (far left) and Kubota dealer manager Colin Hennah (far right) with the grounds team, left to right, from second left: Craig Mowe, Adam Tester, Chris Long, Jack Gilford and Alexander Wilson.

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INDUSTRY AWARDS

IOG AWARD WINNERS 2018 17

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Growth Products Independent School Grounds Team of the Year St Joseph’s College, Ipswich The college grounds team collect their award from Growth Products’ senior agronomist Keith Giertych (third from left).

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International Ambassador of the Year Jonathan Calderwood, Paris Saint-Germain FC Jonathan (right) collects his award from Geoff Webb.

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Ransomes/DLF Johnsons Alex R Millar Award – chosen from the outstanding winner across all award categories Gary Barwell, Warwickshire CCC Gary Barwell (second left) receives his award from DLF Amenity sales and marketing manager Derek Smith (far left), Ransomes’ senior director of international sales, Alan Prickett (second right) and professional cricketer Oliver Hannon-Dalby.

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Special Recognition Awards Mick Hunt and Adrian Morgan, Lord’s Cricket Ground Mick and Adrian accepted their awards prior to the ceremony. Both Mick and Adrian have announced their retirements after long careers in groundsmanship. Their achievements at Lord’s Cricket Ground over the past 40 years or so are well known, not only in the world of cricket but across the turf industry. Between them they have prepared more than 4,000 pitches and outfields for First Class cricket and Test matches.

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24 THE GROUNDSMAN December 2018

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

A LIFETIME OF DISTINCTION

Not only did Peter Dury invent the first dynamic sub-base for a synthetic cricket strip, he also developed the PQS that are today’s de facto guidelines for assessing playing surfaces

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By Colin Hoskins Features editor

26 THE GROUNDSMAN December 2018

ittle did anyone know that Peter Dury’s early interest in soil and plants, which began as a toddler in his parents’ garden, would over the course of the following decades, result in such a successful career in groundscare and sports turf.

Born in 1935 in West Bridgford, Nottingham – a stone’s throw from Trent Bridge cricket ground – Peter’s progression in the industry, and his expertise and dedication, have earned him many accolades over the years, not least an MBE for services to groundsmanship.

Most recently, in this year’s IOG Industry Awards, Peter’s overwhelming contribution to raising the standards of playing surfaces, both natural and synthetic, was again publicly acknowledged and honoured with the GrassMaster Solutions Lifetime Achievement Award. This was Peter’s

second IOG lifetime achievement award (he won his first in 2003, before the annual IOG Industry Awards came into being) and he is the only person to have been honoured this way in the history of the IOG.

ALL-ROUNDER

And what a lifetime of distinction it has been for a man who, on leaving school in 1951, turned down an offer from Nottingham Forest to join the Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club at Trent Bridge with the aim of becoming a county cricketer. He was part of the second XI, but realised he wouldn’t make the grade as a professional. He did national service in the Royal Medical Corps, ably representing his unit at cricket, football, athletics and boxing, before joining the grounds staff in the Derby parks department, then the Derby-based British Celanese Sports Ground – the start of a lifetime’s career in the industry.

WINNER

PETER DURY

A LIFETIME OF SERVICE… AND HONOURS

Peter’s wife Brenda collects his IOG Lifetime Achievement Award

In 1961, he was appointed head groundsman at Southport and Birkdale Cricket Club, Lancashire CCC’s second ground. He was there for four years and, he says, “it proved a defining period in the development of my cricket pitch craft”.

He returned to local government in 1965, working as a supervisor for Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council, and in area management in Huntingdon, before returning to Nottinghamshire in 1968, first as deputy county playing fields officer in 1968 and then, five years later, county playing fields officer.

It was during this latter period that Peter started to establish his reputation as the guru of synthetic turf. One of his goals during this time was to get synthetic surfaces to replicate the performance of natural turf, while also supporting increased provision and higher playing standards. After hours of research, involving regular play and

umpiring to study how pitches perform, plus painstaking investigations and experiments with bowling machines (and willing players), he developed the Nottinghamshire Pitch Mark 1 – the first synthetic cricket carpet to use a dynamic sub-base rather than a rollout mat on top of concrete or bitumen.

Peter continued the development of ground reinforcement fabrics, fibre infills and fibre injection systems, and went on to be recognised as the inventor of a number of patented cricket, multi-games and children’s play impact-absorbing surfaces.

Yet his love of natural turf never stopped and he was involved in some of the first sand profile pitches.

The subsequent development of the Envelope and NottsBase systems continued his synthetics success story – even golf and bowling greens utilised the principles of the Envelope – and in the mid-1980s, when a number of football clubs followed

As well as being Nottinghamshire’s county playing fields officer, Peter Leslie Kennan Dury, MBE, NDT, FALM, AILAM, Dr, also dedicated much time to supporting a number of organisations: Past president of the Association of Landscape Management (formerly the Association of Playing Fields Officers) Chairman of the IOG education committee A member of numerous Sports Council and British Standards Institution (BSI) committees, panels and working parties – represented BSI on working groups helping to set European standards for sports surfaces Collaborated with turf research organisations and universities, influencing research as far afield as New Zealand.

He was appointed as a consultant to the England and Wales Cricket Board and the Irish Cricket Union, and worked alongside the Football Association and Sport England, continuing to research and raise standards. As a consultant ‘after retirement’, he worked on many sports grounds and professional sports facilities across the UK.

Peter has dedicated his life to studying,

www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 27

WINNER

Loftus Road Stadium, home to QPR, became 1 81

“His designs impacted pitch installation at a number of professional stadia” Queens Park Rangers’ lead in the installation of artificial pitches with bound bases, the Envelope system was installed at other sites ‘to provide more natural playing characteristics’. But, in those days, he reflected, the use of the bitumen-bound bases meant those early bound surfaces did not meet the players’ expectations.

Interestingly, because Peter was employed by the county council, the development of these systems meant the introduction of a law to allow a local authority to work in conjunction with a commercial company, which saw Peter successfully making representation at the House of Lords. Today, the ‘systems’ are in private ownership and Notts Sport continues to promote the Envelope NG12 and the NottsBase D as trademarked systems, while Peter’s son (Peter Junior) markets his own derivatives through Verde Sports.

In 1974 Peter became a consultant to the Sports Council, pioneering the development of Performance Quality Standards (PQS) for both natural and synthetic pitches. Such is the efficacy of PQS that even today, 40 years later, it underpins most pitch performance studies,

including the assessments that are central to the ongoing success of the IOG-led Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme.

EXPERT ADVICE

In subsequent years, the reorganisation and privatisation of local authority services led Peter and the council to establish the Sports and Landscape Development Unit to provide consultancy and design services to Nottinghamshire, other local authorities and commercial enterprises. Natural turf was not neglected, however, and Peter played a key role in the use of reinforcement, using synthetic fibres such as fibresand.

Upon retirement, Peter set up as an independent consultant. His designs also impacted pitch installation at a number of professional football stadia in those days, including Arsenal FC, the new Wembley Stadium, Nottingham Forest FC, Liverpool FC and West Ham United.

Sadly, Peter now has vascular dementia, which means he might no longer be able to fully appreciate what he has achieved over his lifetime, but his efforts will continue to impact the role of groundscare in many sports and in all corners of the world.

Peter is 83 this month and the IOG sends him its best wishes and congratulations on a lifetime of achievement. We would also like to thank Peter’s wife, Brenda, and sons, Peter Junior and Dave, for their contributions to this article.

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PETER DURY

OVER THE YEARS PETER HAS RECEIVED MANY AWARDS, INCLUDING: 1964 IOG National Diploma 1979 Presentation by Nottinghamshire County Council for his ‘inventions’ and the development of the Nottinghamshire cricket pitches 1981 Association of Playing Fields Officers’ presidents award 1991 National Turf Grass Council award for pioneering performance quality standards for sport and landscape facilities 2002 Honorary doctorate degree from the University of Essex (Writtle) 2003 IOG Lifetime Achievement Award for expertise in sports surface management and contribution to groundsmanship 2010 England and Wales Cricket Board award for services to cricket 2012 MBE for services to groundsmanship.

Throughout his career Peter also contributed to a number of publications, and some of his work is still used today for reference and educational purposes.

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www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 29

ELITE FOOTBALL

Head groundsman, Dave Fellowes

BEST PRACTICE

CHALLENGES AND CHAMPIONS The challenges faced by Rotherham United FC’s 2018 IOG Industry Award winning grounds team continue unabated – the Championship club’s stadium is now part of the bidding process as a host venue for the 2021 UEFA Women’s European Championship

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By Colin Hoskins Features editor

30 THE GROUNDSMAN December 2018

he 2018 IOG Industry Award winner Dave Fellowes certainly has his work cut out at Rotherham United FC. Because, as head groundsman, not only is he and his two assistants charged with looking after the stadium pitch but they also maintain the training ground, which has two pitches – one for the first team and reserves’ training, as well as reserves’ matches.

The trio also help out with the maintenance of an additional pitch used

by the club’s under 18s. So, he says, everything he does must have a purpose – “I don’t have any time to waste” – and every product he uses must have the desired effect during a busy season.

Between May 2017 and May 2018, for example, there were 46 games at the stadium, including the UEFA U17 European championship (two group games, one quarter-final, the semi-final and final), as well as 28 training sessions. The two-pitch training ground hosted 455 hours of use during that period.

BEST PRACTICE

ELITE FOOTBALL

An annual pitch care programme keeps the turf looking top

Rotherham United takes on Swansea City at the AESSEAL New York Stadium

“I had experience of fibresand at Fulham, but the environment here is a bit different, not least the fact that little air gets onto the pitch” Dave joined the south Yorkshire club in 2011, after nine years at Fulham FC. He’d spent seven years as head groundsman there, moving to Craven Cottage from a groundsman role at the University of Sheffield where he gained Levels 1 and 2.

He admits it was a bit of a shock to the system moving from a Premier League club with all the groundscare aids at its disposal, including undersoil heating and grow lights, to a club where the budget was very different. Indeed, for his first year, he was working alone.

STARTING AGAIN

“I wanted to move back to this part of the country,” he says, “and because The Millers were then in the throes of planning the new stadium I needed to be part of the new build, particularly the construction of the fibresand pitch. I spent a considerable amount of time commuting between London and Yorkshire before joining the club when it was using the Don Valley Stadium while awaiting the completion of the New York Stadium.

“I had experience of fibresand at Fulham, but the environment here is a bit different to London, not least the fact that little air gets onto the pitch, which we try to overcome by regular dragbrushing in an attempt to stimulate some airflow. There’s also a huge temperature difference between here and London, which affects grass growth in particular.”

He adds: “It is crucial that I use quality amenity products to complement our groundscare techniques to ensure the pitch plays well and looks good. We have to meet the expectations of the players and the board [Dave says he has an excellent relationship with the chairman and chief executive] but it seems that every spectator becomes a grounds expert when they enter the stadium – then they are referees and managers when the game is underway – so we have to ensure the pitch always looks great.”

Rotherham’s stadium could be a host venue for the 2021 UEFA Women’s European Championship

annual pitch care programme are clear to see and, says Dave, it is spearheaded by a number of products, including fertilisers, biostimulant and chelated liquid iron.

Dave says: “We also rely on a biostimulant in the winter, for good rooting, and we top up the surface regularly by adding R140 seed and, especially in winter, I find that it germinates well at low temperatures.”

The challenges that Dave faces continue unabated, following his recent success in the IOG Industry Awards – where he and his team won the SISGrass Professional Football Grounds Team of the Year Award.

The Championship club’s stadium is now part of the bidding process as a host venue for the 2021 Women’s European Championship. “In anticipation, I’m already thinking about the timescales between the end of our season, the European Championship fixtures and the start of our new season. I’m planning mini renovations to accommodate those needs rather than having the usual seven-week break. And I’m confident that our regimes will help me effectively re-establish the pitch twice in one summer.”

PRUDENT PITCH CARE

Working closely with industry suppliers, including Rigby Taylor, the benefits of an

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See pages 14-24 for details of all the 2018 IOG Industry Award winners www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 31

IOG INDUSTRY AWARD SPONSOR

Hybrid grass turf can either be grown and harvested at a turf farm, or installed and grown on-site

A GrassMaster pitch is composed of natural grass reinforced with synthetic

A MASTERSTROKE IN HYBRID SURFACES

By Marc Vercammen

GrassMaster developed its first stitched system 30 years ago but the company’s technology continues to stand the test of time

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hy is it that GrassMaster playing surfaces have stood the test of time?

Launched in 1989, they have been used by more than 700 sports sites worldwide, including 15 Premier League football clubs (stadia and training venues) in the UK. Is it because the surfaces have a proven 15-year lifespan? Is it because they are ideal for multi-sports and recover very quickly?

Or is it because the company behind the technology is continually researching and developing improvements to the systems?

The answer, in all cases, is yes!

Two hybrid systems are available from GrassMaster Solutions (by Tarkett Sports): the GrassMaster stitched system, where each full-size pitch contains around 20 million high-performance fibres within the sub-base of a natural grass surface; and the more recent PlayMaster carpet (turf)based technology.

GrassMaster’s polypropylene monofilament fibres (produced in-house

“Expert pitch specialists are always on hand”

by a patented method) are injected 18cm deep, in a grid of approximately 2-2cm to provide vertical reinforcement throughout the pitch. The fibres, which protrude 1.5-2 cm above the root zone surface: • Give stability to a predominately sandbased structure by reinforcing the profile • Provide an anchor around which the grass roots can entwine • Maintain the stability, uniformity and even level of the playing surface.

The stitching machine has evolved to today’s GEN 4 fully electric version, which uses a laser for machine alignment, plus the newly developed ‘sod press technology’ that allows stitching on newly installed turf.

LAY AND PLAY

Developed in 2016 to meet demands for a lay-and-play pitch that could withstand busy multi-use, PlayMaster’s hybrid grass turf can either be grown and harvested at a turf farm, or installed and grown on-site.

PlayMaster offers: • A carpet-based technology that gives horizontal reinforcement to natural grass • A spray coating on the backing that leaves ample room for drainage and oxygenation, and promotes optimal root penetration • Superior tuft lock, preventing fibre

General manager, GrassMaster Solutions

release under harsh conditions, such as during renovations.

The maintenance of both pitch designs is similar to that of a natural grass surface and will vary between sites – enclosed venues, for example, will have certain characteristics and micro-climates that affect the regime, but users must always consider the availability of natural light, air movement and frequency of use.

However, another GrassMaster USP is the fact that expert pitch consultants – including former head groundsman and IOG Industry Award winner (at Liberty Stadium) Dan Duffy – are always on-hand to offer ongoing pitch-monitoring advice.

This includes regular visits to assess pitch condition and to determine if there are any issues regarding maintenance, performance or playability, and discussions over any issues of pitch maintenance and training.

Combined with ongoing system development, this aftercare, which is adapted to the needs of each pitch and the user’s preferences, will continue to enhance GrassMaster Solutions’ global presence.

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For more information, visit www.grassmastersolutions.com www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 33

TECHNICAL U P D AT E

NEW TOOLS TO CONTROL TURF GRASS DISEASE

By John Dempsey, PhD BSc (Hons) Course manager, Royal Curragh Golf Club, Ireland

The trend towards non-chemical strategies to combat disease means turf managers are seeking alternative means to complement traditional control programmes

D

isease prevention and control is a major factor in the successful management of amenity turf grasses. Numerous cultural and chemical methods are used as part of integrated pest management programmes to reduce disease incidence and severity.

Pathogens are disease-causing agents and in the case of turf grasses they significantly affect the quality of sports surfaces. Two of the most common and damaging are Microdochium patch (Microdochium nivale) and Anthracnose (Colletotrichum cereale). Traditionally, chemical fungicides have been used to control these diseases, but such a regime can be contentious, due to the: adverse public reaction because of the perceived high frequency of use cost inhibition of non-target beneficial microorganisms development of fungicide-resistant populations increasing threat of fungicide availability by legislative restrictions.

The Disease Pyramid (Fig 1) illustrates the four interacting factors that impact the level of disease incidence – pathogen, environment, plant and time – and turf

“Plants do not sit back and allow pathogens to infect; they will respond” 34 THE GROUNDSMAN December 2018

managers are encouraged to focus on the areas they can successfully influence, such as nutrient inputs, cultural tasks and defence activators.

PATHOGEN

Turf professionals in the UK and Ireland are only too familiar with the symptoms and appearance of Microdochium patch and Anthracnose. These pathogens are ever present in the growth media and will infect turf grass when conditions are suitable.

Studies of the infection processes can be used to target areas to help reduce infection. Research shows that hyphae and conidia in the soil/thatch are the main source of inoculum. The answer is to reduce thatch.

In the right environment, infection starts with mycelium growing up the base of the plant. The answer is to target environmental conditions suitable for infection.

With Anthracnose, infection is by means of the formation of penetration structures (appressoria) on the leaf, which then penetrate the plant via the cuticle. The answer is to strengthen cuticle cell walls.

Microdochium infection is via stomatal penetration. Both pathogens will then travel through intercellular spaces and extract nutrients from cells. So, strengthen cell walls. The final phase of infection sees the pathogens exiting and producing reproductive structures, which are then dispersed and the cycle can repeat.

To reduce environmental conditions conducive for infection, utilise whichever nutritional, cultural and biological methods are available to aid the plant in its defence

and response to infection. Infected plants do not sit back and allow pathogens to infect; they will respond with a complex interaction of chemical defence compounds, and these can be stimulated or enhanced by the turf grass manager.

ENVIRONMENT

Surface moisture, ambient temperatures, humidity, poor air movement and light quality all play a significant part in disease development. Surface moisture in the form of dew or guttation fluid is a critical factor for Microdochium infection, as it provides an ideal medium for fungal growth. A recent study by STRI shows the value of dew reduction on disease levels, with significant suppression of incidence during times of high disease pressure (Fig 2).

THE DISEASE PYRAMID Environment

Time

Pathogen

Figure: 1

Plant

T E C H N I C A L U P D AT E Cultural practices such as rolling, sand topdressing and mowing height can also influence disease incidence and severity.

Research at Rutgers and Oregon State Universities in the US showed that rolling can reduce both Anthracnose and Microdochium disease, although the results are based on lightweight rolling on dry surfaces, so dew removal was not a factor. Light and frequent sand topdressing, and a change of mowing height of cut from 2.8 to 3.6mm, reduces Anthracnose incidence. Rolling, topdressing and increased height of cut can have a significant effect on Anthracnose without sacrificing surface playing qualities.

HOW DOES SILICON PREVENT DISEASE IN PLANTS? cuticle

upper epidermis palisade layer Physical resistance: Deposits in cuticle or epidermal cells may inhibit fungal penetration

chloroplasts vascular bundle spongy mesophyll

intercellular chamber lower epidermis

Figure: 4

PLANT

guard cells

direct influence on disease development.

Here’s two: Ferrous sulphate has been used for years to combat Microdochium infection, but until recently (Fig 3) there was no data to support its use.

Silica, when used as a foliar treatment, will strengthen plant cell walls. As stated, Anthracnose infection is via penetration of the outer cuticle and both Anthracnose and Microdochium need to enter the inner cells (Fig 4) so strengthening these cells by silica can help slow the infection process.

Turf grass species and cultivars will have a significant impact on disease levels.

Annual meadow grass (Poa annua) is highly susceptible to both pathogens, and many turf managers are increasingly adapting cultural and nutritional programmes to favour the ingress of less susceptible grass such as Agrostis spp. and Festuca. A number are also going down the road of total species conversion – the elimination of Poa to be replaced by either Agrostis or Festuca.

The nutritional status of the sward can have a direct effect on disease incidence and nutritional balance is key to healthy grass.

Excessively high or low fertility contributes to disease pressures. However, eight of the 13 essential nutritional elements have a

TIME

This refers to the time it takes for the pathogen to germinate and grow, and

DEWSTART PROGRAMME Untreated control

DewSmart

50 45

% Area affected

40 35 30 25 20 15 5 8 Oct

15 Oct

21 Oct

28 Oct

*

5 Nov

*

*

12 Nov

*

19 Nov 26 Nov

*

3 Dec

8 Dec

18 Dec

22 Dec

Figure: 2

AREA A

EC E

Untreated control

ICR

Effect Fe (pre)

CHI

Effect Fe (cure)

E

EC

e

35 30

% Area affected

25 20

*

15 10 5

*

*

0 8 Oct

Figure: 3

stomate

the time it takes to infect the plant. It also refers to the time it takes the plant to recognise it is being infected and the time it takes for the plant to respond with biochemical defences. When under attack, plants respond with a complex array of interconnected strategies. Important steps include recognition of the invading pathogen, production of short-term defence compounds, such as hydrogen peroxide and phenolic compounds, and the generation of signalling compounds, which prime the plant for further attack.

The question is, can these defences be stimulated or enhanced? The answer is yes and there are numerous methods or compounds that can be used. Phosphite is a ‘defence activator’ and there is strong evidence that it will reduce disease incidence. Phosphite acts as a fungistat, slowing the pathogen’s growth, allowing the plant more time to respond. It has been shown that phosphite will directly stimulate the production of defence-related compounds prior to infection, and that treated plants will have a faster response time when under attack.

SUMMARY

10 0

FIGHTING DISEASE

15 Oct

21 Oct

*

*

*

*

28 Oct

5 Nov

12 Nov

19 Nov 26 Nov

3 Dec

8 Dec

18 Dec

22 Dec

* = significantly different to control

Turf managers need to focus on the factors that can successfully influence reduced disease levels: environmental, such as dew removal; plant factors that include the use of less susceptible turf grass species and cultivars, balanced nutrient inputs and the judicious use of elements or compounds; cultural practices such as lightweight rolling, sand topdressing and mowing to optimum heights of cut; and defence activators, which will allow the plant to respond effectively and in a timely natural manner.

None of these alone will fully eliminate disease but incorporating some of them into your maintenance programmes should help to reduce the incidence of disease and your reliance on fungicides.

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For further information about STRI research, visit www.strigroup.com www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 35

IN ACTION

LEADING LIGHTS Innovative LED lighting offers large-scale pitch treatment at Germany’s Allianz Arena SGL has created the perfect light ‘recipe’

Although LED technology isn’t new, no one has been able to grow sports surfaces on a large scale successfully with the help of LED lights yet. But after extensive research, development and testing, the team at Allianz Arena, in Munich, Germany, is convinced it will be the first, by using the SGL LED grow lighting system.

Allianz Arena has purchased four LED systems from SGL, with integrated and fully automatic infrared radiation and irrigation, which cover the entire width of the pitch.

Since 2009 Allianz Arena has successfully been using the conventional HPS (a light source specifically developed for plant growth) units from SGL. Its ambitious sustainability goals was the reason the team wanted to look into possibilities for a more sustainable grow lighting system.

Jürgen Muth, managing director at Allianz Arena, says: “In order to get and keep a perfect pitch with a very good natural grass quality, the use of technical support has been essential to us for many years. SGL and its light technology has been a very important and helpful partner since 2009.

Now we climb a new step and look forward to the new LED lighting units from SGL. After extensive tests, we are confident we’ll get good results with these additional lights on our pitch.”

36 THE GROUNDSMAN December 2018

SGL founder Nico van Vuuren explains the challenge of creating top-quality growth using LED: “LED is a fast-developing technology and a lot of research is still being done in regards to its use for plant growth.

There are many choices to be made in order to get the same quality at the same lower cost as the HPS armatures.

“As well as looking at the energy efficiency, it’s crucial to look at plant physiology, the practical factors and the investment costs. LED has many advantages, such as flexibility in light spectrum and energy efficiency, but also some challenges – high investment costs, lack of infrared radiation and weight.”

THE PERFECT RECIPE

While many people are aware of LED’s sustainable factors, another unique feature is the ability to create a ‘light recipe’. This means you can choose the colours of the light spectrum that are used by the plant for specific purposes. The success of an LED armature greatly depends on the right choice of colours.

Nico explains: “Grass uses red and blue light for photosynthesis. We’ve extensively tested different red-to-blue ratios at our test centre in the Netherlands and at the Allianz Arena. Based on the test results,

we’ve created the most efficient light recipe for grass growth, recovery and plant resistance.”

COMPENSATING FOR THE COLD

One of the reasons that grass has not yet been grown successfully on a large scale with LED is the lack of additional heat.

In Europe, grow lights are generally used in winter during times when there is not enough natural light for optimal plant growth and temperatures are low. This means that, besides additional light, the plant also needs extra heat.

Nico says: “HPS armatures radiate PAR light and infrared light to the surface, while LED radiates almost no heat to the surface. Therefore we have added infrared technology to the LED unit. In order to minimise the extra energy input, our infrared armatures automatically turn on and off to reach and maintain the ideal temperatures for grass growth.

The SGL LED grow lighting system is affordable and easy to operate. It will be used along with the HPS systems, with the goal to switch to all-LED in the coming years.

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For more information visit www.sglsystem.com

The latest innovations were on display

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF GROUNDSCARE From robotics and hybrid mowers to digital apps, groundbreaking ideas and career-enhancing advice, this year’s SALTEX demonstrated an exciting future for the groundscare industry

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any of the 300 exhibitors at SALTEX 2018 embraced new technologies through the launch of the products and services they showcased. Chris Wood, England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) pitches consultant, was certainly impressed: “My job is to gather information on new innovations and SALTEX is a tremendous outlet for these. We are one big family in this industry and the show is the an opportunity to come together, network and look at all the new machinery – it’s like a toyshop at Christmas.”

The vibrant show floor offered a fantastic opportunity to witness how the latest technologies are having a positive impact on the industry – particularly in the new Innovation Hub, where visitors could attend interviews with industry experts and trendsetters. The Hub was also the ideal platform to showcase and celebrate the SALTEX 2018 Innovation Award, which

“SALTEX is the busiest and most vibrant show around” 38 THE GROUNDSMAN December 2018

attracted entries from exhibitors across the globe and included a variety of high-quality products, services and equipment. Judged by an independent panel, the Toro Outcross 9060 from Reesink Turfcare, PrecisionPro from Sherriff Amenity and the ROBOCUT from McConnel were the standout entries, and PrecisionPro was crowned the winner.

Bridgwater & Taunton College won the SALTEX College Cup and the winning students can now look forward to visiting the All England Lawn Tennis Club in the run up to the Wimbledon Championships.

Frank Newberry’s Job Clinic sessions were fully booked, which suggests many visitors are looking to progress within the industry.

John Ryan, founder of Lawn Care Legends, travelled all the way from Northern Ireland but said the show was worth the trip.

“There are a lot of industry people you can connect with who can help provide ideas on how to develop a business. It’s great to see people with such a passion for the industry sharing it with others.”

Free advice was available at every turn.

Visitors could have one-to-one sports turf management advice from IOG regional pitch advisors, and the Pathology and Soil Science LIVE feature provided an opportunity to

By Chris Bennett SALTEX press officer

assess soil samples. Learning LIVE, the all-encompassing education programme, featured more than 50 free-to-attend debates and presentations by industry experts tackling vital issues.

James Pope, grounds manager at St Paul’s School in London, said he visited the show to explore new concepts: “I’ve gained more ideas here than I have all year. SALTEX is held at the right time of year and it’s the busiest and most vibrant show around.”

Ted Mitchell, club facilities technical manager at the Rugby Football Union, was pleased to see how the world’s longeststanding groundscare exhibition has transformed over the years. “I’ve been attending SALTEX for many years and to see the event as it is today is incredible – it takes your breath away,” he said. “It offers a unique opportunity to meet a huge range of people in a short space of time. SALTEX brings the industry together all in one place.”

For more information visit www.iogsaltex.com Follow SALTEX on Twitter @IOG_SALTEX or Facebook www.facebook.com/ IOGSALTEX

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NEWS

S A LT E X 2 0 1 8 R E V I E W

ACCOLADE WIN

Sherriff Amenity wins Innovation Award ON THE FIRST day of SALTEX 2018, Sherriff Amenity’s new app, PrecisionPro, was announced as the winner of the second, annual SALTEX Innovation Award.

PrecisionPro, is a dedicated app for sports turf to measure any area, guide the operator in calibrating a spreader for granular products and also help apply fertilisers accurately.

According to Sherriff Amenity, PrecisionPro was created due to the common issue of turf managers misjudging green and sport surface size, which often results in problems such as over applying or under applying fertilisers – both of which can have a negative effect on turf performance, disease and budget.

PrecisionPro allows turf managers to have an accurate measured area by simply opening the app and walking the perimeter of the area. Calibrating spreaders has always been a difficult task but with the calibrate feature in the PrecisionPro app, users are guided through each step of the process.

Furthermore, its advanced GPS functionality informs the user when to start and stop the calibration process.

The app also features a function to ensure that every operator walks at the same speed – if someone is walking too fast or too slow they are alerted by colour-coded screens.

Commenting on the award, Karl Parry, Sherriff Amenity’s PrecisionPro developer, said: “We are really excited to win this award. PrecisionPro has been a long time in the making but it has all been worthwhile. SALTEX was the official launch of the app and after we won the award people kept coming onto the stand to find out more about it, so the word definitely got round at the show.”

S Amenity team

FLOOR HIGHLIGHT

SUBBUTEO SHOW THIS YEAR’S SALTEX show was a great success for Germinal’s amenity division, which talked to existing and potential customers about the importance of using goodquality grass seed and appropriate sward nutrition products when overseeding sports pitches.

To attract attention to its stand, the team introduced a new

Delegates were keen to pose with new ‘team members’

dimension by displaying three new ‘team members’ in the form of almost life-sized Subbuteo players.

These figures represented the three key elements of Germinal’s all-in-one A20 Seed & Feed sports pitch renovation package (seed, fertiliser and professional advice) and proved very popular, with a large number of visitors entering a competition to win a cash prize and Germinal goody bag simply by Tweeting a photo of themselves with the figures and using the hashtag #HeadForGerminal.

The competition was a great success – largely because the SALTEX show attracts such a targeted audience – and the team said it had made some valuable new customer leads and contacts.

CUP SPONSOR

A SALTEX SUCCESS SALTEX 2018 WAS another success for Ransomes, the Ipswich-based manufacturer of turf maintenance equipment.

The stand had good footfall on the opening day of the show, which continued well into the second day. Punters were drawn to the new Ransomes HM600 – a batwing flail mower built in collaboration with Müthing.

There was also the popular MP Series and the new-look Cushman 1600XDR-2, as well as a range of turf equipment from Turfco and Smithco on display.

Ransomes sponsored the SALTEX College Cup for a third time. The competition, introduced by the IOG, is a national studentled, sports-turf challenge that took place on the first day of SALTEX. It was an academic test of turf management knowledge for student competitors who are enrolled at UK colleges. The winner of the competition was Bridgwater & Taunton College based in Somerset, which ended CAFRE College’s two-year SALTEX College Cup reign. The winning team has been offered the prize of helping to prepare the Wimbledon courts before the Wimbledon Championships in July 2019.

Commenting on SALTEX 2019, Karen Proctor, director of global marketing, said: “We are proud to have sponsored the SALTEX College Cup again this year; congratulations to Bridgwater & Taunton College which were deserved winners.”

www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 39

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Product showcase

B E ST I N SHOW

A selection of products from SALTEX 2018

PUMA POWER

ALL-SEASON SHREDDING DESPITE WHAT A LOT of people might think, shredding very rarely only involves wood: in winter there are branches; but in autumn there’s a lot of leafy and wet green waste that needs to be cleared; and in spring you have to cope with a variety of materials, ranging from blossoms and hedge trimmings to all other kinds of damp and bulky green waste. Also in the summer, the pruning of hedges generates a large amount of woody and leafy waste.

At SALTEX 2018, TS Industrie previewed the Puma Remote Control Tracked Shredder, which offers more efficiency in

green-waste shredding.

The Puma 35D green waste shredder has been further improved in handling and easeof-use with the new Puma 35D R-TK. For use in difficult terrain, the machine is fitted with adjustable crawler tracks and a lateral stabiliser. www.ts-industrie.eu

The future of shredding

S A LT E X 2 0 1 8 R E V I E W

INCY WINCY

NEW SMALLER SPIDER MOWER LAUNCHED VISITORS TO THE TH WHITE Machinery Imports stand were among the first in the UK groundscare industry to see an advanced protype of Dvorak-Spider’s new and compact slope mower, the Spider Crossline.

With its innovative and compact design, it complements the current Spider ILD01 and Spider ILD02 remote-controlled mowers and features a terrain-following mowing deck, integrated stabilising winch and a skid-steer option, and is powered by a Honda GXV390, four-stroke petrol engine.

Like the bigger machines, it can mow slopes up to 40 degrees, and with the stabilising winch attached to a ground anchor it can mow at up to 55 degrees. No other dedicated slope mowers can match this degree of slope severity.

The mower will cost approximately £15,700 when it is launched in the UK next spring. www.thwhite.co.uk/machinery-imports

ECO-DRUM

Reuse and recycle

FOR MANY YEARS FLEET has been searching for an alternative to the single-use plastic drum currently used by line-marking companies worldwide.

Research shows that existing single-use plastic drums can contribute up to 6kg of CO2 per drum.

In keeping with Fleet’s commitment to the environment, it has created the first reusable and recyclable line-marking paint system. Fleet has a target of eliminating over a million tonnes of CO2 in the next five years.

The Cog Line Marking System brings a whole new approach to the line-marking world. It is not only environmentally friendly but also eliminates paint wastage. Rather than

“Rather than recycling, its bespoke COG drums can be used time after time”

recycling, it reuses its bespoke COG drums, which can be used time after time. At the end of their reusable life, they are then recycled.

Their unique shape and design means during shipping the COG drums are completely stable with no more than one strap to hold them with no further film or wrapping required, this will eliminate over 50 tonnes of plastic shrink wrapping per year.

Once fitted on the COG Orange machine, as many as 12 soccer pitches can be marked from the two COG drums. When the drums are empty, Fleet will arrange to deliver new drums and collect the old at no additional cost.

As well as being environmentally friendly, the COG Line Marking System is extremely clean and convenient. The COG drums are attached to the COG Orange with ease, putting an end to spillages. www.flmuk.com

Fleet’s reusable and recyclable drums

www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 41

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

S A LT E X 2 0 1 8 R E V I E W

The Harrier 48 and 56 Pro mowers

The Intelligent One line marker

LINE OF DUTY

MAKING ITS MARK

STRIPED SUCCESS

Rear-rolling to success

HAYTER HAS REVEALED two brand new Harrier models for landscape professionals: the Harrier 48 and 56 Pro mowers.

Available in Spring 2019, the new mowers have been designed to be robust, vigorous and flexible.

Featuring an all-new cast aluminium cutter deck, transmission system and blade design, the Harrier 48 Pro now has a Honda GCV160 engine, with the Harrier 56 Pro featuring the new Briggs & Stratton 850 EX I/C engine.

Both machines feature the Crank-Safe Blade Brake Clutch

(BBC) system, a first-of-its-kind in the industry.

Both models’ rollers are manufactured from steel for strength and durability and feature a two-piece rear roller design ensuring superb manoeuvrability and no turf marking. www.hayter.co.uk

“The new mowers have been designed to be robust, vigorous and flexible”

RED DEVILS

A PERFECT PAIR TORO HAS ANNOUNCED the launch of the new 36in and 48in Grandstand mowers (models 74540TE and 74542TE). Available now, the new stand-on models have several enhanced features and accessories, including rear discharge and a recycler kit.

The Toro Grandstand combines the speed and comfort of a zero-turn with the benefits of a professional walk-behind. The cushioned suspension, rear discharge deck and twin-levered steering controls also make mowing easier.

Both models feature a fold-up operator platform to allow the mower to convert to a walk-behind

The stand-on Toro Grandstand

through the simple lowering function. The 36in model also has an ultra-compact footprint, making the mower ideal for smaller residential properties or areas with gates and tight spaces.

Both models are available with an optional Recycler kit, which turns grass clippings into a fine nutrient rich mulch to nourish lawns. www.toro.com

INTELLIGENT MARKING announced a package of financial options for its most advanced robotic line marker and its PROSTRIPE line of field paint at SALTEX 2018.

The Intelligent One (IO) has led the field in accuracy, reliability and ease of use since being released in 2016 and was awarded the SALTEX Innovation Award in 2017. Since then it has seen further advancements to its GPS system and software.

The robot’s accuracy comes from the base station, which allows the machine to be operated without an annual subscription and without cellular or real-time kinematic (RTK) connectivity and coverage.

The PROSTRIPE field paint has been formulated to match the requirements of every type of customer, including Premier League venues. It comes as a ready-to-spray (RTS) paint in three variations: permanent grass paint, semi-permanent for artificial grass and easily removeable chalk-based paint.

Each variant comes in white, blue, yellow and red as standard, with bespoke colours on request.

The IO retails for £25,000 including a free base station worth £3,000. www.intelligentmarking.com

www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 43

PRODUCT SHOWCASE F O C U S O N : S A LT E X 2 0 1 8 R E V I E W

LATEST PRODUCTS Newest turf buys on the market page 10

HANDS OFF

WALK THE LINE RIGBY TAYLOR’S TINYLINEMARKER (TLM) has been developed for hands-free initial and overmarking, and it is fast, simple to operate and light and easy to transport. Combining the latest GPS technology with Rigby Taylor’s award-winning Impact ready-to-use paint, TLM takes the input of pitch line dimensions and multiple pitches via an app and re-positions them to best fit the site. Once stored, the lines are never lost.

Initial marking of a standard size football pitch takes less than 20 minutes – including all perimeter lines, penalty boxes, the ‘D’, centre circle, corner angles and penalty spot – and it happens with just one touch on the tablet control, without the operator having physical contact with the machine. Even pitches with fixed-post sockets can be marked.

44 THE GROUNDSMAN December 2018

TLM operators have virtually no contact with the ready-to-use Impact paint, as a flow tube is inserted into the paint container and the machine is ready to produce bright white lines. TLM is able to mark football pitches (any length or width), and rugby union and league pitches, as well as multi-lane athletic tracks, tennis, lacrosse and American football pitches.

Also launched at SALTEX 2018 was Rigby Taylor’s Armaline GPS ride-on line marking system, its RootWave Pro system and Carbon4Grass (C4G) seed mixtures. www.rigbytaylor.com

“Initial marking of a standard size football pitch takes less than 20 minutes”

L hands-free marking

PRODUCT SHOWCASE F O C U S O N : S A LT E X 2 0 1 8 R E V I E W

MODERN MOWER

C34 Evolution: it’s electric ALLETT IS POWERING into the new age of electric mowers with the C34 Evolution – a large-area, walk-behind cylinder mower launched at SALTEX 2018. The latest Lithium Ion system battery technology drives the future of mowing systems for sports stadiums, training grounds and prestige lawns, without compromise.

The battery system will power the 86cm mower, without a reducing performance, for over 6,000sq m (1.5 acres) per charge, and changing batteries takes less than 30 seconds. While the battery drive and chassis design are brand new, the C34 Evolution is fully compatible with Allett’s turf-maintenance system.

There’s plenty of power to drive interchangeable cartridges to scarify,

rake, aerate, brush and verticut, and it takes less than an hour to recharge batteries.

Electric power brings a whole range of benefits. Primarily there’s no noise, no emissions at the point of use, less maintenance and easier controls.

Couple this with no-fuel management and storage requirements, no-pull start and a lower lifetime cost of ownership and it’s easy to see why the Allett C34 Evolution has its place in groundcare, turf management and sports stadiums; particularly when they are enclosed. Hand-arm vibration (HAV) is also much reduced, and there is variable speed control and touch button control to give half-speed reduction for turning and manoeuvring. Built-in back-lapping

“There’s no noise, no emissions at the point of use, less maintenance and easier controls”

The Allett C34 Evolution electric mower

gives the ability to keep blades sharp for cleaner cutting and quiet operation.

What’s more, running costs are low, with Lithium Ion technology and the latest brushless motors and controllers, you get extended discharge times. The cost of a complete charge is only 40p and maintenance is kept at a minimum. www.allett.co.uk

www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 45

RECRUITMENT

IOG

TO ADVERTISE IN THE GROUNDSMAN CONTACT JASPER KEELING: 46 THE GROUNDSMAN December 2018

E jasper.keeling@jamespembrokemedia.co.uk

0203 859 7097

IOG

TO ADVERTISE IN THE GROUNDSMAN CONTACT JASPER KEELING:

RECRUITMENT

E jasper.keeling@jamespembrokemedia.co.uk

0203 859 7097

www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 47

CLASSIFIEDS

IOG

section of The Groundsman please contact: Jasper Keeling T: 0203 859 7097 E: jasper.keeling@ jamespembrokemedia.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE IN THE GROUNDSMAN CONTACT JASPER KEELING: 48 THE GROUNDSMAN December 2018

E jasper.keeling@jamespembrokemedia.co.uk

0203 859 7097

Tools & guidance MAINTENANCE CALENDAR AND WEATHER UPDATE

JANUARY OPERATIONS CRICKET SQUARE

Continue to check for disease activity and, if identified, spray with a proprietary fungicide.

Continue to brush as regularly as possible to allow sward to remain upright and to remove excess moisture/dew, and if any earthworm activity is noticed try not to smear the casts. If possible aerate using solid tines to a depth of 125mm.

If climatic and ground conditions allow, mow sward, by ‘topping off’.

CRICKET OUTFIELD

Continue to check for damage regularly, especially if the outfield is also used for winter sports. If climatic and ground conditions allow, mow sward by ‘topping off’. If possible, aerate outfield to 125mm.

BOWLING GREENS

During this period of snow and cold weather, very little will be undertaken on the green. Watch out for any Fusarium/snow mould that might develop.

GOLF COURSES

If the weather is very cold or it snows, temporary (or winter) greens should be the order of the day to help protect the condition of the main greens.

Watch out for any Fusarium/ snow mould developing beneath any snow cover.

Now is an ideal time to carry KEEP IN TOUCH

www.iog.org

out machinery maintenance or scrub land clearance. This year’s maintenance budget and work programme should also be completed, if they haven’t already been done, as this will also help to identify optimum times for the taking of annual leave and will help to avoid holidays clashing with peak workloads.

Now is also a good time to attend training courses and to read up on current trade literature to see what is available or what new products might be launched for spring.

No doubt games will still be played, unless the pitch is frozen and unsafe.

Where undersoil heating is provided, games will still be played and the rootzone will no doubt provide a relatively soft surface. This will make divoting a priority after each game. The need for additional turfing in goalmouths and possibly the centre circle areas may also be required this month.

Be careful not to dry the soil too much if using underground heating as the grass plant will dry out and may die.

RUGBY LEAGUE

Continue to avoid the use of relatively heavy machinery over the winter months when ground conditions are generally unsuitable.

Aeration can be carried out during dry periods, assuming the soil moisture content is not high.

A light topping of the sward might be required by the end of the winter period.

Continue to divot and repair after each meeting.

Look ahead to planning/ ordering materials ready for the April renovation work.

HORSE RACECOURSES

TENNIS

Little work will typically be required except for the essential removal of dew and earthworm casts, and watching for signs of disease attack.

Aeration can be considered, if ground conditions permit and if the machinery is not being serviced.

BOOST YOUR SKILLSET

Most work this month will concentrate on pitch presentation, for example: – ensure line markings have good www.facebook.com/theIOG

year could send the surface backwards until the growing season. Handforking would be useful to aid drainage.

The frosts and inclement weather might have arrived, so remedial jobs such as machinery maintenance or store maintenance may be required.

Switching and dragbrushing to be completed when conditions allow. Dragbrushing can be used to create striping effect.

Aeration would be useful, if pitch conditions allow, to aid drainage.

Make sure the pitch is still secure so no damage from footmarks occurs.

Complete remedial jobs around the stores or to machinery.

On the amateur side, constant divoting is of the highest importance to repair the surface. Dragbrushing or chainharrowing could be used to aid playability and presentation.

Communication is vital as one bad game at this time of

FOOTBALL

RUGBY UNION

consistency - drag brush the pitch to produce a striping effect - divot as required - fork and sand worn / bare areas.

As the year draws to a close, this is the perfect time to think about improving your groundsmanship skills.

The IOG offers a range of courses to suit different sports and surfaces; visit www.iog.org for more information.

Institute of Groundsmanship

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www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 49

TOOLS & GUIDANCE W E AT H E R

DECEMBER TOP TIPS • Watch out for risk of Microdochium (Fusarium) Patch infection

WET AND WARM WINTER WATCH OUT

W

eather records bear testament to warming winter conditions, with every December since 2011 being at or above the long-term average.

It has also been wetter than average in seven of the eight years.

Wet and warm weather conditions typically result in extremely challenging conditions for Microdochium (Fusarium) Patch. The key saving factor, so far, has

been that turf growth has enabled some recovery from summer drought effects and where disease outbreaks have hit. As cold spells increase in frequency, that growth will decrease - but the legacy of the disease pathogen in turf remains.

Historically, in December, you could have expected an average 10 nights with frost in southern England, and 14 nights in Scotland. However, that is far from the norm in recent years (Table 1).

DECEMBER WEATHER, COMPARED TO RECENT SEASONS Av temp (°C)

Sun (hours)

Diff to average

Rain (mm)

Diff to average

Nights with air frost

Diff to average

Diff to average

2017

4.1

+0.2

45

+15%

122

+1%

12

+1

2016

5.9

+2.0

41

+3%

78

-33%

6

-5 -9

2015

7.9

+4.0

29

-28%

219

+82%

2

2014

4.4

+0.5

57

+40%

133

+10%

10

-1

2013

5.7

+1.8

42

+3%

188

+56%

4

-7

2012

3.9

0

46

+13%

179

+49%

11

0

2011

4.8

+1.0

39

-5%

168

+40%

7

-4

Longterm av

3.9

41

121

11

UK weather records since 2011 highlight the consistently warmer and wetter conditions that have been experienced in December, compared to a 30-year long-term average – creating real challenges for turf management.

• Use ITM practices to reduce disease pressure • Remove dew and encourage air flow to keep surfaces dry • Apply fungicides ahead of key risk periods

DEC 2017 – HIGHS AND LOWS

Temperatures were again above longterm average – typically +0.3°C Scotland was colder and closer to the norm, with nights below seasonal average While daytime temperatures were high, there were more frosts than normal Average rainfall was 33 per cent above the average in southern England – but up to 30 per cent down in the east and north.

Higher rainfall and warmer temperatures can be particularly conducive to disease.

You have to go back to 2010 for a truly cold December, when the average temperature for the whole month was below freezing.

The prospect of persistently wet surfaces, which don’t dry naturally in short, cool December days, significantly increases the risk of Microdochium Patch; the pathogen thrives in wet surface conditions.

Early reports indicate that, after the high incidence of outbreaks in November, there’s likely to be a high level of Microdochium inoculum present. Medallion TL can reduce the pathogen loading in the thatch, and deliver long-term contact protection for the turf leaf.

Where it is possible to foresee periods of disease risk using GreenCast, there is potential to get the best protection from proactive applications of Medallion TL, or Instrata Elite in milder conditions.