THE
GROUNDSMAN WWW.IOG.ORG
JULY 2017 £4.00
ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE IN GROUNDS MANAGEMENT CAREER CLINIC
Tips and tricks on how to succeed at job interviews page 32
SPORTS TURF’S HIGHFLYER IOG award-winner Katie Croft on inspiration and dedication at Manchester City FC
INSIDE
MARTIN FORD’S LASTING LEGACY AS FINE TURF MANAGER CAFRE COLLEGE STUDENTS GO TO WEMBLEY FOR FA CUP FINAL THE AMENITY FORUM’S KEEPING BRITAIN MOVING CAMPAIGN PRODUCT SHOWCASE: FERTILISERS AND COMPACT TRACTORS
Contents
July 2017
REGULARS
RISING STAR
05 Welcome
When industry connected
The sports turf high-flyer blazing a trail for aspiring female grounds staff page 24
06 Update
The latest industry news
15 SALTEX
CAFRE students go to Wembley
19 GaNTIP
A week in the life of a regional pitch advisor
30 Technical update
Amenity Forum ‘keeps Britain moving’
34 Member benefits
Join Prospect and be prepared for the unexpected
15
37 Product showcase
Fertilisers and compact tractors
45 Tools & guidance
Maintenance and weather
FEATURES
20 Profile
Looking back at the career of fine turf manager Martin Ford
22 Award sponsor
Smaller budgets go further with Toro
24 COVER: Katie Croft
The most promising sports turf student of 2016
26 Best practice
20
How Lee Evans prepared for the Champions League final
ON THE COVER
28 Grassroots
Katie Croft at Manchester FC
Lashings of success at Eversholt CC
32 Careers advice
Doing well at job interviews
50 Grow with the IOG
Colin Ball on his IOG Level 3 Technical Diploma
30
37
THE GROUNDSMAN
Editorial address: 28 Stratford Office Village Walker Avenue Wolverton Mill East Milton Keynes, MK12 5TW t: 01908 312511 Managing editor Karen Maxwell e: kmaxwell@iog.org t: 01908 552987 Features editor Colin Hoskins e: editor@iog.org t: 01634 832 221 Product editor Esther Newman e: esthernewman@jppublishing.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 Parminder Sangha e: parmindersangha@jppublishing.co.uk t: 0203 859 7097 Published by James Pembroke Publishing 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
Karen Maxwell Managing editor
When industry connected
I was privileged to be a part of a great occasion when I joined the winners of the SALTEX College Cup at this year’s Emirates FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium. At the start of the day the CAFRE students – the winners of the inaugural College Cup competition launched at last year’s SALTEX – were immediately ‘integrated’ by head groundsman Karl Standley into the grounds team, which was commencing three days of pitch preparation and maintenance for back-to-back games at the venue. The final, said Karl, had a global audience of 88 million, so no pressure then! What came through was the Wembley team’s attention to detail, its ethic and its calmness at getting the job done while all around them was the circus that nowadays accompanies such a massive event. Even the requests for pitch-side interviews were dealt with efficiently and with great aplomb. A first for Wembley was an all-access interview with a social media blogger who interviewed Karl and what was interesting was that the interviewer was not only impressed with the playing surface but also genuinely interested in what it took to create such a good pitch. It goes without saying that Karl impressed with his answers. Despite the fact that within a few hours, the spotlight would be on the work of the grounds team, Karl and his team seemed unfazed. My overall impression was that the stadium pitch is in very good hands! As the countdown to the match began, a team briefing was given, with all timings down to the second. Of course, there were also 125 dancers, a military band, the Black Eyed Peas, Prince William and various dignitaries and, of course, 90,000 spectators and two football teams to contend with but, actually, pitch-side it was an oasis of calm and professionalism. The CAFRE team eventually left the stadium at 9pm having arrived some 12 hours earlier, while Karl and his team expected to finish the preparations for the next day’s match, a Football League play-off final, at 11pm. He said they would be repeating the same at 8am the next morning and the morning after that. It was undoubtedly a fantastic experience for the CAFRE students who were able to witness at first-hand the professionalism of Karl and his team. Read their reactions to the day in the article on page 15 and visit www.iogsaltex.com for details of this year’s College Cup.
“What came through was the team’s attention to detail, its ethic and its calmness at getting the job done”
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Colin Hoskins Features editor
Holly Jones Marketing manager, Reesink Turfcare
Danny Lake Regional grounds manager, Reesink Turfcare
John Moverley Chair, Amenity Forum
Geoff Webb Chief Executive The Institute of Groundsmanship
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Frank Newberry Conference speaker and careers counsellor
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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
PRICE DISCOUNT
WHAT’S ALL THE NOISE ABOUT?
Exciting times lay ahead for the Kia Oval
GROUND WORK
Expansion plans for Oval cricket ground
The Kia Oval is set for a huge redevelopment to increase its capacity to 40,000 LONDON’S KIA OVAL is set to become the largest cricket ground in the UK thanks to an ambitious redevelopment plan. Surrey County Cricket Club is submitting plans to increase the ground’s capacity to 40,000 – which would make it larger than the 30,000seat Lord’s Cricket Ground. Work could begin at the end of 2019 and be ready in time for the 2023 Ashes Series against Australia. Meanwhile members of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) – the owner
“Work could begin at the end of 2019 and be ready in time for the 2023 Ashes Series against Australia”
6 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
of Lord’s – will be asked if they are happy for a “large-scale” residential development to be built within the venue, which will fund the redevelopment projects. The question will be posed as part of a review to see if there is an appetite for the ground’s Nursery End to be revamped. Two development options have been put before members: the building of the residential development in return for a “cash injection” to fund the project; or the project being totally funded via existing club resources. Gerald Corbett, MCC chair, said the organisation “would like Lord’s to continue to position itself to be the best ground in the world to play and watch cricket”.
THE IOG’S commitment to supporting the health, safety and wellbeing of members has been enhanced with an agreement with Earlsmere – the UK’s leading provider of noise and vibration testing services – to offer discounted prices to IOG members who can gain: • A 15% discount on equipment vibration and noise testing • Vibration training packages at reduced costs • Free machinery maintenance and usage software plus free data uploads to the system. The scheme is currently being piloted with IOG members. Full details will be provided in next month’s issue, or visit www.iog.org
NEW ROLES
THE IOG’S TEAM OF REGIONAL PITCH ADVISORS IS GROWING
THE IOG IS looking to recruit a number of regional pitch advisors to complement its current team that support the delivery of the Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme. The role will include liaising with the Football Foundation, Football Association and the England and Wales Cricket Board, who are co-investors of the programme, as well as other stakeholders, to help raise standards of sports surfaces and the understanding of sports turf management practices. Go to page 18 to find out more.
U P D AT E
NEWS
GENERAL ELECTION
SPORT-FOCUSED MINISTERS REMAIN IN POST KAREN BRADLEY and Tracey Crouch, the government ministers with ultimate responsibility to the UK sport sector, have retained their roles despite a post-General Election cabinet reshuffle. Bradley was confirmed as secretary of state for culture, media and sport shortly after the election, while Crouch was told she will continue in her junior minister role. Staffordshire Moorlands MP Bradley increased her vote share by seven per cent from her victory at the 2015 General Election. Crouch – who unveiled the first major piece of sports policy in over a decade, Sporting Future, in December 2015 – also increased her vote share to retain her Chatham and Aylesford seat.
PITCH PARTNERS
GreenFields signs NPL deal SPORTS TURF SPECIALIST GreenFields is the new official partner of the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League (NPL). GreenFields will provide NPL clubs with surface solutions to meet the growing demand for 3G and hybrid turf pitches. Evo-Stik NPL will also be launching a Pitch of the Year Award selected and presented by GreenFields at its annual awards event next June. Mark Harris, chairman of the Evo-
Stik NPL, said: “We’ve been looking for a pitch partner for some time. GreenFields’ philosophy matches our own so this agreement makes total sense.” www.greenfieldsturf.co.uk
MEETING DATE
IOG AGM NOTICE IS HEREBY given that the AGM of the IOG will be held at Hilton at St Georges Park, Needwood, Burton Upon Trent, DE13 9PD on Wednesday 20 September 2017 from 12pm to 1.30pm; there will be a buffet lunch. Further information will be posted on the IOG website and included in the August edition of The Groundsman. To find out more, email iog@iog.org or call 01908 312511.
“We’ve been looking for a partner, and GreenFields’ philosophy matches our own so this agreement makes total sense”
GRADUATE SCHEME
JOHN DEERE NAMES APPRENTICES OF THE YEAR A TOTAL OF 33 young service technicians have graduated from the latest John Deere advanced apprenticeship programmes. Three of the company’s apprentices won awards for the 2016 graduation year: Jack Robbens, of Ben Burgess, Norwich was named Ag Tech Apprentice of the Year; Lewis Parker of Mona Tractors, Llangefni was awarded Turf Tech Apprentice of the Year; and Grant Roberts of Cornwall Farm Machinery, Penzance won Parts Tech Apprentice of the Year. The presentations were made by Dr Lutz Schueppenhauer and Richard KEEP IN TOUCH
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Halsall at the John Deere Forum visitor centre in Mannheim, Germany. They took place during the apprentices’ annual graduation visit to the company’s tractor and cab factories and European Parts Distribution Centre (EPDC). Since the first programme started back in 1992, nearly 700 apprentices have successfully graduated through the three main John Deere schemes (Ag Tech, Parts Tech and Turf Tech), all of whom are now working throughout the company’s nationwide dealer network. www.johndeere.co.uk
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John Deere’s 2016 Ag Tech, Parts Tech and Turf Tech graduates at the John Deere Forum in Mannheim, Germany
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U P D AT E
NEWS
NEW STADIUM
Liverpool, Everton and Manchester unite
LIVERPOOL, EVERTON and the city of Manchester have joined forces in an effort to bring the 2022 Commonwealth Games to Merseyside – with the Goodison club’s proposed £300 million new stadium the centrepiece of the bid. The Bramley Moore dock arena would include an athletics track should the city’s bid be successful, although city leaders insist that will be a temporary measure for the duration of the Games. Anfield would host the rugby sevens, while Goodison Park would be the venue
Everton wants to build a new stadium to replace Goodison Park
for the boxing events. Manchester, the host of the 2002 games, will provide the venue for cycling and cricket. Everton has expressed cautious optimism on its stadium bid since its intentions to leave Goodison were confirmed last March. The club’s chief executive, Robert Elstone, said the architects currently working on the stadium designs will ensure the arena is suitable for both football and athletics.
“We are fully focused on the delivery of an iconic stadium which will complement and enhance the city’s world-famous waterfront and deliver much-needed regeneration benefits to north Liverpool,” he said. The Games will cost around £672 million, but Liverpool City Council anticipates the regeneration of the dockside will accelerate £1 billion of investment and create more than 12,000 jobs.
PEOPLE
STADIUM FOR CORNWALL
The members of the Garden Fields CC
FUNDRAISING
MAISIE APPEAL THE GARDEN FIELDS Cricket Club, a club made up of fathers whose children attend Garden Fields school in St Albans, is raising money for Great Ormond Street Hospital. The club members will be completing a 60+ mile walk from Weymouth to Exmouth at the end of June in memory of Garden Fields pupil Maisie Ryan. If you would like to donate, visit www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Garden-FieldsCricket-Club
8 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
MARK EVANS, Harlequins’ CEO when it rebuilt its Twickenham Stoop stadium, has been appointed as the project leader for the Stadium for Cornwall project. Construction on the stadium is expected to begin next spring, and will cost around £10 million. Championship rugby club the Cornish Pirates will share the 6,000-capacity ground with nonleague football club Truro City FC.
It is likely to be built in time for the 2019/20 season. Evans, who was also director of rugby at Saracens, said his focus was on “providing extra resource and experience” to the project. He will be tasked with raising extra capital and creating “innovative” funding models, although it will largely be joint-funded by Truro, the Cornish Pirates and Truro and Penwith College.
HYBRID PITCHES
World Cup win for SIS Pitches SIX OF THE 12 stadia to host games at next summer’s FIFA World Cup in Russia will have a hybrid pitch in place. SISGrass will be installed at both the Mordovia Arena and Samara Arena later this year; marking the fifth and sixth high profile stadia in Russia to receive a SISGrass makeover. SIS Pitches is managing both projects, and has already finalised designs. The stadium will also host FC Mordovia
Saransk of the Russian Premier League, replacing the Start Stadium. www.sispitches.com
Work underway at the Mordovia Arena
The Infinicut line of precision mowers was designed to be user-adjustable to match the conditions of any given day. From the dynamic return floating head mechanism to the variable clip speed, height of cut adjustment, moveable bedknife and swappable dual power source, the Infinicut provides more functionality than any other pitch mower. Combine that with today’s highly technical approach to pitch construction and unpredictable microclimates, the Infinicut ensures a healthy turf while providing an unrivaled quality of cut.
www.cubcadetturf.com @Infinicut
U P D AT E
NEWS
WORLD CUP
WOMEN’S CRICKET
UEFA CHAMPIONSHIP
WOMEN’S FOOTBALL THE UEFA WOMEN'S Championship, featuring 16 national teams of Europe, starts this month. Seven venues throughout Holland will host games, with the final being played on August 6 at the De Grolsch Veste stadium in Enschede (the home of FC Twente).
GET MORE FROM THE IOG
Are you making the most of your IOG membership? We have membership packages to suit all sectors of the industry, and there are fantastic benefits, from bespoke training to discounted rates for events. Find out more at: www.iog.org/ membership/packages
10 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
The children at Kingdown Golf Club
OPEN DAY
SOWING SEEDS FOR FUTURE CHILDREN FROM a Wiltshire primary school were invited to Kingdown Golf Club to hear about the role the sport plays in looking after the environment. As well as getting to grips with the game, the children learnt about ecology, pollinating species and the benefits wildflowers can bring to the golf course.
Deputy course manager Tom Freeman said: “The children asked lots of questions about greenkeeping, golf and the planting of wildflowers. “Hopefully events such as this will inspire the next generation of sports turf managers, golfers and ecologists.” www.dlf.co.uk
TOP HONOUR
Bernard Tickner awarded MBE
BERNARD TICKNER has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours. The award has been given in recognition for services to wildlife conservation and horticulture, relating to his voluntary conservation work in Suffolk and for his work at Fullers Mill Garden in West Stow. Bernard Tickner moved to Fullers Mill in 1958 and began making the garden in what was an area of rough scrub and woodland, set on the River Lark. Today the gardens cover seven acres, laid out as a series of interconnecting areas. In January 2013 he entrusted
Bernard Tickner MBE
it to Perennial, the UK’s only charity dedicated to helping all horticulturists, in order to secure its future so that visitors can enjoy the garden for years to come. www.fullersmillgarden.org.uk
THE TURF DISEASE CENTRE
TECHNICAL UPDATE GREMLINS INTERFERED with production of last month’s Technical Update by Dr Kate Entwistle, ‘Turf stress and disease management’, pages 28 & 29. Her contact web address should have read: www.theturfdiseasecentre.co.uk
Photo: Jonathan Ward, Ginger Horticulture
THE WOMEN’S CRICKET World Cup one-day international is now underway at various venues – the home grounds of Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Somerset and Gloucester – with the final being held at Lord’s on July 23. Ten of the matches will utilise the Umpire Decision Review System, introduced in Test Cricket, for reviewing controversial decisions made by the on-field umpires.
U P D AT E
NEWS
PRODUCT UPDATE
SHOWCASE Find more products in our Showcase section Page 37
The latest developments: path lights, line paint, surface rake and irrigation
1ARTIFICIAL SURFACE RAKE SCH SUPPLIES
THIS SIMPLE machine is designed for routine maintenance on artificial playing surfaces with a sand base. The two rows of staggered spring tines tease through the
The ARS2
playing surface to remove the surface compaction and aid drainage. A weight tray adds top weight to aid penetration on heavily compacted surfaces and the trailing brush will level and groom the play area. Each working row of tines may be lifted out individually to suit your grooming requirements. The unit may be towed behind 13hp tractors and above, and the groomer can be lifted out for safe transportation to the storage area. www.schsupplies.co.uk
3SOLID PINE AND BRASS BOLLARD LIGHTS LUMENA LIGHTS
OUTDOOR LIGHTING specialist Lumena has teamed up with M&M Timber on a range of timber path lights made from pine and brass. The lights are crafted from heavy duty radiata pine, which won’t crack or shake more than 5mm. The wood, which is also used in children’s playgrounds and on nature reserves, has been chemically treated and kiln dried to give it a guaranteed life of up to 15 years. The solid brass lights come in 12v and 240v options and all are LED compatible. Available in two heights, the lights are designed for 300mm-400mm secure in-ground mounting. www.lumenalights.com
12 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
2IRRIGATION CONTROLLER RAIN BIRD
YOU CAN ALREADY control commercial irrigation systems remotely with Rain Bird’s IQ-Cloud platform, but it can now also be used to program the battery-operated TBOS-II irrigation controller. The TBOS-II provides automatic irrigation where AC mains power is not available. It’s waterproof and submersible and can withstand harsh and humid environments. IQ-Cloud enables you to manage the TBOSII installation from your desktop computer, tablet or smartphone, enabling you to adjust irrigation based on weather updates, check how irrigation systems are performing or generate management reports. Powered by a 9v alkaline battery, the TBOS-II needs only two short pulses of electricity to function, so batteries can last up to a year. www.rainbird.eu
4LINE PAINT AGRIGEM
PEARL IS A FAST-ACTING contact desiccant for line marking. With 22km of line coverage with a single 500ml bottle, Pearl is a cost-effective way of guaranteeing that lines will be visible for weeks to come. Just a quick reapplication is all that’s required. Pearl also controls Mares Tail, and is ideal for hard surfaces. One application shows visible results within 48 hours. It has a far lower risk to surrounding vegetation than with glyphosate and most stands of Mares Tail can be dramatically reduced with three or four applications. www.agrigem.co.uk
U P D AT E
CAFRE STUDENTS’ CUPS OVERFLOW
Sports turf students from SALTEX College Cup winner CAFRE College joined the Wembley grounds team for a once-in-a-lifetime groundscare experience at the FA Cup Final
T By Chris Bennett SALTEX press officer
Karen Maxwell Managing editor
he opportunity to stand on arguably the world’s most famous stadium pitch on the day of The Emirates FA Cup Final is a dream for many. But for four sports turf students from Northern Ireland, that dream became reality when Gavin White, Jon Crawford, Michael Dundee and John Kennedy from CAFRE College in Antrim, Northern Ireland joined the Wembley grounds team last month. This once-ina-lifetime opportunity was part of their reward for leading CAFRE to glory in the 2016 SALTEX College Cup, the Institute of Groundsmanship’s (IOG) national, student-led sports turf challenge. Sponsored by Ransomes, the competition made its debut at last year’s SALTEX, where the CAFRE students competed against teams from four other UK-based horticultural colleges in their knowledge of horticulture and grounds management know-how. “When we heard we’d beaten all the other teams and got our hands on the trophy, it felt like we’d just won the FA Cup,” said first year sports turf student Michael Dundee. The team met with Wembley Stadium head groundsman Karl Standley on the morning of the big game between Chelsea FC and Arsenal FC, and were briefed on the day’s pre-match proceedings.
S A LT E X
Enjoying Wembley, from left: Karen Maxwell (IOG), CAFRE students Michael Dundee and Jon Crawford, Wembley’s Karl Standley, students John Kennedy and Gavin White, and the IOG’s Geo� Webb
“Karl Standley and the rest of his team were very welcoming from the start,” said Level 3 sports turf student John Kennedy. “To assist in the preparation of the ground on the morning of match day was a great opportunity; the meticulous preparation and attention to detail was staggering, from brushing the red carpet to scissor-trimming the edges of the goal uprights and ensuring the goals were secure and spirit-level straight.”
CUP FINAL FEVER
As the CAFRE students spent the morning learning and working with one of the most finely tuned grounds team in the industry, it wasn’t long before Cup Final fever starting creeping into the stadium – an excitement which was certainly contagious for Level 3 greenkeeping student, Jon Crawford. “Being a massive Chelsea fan, it was an additional bonus to be part of the event,” Jon said. “We got to walk all around the stadium, we sat in the dug outs and even had our picture taken with the FA Cup – it was an experience that I will remember forever.” Even though Jon’s team didn’t get the result he was hoping for, once the pre-match preparation had finished, he and the CAFRE team had arguably some of the best seats in the stadium as they sat www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 15
KARL’S ROAD TO WEMBLEY Wembley head groundsman Karl Standley embarked on a two-year course at Sparsholt College before he started his professional career at Southampton FC. Four years later, at the age of 20, he moved to Wembley Stadium as a junior groundsman and has risen up the ranks over the past 12 years.
MATCH-DAY VOLUNTEERS
Karl Standley (left) oversees CAFRE student Jon Crawford’s mowing technique
“The attention to detail was staggering, from brushing the red carpet to scissortrimming the edges of the goal uprights” pitch-side, behind the goal alongside other members of the Wembley grounds team. At the end of the game, CAFRE student and Arsenal fan Gavin White – a Horticulture Foundation Degree student, enjoyed watching his team win the game and lift the trophy. But there was no time for celebration, because the students were immediately back to work repairing the pitch for the League Two play-off final, which was taking place the next day. “Today has just been an out-of-this-world experience,” said Gavin. “The IOG has been fantastic, the college has been fantastic, the staff here at Wembley have been amazing and I would like to say thank you for this wonderful opportunity.”
FANTASTIC INITIATIVE
Karen Proctor, international marketing and communications manager for SALTEX College Cup sponsor Ransomes, said she was extremely proud to support the IOG’s learning initiative. “The competition is a fantastic initiative created by the IOG to challenge and reward passionate and dedicated men and women within the groundscare industry,” she said. IOG chief executive Geoff Webb said the initiative is all about raising industry
standards. “The SALTEX College Cup is something that we feel very strongly about in terms of raising standards across the industry and creating interest, developing individual skill and hopefully giving people the confidence to go for the big jobs, such as Wembley itself.” Meanwhile, Dan Prest, the IOG’s head of member services, confirmed that the SALTEX College Cup will be even bigger at the 2017 SALTEX event. “We’ve gone from five participating teams in 2016 to a potential nine or ten teams this year. At some time in the near future, many sports turf students are going to be applying for the same jobs, so this kind of experience will really help them on their career path. This year we have lined up a prize that we think will be equal in stature and reputation to the FA Cup Final experience, so watch this space!”
i
All colleges interested in participating in the 2017 SALTEX College Cup should email Dan Prest at dprest@iog.org for more details. SALTEX 2017 will be held at the NEC, Birmingham on 1 and 2 November 2017. For more information visit www.iogsaltex.com Follow SALTEX on Twitter @IOG_SALTEX and Facebook www.facebook.com/IOGSALTEX
Karl says he looks for people who have a good work ethic; people who want to learn and develop their skills. “Team work is key for me,” he explains. “I like a team to be happy as they work, as this aids production and a good delivery. I’m always on the lookout for match-day event staff, so if you are interested and think you fit the bill, contact the IOG.”
MULTI-USE CHALLENGES The Wembley grounds team – David Moulds, Brendan Abbott and Nick Durkin – had just 10 days between having the pitch completely covered to host the Heavyweight [boxing] Championship of the World, with 10,000 people, a boxing ring and canopy on the surface, to accommodating the SSE Women’s FA Cup Final and the Vanarama National League play-off final. This kicked off the start of the stadium’s busy May period with 14 high-profile pitch uses in 23 days. “The team met the challenge by going back to basics – team work, knowledge and planning a schedule to ensure we recover the pitch to the best possible standard,” Karl said.
www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 17
Regional pitch advisor Ian Powell undertakes Performance Quality Standards tests at a sports ground
A WEEK IN THE LIFE OF… Ian Powell explains how variety is the spice of life for a regional pitch advisor
T By Ian Powell GaNTIP regional pitch advisor, North East & Yorkshire
here is no such thing as a typical week for me (and nor, no doubt, for the other regional pitch advisors). As much as I try to plan my diary, everything can change due to an email or a phone call. However, variety is the spice of life, so they say, and as a regional pitch advisor for the Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme (GaNTIP), I certainly have plenty of that. Occasionally, a whole week can be spent in my home office compiling and collating reports from site visits to clubs where I’ve inspected the playing surfaces and discussed maintenance regimes. Plus, where cricket is concerned, spending time providing the County Grounds Associations and County Pitch Advisors with ongoing support and direction. Another task is to update the reporting spreadsheets for the programme’s stakeholders – the Football Association, Football Foundation and the England and Wales Cricket Board – as well as tracking pilot projects in my region.
PROGRESS REPORTS
With the programme now having completed its three-year cycle, a number of GaNTIP projects are coming to fruition, either via the allocation of funding for machinery – which means ensuring that clubs have been quoted for the best equipment for their needs – or from the implementation
“A site visit linked to one of my six County FAs can entail three new club visits in a day” of improved maintenance routines, which I need to confirm are being carried out as per the recommendations provided in my initial reports. All of this will result in additional information that has to be passed back to the clubs, funding organisations and the relevant National Governing Body; and/or an additional visit by myself to the club.
SITE VISITS
Mondays to Thursdays are usually allocated as site visit or report days, depending on the month and the workload. Typically, a site visit linked to one of my six County FAs will entail three new club visits in a day or, occasionally, a second site visit as previously mentioned, as well as a catch-up meeting with the County FA manager. Friday, when possible, is ‘admin day’.
i
Call the IOG for more info on GaNTIP 01908 312511 or go to www.iog.org www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 19
PROFILE
MARTIN FORD
P I TC H GRADING
Watch out for an update on the new scheme in a future issue
By Colin Hoskins Features editor
RAISING THE GAME
Martin Ford can look back on 11 successful years as IOG/ECB fine turf manager, during which time he has not only improved the standard of cricket pitches but also helped to raise the standard of natural playing surfaces across all sports PQS helps to keep playing surfaces in tip-top condition
W
hen in 2007, Martin Ford took on the job as the IOG and England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) fine turf manager – a role initially designed for the nationwide assessment of premier league cricket clubs’ pitches and squares’ Performance Quality Standards (PQS) – he said that he hoped that the principles and benefits of the innovative scheme would eventually be considered by sports governing bodies as the de facto standard for every turf-relevant surface. Today, he can look back on 11 years of tremendous achievement: There are now more than 70 trained pitch advisors The [cricket] Premier League PQS has been wholeheartedly adopted throughout England and Wales, and is filtering down to
other levels of the sport, and The principles of PQS are now also forming the bedrock of the IOG’s groundbreaking Pitch Grading System – a series of standards for natural turf pitches in all sports and at all levels down to grassroots. “Designed to determine the quality of a square or pitch against nationally recognised British benchmark standards, PQS is an essential element of good management practice and is a clearly defined, no-nonsense way of keeping playing surfaces in tip-top condition,” says Martin. “A bad pitch can lead to bad play and can be unsafe (ie unpredictable bounce) and PQS clearly underpins the principles of fair, competitive play on surfaces of the highest standards possible.” Pioneered more than 30 years ago by IOG member Peter Dury, a former Notts County
ABOUT MARTIN FORD A former treasurer of the IOG, Martin Ford is a Royal Horticultural Society Master of Horticulture, a keen cricketer and someone who has been involved in sports clubs – in particular local authority sites – throughout his career.
20 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
playing fields officer, PQS (which can also be applied to artificial surfaces) involves three categories of pitch measurement: Physical structure – profile/make up Presentation quality Playing quality – performance. Within these the PQS criteria embraces length and density of sward, total ground cover and desirable/undesirable grasses, and the assessment includes testing soil samples and flatness (by spirit level). “Importantly, the role of the pitch advisors embraces an assessment of the pitch/square in line with PQS which, once fully understood by the clubs, is an effective self-assessment tool for continual improvement.” In addition, Martin’s role as fine turf manager – “which has certainly reinforced the importance of good quality pitches; if you don’t have a good pitch, you won’t have
“If you don’t have a good pitch, you won‘t have good games and you won‘t attract good players”
PROFILE
MARTIN FORD
The assessment includes testing soil samples…
...and levels of weed infestation
good games and you won’t attract good players” – has also seen him working closely with, and providing training to, cricket umpires. “We’ve been working with umpires on a universal pitch marking scheme, so that their feedback, too, can help clubs to continue to improve their pitches.” While Martin talks about his satisfaction that PQS will increasingly impact and bring benefits to other sports, it is undoubtedly his role in ‘formulating and shaping’ the cricket pitch advisor network that is the major highlight of his tenure. The focus has been on the 27 or so premier leagues – during the first year, for example, the scheme embraced seven leagues but subsequently spread throughout all premier leagues in England and Wales – and covered: Fees for pitch advisors Training and support for clubs, grounds staff, empires and facilities committees Training of umpires and the administration of umpires’ reports Support into fine turf management.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT The training of the pitch advisors has not only embraced the correct use of the PQS equipment, but also guidelines and coaching on report writing – “we wanted to achieve a professional standard of KEEP IN TOUCH
www.iog.org
“I’ve met lots of interesting people who, by and large, put in an inordinate amount of time at their clubs, mainly on a voluntary basis” reporting, in a language that everyone could understand” – as well as regular updates on industry trends and issues, and technical developments in, say, pest and disease management. “You can’t appoint a person then leave him alone to get on with it. Continual professional development impacts all careers and pitch advisors are no different.” He concludes: “The fine turf manager’s role, as such, has now reached its natural end in the sense that all premier league cricket clubs are on board with the scheme and its intentions. But the principles of the scheme and of PQS will carry on through the auspices of the IOG’s Pitch Grading System and the Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme, which continues to be funded by the ECB, as well as by the Football Foundation, the Football Association and the IOG.” He adds: “The job has been fascinating; I’ve met lots of interesting people who, by and large, put in an inordinate
www.facebook.com/theIOG
Institute of Groundsmanship
amount of time at their clubs, mainly on a voluntary basis.” When announcing that Martin’s role had ceased, the IOG and ECB jointly stated: “Martin’s skill, commitment and quality of work has resulted in an improvement in the playing surfaces at premier league level, which has filtered down to other levels and influenced other sports.” That commendation is no doubt very gratifying – and well deserved. But for a man who is a Royal Horticultural Society Master of Horticulture, a keen cricketer and “someone who has been involved in sports clubs (in particular local authority sites) all my life, including a spell as a groundsman,” Martin Ford MSc will still be involved in the industry through his consultancy work. Failing that, you will be able to find him on his local golf course.
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The principles of the fine turf manager’s role will be carried forward via the Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme www.iog.org twitter.com/the_iog
www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 21
AWARD SPONSOR
HOW TORO KEEPS PARKS LOOKING GOOD
Toro’s LT-F3000 o�ers a completely new cutting concept to triple �ail mowing
With research reporting widespread cuts in parks maintenance budgets, Reesink Turfcare looks at how local government managers can make smaller budgets go further
T By Danny Lake Regional grounds manager, Reesink Turfcare
he Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) found in its 2016 State of the UK Public Parks report that 92 per cent of park managers have endured budget cuts over the past three years, and 95 per cent are anticipating cuts over the next three. So, the pressure on local government to invest in good machinery is imperative for its long-term plans. Lots of councils would traditionally use triple cylinder mowers, which provide the best cut and after-cut appearance, but can only cope with grass that is cut quite frequently – difficult during spring and autumn. Councils are now cutting verges, parks and recreational areas less often in order to make savings and this has meant that many are moving to rotary mowers, which can cope with longer grass, less frequent cuts and are cheaper to maintain. This has partly solved the problem, but the finish a rotary mower leaves isn’t always aesthetically pleasing and can cause extra clean-up work around paths where grass clippings and debris are left.
ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION
One solution is to consider a triple flail mower such as the Toro LT-F3000 which mimics the size, cutting width and manoeuvrability of a traditional triple cylinder mower. The flail cutting heads are able to cut long and short grass, when it’s wet or dry, and leave a much better after-cut appearance than a rotary mower. Another savvy way to save money is for LT-F3000 owners to invest in the interchangeable cylinder attachment, which gives the front-facing triple mower the capability to cut two ways: tougher cutting with the flail or finer with the cylinder. This is very useful for contractors maintaining roadside verges and local parks or playing fields, for example. 22 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
The result is a machine that will cut longer, wetter and coarser grass in one sweep while also cut as a cylinder mower.
CHANGING PERCEPTIONS
Users can be a little nervous about initially investing in a flail instead of a traditional cylinder or rotary mower, but modern technology and tough field testing means perceptions are changing. Councils and contractors are seeing this as a viable solution for solving a lot of the mowing issues these budget constraints and less frequent mowing cycles create.
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Reesink Turfcare is the exclusive distributor in the UK and Ireland for Toro professional turf care machinery and irrigation products. Visit reesinkturfcare.co.uk
IOG BEST PRACTICE
By Holly Jones Marketing manager, Reesink Turfcare
Katie Croft: sports turf’s high-flyer Katie Croft left her job at Manchester Airport for an apprenticeship in groundsmanship. Two years later, she won the 2016 IOG Toro Most Promising Sports Turf Student of the Year award
W
hen I saw the advert for the apprenticeship I knew I had to go for it,” says Katie Croft. “I didn’t know what to do in school,” she says, “and eventually settled on a customer services job at the airport. But, being an avid football fan, the vacancy at Manchester City FC proved irresistible.” Lee Metcalfe, head groundsman at Manchester City, recruited Katie and he says: “In her first interview, Katie showed promising signs of being a successful apprentice. The competition for the job was tough, with over 200 people applying, but her desire to learn was evident and her bubbly character a welcome addition to the team.” Concluding a successful two-year Level 2 apprenticeship at Manchester City, while also studying at Myerscough College, Katie 24 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
has won the IOG award, graduated and been made assistant groundsperson all within a matter of months. Her Level 2 Diploma involved “some excellent, high-quality work”, says Myerscough College, “particularly her project work on threats to turf health and plant identification”. The college added: “From an early stage she understood the value of learning the botanical Latin names of plants and how this will benefit her in
the future. Katie consistently produced detailed answers to the written questions, to reinforce and underpin her understanding of caring for turf.” Katie has achieved the following since she has been a Myerscough College student: Intermediate apprenticeship in work-based horticulture – sports turf – groundsman Level 2 Level 2 Diploma in work-based horticulture
ABOUT KATIE Since joining Manchester City, Katie has gained an Intermediate apprenticeship in work-based horticulture; Level 2 Diploma in work-based horticulture; PA1, PA2 and PA6 Level 2 awards; and certificates in emergency first aid at work, manual handling and tractor driving.
F E AT U R E
R I S I N G S TA R
Katie at work at Manchester City's City Football Academy
Katie receives her IOG award from Toro’s national accounts manager Alastair Rowell (right) and Chris Gray, IOG head of learning
– sports turf – groundsman P A1, PA2 and PA6 Level 2 awards in principles of safe handling and application of pesticides/using self-propelled, mounted, trailed horizontal boom sprayers/pedestrian hand-held equipment C ertificates in emergency first aid at work, manual handling and tractor driving. Katie is a work-based learner so all her training and assessment (by Myerscough College) takes place at Manchester City’s City Football Academy. Lee adds: “Katie winning the award is, of course, fantastic for her personally and her career, but it is also fantastic for the club and the team who have invested in training her. We have a strong and supportive team here and these accolades benefit everyone who has invested time in their fellow colleague’s career development.”
PROVE MY WORTH
“When I applied, I had no idea it would lead to this,” says Katie. “I’ve had the huge benefit of working at a club that really invests in young talent. The training and support system I’ve been offered by everyone could not have been better. Lee took a chance on me and I am so glad I’ve been able to prove my worth. “I was a bit star-struck at first when I saw the players but quickly realised there is a job to do. It’s great to see that what we do has an impact on the players and their performance. It’s amazing to be able to work in such an inspiring environment.
“As I gain more knowledge and experience I am now carrying out more advanced tasks. I really enjoy learning new things and then applying my college work to my job.” Katie is adamant that she would like to use her IOG award to help make a difference by encouraging girls who, like her, know they want to work in horticulture, and letting them know that there are plenty of options. “I am so honoured to have won the award. I’d really like to be able to use this position to educate more women about what a career in groundsmanship entails. It’s an exciting time and there are some fantastic opportunities out there.” There is already evidence of this with Katie participating in the ‘Here come the girls’ campaign, part of the government’s initiative to promote female participation in male-dominated professions. Also, during National Apprenticeship Week, Katie and her achievements were featured in numerous publications, which again helped to raise the profile of careers in groundsmanship. Her next step is to seek Level 3 accreditation – an advanced apprenticeship in work-based horticulture – sports turf – groundsman – and her ultimate goal is to become the first female head groundsperson in Premiership football. Watch this space.
APPRENTICESHIPS RECOMMENDED Manchester City’s head groundsman Lee Metcalfe: “I would recommend apprenticeships to other employers looking at an opportunity to bring fresh talent into the industry, and as a club we are committed to ensuring these opportunities are truly available to all.”
TORO’S LONG-TERM COMMITMENT Holly Jones, marketing manager at award sponsor Reesink Turfcare: “Engaging with a wide sector of young people in the grounds industry, supporting and promoting their talents and watching them progress, is an important role for us and sponsoring this award demonstrates Toro’s longterm commitment to the development of the industry.”
Visit www.iog.org for details of the extensive range of education and training packages available from the IOG
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“I’d really like to be able to use this position to educate more women about what a career in groundsmanship entails” www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 25
IOG BEST PRACTICE
The team makes sure everything is perfect
JUST CHAMPION FOR LEE
A By Colin Hoskins Features editor
fter having hosted FA Cup finals, Heineken Cup rugby union finals, and Rugby Union and Rugby League World Cup games, as well as Olympic football, you’d think Lee Evans would have seen and heard it all in his 13 years at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium. But, he says, the staging of last month’s Champions League (CL) final was “an unbelievable event and one that will always stand out in my career”. He says: “The stadium was full with 66,000 spectators (reduced from the usual 74,000 to accommodate the expanded TV studio, for example) and from at least 80 minutes before kick-off their noise was deafening. And they didn’t stop until after the final whistle. With the roof closed (for security reasons), it was the first time I’d experienced such a glorious occasion.”
IDEAL PREPARATION
With past experience of those top games (few will be able to match his record at the stadium, which he joined in April 2004 after periods at Aston Villa and Fulham), Lee says that he knew what to expect when UEFA came to town after having travelled to the San Siro Stadium in Italy to witness events at last year’s CL final. Indeed, the groundsman from Ukraine, where next year’s final will be held, spent time with Lee at this year’s event. In preparation for the Juventus vs Real Madrid clash, Lee was fortunate in that he had a six-week window between the last event (a rugby game) and the CL final. “We had a busy start to the year, which included the Six Nations rugby and a series of eight rugby union games in just two weeks, after we ‘condensed’ the playing schedule. The rugby union games would normally extend into the second week of May. 26 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
Photo: Pan Publicity
The Principality Stadium’s head groundsman Lee Evans says hosting the UEFA Champions League final was an unbelievable experience
“We took advantage of that time by implementing a mini renovation involving vertidraining, overseeding and applying a light (12 tonnes) sand dressing with walking spreaders. Then it was a case of implementing my usual ICL fertiliser and Primo Maxx treatment programme. “For six months prior to the CL Final, UEFA had the pitch regularly tested, and had laid down specifications regarding hardness levels, sward height (we took it down to 20mm) and the mowed pitch pattern for the final. The UEFA officials arrived on the Sunday before the game. “The pitch was really at its best on the Tuesday before the game, then followed a few days of opening ceremony rehearsals (four hours on three nights) which included a team of 120 people pulling over the UEFA logo pitch cover, as well as the erection of the stage unit (12 half-tonne stage sections pushed onto the centre of the pitch from one corner). Then there were TV camera crews and mobile TV units pitch-side to accommodate, which made it very difficult to turn the mowers. Plus, of course, we had the teams’ training sessions, too. “We have only one access point onto the pitch, from a corner, so everything went in and out from there, which wasn’t ideal. But the show must go on!” That said, Lee is adamant that the CL final was an event to behold – though at the same time he was busy moving home. “The house move was undertaken at very short notice and around the CL final. But all things considered, I reckon that was more stressful than when UEFA came to town!”
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Visit www.icl-sf.co.uk for more details about ICL
IOG GR ASSROOTS
Lashings of success at Eversholt Volunteer groundsman Ian Stockdale outlines how his pitch preparation consistently attracts famous cricketers to Eversholt CC’s small but high-quality ground
I By Colin Hoskins Features editor
t is undoubtedly a feather in any village cricket club’s cap to host a Lashings World XI game starring a team of renowned cricketers so, the fact that next month Eversholt CC will be staging its sixth such event (in the past 12 years) says much about the quality of the club’s facilities, its players and its pitch. Based at one of the most picturesque grounds in the country and bounded on one side by the Woburn Estate in Bedfordshire, the Eversholt CC square accommodates 16 ‘tracks’. These are used by the club’s two teams that compete in the Saracens Hertfordshire Cricket League, its two teams in the Bedfordshire County Cricket League and a thriving Academy at all junior age levels from the ages of six through to 16. In addition, the pitch will again this year host the Lashings World XI team and the game – for the first time for Eversholt a T20 rather than a 35-overs event and as usual a fundraiser for the club and a nominated charity – is scheduled to feature prominent players such as Tino Best, Herschelle Gibbs, Andrew Hall, Tim Paine, Yasir Arafat and Michael Carberry. The thought of hosting some of the world’s most revered cricketers does not, however, faze volunteer groundsmen Ian Stockdale and Bevis Rotherham, Ian’s number two. They will continue to prepare the first-class wickets to the highest standards that
28 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
they always seek to achieve on a ground that is based on Bedfordshire blue clay, as Ian explains: “I’ve always adopted the ECB guidelines for wicket preparation, whether for five-, six-, seven- or ten-day preparations.
PREPARATION IS KEY
“For the Lashings event, I usually identify which track we’ll be using during the winter planning,” he continues, “and 14 days before, preparations begin with a cut down to 8/9mm, then pedestrian scarify, water, roll and brush. I usually scarify again, until I am happy with the density – tending to leave a little more grass on than I used to, to use the sward as a ‘lubricant’ between ball and surface – before taking it down to 5mm three days before the game.” It is a process, he says, that he has employed ever since he joined the club six years ago, initially (and still today) as a player but also as a volunteer on pitch maintenance, a role he took up as soon as the club members and committee discovered his groundsmanship ‘heritage’, which started to take shape when, as a schoolboy, Ian was selected to play for Derbyshire U15/18s and Academy at county level. “Since then, I’ve always taken an interest in pitch preparation,” Ian says, “but my involvement in pitch care became more focused when I was playing at Flitwick Cricket Club. And when I moved to Eversholt
F E AT U R E
GR ASSROOTS
LASHINGS WORLD XI Founded in 1984 by David Folb “as an unremarkable local club team that grew into the world’s greatest cricket club”, the Lashings World XI team has attracted a number of international cricketers and other celebrities to its ranks, including Brian Lara, Muttiah Muralitharan, Aravinda De Silva, Tatenda Taibu, Chris Cairns, Gordon Greenidge, Jimmy Adams, Henry Olonga, Javagal Srinath, Courtney Walsh, Allan Donald, Shoaib Akhtar and Sir Viv Richards. Sachin Tendulkar, Brendan Taylor, Inzamam Ul Haq, Wasim Akram, Rashid Latif and Ajit Agarkar are its more recent high-profile players. Currently managed by former Sussex, Surrey and England cricketer David Smith, the team travels the UK playing against schools and club teams to promote the game.
MAIN PHOTO Eversholt’s village ground will host its sixth Lashings World XI event, for which volunteer groundsmen Ian Stockdale (below right) and Bevis Rotherham will be well-prepared
THE LANDFILL COMMUNITIES FUND
“I’ve always adopted the ECB guidelines for wicket preparation” CC, I was soon spending a number of hours two/three days a week on the ground, quickly increasing to five/six days a week.”
DYNAMIC DUO
While his job as a lecturer in engineering at Bedford College has made it easier to devote time to the Eversholt pitch, nowadays with two young children, 46-year-old Ian is more conscious of the hours he spends at the ground. “But Bevis is a great number two. He concentrates on the junior wickets, allowing me to focus on the senior pitches and technical issues like chemical applications.” Time may be one issue, but Ian also emphasises that having suitable equipment is also important. He says: “When I arrived at Eversholt, we only had an Allett C20 with 10-blade cutter and a grooming comb to cut the squares, and a heavy roller. I made it clear that we needed additional equipment, and while the club
has dipped deep we have also successfully gained some funding from Sport England (for a Groundsman 345HD aerator) and the Landfill Communities Fund/Biffa (for a new roller). We are also currently hoping to secure Sport England funding for a new Dennis G860 mower with cassettes.” Ian is hoping that funding will eventually also be secured in order to tackle the drainage issues encountered on one side of the pitch. “The ground is sited on what used to be land occupying Linden House owned by the Duke of Bedfordshire, and the drainage issues we have are in an area that was once given over to fish ponds. If we can get that sorted, it will mean a big improvement to that part of the ground.”
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Visit www.ecb.co.uk for details of the England and Wales Cricket Board cricket pitch maintenance guidelines
The Landfill Communities Fund is a tax credit scheme enabling operators of landfill sites in England, Northern Ireland and Wales to contribute money to organisations (that are enrolled with Entrust) as Environmental Bodies (EBs). EBs carry out projects that comply with the objectives set out in The Landfill Tax Regulations 1996 (Regulations). The government introduced tax on landfill waste in 1996 to reduce the amount of land-filled waste and promote more sustainable methods of waste management. The LCF allows Landfill Operators (LOs) to contribute a portion of their landfill tax liability to community and environmental organisations to ‘offset’ some of the negative impacts of living in the vicinity of a landfill site. There are two ways of receiving funding through LCF – from an EB or a landfill operator. Find details of both at www.entrust.org.uk
www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 29
TECHNICAL U P D AT E
By John Moverley Chair, Amenity Forum
KEEPING BRITAIN MOVING
Weed, pest and disease management impacts everyone, which is the focus of this year’s ‘Keeping Britain Moving’ Amenity Forum Conference PRODUCT SHOWCASE
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here are many challenges facing everyone involved in weed, pest and disease control. Policy change resulting from implementation of European Directives, most notably Sustainable Use, has heralded new legislation such as the need for sprayer testing, new requirements on those purchasing pesticides, and more. There is a need to apply more integrated approaches and to demonstrate and support both best practice and the highest professional standards. The authorisation and review process of pesticides for use across Europe has also put much more emphasis on potential health risks and we have seen withdrawal, or threat of such, for a number of key products used by groundsmen. Then we have BREXIT – what will this bring?
CONFERENCE PROGRAMME
The opening session of the Amenity Forum’s 2017 conference will be a policy update from Grant Stark from the HSE Chemicals Regulation Department. This will be followed by presentations focusing on the challenges of keeping our cities and trains moving, presented by Transport for London’s John Parker and Tony Saunders from JSD Research & Development. There will be a session chaired by Ruth Mann from STRI entitled ‘Taking a more holistic approach to weed, pest & disease control’, which will include a presentation from Andrew Kerr, a former spray operator of the year winner. There will also be 30 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
Focus on compact tractors and fertilisers go to page 37
contributions from David Cary, executive director of the International Biocontrol Manufacturers Association, as well as Dr Colin Mumford from Bayer who will focus on scientific innovations and developments in weed, pest and disease control. In addition, there will be emphasis on what the future really looks like for weed, pest and disease management with thoughts from Mark De Ath from Headland Amenity and Peter Corbett from Rigby Taylor. Included will be contributions from Barry Hunt on glyphosate – past, present and future, and a presentation by Professor Alan Gange from Royal Holloway University of London, on recent research relating to biological control methods.
KEEPING BRITAIN MOVING CONFERENCE This year’s Amenity Forum conference will be held on Thursday 12 October at the Pirelli Stadium, Burton on Trent. Delegate rates are being kept as low as possible. The standard rate is £65 plus VAT but for those who book before 1 September, the rate is £55 plus VAT. For further information, visit www.amenityforum.co.uk and to book your place, contact admin@amenityforum.net
T E C H N I C A L U P D AT E
PEST & DISEASE MANAGEMENT
UNIFIED APPROACH The Amenity Forum is the voluntary initiative for the sector. It is charged by Government to demonstrate that our sector is committed to best practice in all aspects of weed, pest and disease management, and that we can ensure standards continue to meet requirements. Better we show this voluntarily than have even more change imposed on us. The Forum provides a voice for the sector; it cannot stop all change but, by demonstrating that those involved are operating correctly and to the highest standards, can influence decisions greatly. Members of the Forum are drawn from all across our diverse sector. They support the Forum to demonstrate their commitment to best practice. This unified approach is vital and, if as a reader, your organisation is not yet a supporter, please urge them to consider it.
The conference will look at the challenges involved in disease control
“It is vital that we fully communicate to the public why what we do is so important and essential” Delegates will also hear from John Ledwidge, head groundsman at Leicester City and, to round things off, the interim results will be presented of the recent amenity survey on pesticide use and practice. The conference programme offers something for everyone across the sector and it is a great opportunity to network. In addition, an associated exhibition area will have a range of supporter stands highlighting new innovations and products.
COMMUNICATING WHAT WE DO AND WHY
In ensuring we can retain our capacity to do our jobs, it is vital that we fully communicate to the public why what we do is so important and essential, and impacts on every one of us every day. The Forum has released a new website which can be found at www.getbritainmoving.uk. This focuses on a typical UK family and how amenity maintenance impacts them. It uses video clips and other materials. It is worth a look and we need your help in letting others know about it and the
core messages. We need public support for our activities and their understanding of just what things would be like without proper amenity maintenance and management. Recent information from Oxford Economics has already produced some startling statistics. For local authorities alone, a ban on the use of chemical weed control for their amenity areas could add £228 million to council tax bills each year. Chemical weed killers are used by local authorities for the management of public spaces, including pavements, parks, schools and local authority play areas. The non-chemical alternatives to treating roads and pavements for weeds certainly have a place in an integrated approach to weed management but chemical use remains a vital component in terms of economics, efficiency and effectiveness. The loss of key products is imposing real pressures. The Forum is working hard to promote the best in our sector and communicate its importance. Let us stand up and be proud of what we do, be united and keep Britain moving. The Amenity Forum's and Get Moving's educational campaign: www.getbritainmoving.uk
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www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 31
CAREER ADVICE
By Frank Newberry Conference speaker and careers counsellor
DOING WELL AT JOB INTERVIEWS Conference speaker and careers counsellor Frank Newberry gives a few suggestions on how to prepare to do well at job interviews
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can report that my wife did, in fact, pass the job interview mentioned in my previous article and she starts work in a director-level role next week. But how did she achieve this great feat when the employer was looking for someone more qualified? In a nutshell, she did it by accentuating the positives and having good answers prepared for probing questions on her weak areas. To be specific in our preparation, we concentrated on: The job description (what is expected of the successful candidate) The employee specification (a description of the ideal candidate) The employer’s products, services, history and any significant moments Researching competitors, and past and present employees of the company.
1 2 3 4
The material needed that was not already online was readily available on request, and we found that people were quite happy to talk about the positives and negatives about their past or current employer.
ANSWER HYPOTHETICAL QUESTIONS WITH ‘EVIDENCE’ ANSWERS
Many interviewers waste valuable time asking candidates “what would you do in a given situation?” or “what would you do if a certain thing happened?” These hypothetical questions are not helpful because 32 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
If you're fully prepared, you will feel more con�dent at an interview
“Prepare answers to as many technical questions as you can think of” they yield ‘knowledge’ answers as opposed to ‘evidence’ answers. Interviewers end up finding out what people ‘know’ rather than what people can actually ‘do’. This means that inexperienced but knowledgeable candidates can end up achieving the same standard at interview as experienced and knowledgeable candidates. We worked hard on answering these popular but mainly useless hypothetical questions with ‘evidence’ answers. So, when asked “what would you do in this situation?”, my wife would counter with, “would you like me to tell you what I actually did in that situation?” This put her streets ahead of her competitors, who may well have got sucked into giving hypothetical or ‘knowledge’ answers to these hypothetical questions.
CAREER ADVICE
INTERVIEW TIPS
SEE FRANK AT SALTEX 2017 Frank Newberry has been helping groundsmen to pass job interviews for many years. To learn more about how to do well at interviews, you can meet up with Frank in the IOG Hub at this year’s SALTEX (1-2 November 2017). You can also contact Frank via his website www.franknewberry.com
SOME OF US ARE NOT SO CLEVER AT PUTTING OURSELVES ACROSS
We cannot all be confident and chatty. Some of us are not so clever at putting ourselves across to others – especially under pressure at a job interview. While some people can clam up, others might find themselves waffling under interview pressure, but the advice for wafflers is also good for those of us who clam up. Because some people still judge us on first impressions, it is worth taking the time to go through your documents line by line and rehearsing ‘further’ explanations on every line until you flow smoothly. People expect you to flow on the content of your own CV! It’s then wise to prepare answers to as many technical questions as you can think of, and then repeat your answers until they flow smoothly. Rehearse answers to more popular questions such as: Tell me about yourself. How did you get here today?
Why have you applied for this job? What salary figure did you have in mind? What makes you think you are qualified? What do you know about our organisation? What’s the biggest mistake you have ever made at work? It says on your CV that you did work experience at Wimbledon – tell me more. In all, my wife prepared answers for 28 questions and she was asked less than half that number. There were no surprises in the interview. This caused her confidence to grow to the point where she felt moved to say, “Whether I get the job or not, I can help you with this.” She got the job. Go to www.iog.org for more information on relevant training courses that will boost your CV to the next level
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www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 33
Member benefits MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR IOG MEMBERSHIP
“I NEVER THOUGHT IT COULD HAPPEN TO ME”
When you face a problem at work or your job is at risk, you need a specialist who can offer advice and is legally able to represent you as well as negotiate the best financial settlement. This is where Prospect can help
I By Tim Gray IOG director of business & membership
Prospect will be able to advise you on work-related matters
never thought this would happen to me,” are the words I often hear as IOG members (and non-members) contact the IOG to tell me that their job is at risk or has been terminated. The reasons are varied and can affect anyone involved – and you only have to refer to recent reports from around the country to understand the stark reality of job security, or lack of it. Employers no longer offer jobs for life – the recession, economic competition, reduced public spending and the commercialisation of sports have all impacted the careers and jobs of groundsmen and women everywhere. The IOG can offer members practical advice and support through our in-house knowledge and member benefit partners. However, the IOG is a membership body not a union – so if members find themselves in a difficult situation, while the IOG does its upmost to help and support, there are practical restrictions and legal limitations on what a membership organisation can do. When your employment is at risk, you must act quickly. You need to know your rights, your company’s policies and processes, the details of
34 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
your contract, the next available steps and how to respond. Basically, you need a specialist – someone who can be in your corner, who can advise on your options and who is legally able to represent you in discussions with your employer or at an employment tribunal.
THE RIGHT SUPPORT
You may also need someone with the skills and experience to negotiate the best financial settlement for you. As Ken Hare, former Southend United FC groundsman (who was dismissed from his role at the club earlier this year) explains: “Without the support of my union, I would have found it difficult to resolve my situation without incurring the cost and stress of a decision potentially being determined at an employment tribunal. I would encourage all my grounds staff colleagues to join Prospect and the IOG to make sure you are professionally advised and represented when issues arise with your employment.” Alan Leighton, Prospect’s national secretary, agrees: “This is a hugely important issue – not just for Ken, but for all grounds staff generally.
PROTECT YOUR LIVELIHOOD “Prospect offers me work-related advice, support and guidance on a range of areas including career development, company takeovers and contracts of employment. The member services could be vital in supporting me through my employment, and I would encourage everyone in the groundscare sector to join.” Will Graves, groundsman, Watford FC “It’s like having breakdown cover. You hope you’ll never need it, but it’s there if required.” Premier League groundsman
PEACE OF MIND
If you are not a member of the IOG,
join today. It’s less than £1 a week. Go to www.iog.org/membership or call us on 01908 312 511 I f you want to join Prospect, please contact the IOG. We’ll inform Prospect and you’ll receive an application form and three months’ free membership. Alternatively contact Prospect – email: juliet.weller@prospect.org.uk or call 020 7902 6677 with your IOG member number. You will then need to complete an application form.
“I would encourage all my grounds staff colleagues to join Prospect and the IOG to make sure you are professionally advised and represented” Sports club employees need the support of an independent friend in the workplace because problems can arise at any time. In Ken’s situation, Prospect was able to provide crucial professional advice and representation to help him secure a satisfactory settlement.”
THREE MONTHS’ FREE MEMBERSHIP
The IOG has teamed up with Prospect, the union that represents football officials, cricket umpires, grounds staff and other sports professionals. In professional sport especially, the expectations are high, so Prospect membership will ensure that you are ‘match ready’ and protected rather than exposed should you end up in a dispute situation. In fact, Prospect may be able to help you resolve issues before the situation escalates.
The cost of union membership is proportional to the salary you earn, and includes: Advice and representation through all the stages of a grievance/dismissal The cost of legal fees. Under the terms of the IOG’s agreement, IOG members can enjoy the first three months of Prospect membership for free. However, this is a limited offer so don’t delay. Join today, because Prospect cannot help you if you choose to join after a dispute has started. To find out more about Prospect, go to www.prospect.org.uk. To find out more about this offer, go to www.iog.org/news/ prospect-and-iog-team-offer-member-support
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Product showcase
READ MORE
IOG NEWS UPDATES Go to the IOG website www.iog.org
FOCUS ON FERTILISERS
IMPROVED RANGE
Major makeover for Rigby Taylor fertilisers
CHEMICAL ENHANCEMENT
MANAGE NITROGEN LEVELS WITH ProloNg
RIGBY TAYLOR has improved its Apex, Microfine and Polypro ranges of turf fertilisers. The firm’s Apex turf fertilisers have high organic content with low salt analyses and rich humic acid levels to encourage root development and stimulate soil microbial activity. Many of the products contain Polyhalite, an organic source of nitrogen, calcium and magnesium that makes plant tissue less susceptible to turf disease damage. The company has also enhanced its Microfine range, with six lowsulphur analyses.
The enhanced Apex 5-3-4
Finally, Rigby Taylor has added two Polypro SK analyses to its fertiliser portfolio. Polymer coating means they both provide several month’s controlled release nutrition, alongside seaweed, organic potassium and biostimulants. The micro-granule Polypro range includes a conventional compound granule, blended with coated nutrients. www.rigbytaylor.com
NEW FORMUL ATION
NEW ADDITION TO C-COMPLEX RANGE HEADLAND AMENITY has introduced a new formulation to its range of mineral-organic fertilisers for use on sports pitches and general amenity turf. C-Complex Sport is formulated using Naturvigor, a combination of aerobically-composted cow manure and high levels of humic acid. The high concentration of humic acid and other organic material means it breaks down easily on contact with moisture. www.headlandamenity.com
RESEARCHERS ESTIMATE up to 50 per cent of nitrogen applied worldwide is lost to the environment rather than used by plants, which is why Angus Horticulture has developed a range of ProloNg fertilisers designed to slow the nitrification process. Distributed by Turfcare Specialists, ProloNg shields and manages nitrogen in the soil at molecular level to stop the action of urease on applied nitrogen and prevent nitrification. This allows the plant improved access to stable forms of nitrogen throughout the growing season and without destroying the spectrum of naturally occurring soil bacteria and enzymes. ProloNg technology is also biodegradable, water soluble and leaves no adverse environmental footprint. Duncan Carr, head groundsman at Chester-le-Street Cricket Club, said: “I applied ProloNg in March and it has performed better than other conventional fertilisers.” www.turfcare specialists. co.uk
C-Complex Sport
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PRODUCT SHOWCASE FOCUS ON FERTILISERS
TREATMENT PL AN
NEW TURF FERTILISERS VELVIT IS A NEW range of specialist turf treatment products including granular and liquid fertilisers, wetting agents and biostimulants developed for the turf care professional and available only through specialist distributors. Comprising more than 50 products, the Velvit range caters for all the demands of modern turf management, offering both trusted formulations and the latest innovations to consistently promote high quality turf. GreenBest has launched the Velvit brand to complement its bespoke
“The Velvit range caters for all the demands of modern turf management, offering both treated formulations and the latest innovations”
38 THE GROUNDSMAN July 2017
fertiliser manufacture service and provide a dedicated range of products that draw on the needs of its customers. www.velvit.co.uk
J U LY CALENDAR Find out what’s on your to-do list page 45
PRODUCT SHOWCASE FOCUS ON FERTILISERS
SOIL HEALTH
Symbio MycoGro biological fertilisers
SYMBIO’S MYCOGRO range of organic and inorganic biological fertilisers contain thatch reducing fungi, phosphate solubilising bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi. All rootzones that have been regularly fertilised contain locked up nutrients that are unavailable to the plant. Symbio MycoGro fertilisers make your nutrients go further by using mycorrhizal fungi and bacteria to unlock the nutrients in the soil and make them available to the grass. Plus thatch degrading fungi speed up the process of converting thatch to humus and plant food. Grass inoculated with mycorrhizal fungi establishes much faster and
Symbio MycoGro makes nutrients go further
needs up to 50 per cent less fertiliser. For cool season and shady growth and rapid regeneration of cricket squares, bowling greens and winter sports pitches, the grass plant needs macro nutrients, NPK and a plentiful supply of carbohydrate, which is contained in Symbio Caviar 10.0.4 with 45 per cent organic content and liquid
CMS Shoot 5.0.2, both of which are rich in amino acids, and contain up to 25 per cent fulvic acid, a low light plant biostimulant and chelating agent. The raw material for these sports pitch fertilisers is molasses, with the mineral salts extracted giving a very low salt index for improved soil health. www.symbio.co.uk
www.iog.org THE GROUNDSMAN 39
PRODUCT SHOWCASE FO C U S O N CO M PAC T T R AC TO R S
The 4500 makes light work of steep slopes
MULTI-TASKING MACHINE
T EC H U P D AT E
Versatile Ventrac 4500
The Amenity Forum’s Keeping Britain Moving campaign page 30
The wide range of attachments means this compact tractor is suitable for a host of different tasks WITH MORE THAN 30 different attachments, the Ventrac 4500 is a real multi-tasker. It can be used as a mower, complete with five different mowing decks, and also a trencher, aerator, stump grinder, edger, leaf blower, snow blower, snow plough, gritter and more. Whether you’re preparing a new lawn, creating a garden or flower
“The frame articulates and pivots in the centre to maintain excellent contact with the ground and better weight distribution” KEEP IN TOUCH
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bed, removing trees, laying cables or pipes, or levelling soil, there’s an attachment that’s right for the job – rakes, power bucket, tiller and loader – and switching between attachments is easy thanks to the innovative mounting system. And the unit is stable on slopes whatever attachment is being used. The frame articulates and also pivots in the centre to maintain excellent contact with the ground and better weight distribution. The majority of attachments are in front of the tractor for increased visibility, better reach under trees, and more control over the work being done. Better visibility also creates a
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safer environment for the operator and bystanders. There are five different mowing decks, and the aerator attachment, the AERA-vator, is designed to vibrate and loosen the soil beneath the grass without destroying the turf. www.ventrac.com
NEXT MONTH We focus on artificial surface maintenance, sweepers, blowers, collectors and vacs
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PRODUCT SHOWCASE FO C U S O N CO M PAC T T R AC TO R S
JOYSTICK MOWER
BAHIA JOYRIDE ETESIA UK has launched the Bahia Joyride – a ride-on mower controlled by a joystick or via GPS for autonomous operation. Working in partnership with FeBroLift GmbH, the Bahia Joyride is operated exclusively by a joystick: some of its features, such as automatic emptying of the grass box or start/stop of the machine and cutting deck controls are all controlled from the central joystick control unit. The joystick control can be installed on the right or left hand side of the machine ensuring that the ride-on mower can be used by people with reduced mobility. The functions are simple: • A steering control to go left, right, forward or backward • A starter button at the front of the joystick • An initialisation button to calibrate the joystick when the machine is started • Mowing permission in reverse, to force the blades into operation when moving backwards. The Etesia Joyride retains all of the features of a standard Bahia model. The compact design is ideal for multi-tasking and easily adapts to every terrain, every grass cutting situation and every task. The pocket-size cut and collect mower, at just 0.82m wide and 1.98m long, features an incredibly tight turning circle and is able to nip into every nook and cranny as well as being able to be easily transported in the back of a van or on the back of a trailer. All engine variants of the Etesia Bahia are available for the modular specification. www.etesia.co.uk
The TYM TS25
FLEXIBLE FRIEND
THE SMALL BUT MIGHTY TS25 IDEAL FOR MAINTENANCE and transporting on sports surfaces, large gardens or small estates, TYM’s TS25 is one of the few subcompact tractors on the market available with either a manual or hydrostatic transmission and that means it can be tailored to specific turf maintenance needs. For loader and mid-deck work, the simple-to-use hydrostatic transmission is the best choice, whereas for aeration and sprayer work, which requires a set working speed, the manual transmission machine will deliver the best results. Adding to its versatility is a wide range of accessories including a spool valve kit, backhoe, midmounted mower, front weight kit, front loader and a rear counter
balance. Plus, its lightweight credentials mean it’s the perfect choice for turf work. Its 25hp three-cylinder engine gives it enough power to perform its tasks with ease without being detrimental to turf. www.reesink turfcare.co.uk
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Tools & guidance MAINTENANCE CALENDAR AND WEATHER UPDATE MEMBER BENEFITS
Find out how to make the most of your IOG membership RUGBY page 34
AUGUST OPERATIONS BOWLING GREENS
Irrigation will be a key component in ensuring good playing surfaces are maintained, but be careful not to apply too much otherwise the surfaces will still be wet for the morning start of play. Continue to mow at 5mm and include a double cut for important matches. When conditions allow, aerate and irrigate first. Good green speeds can be achieved by consistent mowing at 5mm. Rotate rinks and sides regularly to accommodate high levels of use, ensuring wear is spread as evenly as possible over the green. An application of fertiliser will invariably take place this month. Typically this will be an 8-0-0 (inorganic nitrogen) product applied at 34g/m2. P and K will depend on soil analysis and sward assessment results. Plan so that work does not interfere with play. Consider an evening application with a good watering in; then it has all night to wash into the surface and aerate beforehand.
CRICKET SQUARE
The ends can be lightly forked over to a depth of 50mm or so to produce a fine seed bed and a suitable grass seed applied. The body of the renovated wicket can be scarified, aerated and spiked with a sarel spiked roller then oversown with a suitable grass seed mixture. The mixture
TENNIS
LEAGUE
Continue to mow as required, removing the clippings. If the outfield surface is dry or there is a prolonged dry spell, lift the height of cut slightly to reduce sward stress. The standard height of cut will be 12-18mm. Ensure the outfield is checked regularly for worn areas and, if required, carry out repairs.
The playing season has been going on for seven months so the pitch may be getting tired. Communication with the coaches is vital as bare areas can appear if the rotation of drills is not advised. Mowing – at 30mm every day, plus a once weekly cut at 25mm to cut off the annual meadow grass seed heads. Aeration – vertidrain bi-weekly to a maximum depth of 12 inches with four-inch spacings to aid drainage and root development. Fertilising – generally using 12+0+9 or a 14+2+4, 12 x 25kg. Brush every morning using a tractor-mounted dragbrush: this will help stand the grass up and eliminate morning dew. Spraying – an application of wetting agent will be required. Do this just after a vertidrain then water in afterwards. Fertiliser could also be applied.
FOOTBALL
RUGBY UNION
content will depend on the level of cricket being played. Apply a suitable fertiliser to those wickets which have been taken out of use, to aid seed germination and sward establishment.
CRICKET OUTFIELD
Keep moisture levels up to encourage good growth. Feed the pitch with a liquid nitrogen fertiliser to help improve sward density. Thin areas may also benefit from a light seeding and topdressing, though care will need to be taken if a herbicide is being applied. Keep up aeration to encourage moisture penetration into the soil profile; this will also reduce the chance of surface rooting. August is also a good time to apply a fertiliser. An 11-6-9 or a similar type at 34-50g/m2 could be considered. For local authority pitches, a 20-10-10 or similar fertiliser is just as effective and will be cheaper, too.
Mow at 30mm every day plus a once weekly cut at 25mm to remove annual meadow grass seed heads. Aeration – vertidrain bi-weekly down to a maximum depth of 12 inches with four-inch spacings. Fertilise – generally with 12+0+9 or a 20+10+10 if a flush of growth is needed, 12 x 25kg. Brush every morning to help stand the grass up and eliminate morning dew. Repairs – walk over and divot every day. Spraying – an application of wetting agent plus liquid fertiliser. Irrigate as often as training times allow – higher temperatures mean more water.
Now is typically the time that a fertiliser with a lower percentage of nitrogen is applied, especially on more lightly used courts. Continue with routine maintenance, which will include mowing, grooming, brushing, irrigation and overmarking. Where there are multiple tennis courts on site, try and take some out of use and renovate them prior to September.
HORSE RACECOURSE
Routine maintenance work over the summer months will include: Artificial/specific use of irrigation will be more frequent to produce a suitable firmness of ground for a race meeting. Continue to divot and repair after each meeting. Continue to mow regularly. Don’t neglect mowing on courses that are rested over the summer. A fertiliser application might also be given to all, or part of, the course, dependent on need and following a nutrient analysis.
GOLF COURSE
A fertiliser application will most likely be given during this month. Typically one would be an 8-0-0 @ 34g/m2 nitrogen only. A gradual process of renovation can start now. The extent of the work will depend on matches, but operations such as microsolid-tining, with 6mm diameter tines, should be considered. This results in a minimally affected playing surface for a short period of time. Make use of this month to do some renovation because after September the soil and air temperatures drop rapidly.
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TOOLS & GUIDANCE
W E AT H E R
TOP TIPS
JULY WEATHER HOTS UP
• Manage summer soil moisture with Qualibra programmes • Watch for local weather and disease risk on the GreenCast turf management website
HISTORIC DISEASE RISK FOR GUILDFORD
Anthracnose foliar risk
3 2.5 2 1.5 1
0 1 Jul 2016
3 Jul 2016
5 Jul 2016
7 Jul 2016
9 Jul 2016
11 Jul 13 Jul 2016 2016
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HISTORIC DISEASE RISK FOR HEXHAM
Anthracnose foliar risk
Dollar Spot risk
Take-All Patch risk
4 3.5
Historic disease risk
1°C above the long-term average Southern and eastern counties well above average temperature and sunshine Scotland cooler and duller Overall rainfall was nearly 10 per cent above average, but 60 per cent drier in southern England Northern Scotland had rain on 22 days – 50 per cent more than normal Southern England was dry for 25 days, with just 24mm of rain. The GreenCast Historic Disease records also highlight the north/south divide. In Guildford, Surrey, Anthracnose and Dollar Spot pressure increased on 15 July, with severe risk of outbreaks without preventative measures. Take-All Patch risk was extremely high all month (top chart). However, the corresponding records for Hexham in Northumberland, show the
Take-All Patch risk
0.5
2016: KEY JULY WEATHER FACTS UK average of 15.3°C, which was close to
Dollar Spot risk
3.5
Historic disease risk
L
ast year’s July weather exemplified the north/south divide of fighting weather patterns. While much of the north of the UK has remained stubbornly dull and wet, the south has seen temperatures soaring to record levels. In recent years, July temperatures have hit over 28°C daily for more than 50 per cent of days. That can have severe effects on the UK’s cool-season grasses. Coupled to these prolonged dry periods, has been the increasing incidence of intense summer thunderstorms. July downpours have seen over 100 per cent of the month’s rain fall in just 48 hours every year for the past four seasons in some areas.
•B e aware of Dollar Spot and Anthracnose outbreaks during hot weather
3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 1 Jul 2016
3 Jul 2016
5 Jul 2016
7 Jul 2016
9 Jul 2016
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inverse of lower Anthracnose or Dollar Spot pressure in the cooler temperatures, although Take-All Patch incidence was consistently mid to high range reflecting the differing conditions. For fungicide selection and timing, knowing what disease is to be expected and precisely when the risk occurs is crucial to
15 Jul 17 Jul 19 Jul 21 Jul 23 Jul 25 Jul 27 Jul 29 Jul 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016
pick the appropriate product and get the best possible levels of control, along with the longest protection. Following high rainfall July storms, nutrient leaching can compound the problem of nutrient imbalances that also increase stress on turf plants and the susceptibility to disease.
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GROW WITH THE IOG
NEXT MONTH
INTERVIEW
On another level
More advice on continued training and development
Dan Prest talks to Ampleforth Abbey & College’s Colin Ball, the first person to obtain the IOG Level 3 Technical Diploma in Turf Surface Management Colin Ball (right) with Dan Prest
By Dan Prest IOG head of member services
How did you get started? When I left school, I took up an engineering apprenticeship and became a time-served machinist and fitter, but the company went into receivership. I then took a job on a farm and spent the next 20 years gaining experience in all aspects of the industry. However, the hours were long and I needed a change. How have you found your time working at Ampleforth? I will have been at Ampleforth for five years in September and I’ve loved every day so far. There’s a great team here, and there’s plenty of support from the management. How much value do you think colleges and schools put on qualifications for sports turf versus that of grounds and stadia? Qualifications are highly recognised within the school/college sector, although budgets are smaller. With science and technology constantly changing the way things are done, being qualified and continual training are essential to further progression. How did you find the online learning experience? For years I’ve been saying to myself I should make the time to gain a qualification in something I love, but the thought of having to take time out from work or having to travel to my nearest college always seemed to put the idea on the back burner. Being able to study online made everything so simple.
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You produced some excellent work for your qualification. What are you future plans? To keep doing what I’m doing, gaining experience within the industry and putting what I have learned from my course into practice, and using this knowledge to refine the way we do things. And I will definitely be looking into the possibility of a Level 4 qualification. Finally, what equipment do you use? With the college having quite a variety of artificial and turf surfaces, we have quite an extensive fleet of equipment. In the last six months we’ve purchased another Dennis FT510, a wicket cutter/ Verticutter – a fantastic machine, so simple to maintain and use; and we’ve just added a Kubota L4240 tractor as a multi-purpose all-rounder (a light and very manoeuvrable machine). We’re also awaiting delivery of a new Dennis G8660 square cutter, as we’ve sadly had to put our 35-year-old mower into permanent retirement.
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