TPI on the Road at the GCSAA Conference

Reported by Suz Trusty

The 2022 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show, held in San Diego, California, February 5-10, marked the association’s first major international gathering since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Conference theme was “Moving Forward,” a concept attendees enthusiastically embraced. Though due to San Diego’s Covid protocols, all participants were required to wear their “official wristband” indicating they were “CrowdPass Approved,” showing they had presented either proof of their Covid vaccination or negative Covid test results—the overall atmosphere was cheerful and upbeat.

The GCSAA Trade Show presents a kaleidoscope of the turfgrass industry, with many TPI member suppliers exhibiting and multiple TPI turfgrass producer members who supply their sod to those within the golf course market also exhibiting. In addition, many TPI member turfgrass professors visit the trade show area—especially those making presentations during the educational sessions and/or those shepherding their student attendees, many of which are team members participating in GCSAA’s Turf Bowl. Additionally, the Turf & Ornamental Communicators Association (TOCA) holds a breakfast meeting in conjunction with the GCSAA conference, bringing turfgrass industry editors, writers, supplier communication directors, and public relations specialists to the mix.

The annual “Ladies Leading Turf” Power Hour took place the afternoon of February 9. This year’s theme was “Mentoring Women.” The inspiring session featured leading women within the industry sharing their successful strategies for mentorship and relating their experiences in both mentorship and mentee roles. Immediately following the session, all women—and men—employed or studying in the turfgrass industry were welcome to attend a reception to network and socialize. The attendance at these two events is growing every year, as are the networking connections that are formed during them.

A highlight of the conference, for both turf docs and students, is GCSAA's Collegiate Turf Bowl Competition. In 2022, forty-four teams, composed of 153 students from across North America competed in the event. Purdue University’s Team #31 took first place. Student members of the number one team are: William Myrehn, Nicholas Oyler, William Hathaway, and Kyle Kidwell. Two additional Purdue Turf Bowl teams made the Top Ten, coming in at number 8 and number 10. The advisor to the Purdue University Turf Bowl teams is Cale A. Bigelow, PhD. Dr. Bigelow teams with Mike Fidanza, PhD, to provide the “Rooted in Research” articles for TPI’s Turf News.

GCSAA Turf Bowl 2022 Top Ten:

# 1 – Purdue University – Team 31 # 2 - SUNY Delhi – Team 19 # 3 - Ohio State University – Team 27 # 4 - Penn State University – Team 3 # 5 - Penn State University – Team 6 # 6 - Michigan State University – Team 22 # 7 - Oklahoma State University – Team 14 # 8 - Purdue University – Team 32 # 9 - University of Maryland – Team 29 # 10 - Purdue University – Team 33

ASSOCIATION UPDATES

ETS Field Days 2022 | May 17-18 Girona Barcelona (Spain) JOIN US AGAIN ON THE TURF PATH!

The European Turfgrass Society (ETS) is pleased to welcome ETS members and other turfgrass specialists to the ETS Field Days 2022 in Barcelona, Spain. All of the details, as well as the registration form can be found atthe link that follows. https://www.turfgrasssociety.eu/ETSFD_2022/ The ETS organizes its Field Days every two years: Valencia – Spain (2009), Ghent – Belgium (2011), Monte Carlo – Monaco (2013), Helsingør – Denmark (2015), Brno – Czech Republic (2017), and Padova - Italy (2019) were the previous hosts of these international Field Days. After the long-term Covid-related restrictions all over the world, ETS is looking forward to again meeting in person to continue providing knowledge and connections for the benefit of the turfgrass world. Spain has been chosen to host the event in 2022, May 17-18, in the heart of the Mediterranean region, home to beautiful natural scenery and an internationally renowned modern town. The meeting venue is the Hotel Camiral at PGA Catalunya Resort in Caldes de Malavella. This international Field Days is being prepared to provide a forum to spread innovative applications for the benefit of the turfgrass industry promoting the exchange of information among turfgrass specialists. The full schedule, hotel contact information, and the registration details are all posted on the website.

Let's meet again!

Join TPI at the ETP 2022 Turf Show Expo

Turfgrass Producers International is heading to Germany to support the European Turfgrass Producers 2022 Turf Show Expo in Pattensen, Germany. Join TPI in July 2022 for the ETP Expo, farm tours, and a look at German culture. The ETP Turf Show Expo will take place on July 7-8, 2022.

Space is limited on this trip. Visit the TPI website and sign up to be among the first to receive registration information! https://www.TurfGrassSod.org/events/ The Association of European Turfgrass Producers (ETP) connects the over 700 turfgrass growers throughout Europe, many of whom are quite isolated in terms of their geography, and in terms of their interaction with other growers. Bringing all these turfgrass growers together creates a group with considerable potential for pooling resources, learning from each other, and tackling the issues facing our industry. The social element of the Association is important because that’s where some of the most fruitful conversations can be had… and where the most useful contacts can be made. The work of ETP complements the role of the national turfgrass associations which are providing excellent regional service to their members. On a European scale, ETP helps to reinforce and strengthen this increasingly important industry.

Host Farm for the ETP 2022 Turf Show Expo, Rasenland Pattensen, lies in the fertile, beautiful, and historic “Calenberger Land” only 15 kilometers (9.32 miles) south of Hanover and 30 minutes from the Hanover airport. The farm has been farmed by the current owner’s family since the 13th century.

Apart from arable crops, currently about 75 hectares (185.33 acres) of turfgrass are grown in one block on site. Rasenland Pattensen is part of the Rasenland Group comprising four production sites and several outlets in Germany. Since the beginning of turfgrass production in 1992 the Rasenland Group has developed into one of the leading suppliers for turfgrass in Germany and was the first producer to use automated production technology in Central Europe as early as 2001. Rasenland Pattensen, owned by TPI Board of Trustees member Albrecht Freiherr Knigge, is proud to be the host farm for this fantastic event. The whole ETP-team is very much looking forward to welcoming you—Do Not Miss It!

ASSOCIATION UPDATES

ITRC 2022 To Be Held July 10-15 in Copenhagen

It is with great pleasure that the ITS Board announces ITRC 2022, the fourteenth International Turfgrass Research Conference. This event, which will be arranged by the Scandinavian Turfgrass and Environment Research Foundation (STERF), will be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, on July 10-15, 2022. The conference theme is Development & Sustainability. The challenges for the future of the turfgrass sector are many and diverse. Climate change impacts are exceeding the worst expectations. Strong restrictions on the use of chemicals and fertilizers, and increasing pressure on natural resources (notably water, energy, and land) are expected. There is an accelerating loss of ecosystem services and biodiversity in the urban landscapes. All this calls for more research and innovation for a sustainable future. The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set out in Agenda 2030 will constitute the conference program framework. Seven SDGs related to the turfgrass industry have been identified: SDG 3 (Good health and well-being), SDG 11 (Sustainable cities and communities), SDG 12 (Responsible consumption and production), SDG 13 (Climate action), SDG 14 (Life below water), SDG 15 (Life on land), and SDG 17 (Partnership for the goals). The conference is an arena established to exchange knowledge and experiences with the best experts in this field. It will bring together researchers, greenkeepers, superintendents, planning authorities, technical experts, consultants, high level turfgrass managers, and top industry delegates. This will provide great opportunities to improve and extend important international interdisciplinary collaboration, which is the only viable strategy to overcome the current challenges and create a sustainable future. Please join your peers in 2022 for the latest cutting-edge research in the turfgrass industry and stay to enjoy all that Copenhagen area has to offer! For more information on the event please visit itrc2022.org. For more information about STERF please visit www.sterf.org. For more information about Copenhagen please visit www. visitcopenhagen.com.

Turfgrass Growers Association Demonstration Day 2022

The Turfgrass Growers Association is pleased to announce that the Turfgrass Summer Show is returning for 2022. Save The Date—Thursday, July 28, 2022.Turffit has very kindly offered to host the 2022 event. “We are looking forward to welcoming all the members and the turfgrass industry to Kinross, Scotland.” Formed in 1995, the TGA comprises some 50 companies (including affiliates), collectively responsible for producing approximately 70 percent of the cultivated turf grown in the British Isles and supplying specialist knowledge and infrastructure to that industry. The July 2022 event will be reminiscent of the TGA shows held in previous years. It attracts all those involved in turfgrass production, from growers to the ancillary industry, and will host an excellent exhibition and demonstration to provide a great interactive opportunity for those who attend. The event will also be registered for both BASIS* and NRoSO** points which will be available on the day. It’s an event not to be missed! For more information, email admin@britishgrowers.org or visit https://turfgrass.co.uk/tga-summer-show-2022/. *BASIS is an independent organization committed to raising professional standards across land management and food production by supporting people and businesses with our industry leading qualifications, professional registers, and auditing schemes. **NRoSO is the National Register of Sprayer Operators.

Flooding Hits Turf Australia

Extensive flooding occurred across much of Australia during February and March, and continuing threats of flooding were still being issued into early April as this issue of Turf News was being prepared for print.

In the March issue of the Turf Australia e-newsletter, Jenny Zardo reported that flood recovery was underway, and some growers were still in the process of assessing damage while others were beyond that step and concentrating on trying to get back into operation. Zardo expressed the ongoing concern of the entire industry for those working through the frustrations and losses of the flooding and urged them to keep the safety of themselves and their staff members as their top priority. Zardo encouraged those needing information and/or assistance to contact the association. She stressed that Turf Australia is continuing to work diligently with state and federal agencies to ensure the turfgrass industry is heard and the impact to turfgrass production farmers is understood as government aid packages are designed.

ASSOCIATION UPDATES

Turf Australia Urges Response to Turf Industry Statistics Survey

Turf Australia is encouraging all growers to participate during the survey period for the levy-funded Turf Industry Statistics 2020-21 to 2024-25 (TU21000), which began in February. As Turf Australia stated, “Data drives decision making, but that data must be robust, reliable, and quantifiable. This data will be a catalyst for the industry informing strategic decisions and investment priorities. The findings are shared with growers over the five years of the project.” In addition, Turf Australia reported, “This year we will also be producing an industry benchmarking tool which will enable growers to measure themselves against other, similar businesses.” Additional information and another call for participation were issued in the Turf Industry Statistic – You Tube video posted on April 6. To view that video, use the link that follows. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Lk81wYWNSA. Grower participation in this survey generates the data and helps form the insights that assist in providing a clear picture of your business and help shape the turfgrass industry. In addition, it equips Turf Australia to provide essential data to ensure our voices are heard when needs arise or disaster strikes.

Excellent NxGen Gathering

Turf Australia was absolutely thrilled to welcome over 30 of the industry’s best and brightest to the NxGen gathering held February 20-22, 2022, at Shoal Bay, NSW. It was an unforgettable event. The attendees gained valuable information and ideas from it that they can use in their own operations. Turf Australia extends a thank you to everyone who attended and to the great NxGen presenters and partners. Check out a few images from the event.

TURFMUTT POLL—

IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY YARD SPACE

Information provided by the TurfMutt Foundation

More than three quarters of Americans who have a yard (76 percent) say the family yard space is one of the most important parts of their home, according to a new poll commissioned by the TurfMutt Foundation and conducted online by The Harris Poll. Survey results were reported in a March 2, 2022, press release.

Nearly three quarters of Americans overall (72 percent) say a spacious yard would be at the top of their wish list if they were looking for a new home. That desire reflects a cultural shift in how Americans view their yards. Even more so, they’re willing to invest in their yards, and are using them more for everyday activities, including as work-from-home office space.

“What we are seeing with Americans is greater reliance on the backyard as an extension of the home. It’s not just a place that looks pretty—it’s a place to live and do daily activities such as working, dining, and relaxing,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation. “They’ve discovered that ‘backyarding’ is a better way to live and there’s no turning back. They are also willing to hire professionals and invest money into yard improvements.”

People are enjoying extra time outside, too. Nearly a quarter of Americans who have a yard (24 percent) are spending more time in their yards now than before the Covid-19 pandemic. And they are really enjoying the extra time outside. Over three in five Americans who have a yard (63 percent) say they have enjoyed doing more activities in their yard since the pandemic began. Younger adults (68 percent age 18-54 vs. 52 percent age 65+) and parents of kids under 18 (73 percent vs. 58 percent who are not parents of kids under 18) are more apt to feel this way.

Kris Kiser and Mutt Mulligan, spokesdog for the TurfMutt Foundation, enjoy backyarding. 73 per cent of parents of kids under 18 say they have enjoyed doing more activities in their yard since the pandemic. The yard has also become a place to de-stress, with more than two thirds of Americans who have a yard (69 percent) saying doing yard work, such as mowing, trimming, or planting, is one of the ways they like to de-stress these days. This is especially true among parents of kids under 18 as they are more likely than their counterparts without kids under 18 to cite this (76 percent vs. 65 percent). A vast majority of Americans who have a yard (84 percent) plan to invest in their yard in 2022, including:

• 67 percent say they’ll purchase plants/trees/flowers/ vegetables to plant themselves • 39 percent report they will purchase items to maintain or improve their grassy areas • 23 percent say they will install or update hardscaping themselves.

Parents of kids under 18 (73 percent) are more likely than their counterparts (63 percent) to say they plan to invest in their yard in 2022 by purchasing plants, trees, flowers, or vegetables to plant themselves. Parents of kids under 18 are also more likely than those without kids under 18 to purchase items to maintain or improve grassy areas on the lawn (44 percent vs. 36 percent), and more likely to hire a professional to do landscaping or hardscaping (47 percent vs. 26 percent).

This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of the TurfMutt Foundation from February 1-3, 2022, among 2,012 U.S. adults ages 18 and older, among whom 1,728 have a yard. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact Ami Neiberger, ami@fourleafpr.com. lated. g mi

HAPPENINGS

Ian True Announces Retirement

Editor’s note: This letter did not arrive in time to be included in the March/April issue, but we wanted to share it with you now to recognize a long-time member of this great industry and allow him to speak to all of you.

Ian True is presented with TPI’s Distinguished Service Award and Honorary Member Award at the 2019 Summer Field Day. TPI President at the time, Eric Heuver presents the awards to Ian True. Ian’s wife Cathy is at his side, while Gerry Brouwer (left) and Gregg Tvetene (right) stand behind him, affirming their support of the honors.

After 42 years of service to the turfgrass industry, I am retiring on February 25, 2022. My career in the industry began in 1975, hand-stacking sod for Brayford Sod in Alliston, Ontario. In 1979, I was hired by Brouwer Turf Equipment as a territory sales representative. In 2003, I joined Trebro Manufacturing. Trebro led the industry in production of Automatic Sod Harvesting Equipment. During my career, I have established great relationships with customers, many of whom I am proud to call my friends. I am honored to have been connected to Turfgrass Producers International, as a Board Member, Committee Chair for the Membership Committee, and the Manufacturer’s Advisory Council. During the TPI conference in 2019, I received the Distinguished Service Award and Honorary Member Award. I am humbled to be recognized by such a wonderful organization. Thank you, Gregg Tvetene and Gerry Brouwer, for your support and guidance during my career. I also want to thank my lovely wife Cathy, for always being there to support me at home. Cathy and I are looking forward to retirement. We plan to travel, golf, ski, do volunteer work, and spend time with our family including our six grandchildren. It has been a great career and I will miss everyone associated with the turfgrass industry. If you ever want to have a visit, I am only a phone call away at 705-435-5899, and look forward to hearing from you. With Kind Regards, Ian True

TPI VP Bob McCurdy Honored by TTA

Bob McCurdy, McCurdy Sod Farms, Dyer, Tennessee, was the recipient of the Tom Samples Professional of the Year Award from the Tennessee Turfgrass Association (TTA). The Award was presented at the Association’s 2022 Conference. Bob is currently serving as Vice President of Turfgrass Producers International (TPI).

As reported by Julie Holt in the February/March 2022 issue of the Tennessee Turfgrass Turf Zone: “Bob McCurdy is the senior partner of the farm and a stalwart leader in both Dyer, TN, and the turfgrass community. Bob McCurdy’s influence in the sod production segment has certainly been immense, but it’s the impression he’s made across the industry that has allowed him to be a true leader and example for turfgrass professionals of all stripes.” And later in the article, after detailing the establishment and growth of the business, and Bob’s commitment to his family, Holt wrote, “His commitment to the Dyer Community also is a top priority. He serves on the board of Gibson Electric, which has installed broadband in the area. He’s been a Boy Scout leader for 20 years. He serves on the County Industrial Development board …” Holt also wrote, “Bob and Suzanne are lifetime members of the Methodist Church. Bob says their faith has been the most important thing in their lives and has gotten them through the good times and the bad. For as much effort and dedication as Bob has shown to his neighbors and his family, the natural overflow of that has been a gift to the turfgrass community. It is no secret Bob’s work ethic, commitment, and humility are the reasons he’s had such success and influence on his peers for all these years.” After closing the article with, “Congratulations Bob, on your well-deserved recognition as TTA’s Tom Samples Professional of the Year and thank you for your dedication to the Association and the greater turfgrass industry.” Holt included quotes about Bob from others. From a TPI past president, Bobby Winstead, Winstead Turf Farms, Inc., Arlington, TN, “Bob’s always been positive about everything and everyone. He’s extremely strong in his faith and so deserving of this award.” From Dr. Casey Reynolds, executive director of TPI, “I’ve learned a lot from him already. I look forward to learning much more for years to come. He’s a quintessential sod farmer—great guy, member of the community, family man, astute businessperson, and I’m actually convinced he also has a second career as a comedian.”

HAPPENINGS

Dr. Kyley Dickson Appointed New A-LIST® Executive Director

On March 14, 2022, the Alliance for Low Input Sustainable Turf (A-LIST®) announced that Kyley Dickson, PhD, at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville, had been selected as the organization’s new Executive Director. The Executive Director, in cooperation with the Executive Committee and Research Committee, develops and implements the long-term strategies of the alliance. As the Executive Director of the A-LIST, Dr. Dickson will seek to utilize his experience in turfgrass research to increase awareness of the program and promote turfgrass as an environmentally friendly solution. Dr. Dickson’s interest lies in working with founding A-LIST members, university cooperators, and other industry professionals to raise awareness of the importance of planting improved natural turfgrass varieties. “Kyley is going to help us to bring sustainable solutions to all the turfgrass markets. Our sustainable solutions reduce the hidden carbon costs of turfgrasses while enabling the benefits to be enjoyed by all. Kyley understands the long-term benefits of A-LIST varieties and brings excitement to the team,” said Dr. Leah Brilman, Director Project Management and Technical Services.

This appointment supplements the critical work Dr. Dickson will continue at UT-Knoxville.

Dr. Dickson is a native of East Tennessee, and was awarded three degrees from the University of Tennessee – Knoxville: A Doctorate in Plant, Soil, and Insect Sciences, a Master’s degree in Plant Sciences, and a Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences, with concentration in Turfgrass Management. Dr. Dickson has worked for 15 years in the turfgrass industry on a wide variety of areas, ranging from turfgrass research to sports fields management to lawn care maintenance. His working role today is as Researcher & Associate Director at the Center for Athletic Field Safety at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville, and he has conducted extensive turfgrass research at his university for over 10 years.

Project EverGreen Announces Alliance with I Want to Mow Your Lawn

Like Project EverGreen’s (projectevergreen.org) GreenCare for Troops, which provides complimentary lawn care and basic landscape services to families of deployed military personnel, I Want to Mow Your Lawn (iwanttomowyourlawn. com) provides complimentary lawn mowing services to senior citizens, military veterans, disabled and under-resourced individuals, and families. The New Jersey-based non-profit was founded in 2020 by Brian Schwartz. “Forming an alliance to help more military families, veterans, and other deserving individuals made sense for many reasons,” said Cindy Code, executive director of Project EverGreen. “Our two organizations together can cast a wider net and help more families and individuals enjoy all the benefits healthy, accessible green spaces have to offer.” These like-minded initiatives provide the platform for individuals and businesses with the skills and bandwidth needed to maintain healthy lawns, which in turn deliver peace of mind to families during stressful times such as deployments or rehabbing from a service-related injury. The alliance will work to raise the profile and availability of the programs to fill current gaps and provide the opportunity for new volunteers to give back to their communities. “We’re honored to officially partner with Project EverGreen to create synergies between our two organizations. The partnership will multiply efforts to provide relief for families of active military and give back to those who have proudly served our country,” said Schwartz. “It’s our way to say thank you for the service and sacrifices families make to protect our freedoms. We never take that for granted.”

RISE Elects New Officers and Adds Board Members

RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment)elected new officers and welcomed new governing board members during its March meeting in Arlington, VA. The 2022 RISE executive committee includes newly elected Karen Larson of Clarke as chair, and Jose Milan of Bayer Environmental Scienceas vice chair. Blaine Pinkerton, Nufarm, continues his term as treasurer. Elections were held during the governing board’s March meeting due to company staffing changes. “I’m thrilled to lead the board into 2022, which so far, is a challenging year at the state and federal levels,” said Larson. “We have an engaged RISE governing board to guide RISE through the tough issues the specialty industry is facing and to support the association’s work to promote the benefits of our products.” The governing board elected two new members, Barbara Aguiar of BASFand Shayne Wetherall of Amguard. Members continuing their terms serving on the governing board include: Daryl Allen, Corteva Agriscience; Kathy Bishop, Lebanon Seaboard Corp.; Bill Culpepper, SePRO Corp.; John Johnson, Prokoz; Scott Lazarczyk, SBM Life Sciences; Todd Mason, Sipcam Agro USA; Scott Reasons, Syngenta; Brian Rowan, SiteOne Landscape Supply; and Nadia Sinno, FMC Corp. p ppy;

TURFGRASS INDUSTRY NEWS

LOVING Adds 700-acre Florida Sod Farm

LOVING announced on February 21 that it had expanded its footprint in Florida once again with the recent addition of a 700-acre (283 hectares) sod farm in Punta Gorda, Florida. With the framework already in place to begin production, this expansion enables LOVING to further support homebuilders in Southwest Florida, as well as landscaping companies and DIYers alike through nextDAYsod.com. “Production with this new farm will optimize our Southwest Florida operations significantly. This farm combined with our Babcock Ranch farming location will set us up to execute on the continued growth expected in Southwest Florida. We also are looking forward to supporting the local community through employment and outreach opportunities,” says Mike Haynes, founder and president at LOVING. LOVING is headquartered in Gastonia, NC, and offers landscaping, outdoor living, and sod supply to both local and national homebuilding clients across the Southeast. LOVING also offers a user-friendly online platform for ordering sod with free next day delivery through nextDAYsod.com. Now one of the largest landscaping and sod farming operations in the U.S., the addition of the farm in Punta Gorda puts LOVING at nearly 7,000 acres (2,833 hectares) of sod in production across all locations in the Carolinas and Florida.

DLF Acquires OreGro Seeds

DLF announced on March 2 that it had acquired the assets of OreGro Seeds, a forage, cover crop, and turfgrass breeding company located in Albany, Oregon. OreGro’s proprietary cool-season forage grass, forage legume, turfgrass, cover crop, and small grain varieties are now offered exclusively through DLF and its distribution partners in the U.S. and abroad. “This investment not only complements our expansive global research and product portfolio, but also adds significant operational capacity and staff to support customers,” said Claus Ikjaer, CEO for DLF Pickseed USA. “This is a strategic development to bolster our seed innovation, service, and support.” The acquisition includes three warehouse facilities totaling 75,000 square feet, equipped with blending and packaging capabilities. The company will also incorporate the research activities of OreGro into its North American and global research platform and welcome twenty of OreGro’s former employees to the DLF family. “These new team members and infrastructure will help ensure a seamless transition for OreGro partners and position our customers for future growth,” said Ikjaer. “It’s exciting to have the opportunity to further invest in the Willamette Valley seed industry.”

Heritage Acquires Green Velvet

Heritage Landscape Supply Group, Inc. (“Heritage”) has acquired Green Velvet (the “Company”), a leading wholesaler of fertilizer, seed, sod, and other turf and ornamental products. Headquartered in Bellbrook, Ohio, Green Velvet was founded in 1959 by Ray and Mary Tischer and is run today by their son, Randy Tischer, and his wife, Beth. The Company employs a team of over 40 professionals and operates out of four locations throughout Southwest and Central Ohio. Randy will continue to lead the Company’s dedicated employee base going forward alongside general manager, Nick Janovich, ensuring continuity and consistency for customer and supplier partners. Matt McDermott, President of Heritage, commented, “Green Velvet is a perfect complement to our existing Wolf Creek branches in Ohio and greatly increases our presence in the agronomics/turf and ornamental product categories. The Tischer family has built an outstanding family business that embodies loyal customer service with operational integrity, and we are delighted to have them on our team.” Randy Tischer, owner of Green Velvet, added, “For the last 63 years Green Velvet has earned a reputation for providing exceptional service, trusted advice, and dependable products to landscape professionals, sports turf managers, and golf course superintendents throughout the Midwest. As we look towards the future, our newfound partnership with Heritage will allow us to continue doing what made us successful while providing growth opportunities for both our company and our employees. Heritage shares our commitment to customer service and will protect the legacy our dedicated team has created over the years.”

West Coast Turf Promotes Natural Grass on Facebook

West Coast Turf/Western Sod regularly posts benefits of natural grass on their Facebook page. Here is just one example that they posted on March 19. One of the best parts of having the BNP Paribas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in our back yard is watching everyone enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds! The West Coast Turf natural grass keeps it cool even when temperatures near the 90s artificial turf has been shown to be up to 86.5 degrees hotter than natural grass on an 81 degree day—can you even imagine? The lawn outside court 1 is a great place to watch the main match. We’re pretty certain the tennis fans are glad that they’ve “kept it real” in Indian Wells! #turfgrass #BNPParibasOpen #keepitreal TurfGrass Producers International

TURFGRASS INDUSTRY NEWS

SiteOne® Landscape Supply Acquired JK Enterprise

Landscape Supply

According to an article from Landscape Management online March 30, JK Enterprise Landscape Supply has been acquired by SiteOne® Landscape Supply. JK Enterprise supplies bulk and bagged mulches and soil, hardscapes and nursery products to professional contractors and local government entities in the Virginia and Maryland areas. “We are very excited to partner with SiteOne. We knew they would provide our associates and customers with the very best opportunities in the green industry for years to come,” said Jake Klitenic, JK Enterprise Landscape Supply founder and CEO. “We look forward to continuing our strong history of providing quality products and services to our customers as part of the SiteOne team.” JK Enterprise Landscape company has seven locations in Northern Virginia (Alexandria, Centreville, Chantilly, Culpeper, Nokesville, and Warrenton) and Maryland (Davidsonville). Doug Black, chairman and CEO of SiteOne Landscape Supply said this partnership “… will expand the SiteOne Landscape Supply footprint in Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland.”

Odell Beckham, Jr. Super Bowl Injury Renews Calls to Ban Turf

When LA Rams Odell Beckham, Jr. went down with a nocontact injury in the second quarter of this year’s Super Bowl a renewed call to ban artificial turf in the NFL was all over social media. @ConnorBarwin98 Tweeted, “NFL needs to ban artificial turf in all stadiums. Hope @obj is ok.” His Tweet was Retweeted 239 times and received 2,742 Likes. Multiple NFL players took to social media to voice their displeasure with playing on artificial turf. In particular, Cleveland Browns running back Nick Chubb and San Francisco 49ers George Kittle initiated a call-to-action by sending out a petition for the NFL to ban artificial turf in favor of real grass. Chubb noted that the issue is personal because he sprained his MCL while playing on artificial turf. George Kittle said, “I’ve been saying, artificial turf feels like playing on cement. It’s time to play smarter, not harder! Help us #FlipTheTurf by signing the petition http://change.org/fliptheturf, @Penningtonlawn, #penningtonpartner”

Bayer to sell its Environmental Science Professional business to Cinven

Bayer announced on March 10 that Bayer and Cinven have entered into a definitive agreement regarding the sale of Bayer’s Environmental Science Professional business for a purchase price of 2.6 billion U.S. dollars (2.4 billion euros). “This divestment represents a very attractive purchase price and allows us to focus on our core agricultural business and the successful implementation of our Crop Science Division growth strategy,” said Rodrigo Santos, member of the Board of Management of Bayer AG and president of the Crop Science Division. Environmental Science Professional is a global leader offering environmental solutions to control pests, diseases, and weeds in areas such as vector control, professional pest management, vegetation management, forestry, and turf and ornamentals. In 2021, the business had approximately 800 employees supporting operations and sales in more than 100 countries. It is headquartered in Cary, North Carolina, USA. Bayer had announced its decision to divest the business in February 2021. “… We are convinced by Cinven’s focus and its commitment to the long-term growth potential for the business and its people,” Santos said. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of this year, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. Its net proceeds are to be used to reduce Bayer’s net financial debt. Until closing, Environmental Science Professional will continue operating as usual. The sale does not include glyphosate, the product and the legal action surrounding it. Cinven is a leading international private equity firm focused on building world-class global companies. Cinven has offices in London, New York, Frankfurt, Paris, Milan, Madrid, Guernsey, and Luxembourg. Cinven takes a responsible approach towards its portfolio companies, their employees, suppliers, local communities, the environment, and society.

TN Turf Tuesdays: New & Improved for 2022

Faculty, staff, and students within the University of Tennessee Turfgrass Science & Management program are excited to continue their popular digital learning series: Tennessee Turf

Tuesdays.

The objective of this series is to provide individuals managing golf courses, sports fields, residential/commercial lawns, and sod farms the latest research on optimizing turfgrass aesthetic and functional quality via sustainable cultural and pest management practices. The 2022 series will featuremore sessions, more speakers, and more pesticide credits and is not limited to Tennessee residents. CEUs are available from the LIVE webinars for many professional associations and in numerous states. Webinars will be conducted LIVE on the first Tuesday of every month from April through October 2022. All webinars will be live from 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT and recorded. Recorded webinars will be posted on the UT Turfgrass YouTube Channel and made available through Apple Podcasts. More information can be found by searching for Turf Tuesday at https://www.utk.edu. ough

FOR SALE: Barber 600 Turf Rake: Good condition, pick up grass clippings, small rocks, and small sod chunks. Asking $10,000.

Please contact Gordon at gordon@redhenturf.com or 574-876-4159.

FOR SALE: Kesmac 2700, We have moved to a newer machine and no longer need in our current fleet. Asking $75,000.

Please call or email with any questions: dmilligan@ superscapesnc.com or 910-540-6452.

FOR SALE: 2008 Trebro Autostack I. Excellent condition, well maintained, field ready, kept in shed in winter months. Comes with John Deere engine, extra lighting, rear camera, and upgraded wheel drive motors. 8147.8 hrs and has over $20,000. in spare parts. Asking $110,000 US, price includes spare parts.

Please contact 780-939-2226 or email svsfarm@gmail.com; located in Alberta, Canada.

FOR SALE: 2006 Trebro Autostack #175; Purchased new September 2006;Although it has 15,827 hours, it is in excellent condition. New JD motor at 10,530 hours.Stored indoors and completely re-furbed each winter. Heat and air conditioning are working in cab.Dual auto steer, 20 skid capacity (has extensions installed).Electric over HYDRAULIC depth control, auto lube, touch screen computer control.Main head bearings done 2 years ago.Electronic scale installed;Bought new harvester last summer, unit is spare now.Can help arrange shipping;Ready to harvest.Asking $85,000 US or $105,000 CAN

Please contact Claus at claus@zandersod.com.

HELP WANTED: NOW HIRING @Liberty Sod Farm in Great Meadows, NJ 07838 Position Available-Hands on farm manager: We are looking for a hardworking dedicated person to join our team as a farm manager. This is a hands-on agricultural job working outside with farm equipment, trucks and trailers and black dirt. Experience and knowledge required include farm maintenance, operating forklifts, loading flatbed trucks/trailers, and basic to intermediate mechanical jobs. Having knowledge of Firefly Automatix machinery is a big plus!!

Please contact 908-637-4203 or libertysod@comcast.net.

FOR SALE: Atmax Traxmax 250 Kubota, turbo charged diesel, good working condition, holds slopes well. Asking $15,000.

Please call Shawn at 270-836-5372.

FOR SALE: 2004 Autostack I: AS-061 with 6697 hours. Excellent condition, well maintained and field ready, heads rebuilt every year and kept in shed through winter months, new cutter head pump and conveyor belt. 6697 hours. Asking $97,000 OBO.

Contact Steve at 262-303-6052.

FOR SALE: 2018 Brouwer 4000, 1800 hours, well maintained, was purchased new in 2018. Asking $220,000.00 Please contact Alane Carter at 401-295-8449 or .

FOR SALE: Tractors, Harvesters, Mowers, Forklifts: Tractors:JD 5310 2wd open cab with turf tires, JD 5420 2wd open cab with turf tires, JD 5075m cab, 4wd, turf tires. Harvesters: Magnum BR 42 roll harvester, TSH 55 slab harvester. Mowers: 2-9 gang Jacobson fairway mowers, Trimax Pegasus 20'. Forklifts: 5500 Navigator, Terex Princeton D50 (needs work)

Please text Paul at 662-357-5126 for photos, prices & details.

TPI CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING—TARGETED TO TURFGRASS PRODUCERS WORLDWIDE

Buying or selling equipment, supplies, properties, or looking for employees or employment opportunities?

TPI classified advertising is the answer! Reach your target market with a free or low cost classified ad in Turf News magazine and on the TPI website at www.TurfGrassSod.org.

The classified ad section is the first place many TPI members look when they receive the most recent issue of Turf News magazine and the most viewed area on the TPI website.

All classified ads are posted to the TPI website within 24 hours of approval and featured in the next issue of Turf News!

TPI Member: FREE / Non-Member: $50

Rates are determined in one-inch vertical increments.

Please estimate approximately 65 words per inch. Photos are limited to the website and no more than two photographs per ad.

View full details at:

www.TurfGrassSod.org/classifieds Deadline:

30-days prior to Turf News issue date (e.g., July/August Turf News issue, ad is due by June 1).

Upload your classified ad at: www.TurfGrassSod.org/classifieds or send to Geri Hannah via email:

ghannah@TurfGrassSod.org Fax: 847-649-5678

Mail:

Turfgrass Producers International 444 E. Roosevelt Road #346 | Lombard, IL 60148 U.S.A

All classified ads are subject to review; TPI does not endorse any ad and reserves the right to edit or decline any ad.

Advanced Equipment Sales …………………...…….………. 57, 69

A-List …….………............………........…………....….………… 47

Brouwer Kesmac ……………………………....….………...… 39, 69

Cameron Financial ……………………..………………………… 69

FireFly Automatix ……………...……...………………………… 13

Jonathan Green & Sons, Inc. …………….……………………… 63

KWMI …………………………………..……..………..……. 49, 69

Landmark Seed Company ……………...….. Outside Back Cover

Load Lifter ………….................…...….……......…..…..………. 67

Magnum ……………………………...… Inside Front Cover, 18-19

Mountain View Seeds ……………...…...…….....…..…..………. 41 Progressive Turf Equipment, Inc. ….………………………….… 61

R&R Products, Inc. ……….……………..……………………….. 43

Sod Solutions® …………………………...…..…..…..……………. 37

STEC Equipment, Inc. …………...…...…..……………………. 51

Summit Seed – Profile Products ……........……………….……... 45

TAMANET (USA) …………………….………………...………... 3

Trebro Manufacturing, Inc. ………………….…………………… 5

Trilo® /Vanmac bv …………………..……………………………. 69

Turfgrass Producers International …..............….……....... 25, 69

Van Vuuren Machines ………….…………...…. Inside Back Cover

WELCOME

NEW & RETURNING MEMBERS

Tommy Hanka

Hanka Sod PO Box 1209 Mission, TX 78573 956-792-4889 janie@tommyhanka.com

John Gardner, Jr.

Tuckerton Turf Farms, Inc. 320 Tuckerton Road Tabernacle, NJ 08088 609-268-0615 tuckturf@aol.com

J. Ware

Green Horizons Turf Farm 153 Doctor Flanighan Kearneysville, WV 25430 304-725-2895 jware@GreenHorizonsTurf.com

George Bravos

Sod and Seed Inc. 2087 E Chennault Ave. Fresno, CA 93720 925-435-7874 sodandseed@gmail.com

TURFGRASS INDUSTRY CALENDAR

Editor’s note: The following information was up to date as of April 1, 2022. Please check the websites listed for the most current information as you do your planning.

2022 MAY May 17-18 ETS (European Turfgrass Society} Field Days 2022

Barcelona, Spain https://www.turfgrasssociety.eu/ETSFD_2022/

JULY July 7-8 - Rescheduled from September 2021 ETP (European Turfgrass Producers} Turf Show Expo & Field Day

Pattensen, Germany info@turfgrassproducers.eu

July 10-15 - Rescheduled from July 11-16, 2021 ITRC 14th International Turfgrass Research Conference

Copenhagen, Denmark https://itrc2022.org/

July 24-26 Texas Turfgrass Association Summer Conference

Lake Conroe - Houston, Texas https://texasturf.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/58549-TTA-Save-theDates-Flyer.pdf

July 26 Purdue Turf and Landscape Field Day.

West Lafayette, IN www.mrtf.org

OCTOBER October 18-21 Equip Exposition - Formerly GIE+EXPO

Louisville, KY https://www.equipexposition.com

October 18-21 Deep South Turf Expo

Biloxi, MS http://www.deepshouthturfexpo.org.com

NOVEMBER November 14-17 Carolinas Golf Course Superintendents Assoc. Conference

Myrtle Beach, SC https://www.carolinasgcsa.org/Education-Conference/Conference-and-Show

November 16 SC Sod Producers Association Meeting

Myrtle Beach, SC

2023 JANUARY January 16-19 Sports Field Management Association Conference

Salt Lake City, UT https://www.sportsfieldmanagement.org/conference/

July 28 TGA Summer Show

Kincross, Scotland - UK https://turfgrass.co.uk

SEPTEMBER September 18-21 NALP ELEVATE Conference and Expo

Orlando, FL https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/ELEVATE

September 22 Mississippi State Turfgrass Research Field Day

Starkville, MS www.pss.msstate.edu/workshops/turf/registration.php

FEBRUARY February 6-9 GCSAA Conference

Orlando, FL https://www.gcsaaconference.com/future-dates

February 20-22 TPI International Education Conference

Nashville, TN https://www.TurfGrassSod.org/events/

JULY July 24-28 TPI Summer Convention & Field Day

Detroit, MI https://www.TurfGrassSod.org/events/

INTERNATIONAL INTE NTERNAT RNA IONA O ONAL EDUCATION EDU DUCAT ATCA ION IOON CONFERENCE CONF N ER RENCE C

GAYLORD OPRYLAND RESORT GAYLO GAYL GAY RDLO DR ORY YLO OLAY AYLGAYL AYLO OPRY OPR O LAND AND AY RY ND DP AN NPRYL LAROPPRYLLAN RESO ESORSORES RT TESORE RES CONVENTION CENTER NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE MUSIC CITY U.S.A.

CON N ON OC CO VENT V VENNT TEN N ENT E VE ION ON NOI IO N CEN ENCE EC TER TERETER FEBRUARY 20TH - 22ND NASH S VILL VIL E, E TENNESS N EE MUS U IC CITY U. U S.A SA. FEBRUARY 20T 22 20 23