Karl (Dr. D) Is Also Back! Michigan’S Treetops Resort Tropical Signalgrass Control

SINCE 1927—The Resource for Superintendents // Golfdom.com

06.20

Celebrating the 40th anniversary of Caddyshack with Dave Schlagetter, the real Danny Noonan Carl’s back! and the crew at Bushwood Country Club

It’s Schlagetter, not Spackler, who is the modern-day superintendent at Indian Hill Club, the course that inspired Caddyshack

PLUS KARL (DR. D) IS ALSO BACK! MICHIGAN’S TREETOPS RESORT TROPICAL SIGNALGRASS CONTROL

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For more information contact Joe Lerario • 484-913-1593 • [email protected] 06.20 Golfdom// VOL. 75 // NO. 6 SINCE 1927—The Resource for Superintendents // Golfdom.com Back to Looking up Bushwood ... and ahead 36

The view from Celebrating the 40th anniversary the treetops of Caddyshack with Dave 12 Schlagetter 38

COLUMNS // 6 up with Seth Jones Keeping The Jones– Seth Jones shares how the 40th anniversary of Caddyshack story came together // 10 Musings from the Ledge–Alan FitzGerald 48 Alan FitzGerald reflects on how golf reacted to previous crises and how it will respond to the current pandemic // 43 The Turf Doc–Karl Danneberger SUPER SCIENCE Karl Danneberger reflects on how grateful he is to have survived COVID-19 and how it’s influenced him // 42 Monarchs in the rough // 47 Off the Record–Mike Kenna // 44 Mike Kenna details the controversy surrounding golf Tropical signalgrass — bringing courses’ usage of MSMA an old foe to its knees? FOCUS ON FUNGICIDES // 48 Get ahead of crabgrass // FS1 Understanding DEPARTMENTS ( begins resistance, // 8 Starter after improving efficacy page 18) // 50 and more The Shop // 52 The 19th Hole COVER PHOTO BY: TIM KLEIN

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“ Dave invited me to come to his club to learn more and asked if they could get involved. They sponsored about Indian Hill, the people there, the backstory … the story and also put us It’s easy to see why Indian Hill Club holds a special in touch with Bob Morgan, who worked at Rolling Hills place in so many people’s hearts.” shortly after the movie came SETH JONES, Editor-in-Chief & Associate Publisher out. Bob’s stories about the course, their equipment and his perspective on how crews have changed since the movie were a welcomed addition. Oh, and the final element, It’s in your hands the cover? I laughed out loud when I opened the image for the first time. I’d like to take y guess is you read 19th Hole first (seems credit for it … but that was all everyone does that, including me), then went Dave’s idea. When it comes to this issue, like Ed Murray to page 12 to see what was going on with this said about Caddyshack, “I had month’s cover story. But if you made your way to a good time … everybody had a good time.” Mthis page and haven’t read the cover story yet … I’d recommend There’s a lot going on in the you go there first, enjoy some lighthearted reading (pro tip, read world right now. The previous two issues of Golfdom Nellie’s part in an Irish accent like Maggie O’Hooligan in the were somewhat stressful to movie), then come back to this page. produce. Trying to navigate the way to properly handle a global pandemic when also OK, you’re back! How Dave invited me to come to was a wealth of information, dealing with an approximate about Ed Murray, huh? And his club to learn more about and we spoke about more two-week delay from printer Nellie? It made my day when Indian Hill, the people there, than just Caddyshack. He told to your mailbox was harrow- she called me darlin’. the backstory. I finally cashed me about sitting around 25 ing. I look back at the April For me, our tribute to in that invitation in March. men in green jackets, the pro- and May issues with a tiny Caddyshack started a few Dave put me in touch with cess for interviewing for the window of hindsight, and I years ago, either at a Wee One Nellie Kerrigan, longtime Evans scholarship and about feel pretty good. fundraiser in Chicago or a clubhouse manager and Dick his time in the Air Force spy- And now we’re in June. The Golfdom Summit at Reunion Wagley, PGA, the longtime ing on the world from the country is in the process of Resort, in a conversation with pro at the course, both now back of an airplane. Through reopening. Some normalcy is Dave Schlagetter, superin- retired. All three are salt of the years, he’s met presidents, returning (I knock on wood tendent at Indian Hill Club in the earth. It’s easy to see why royalty and the King, Arnold as I write that). After the last Winnetka, Ill. That’s when I Indian Hill Club holds a spe- Palmer. I asked him about two months, the last two learned the background of the cial place in so many people’s putting me in touch with Bill. issues … it feels like the right Murray Brothers and Indian hearts. He said he’d reach out but time to crack open a trash can Hill and how Caddyshack, Dick set me up with his then laughed, “Bill’s a hard beer and have some fun remi- written by Brian Doyle- friend Ed Murray, the oldest guy to pin down … he might niscing about the most fa- Murray, was inspired by of the Murray Brothers, a not come to my funeral.” mous movie for our industry. the story of his brother Ed member of the Caddie Hall of Already armed with plenty It’s in the hole your hands. G winning an Evans Scholars Fame (along with all five of of good material, our friends Foundation scholarship while his brothers) and the inspira- at Smithco heard about the Email Jones at: caddying at the club. tion for Danny Noonan. Ed project we were working on [email protected].

6 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com

Starter NEWS,NEWS NOTESOTES ANDAND QUOTESQUOTES

// // CHAMPIONS IN MEMORIAM OF THE ENVIRONMENT GCBAA MOURNS PAUL FOLEY Paul Foley, former executive director of the Golf Course Builders Association of America (GCBAA), died of complications from the coronavirus on April 17. Foley is survived by his wife, Judy, four children and nine grandchildren. The USGA joined Foley served as executive director more than 100 of GCBAA from 2006 to 2011. During sports organizations his tenure, Foley dealt with the impact to advocate of the downturn in golf construction for greater brought on by overbuilding, recession and environmental changes in the market. He also helped responsibility. to professionalize the GCBAA with improved certification, new standards, educational opportunities and public relations efforts to grow awareness of the value of choosing GCBAA members for USGA JOINS UNITED NATIONS SPORTS golf construction projects. He was also instrumental in growing the GCBAA Foundation Sticks for Kids FOR CLIMATE ACTION INITIATIVE program through a partnership with the National Recreation and Parks By Sarah WeBB // Associate Editor Association. The program grew from just 11 sites to more than 500 in all 50 states The United States Golf Asso- to five key principles: undertaking when Foley retired. ciation (USGA) joined 100- systematic efforts to promote greater // plus organizations in becom- environmental responsibility; reducing NEW FACE AT ANUVIA ing a signatory of the United Nations overall climate impact; educating for ANUVIA PLANT Sports for Climate Action Initiative. climate action; promoting sustainable NUTRIENTS “We knew that golf is so closely tied and responsible consumption; and ADDS VP OF R&D to the environment. There’s no game advocating for climate action through Anuvia Plant Nutrients added Shawn of golf if there isn’t a healthy, thriving communication. Semones, Ph.D., as vice president of environment,” said Dave Aznavorian, Other signatories include the research and development (R&D). In this position, he will focus on estab- USGA senior director of transforma- International Olympic Committee, the lishing rapid innovative development of tional initiatives. “We thought it was NBA, the U.S. Tennis Association, the new microbial and biological technologies important to be among the leaders in New York Yankees, the International that align with the company’s current sustainable biobased products. the sports industry on the forefront of Golf Federation and more. Semones’ career in agriculture R&D change. We thought our participation “The USGA being a signatory means spans more than 20 years. He most re- cently served as executive vice president would serve two goals: We would learn we’re holding ourselves to a high stan- of R&D and CTO for Concentric Ag. best practices from other signatories dard and looking to lead by example,” In this role, he was responsible for all and share what we’ve learned and have Aznavorian said. “It’s a tremendous aspects of R&D, including regulatory, manufacturing of biological products, developed over the course of 100 years source of pride for USGA staff and also as well as business development efforts. under the USGA Greens Section.” important to future staff members Previously, he worked at Novozymes Sports for Climate Action was cre- to know that the USGA cares about Biologicals, where he helped build its BioAg R&D application division. He ated in 2018 as a platform for sports environmental concerns to such a de- holds a doctorate in biology – plant physi- organizations to support climate ac- gree that we’ve become a signatory. It ology/mycology from Virginia Tech and a Master of Science degree in biology – tion in a highly collaborative forum. underscores the premise of us being a plant physiological ecology from Virginia

Signatories of the initiative commit purpose-driven organization.” Commonwealth University. PHOTO BY: WELLGLAD / ISTOCK–GETTY IMAGES PLUS / GETTY IMAGES (GOLFBALL); USGA

8 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com Starter

// A LONG LEGACY The Toro Co. remembers // #LIKEARNIE THE PALMER Ken Melrose FOUNDATION LAUNCHES Kendrick “Ken” B. Melrose, for- oversaw a number of #LIKEARNIE mer chairman and CEO of The acquisitions includ- CAMPAIGN Toro Co., died Sunday, May 3 at the age ing Wheel Horse, The Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation, of 79. Exmark, Lawn-Boy based in Orlando, Fla., started a campaign of charitable efforts to support Rick Olson, current chairman and and Hayter, and people impacted by the COVID-19 CEO of The Toro Co., said, “Ken was company sales grew pandemic. a great man and the epitome of an from $247 million to Called “#LikeArnie,” the campaign Ken Melrose aims to support youth and educators exceptional leader. The culture he in- $1.7 billion. across the country, including those in a stilled continues as a positive influence He played an instrumental role in number of PGA Tour event communities. #LikeArnie builds on the Palmer and will guide The Toro Co. long into forming the company’s partnership Foundation’s immediate response to the future. Ken was passionate about with The First Tee in 1998. He estab- the pandemic, in which masks and face supporting the industries we serve and lished The Kendrick B. Melrose Fam- shields were provided to more than 20,000 workers at Orlando Health. Through helping our customers succeed. The ily Foundation Scholarship Program Feeding America member food banks, impact of his generous philanthropic in 2002 for dependents of company #LikeArnie will support the provision of initiatives will continue to positively employees, which has supported 189 nutritious food to children in Orlando, Fla., the foundation’s home city and site of the affect many in our industry and our students with scholarships. He also Arnold Palmer Invitational. The charity communities.” helped establish the Melrose/Hoff- will also support food banks in Arnold Palmer’s hometown of Latrobe, Pa., and Melrose joined The Toro Co. in 1970 man Employee Critical Need Fund in in nearby Pittsburgh. and over the course of the following 2005 to assist employees experiencing decade, served in a number of leader- economic hardship. In retirement, // A LOOK AHEAD ship roles with increasing responsi- Melrose founded Leading by Serving. bility. In 1981, Melrose was named In this role, he wrote and traveled ex- USGA FINALIZES president. After leading the company tensively, promoting the principles of 2020 SCHEDULE for 24 years, Melrose retired as CEO servant leadership in both public and The United States Golf Association (USGA) made several updates to its in March 2005. During his tenure, he private organizations. 2020 championship schedule, as the organization continues to reconfigure its season due to uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. EMAILS @ TEXTS # TWEETS The 120th U.S. Women’s Amateur, scheduled for Aug. 3-9 at Woodmont Country Club in Rockville, Md., and Follow us @Golfdom the 120th U.S. Amateur, scheduled for Aug. 10-16 at Bandon (Ore.) Dunes Golf “71-year-old member Resort, will be conducted as scheduled, showed up unan- provided that Centers for Disease Control nounced this morning recommendations and state and local government guidelines make it possible asking if he could help. to do so. He noticed our hand- The remaining four 2020 amateur mowing areas were get- championships will be canceled: the U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur (Aug. 29-Sept. 3 ting long. Even brought at Berkeley Hall Club in Bluffton, S.C.); his own mower, string U.S. Senior Amateur (Aug. 29-Sept. 3 at trimmer and gas. On his Country Club of Detroit in Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich.); U.S. Mid-Amateur (Sept. way out, he said, ‘I’ll be 12-17 at Kinloch Golf Club in Manakin- back again next week.’” Sabot, Va., and Independence Golf Club in Midlothian, Va.); and U.S. Senior Women’s Jason Krogman Amateur (Sept. 12-17 at The Lakewood @JasonKrogman7 Club in Point Clear, Ala.)

PHOTO PHOTO PROVIDED BY: JASON KROGMAN Golf Course Superintendent, Kitsap G&CC, Bremerton, Wash.

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // 9

Musings from the Ledge AT HOME WITH THE TIGER KING

“ I think that like all of these periods in the past, impact a modern world, one that seemed immune to a there will be trepidation at first until we major crisis that shut down get used to the new normal ...” normal life. Yet, here we are. My curiosity has become a re- ALAN FITZGERALD, superintendent, LedgeRock GC, Mohnton, Pa. ality. I now know how a major worldwide crisis affects the planet and how, as humans, we adapt and make it work. Thankfully, it is not like sheltering in the Tube dodg- ing bombs and eating rations Optimistic about like in WWII-era London. Our suffering is having to stay in the comfort of our the future of golf home with the added benefit of having Tiger King to keep us occupied rather than a have several partially written articles for this column that scratchy wireless, but it’s a I had to get over some writer’s block to finish, and then strange new world that we the COVID-19 shutdown arrived. The opportunist in me have been thrust into. I What does the future hold? jumped on the bandwagon and wrote about the topic du jour. I am hoping that by the time you are reading this, we will be The spring of 2020 will go an old club over a shiny new and a club are constantly back on the road to recovery. down in history as the time modern build was the history evolving, I started to wonder I think that like all of these that the world shut down. of the older clubs and how the how economic and societal periods in the past, there will Decades from now, we will be course and the clubs them- changes in the greater world be trepidation at first until we telling our grandkids about selves matured and survived had their effect on mainte- get used to the new normal, the time the movie Contagion over the decades. Working nance and clubs in general. and then it will be business as predicted the future and an at Pine Valley not only rein- Pine Valley is easy to refer- usual. Like the original Lido invisible virus made everyone forced what I had learned to ence here due to my first- on Long Island, the greatest stay at home, wear face masks love about architecture, but hand experience, but this golf course that no longer ex- and created social distancing. it also introduced me to what applies to every “Golden ists due to the Great Depres- Throughout my career, a architectural perfection is — Era” club. From this, I have sion and WWII, there will be large percentage of my ex- the design to which all others found it extremely interest- casualties, but golf will recover perience has been at newer are compared. ing how clubs and courses — maybe even grow if people clubs, with the one exception While the overall layout evolved and how they sur- realize they can easily play the being the six seasons that I has stayed the same, and vived to be what they are sport while social distancing spent at Pine Valley in N.J. (I although the club is very care- today. — and the clubs that survive guess if you are going to work ful to protect its crown jewel, I have frequently wondered will be stronger. COVID-19 at an old club, you should do some design elements have how people/society and there- will be a blip in their history, it right!) Working at newer been lost to time. There are fore clubs survived major just like those periods in the clubs, the construction pro- numerous reasons why this national and world events past. I’m an optimist, but why cess and grow-ins really got happened, including making like the Great Depression and should this time be any differ- me interested in golf course the course easier to maintain, World Wars. Like most of us, ent — except now, we wonder architecture from early on, helping the course battle the prior to March 2020, I couldn’t if Carole Baskin did it? G along with the maintenance elements and the course sim- comprehend what one of Alan FitzGerald (alan@ledgerockgolf. side of things. ply maturing with time. these huge events would be com) is superintendent at LedgeRock The one big difference with Realizing that a course like and how it would or could GC in Mohnton, Pa.

BY SETH JONES

Danny Noonan, thanks to looking to hire some caddies, and if we came that scholarship, went on to the club after school, he would teach us how to graduate from North- to caddy, and we could make a lot of money.” western University and Murray, 10 years old, showed up with his Celebrating was a successful stockbro- friends and learned on the job he was too small ker for more than 30 years. to carry a golf bag. By the end of a loop, mem- the 1980 Maggie O’Hooligan, like bers would take the bag from him out of sheer many of her immigrant pity. He switched to a shag boy, chasing down comedy coworkers, was treated like family as a dedicated practice balls on the 11th fairway and then be- lifelong employee of Bushwood. Carl Spackler came the exclusive shag boy for Sam Bernardi, classic went on the run after blowing up an entire fair- head pro. He was making 60 cents per half-hour, way and was quickly replaced by a clean-cut young but the door it opened with Bernardi, a Chicago buck with the latest skill and know-how. legend, was much more lucrative. Eventually, with Danny It’s been 40 years since Caddyshack opened Bernardi started giving Murray lessons. As in theaters across the nation. The film is one Murray got older, he was hired to caddie for Noonan and of the most frequently quoted movies not just Bernardi, first for local Chicago tournaments, on golf courses, but frequently quoted, period. then the Western Open, then the 1961 PGA (most of) It stars the most famous greenkeeper ever on Championship at Olympia Fields (Ill.) CC. film, Bill Murray’s Carl Spackler. Bernardi told Murray about the Evans the crew at In honor of the landmark number, Golfdom Scholars Foundation (see sidebar, page 18) and spoke with people who inspired the movie and encouraged him to apply. Murray says he was an who appeared in the movie, as well as super- average student at best. One day, Murray came Bushwood intendents who worked on the grounds that home and his mother read him a letter, trem- both inspired — and literally was — Bush- bling. She told her son he had won a full schol- wood Country Club. arship from the Evans Scholars Foundation. Our story starts off with a boy in a suburb of Then one more surprise: The scholarship was Chicago just trying to “be the ball.” to attend prestigious Northwestern University. “I said, ‘Holy shit, I got problems!’ I was so From shag boy to Evans Scholar sure I wouldn’t get in to Northwestern, I didn’t Ed Murray, the oldest of the six Murray broth- apply,” Murray says. “Luckily, we had a couple ers, was at church when divine intervention members … Foster McGaw, they named the — in the form of a caddymaster — came into basketball stadium after him, and Fritz Souder, his life. he was president of Western Golf Association. SPONSORED BY “They were serving mass one day, and there They said we have to get this kid in. (North- was a strange man in the sacristy,” recalls Ed western) said, his SATs aren’t high enough. Murray. “Nowadays, you’d call the police. He They said it doesn’t matter, he already has a

said he was caddymaster at Indian Hill Club, Continued on page 14 PHOTO BY: TIM KLEIN; GETTY IMAGES: VECTORS ILBUSCA/DIGITALVISION (CAMOUFLAGE), VECTORS DOODLEMACHINE/DIGITALVISION (GOPHER)

12 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com “ I’m lucky that Carl Spackler was the assistant superintendent, so I lean toward Mr. McFiddish. I’ve never met anyone who didn’t like the movie. Looking back, I think it’s done way more good than bad for us.” — DAVE SCHLAGETTER INDIAN HILL CLUB

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // 13 // 40 YEARS OF CADDYSHACK

“ It’s quite an honor to be in the hall of fame,” says Ed Murray of he and his brothers’ induction into the Caddy Hall of Fame in 2015. “The next year was Bones McKay, Mickelson’s caddie. I introduced myself and said I made it to the hall before you! He retired a year or two later.” From left: Joel Murray, Andy Murray, Ed Murray, John Murray, Brian Doyle-Murray and Bill Murray.

Continued from page 12 A family club you will be here for a long time so they hire scholarship. I got in.” Indian Hill Club, located in the Chicago young, and they’ve done it in all areas,” Murray winning the Evans scholar- suburb of Winnetka, Ill., has an appropri- Schlagetter says. “The golf pro here before ship would lead him to a career as a suc- ate slogan: A family tradition since 1914. me was here for 37 years. The chef when I cessful stockbroker, but it also inspired “It’s a family club in the truest sense. We started here was here for 45 years. We have his younger brother, Brian Doyle-Murray, do a lot for women and kids,” says David guys that are busboys that have been here who played caddymaster Lou Loomis in Schlagetter, longtime superintendent for 25 years. It’s a culture of longevity that the film, with the nugget of an idea: a at Indian Hill. “It’s not a championship the club has embraced. They tell us that blue collar kid working at a stuffy country course by any means. We have a strong we’re part of the family … and they walk club, hoping to change his life for the bet- tennis program, strong swimming and the walk, too. They treat us that way.” ter. Danny Noonan was born, based on Ed golf is kind of … family golf.” Case in point, his “work mom,” Nellie Murray’s wild ride to Northwestern. Though the club indirectly spawned Kerrigan. She arrived from Ireland when Ed Murray, now age 76, says most of the Caddyshack, its preferred talking point she was only 19 years old. Retired now, she characters in Caddyshack were based on peo- is how the club has a tradition of hiring worked for the club for 55 years. And she’ll ple they caddied for or met at the club. He young and keeping their employees for the tell you — she was not the inspiration for softly laughs and then adds one correction long haul. Maggie O’Hooligan, Danny Noonan’s Irish

to his character: “I never touched that girl.” “That’s how Indian Hill rolls. They hope Continued on page 16 PHOTO COURTESY OF: CHARLES CHERNEY/WESTERN GOLF ASSOCIATION

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16 40 YEARS OF OF YEARS 40

Golfdom

June 2020 June CADDYSHACK unbelievable,” she says. “I grew up with up with grew “I she says. unbelievable,” it of was members; I saw generations four my second family. became They amazing. members. Hill’s of a Indian to mother all manager, clubhouse as finished and ress wait- a as out started She years. those all her there kept — that atmosphere family of here me, ahead I and left.” never was sister “My recalls. Kerrigan twin,” my with 19, only I and came I was young. her older cluding sister and sister. her twin in- attime, the atclub the working girls were There a lot sweetheart. of young Irish 14 fromContinued page tremendously.” her miss I day. every her with coffee had “I retired, now Kerrigan, of says Schlagetter Club. Hill Indian at years 50 Kerrigan’s Nellie honor to flags out put club The “I love the people. The members were were members The people. the love “I — that Hill of Indian people the It was very I when was Ireland from came “I Some Some have that the argued lowbrow humor Spackler Carl of origin The he what wanted.” then he But 11,’hewas? knew whatever my gosh, what kid does know at this 13, or wood,’” she says. “And I said to ‘Oh myself, to me Holly- about read in going one day lot. parking Hill Indian the her in toward walking Murray mocking. was it members the of the names used real movie the cases, many in because she by bers were the movie, offended says, when now, I’m But darlin’. I 19.”like feel people. these I was only 19, and I’m not 19 sayspro. Dick head retired PGA, Wagley, humble,” and fun smart, person, great — fit perfect a was he beginning, the “From Hill. Indian at years 27 worked has Schlagetter all That’s ad-lib.’ will Bill and Chevy ad-lib. will say, that ‘Bill pages or three two are there script, original the “In says. Murray auctions,” away at charity them given because copies I and have a would Xeroxed now million it had I wish I it, have to used I But people. Spackler? those He knew Bernardi. on Sam based the was Rivera Webb, Sam He says Ty Loomis. Lou real real the about talk He’ll him. to potatoes small is character Spackler Spackler? Carl but who inspired never were (Ed agree), and romantic Nellie Maggie and Danny and disagrees), (Ed and perverted.” submental unsubtle, as Spackler, Carl assistant greenkeeper, camouflage-clad deranged, Murray’s Bill regarded critics) “across (film the board, writes, Nashawaty Story, Cinderella a Hollywood book to the ing Accord- superintendents. of image the to harmful was roughshod of greenkeeping, methods his and Spackler Carl intendent super- as assistant portrayed, Murray Bill “He was young‘You’re and“He he was said, Bill young cocky a recalls also She 1980 in reaction the remembers She “Billy’s character? In the original script, script, In the original character? “Billy’s a with Ed responds “who?” Murray The Maggie notbeen have might So, Nellie Caddyshack Caddyshack Caddyshack: The Making of of Making The Caddyshack: hit theaters. hit Some theaters. mem- author Chris Chris author Golfdom.com

PHOTOS BY: INDIAN HILL CLUB it said. So those scenes you saw in the shed, they made that up as they were doing it. Nobody knew what they were going to do. The scenes with the guns and the gophers and stuff, it came from Billy’s head.” So, there was no basis in reality for Carl Spackler. It was just Bill Murray and Chevy Chase riffing. But it was a riff that would become famous and often imitated (“chinch bugs, manganese ... lot of people don’t even know what that is ...” “a pond would be good for you ...”), at golf courses across the country, for the next four decades and counting.

Spackler’s wheels At the 2012 AT&T Pro-Am at Pebble Beach, Golfdom Editor-in-Chief Seth Jones (left) Bob Harper arrived in Miami in 1979 asked Bill Murray about his inspiration for Carl Spackler. His answer was even more via Dodge City, Kan. A scratch golfer, he mystical, and indecipherable, than what the Dalai Lama — flowing robes and all — said to Spackler that day in the Himalayas. was there determined to do two things: play golf for Florida International Univer- To be on the golf team at FIU meant One course stood out on his junior season sity (FIU) and learn the trade of being a that Harper was going to see some nice schedule: Rolling Hills CC in Davie, Fla.

PHOTO PHOTO BY: SEAN LIPFORD golf course superintendent. golf courses for a kid from the Old West. Continued on page 18

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Continued from page 17 The reason? It was the same course where Caddyshack was filmed. “It was exciting to get to see it,” Harper recalls. “I graduated in 1981, and I’ll be darned if I didn’t get a job to work there on the crew, September 1981.” Harper has made a career in Flor- ida, spending six years at Rolling Hills (now known as Grande Oaks CC) then Grand Palms in Pembroke Pines for 12 years, followed by 16 years at Emer- ald Hills in Hol- lywood and now Lago Mar CC in Plantation for four a golf course,” Harper says. “The old white “Schlaggs,” with his dog McKenzie, has plenty of Caddyshack stories. “The years. It was prob- house where (Maggie) lives? That was caddymaster, Lou? That’s a real guy.” ably meant to be, the ranch manager’s house, which then Bob Harper since the moment became the superintendent’s office. And Rolling Hills that a pilot called in a downed he used Spackler’s actual pitchfork to do the props? Our tools, the pitchfork, were airplane because of the fireball he saw his best Bill Murray impersonation. all taken from our barn.” near the Fort Lauderdale Airport. It was “The old red barn, the old ranch house Harper is especially proud of his wheels a one-seat Cushman Commando, three- … (Rolling Hills) was a thoroughbred horse back then. It was the same ride that enabled on-the-tree, with an 18-hp air-cooled ranch from the 1940s, which later became Spackler to cause so much devastation at V-twin engine. They even put headers on it. On the back was a 100-gallon Smithco Sprayhawk with a fiberglass tank. Goodwill at Indian Hill “It was basically awesome,” Harper recalls. “It was probably the fastest — defi- Indian Hill Club has a unique history with caddies nitely the funnest — mode of transporta- but also with good causes tion. We used to race the Cushmans around because they had cart paths all around and “(Indian Hill) has a wonderful caddie history right from the beginning. Chick Evans, a great player of the 1910s and ’20s, was a founding member of the club,” says Dick Wagley, PGA, retired head pro it was very hilly.” of Indian Hill. “He was a wonderful influence, in the game of golf as well as building the club.” Don Smith, president of Smithco, Evans was the first amateur to win both the U.S. Amateur and the U.S. Open in the same remembers the thrill of seeing the com- year (1916.) But a series of lessons he filmed jeopardized his amateur status and directly pany’s easily recognizable sprayer on the resulted in the creation of the Evans Scholars Foundation. big screen during the climax of the movie. “He was paid by a sponsor to do those and was in jeopardy of losing his amateur status … they gave him an opportunity to donate the money,” Wagley explains. “Through some of the “We were the first to introduce fiber- members at the club, he was able to establish the Chick Evans Scholars Foundation. The rest glass. The competition used polyethylene is history: Now thousands of caddies have gone to college on that scholarship.” or steel. Most sprayers were square; ours Overseen by the Western Golf Association, more than 11,000 caddies have graduated was round,” Smith says. “Compared to as Evans Scholars since 1930. Not as famous as the Evans Scholars Foundation but what was in the movie, a lot of advances vitally important to many superintendents around the country is the Wee One Foundation (WeeOne.org). Named after Wayne Otto, CGCS at Ozaukee CC in Mequon, Wis., the foundation have been made in sprayers over the years.” financially supports golf course management professionals and their dependents who incur Harper says that’s not all that’s changed overwhelming medical expenses. Otto passed away in 2004 from pancreatic cancer. over the years. The composition of the golf The Chicagoland superintendents and Schlagetter, a board member, have been a driving maintenance crew has also made a diver- force for the Wee One Foundation. The organization has donated more than $1.5 million to sion from the 1980s, he says. golf maintenance families in 23 states. “To be on a crew back in the ’80s was re- “Superintendents always support each other, whether it’s helping your neighbor with a challenging turf condition or helping an assistant move up the ranks in his or her career,” Schlagetter says. “I’m ally different,” Harper says. “It was almost proud of my accomplishments in the industry, but none more than my involvement in Wee One. It’s a fraternal, like a frat house. Mostly young

special feeling to help out someone who, through no fault of their own, really needs that support.” Continued on page 35 PHOTO BY: TIM KLEIN

18 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com FOCUS ON FUNGICIDES

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A SUPPLEMENT TO SPONSORED CONTENT BY

FOCUS ON FUNGICIDES

// A Word From Our Sponsor

Analyzing the disease triangle of turf

By Brian Aynardi, Ph.D.

Plant disease is a fascinating phenomenon resulting from is a big problem on bentgrass greens, and I would con- an interaction between the three components that make tend it is currently the most important disease to preven- up the disease triangle: a host, a pathogen and the en- tively control. Many of the fungicides registered for use vironment. The use of fungicides to prevent and control in turf have little to no effect for control of oomycetes, plant disease is widespread and among the top budget- but the QiIs, QoIs, phenylamides, phosphites and carba- ary considerations for nearly all turfgrass managers. The mates are effective chemistries for control. Preventive dynamics of plant disease, however, are much less pre- applications should be initiated by dictable and regular than the management strategies for the time soil temperatures at the other turfgrass pests such as weeds and insects. 2-inch depth are 55 to 65 degrees F Disease only occurs when all three components of the for approximately five consecutive disease triangle interface with one another. Among the days. Starting applications earlier most frequent questions I am asked are: certainly will not hurt the cause. “What kind of disease year was 2019?” Segway Fungicide SC (cyazof- “What will 2020 be like for managing turf diseases?” amid) has become the industry go-to These are not simple questions because they vary Brian Aynardi for control of all Pythium diseases. greatly by region and can even be inconsistent within a It is currently labeled for use at 0.9 fl oz/1000 sq. ft. on region throughout the growing season. a 21-day interval for Pythium root rot, but expansion of In 2019, the mid-Atlantic and Northeast were above the Segway label to accommodate additional use rate average in rainfall from May through July, but below av- and interval recommendations is currently pending EPA erage from July through September. This affects disease approval. development. What was problematic in the Northeast Just as Segway is gold for root rot control, Union Fun- in June 2019 may not have been a significant issue by gicide SC (cyazofamid + azoxystrobin) is platinum. The August. This is because disease incidence (a quantitative Union fungicide label provides versatility for application measurement) and disease severity (a qualitative mea- rate and interval ranges, and the combination provides surement) are predicated by conducive environmental dual modes of action for control of Pythium species. The conditions. Pathogens lay dormant in various forms product has generated excitement for the future of Pyth- and will likely be found in the same locations each year. ium control, and performance in university field-testing Use the dollar spot or spring dead spot pathogens as has been exceptional. examples. Union and Segway are the best tools for root rot, but Likewise, the turf species susceptible to attack from proper rotation with different modes of action is imper- those pathogens typically is not changing from one year ative for resistance management. Union applications to the next at a given location. The environment, there- placed at critical times of the year (i.e., seven to 10 days fore, is the critical component. The ambient environment prior to Memorial Day or July Fourth) should be in every (i.e., sun, air and moisture) is always changing. The more turf manager’s strategy. As the name implies, root rot reliable environment for preventive disease manage- affects the roots of the plant, and immediate post-appli- ment strategies is the soil environment. cation irrigation in excess of 1/8-inch is critical. Pythium root rot is caused by several Pythium species, Fairy ring is caused by various basidiomycete fungi. It

COVER COVER PHOTO BY: GARY KELLNER, DIMPLED ROCK CREATOROFTHEVECTOR / ISTOCK-GETTY IMAGES PLUS / GETTY IMAGES (BLUE WAVE HEADER) which are oomycete pathogens (not true fungi). Root rot Continued on page FS4

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // FS3 Continued from page FS3 ascomycete genera Ophiosphaerella. Applications for is another disease where preventive applications should control of this root-infecting pathogen should start when be predicated on soil temperatures, particularly when soil temperatures at the 2-inch depth drop to roughly temperatures at the 2-inch depth reach 55 degrees F for 70 degrees F for approximately five consecutive days. approximately five consecutive days in the spring. As A two-to-three-application strategy should also be de- with all diseases noted in this article, weather patterns ployed for this disease as with soil pathogens. following preventive treatments will dictate the severity Spring dead spot has been problematic to control, of disease symptoms, even though at the time of appli- especially after Rubigan was no longer an option for cation, there might not be anything visible fungicide control. Other DMI fungicides, such as tebu- The pathogens that cause fairy ring do not attack conazole, have not provided the same level of control (infect) the plant. Fairy ring symptoms are the result of as fenarimol. In the past five years, significant advance- the pathogen breaking down organic material in the soil, ments with fungicidal control have been observed with resulting in various outcomes including the release of the SDHIs. nitrogen and soil hydrophobicity. Kabuto Fungicide SC (isofetamid) has been the consis- The use of wetting agents and proper fungicide se- tent solution for control of spring dead spot in university lection are important. Fungicides from the SDHI and trials and on golf courses. Other SDHI fungicides have QoI classes are top choices for control, and sequential also shown good results. A sequential application 21-28 preventive applications are needed. The active ingredi- days after the initial application of Kabuto at suggested ent flutalonil has been the go-to for turf managers, and rates should be the go-to for spring dead spot control it’s now available in a more user-friendly SC (suspension this fall. Immediate post-application irrigation is also concentrate) formulation — Pedigree Fungicide SC. required for control of this pathogen. Summer patch is caused by the ascomycete fungus, The fungicidal control of root and soil pathogens Magnaporthiaopsis poae, and is a significant disease through preventive applications based on conducive occurring particularly on Kentucky bluegrass and annual soil temperatures for pathogen activity is essential for bluegrass. The pathogen begins to infect the host plant optimal disease control. Proper post-application irriga- in the spring, so by the time disease symptoms are visi- tion immediately following treatments for Pythium root ble, the only remedy is a “curative” fungicide application rot, fairy ring, summer patch and spring dead spot are to stop the current infection process and allow the dead imperative. turf to regrow. In a year where consistency is not often observed in Preventive fungicide applications with active ingre- the many facets of life, there are a few constants: Dis- dients from several fungicide classes such as the DMIs, eases of turfgrass will occur, the weather will regularly QoIs and SDHIs are effective when initial treatment change and PBI-Gordon will continue to provide the applications are placed when soil temperatures at the top-performing fungicide solutions for every tough-to- 2-inch depth are at 65 degrees F for approximately five control disease in the turfgrass market. consecutive days. Fungicide studies where applications are initiated at that time with two to three sequential applications occurring 21-28 days apart are most effective. Combinations of active ingredients from these classes are more effective than sole active treatments. Tekken Broad Spectrum Fungicide, which combines isofet- Brian Aynardi, Ph.D., is the Northeast research scientist for PBI-Gordon. amid (SDHI) and tebuconazole (DMI), has proven to be a Aynardi is a turfgrass pathologist and has conducted numerous research top-performing treatment since being evaluated for con- projects on the management and control of anthracnose, along with trol of the disease. Other combination products such as many other diseases. You may reach him at [email protected] Fame+T, Headway and Navicon also perform very well. for more information. While you have missed this year’s opportunity to make preventive fungicide applications for the diseases highlighted so far in this article, if you are managing bermudagrass, now is the time to be thinking about spring dead spot, caused primarily by two species of the

FS4 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com

// Des Moines & A Coin In full swing How the team at Des Moines G&CC perintendent at various golf courses in Illinois and Iowa, including Urbandale keeps the course in tiptop form (Iowa) CC, Hinsdale GC in Clarendon Hills, Ill., Des Moines G&CC and Elm- despite a busy start to the season crest CC in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, before he finally landed back at Des Moines By Sarah Webb G&CC as director of grounds in 2006. “He’s been at it for so long and seen so y early May, Des Moines sible without the diligent efforts of the many things that he’s a wealth of knowl- G&CC typically sees between course’s 44 employees, including North edge,” says Meyers, 3,500 and 4,000 rounds of and South Course Superintendents who has served as golf played on its two Pete Nate Tegtmeier and Mitchell Meyers, South Course’s su- Dye-designedB courses. This year, how- and an extra boost from PBI-Gordon’s perintendent for six ever, that number has been upped to fungicide lineup. years. “He’s always more than 10,000 rounds of golf by mid- willing to teach you May— with no signs of slowing. The faces that run the place something new and “We opened March 7 this year, a Rick Tegtmeier started in the golf indus- Mitch Meyers share the informa- little early for us, but we have experi- try at the age of 13 after a visit to the tion he has, and he’s always trying to enced a tremendous amount of golf bank with his father yielded him a po- keep people bettering themselves.” play because, in Iowa, we’ve been able sition on a local grounds crew, thanks to During all these years maintaining to play (despite the COVID-19 pan- a job offer from the banker who doubled golf courses in Iowa and Illinois, Tegt- demic). So, our members are using as a grounds chairman. meier has kept the same 1973 silver the place,” says Rick Now in his 48th year in the indus- dollar in his pocket. Given to him by Tegtmeier, CGCS, di- try, Rick Tegtmeier holds a CGCS cer- his grandfather the year he started in rector of grounds for tification and a Master Greenkeeper the industry, the coin is unrecognizable Des Moines G&CC. certificate under his belt, with a 2019 today, completely worn from Tegtmei- “It’s been good for induction into the Iowa Golf Hall of er’s years of walking up and down fair- us, but there’s been Fame to boot. ways, tees and greens. a lot more challenges “Being inducted into the Iowa Golf “I’ve carried it as a good luck charm trying to maintain Rick Tegtmeier Hall of Fame was a big milestone in all my life,” Rick Tegtmeier says. “I’ve the golf course and keep it healthy and my career,” he says. “You work hard all lost it a few times on the golf course, to the members’ standards when we’re your life, and when others in golf think but it’s always been found.” having that much play.” you’ve done something for them or for What isn’t left to luck is how Rick Maintaining top-notch conditions at the game, that means a lot.” Tegtmeier runs the facility. the 475-acre property wouldn’t be pos- His career spanned stretches as su- “I’m a stickler for the little things,”

FS6 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com FOCUS ON FUNGICIDES

Continued from page 8

Rick Tegtmeier says. “There’s a place superintendent on property. There’s Des Moines G&CC has seen about 10,000 for everything, and everything should definitely a competitive aspect between rounds of golf through early May 2020, be in its place.” the two staffs, more of a pride. It’s fun more than double what’s typical. That mentality — coupled with a to be able to look to try club is comprised of The North powerful team dynamic — applies to each other … you al- Course and The South Course, both par both courses at Des Moines G&CC. ways have something 72. Bentgrass greens, tees and fairways “Rick tells us at the end of the day, to go off of,” he says. sprawl across the property, nearly 4,800 we all represent Des Moines Golf. We He adds that while trees dot the courses and the facility’s 11 have our own people and equipment working for his fa- lakes and ponds add to the visual appeal assigned to each course, but when we ther took a while to — and difficulty of play. have big projects, we can pool people to- Nate Tegtmeier get used to, the pair In addition to accommodating about gether to get them done,” Meyers says. have managed to separate their work 50,000 rounds yearly, the facility has “If you have that many people that can and personal lives. hosted the 1999 U.S. Senior Open and all work together to get to a common “We joke about it,” Rick Tegtmeier the 2017 Solheim Cup. goal, it makes life easier for everyone.” says. “He’s not my son here; he’s our su- “The Solheim Cup was a big high- Nate Tegtmeier — who started perintendent. We have a little saying that light,” Meyers says. “There are a lot of working his way through the ranks at we never talk about work at home, and new things that I learned there, espe- Des Moines G&CC in 2007 after many we never talk about home at work.” cially being fresh out of school. The weekends spent as a child helping out whole setup and preparation for the at the golf course with his father, Rick A closer look at the course Solheim Cup and even the work after- Tegtmeier — agrees. Set in the heart of West Des Moines, ward is something that a lot of people

PHOTO PHOTO BY: GARY KELLNER, DIMPLED ROCK “It’s nice knowing there’s another Iowa, the parkland-style, private coun- Continued on page FS8

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // FS7 Maintaining the 475-acre property to grow it in,” says Nate Tegtmeier. cide spray that the course puts down requires the help of about 44 contains PBI-Gordon’s Ferromec AC, a employees. Nothing left to chance sprayable formulation of iron, nitrogen Continued from page FS7 While Rick Tegtmeier’s foray into the and sulfur designed to produce rapid don’t get to experience, and I got it all golf industry may have happened by turf green-up without encouraging out of the gate.” chance, when it comes to maintaining excessive growth. To prepare for the Solheim Cup, the Des Moines’ pristine conditions, he “It just produces a very nice green facility underwent a four-phase reno- leaves nothing up to fate. turf that I can bank on,” Rick Tegtmeier vation — headed up by Pete Dye — be- To keep its bentgrass a champion- says. “I know every two weeks when we tween 2013 and 2016. ship-colored green, Des Moines G&CC do a spray, we put a little bit of Ferromec The $8 million renovation consisted has implemented PBI-Gordon’s Segway in the tank, whether it’s greens, tees, of 127 new bunkers, 83 new tees, 12 fungicide to combat Pythium root dys- or fairways, and it’s going to produce new greens, four miles of cart path, function for about three years. championship color.” two new bulkhead walls, two dredged “I had a fellow superintendent in Chi- Overall, Tegtmeier says it’s all about ponds, one reconstructed pond, a main- cago tell me about it. He’s like, ‘You’ve the fine details when it comes to main- line irrigation install and extensive got to try this stuff. It’s really good,’” taining the course. drainage work. Rick Tegtmeier says. “It’s one of those “My whole goal is when a member “It was really rewarding to get it go-to products. In the late spring/early drives in the gate of Des Moines Golf, done, reveal each of the nine holes to summer, we put it down, and we know they have a smile on their face because the members for play and hear their that it’s going to control the disease and it is beautiful … And then when they feedback. The best part of a renovation take care of anything that may become a leave Des Moines Golf, I want them to is that it’s new and fresh, and it’s just problem for us down the road.” still have that same smile on their face. G going to get better because it takes time Additionally, almost every fungi- That’s what we strive for,” he says. PHOTO BY: GARY KELLNER, DIMPLED ROCK

FS8 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com

// Research & Relationships From experiment to excellent Chemical companies, university but until they get it out in the hands of their collaborators in various geogra- researchers and superintendents work phies, they’re not going to know how it performs in different scenarios,” says hand in hand to improve fungicide efficacy David McCall, Ph.D., assistant professor By Christina Herrick and Extension specialist of turfgrass hen a chemical company years before they are released and sold pathology at Virginia releases a new chemistry to turf managers. Tech. “That’s when we W such as a fungicide to the Generally, these experimental really start to know market, it typically has gone through chemistries tackle a wide range of turf David McCall how a product can years of rigorous testing by both the diseases known to plague golf course perform across the country in a lot of dif- chemical company and universities superintendents. ferent regions. It might perform just as around the country. It’s in this research “Typically, this starts with the big expected at most sites, but one location where many innovations were made four — dollar spot, brown patch, Py- might reveal something that we, collec- that impact golf courses today and that thium blight and an- tively, might not have ever considered.” will impact courses in the future. thracnose,” says Jim McCall estimates about half or more Researchers test these new fungicide Kerns, Ph.D., associ- of his test plots are these experimental chemistries in trials against a specific ate professor and Ex- compounds not yet released. target disease at specified rates and tension specialist of “Out of every five numbered com- intervals to determine the most effica- turfgrass pathology pounds, maybe three never make it cious way to utilize the product. at North Carolina beyond university testing because we “We evaluate how well they work State University. “If Jim Kerns find some flaws, either as being ineffec- and how efficacious they pass muster there, then compa- tive or as causing unintended negative they are,” says Bruce nies start looking at other areas where consequences to the turfgrass,” McCall Clarke, Ph.D., of a fungicide may be useful.” says. “Some of the best data that we can these experimental Kerns says sometimes researchers give a company is that negative infor- compounds. Clarke, know what class of chemistry a fungi- mation. They want to know the good, an Extension spe- cide belongs to, and sometimes they the bad and the ugly in every situation cialist in turfgrass don’t. These experimental compounds that we can come up with.” pathology at Rutgers Bruce Clarke are sent throughout the country to track University, says companies rely on uni- their performance in different climates. Taking a broader look versities to evaluate new fungicides in “The companies can look at an exper- However, if the experimental compound rigorous field trials over a number of imental product all day long in-house, does perform as expected or better,

FS10 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com FOCUS ON FUNGICIDES

Continued from page 12

Rigorous field trials, like this one Bruce Clarke is conducting, can help evaluate a chemistry’s efficacy, rates and more.

the scope of the research expands. “This is actually the most fun for me,” Kerns says. “A lot of our cooperators will come to us and say, ‘hey, we have this material, and we’ve seen XYZ. Do you think there’s anything we should test it on?’” Kerns says a great example of this is McCall’s research on PBI-Gordon’s Kabuto fungicide (isofetamid). McCall tested Kabuto for efficacy on dollar spot and included it in his research on spring dead spot, trialing SDHI chemistries, DMI chemistries and QoI chemistries. “As innovation has it, Kabuto turns Ongoing research Cultural management practices often out to be one of the best spring dead Once released, university researchers go hand in hand with fungicide trials to better target applications. spot materials that anyone has tested,” have a wealth of information on a prod- Kerns says. “It’s a nice partnership uct from colleagues and data from their label,” Kerns says. “A lot of times, that among the company and the researcher own trials to draw upon. actually comes from the golf course to try to figure out if there is an area “It’s been studied by so many people superintendent.” that might be lacking.” for so long,” McCall says. “Our team may Often, superintendents will use a And it’s this relationship between look at a product for five to seven years fungicide for one disease such as fairy chemical companies and university before it is released.” ring and anecdotally notice the ab- researchers that is important to Moreover, the research on released sence of another disease such as take- fungicide innovation. chemistries doesn’t stop. all patch. So, researchers like McCall, “They need us, and we need them,” “Once it’s labeled, we’re going to look Kerns and Clarke will take a closer look. Kerns says. “And in turn, that partner- at different rates, different timings, dif- It’s in these post-release trials where

PHOTOS PHOTOS BY: BRUCE CLARKE (TOP), JAMES HEMPFLING (RIGHT) ship is helping the end user.” ferent diseases that may not be on the Continued on page FS12

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // FS11 Continued from page FS11 researchers will take a deeper look at rates, too. “We’re continually working with (the companies) to try to refine how these materials are used,” Kerns says. Kerns says the original label for Segway (cyazofamid) was a recom- mended rate of 0.45 to 0.9 fluid ounces in 2 to 4 gallons of water per 1,000 square feet. In his research, Kerns looked at lowering rates to maximize control. “Half the rate, 0.45, was out- standing,” Kerns says. “That gives golf course superintendent six applications of that material instead of three, and that innovation led to PBI-Gordon David McCall’s students conduct a post- who regularly scout their course for dis- amending the label.” application study with wetting agents eases, utilize disease models and employ for control of spring dead spot. Another innovation of note, Kerns best management practices can often says, is the inclusion of azoxystrobin, in a tank mixture, which is going to help successfully apply fungicides on an early a QoI fungicide, with Segway’s reduce resistance risk from developing.” curative, rather than preventive, basis. cyazofamid. Clarke says in his trials with Pyth- Moreover, Kerns says his research “I think that product came from our ium blight, he has looked at a number has helped illustrate the key need for a research where we found that mixing of new chemistries over the years, and wetting agent to increase the effective- Segway with a QoI fungicide improved cyazofamid has been one of the most ness of fungicides against diseases that its control especially in June, July and efficacious products he’s tested against attack the roots. August,” he says. “It’s performed excep- this disease. “Our research has clearly shown that tionally well in our trials. (Also), it adds “It was a real game changer when post-application of irrigation is neces- we looked at cyazofamid, whose trade sary at 1/8 inch. It has to be immediate, name is Segway,” Clarke says. “That and (superintendents) need to be on a product was one of the first materials strong wetting agent program in order to that I’ve evaluated that consistently facilitate the movement of the material provided 14 days suppression of Pyth- to where this pathogen is,” he says. “Our ium blight when conditions are really work has helped clear the way because conducive to the disease.” fungicides are not all that mobile; you still retain good protection of the foliage Cultural innovation while moving a portion of that material Moving beyond the innovation of fungi- down to protect the roots as well.” cides application strategies, Clarke says Kerns says it’s important for super- when it comes to advancements and fun- intendents to understand that the re- gicides, “some of the biggest innovations lationship university researchers have have come from focusing on how best with chemical companies is vital to management practices influence disease continued innovation in both product development and fungicide efficacy.” development and disease control. When cultural practices are opti- “The companies are continuing to

Jim Kerns’ Pythium root rot trial in 2018. mized, Clarke says, fungicides work innovate and work with academics and The green spots indicate treatment with better and often at lower rates. Instead themselves to show there’s a defined

Segway or Union fungicides. of curative treatments, superintendents benefit with these materials,” he says. G PHOTOS BY: DAVID MCCALL (TOP); JIM KERNS (LEFT)

FS12 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com FOCUS ON FUNGICIDES

// Resistance Recon Understanding fungicide resistance Addressing the fundamental elements but can be very effective. Chlorothalonil is one of the most valuable multisite and practical consequences fungicides. Once inside a fungal cell, chlorothalonil targets groups of atoms By Richard Latin, Ph.D. — called thiol functional groups — common components of many essential veryone engaged in establish- consequences of fungicide resistance proteins. Such proteins regulate thou- ing and maintaining healthy as it relates to turf disease control. sands of metabolic functions required Eturf should be familiar with for fungal growth. To overcome the fungicide resistance. It occurs It’s chemical and biological effects of chlorothalonil, thousands of when a once-effective active ingredi- Fungicide resistance has chemical and simultaneous changes in fungal protein ent is no longer able to stop pathogen biological components. The chemical chemistry would need to occur without growth and control disease (Figure 1). component is defined by the patho- interrupting other life functions of the The phrase “once-effective” is essential gen-inhibiting nature of a fungicide pathogen. The likelihood of that sce- to understanding fungicide resistance. active ingredient. Fungicides are clas- nario is zero or nearly as close to zero It implies that something has changed sified as having multisite inhibitors or as biologically possible. in the pathogen to reduce the efficacy single-site — site-specific — inhibitors. Almost all of the modern fungicides of a fungicide. The change is genetic, Fungicides with multisite inhibitors are single-site inhibitors — i.e., they dis- meaning the resistance trait can be tend to be among the older compounds turb only a single metabolic function in passed on to future pathogen gener- Continued on page FS14 FIGURE 1 ations. Pathogen strains that are not resistant are said to be sensitive — i.e., sensitive to a fungicide’s toxic effect. Although the term “insensitive” is sometimes used to describe fungicide resistance, the term “resistant” is used here with the understanding that there are different degrees of resistance depending on the pathogen and fungicide. This narrative provides an overview of fungicide resistance, addressing the fundamental elements and practical

This article is reprinted from the July 2017 Vol. 55 (13) of the USGA Green Section Record. Copyright United States Golf Association. As increasing amounts of fungicide are applied, the sensitive population (top row)

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // FS13 TABLE 1 of aerially disseminated Pyricularia grisea gens. This is important because SDHI Disease and fungicide class combinations spores are produced within individual compounds target two of the most no- where resistance has been documented. gray leaf spot lesions. The Microdochium torious pathogens on the list of patho- Disease name Fungicides patch pathogen, Microdochium nivale, is gens with known resistance issues: S. anthracnose benzimidazole another efficient spore-producer active homoeocarpa and C. cereale. anthracnose DMI in the Pacific Northwest for nine or more Resistance expression can be classi- anthracnose QoI months every year. Finally, under ideal fied as qualitative or quantitative. Qual- dollar spot benzimidazole environmental conditions, the Pythium itative expression means that a pathogen dollar spot DMI spp. spores are quick to infect, have a population is comprised of two types, to-

dollar spot dicarboximide short generation time and can create an tally resistant and totally sensitive.

gray leaf spot QoI abundance of spores during a 12-hour Quantitative expression indicates

Microdochium patch dicarboximide period. The only common characteristic that a pathogen population is comprised

Pythium blight QoI of these pathogens is that they produce of numerous types with various levels of massive populations. fungicide sensitivity. Interpreting qual- Pythium blight phenylamide Several turf pathogens are capable of itative and quantitative expression is Continued from page FS13 producing large populations, but not all important from a practical standpoint. the target pathogen. For example, DMI are equally likely to develop fungicide In the field, quantitative expression — fungicides disrupt the biosynthesis of resistance. Table 1 shows the biological e.g., dollar spot resistance to DMI fun- a single compound called ergosterol, an and chemical combinations with con- gicides — is characterized by a gradual essential component of cell membranes firmed cases of fungicide resistance. All erosion of sensitivity. A fungicide does in pathogenic fungi. Without ample sup- of the pathogens listed in Table 1 gen- not completely lose its ability to control plies of ergosterol, fungal growth will erate massive populations of infectious a pathogen, and, in some cases, satis- stop because of cell membrane failure, cells, and all of the active ingredients factory levels of control can be achieved and turf will recover. Changes in a patho- are single-site inhibitors. As new active with higher application rates or shorter gen’s genetic makeup to overcome a fun- ingredients are introduced, we must intervals. Qualitative expression is char- gicide’s inhibitory effect on ergosterol remain cognizant that all single-site acteristic of benzimidazole — e.g., thio- biosynthesis will allow fungal growth to fungicides are vulnerable to the evolu- phanate-methyl — resistance in dollar continue, rendering DMI active ingre- tion of pathogen resistance, especially spot populations. Where dollar spot is dients less effective or ineffective. The in the five previously discussed patho- predominantly benzimidazole-resistant, likelihood that a single metabolic change increasing the product application rate will naturally appear in a population is TABLE 2 or shortening the application interval of reasonably high. Documented cases of cross resistance benzimidazole will not result in control. The biological component of resis- and multiple resistance for turf fungicides. tance relates to pathogen populations. Cross resistance Cross and multiple resistance Resistance issues are most likely to Disease name Fungicides The term “mode of action” is often used occur in pathogens that produce vast QoI class, azoxystrobin and when discussing fungicides. Mode of anthracnose populations. To date, fungicide resis- trifloxystrobin action refers to the interaction between DMI class, myclobutanil, dollar spot tance has been identified in pathogens propiconazole, triadimefon a fungicide and a pathogen. Fungicides responsible for dollar spot, anthracnose, with the same mode of action disturb the QoI class, azoxystrobin, gray leaf spot gray leaf spot, Microdochium patch and trifloxystrobin same metabolic function in pathogens. Pythium blight. The dollar spot pathogen, Microdochium Dicarboximides, vinclozolin, For example, all DMI fungicides have patch iprodione Sclerotinia homoeocarpa, is active during the same mode of action — i.e., they all the entire season in the Northeast. Multiple resistance interfere with ergosterol biosynthesis in Colletotrichum cereale, the anthracnose Disease name Fungicides the same manner. The DMI class of fun- pathogen, also will infect over a broad anthracnose QoI class and benzimidazoles gicides includes metconazole, myclobut- temperature range, and just one infected dollar spot DMI class and benzimidazoles anil, propiconazole, tebuconazole, triad- Dicarboximides plant can produce hundreds of thou- dollar spot imefon and triticonazole. Mode of action and benzimidazoles sands of infectious spores. Vast numbers is an important consideration because

FS14 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com FOCUS ON FUNGICIDES

Continued from page 15 when a pathogen develops resistance to fungicides in a curative fashion without FIGURE 2 one active ingredient in a class of fungi- any preventive management may allow cides, it should be expected that it will large populations to develop, increasing also develop resistance to the other ac- the risk of resistance. tive ingredients in that class. Resistance The first step toward resistance — within a fungicide class is referred to as i.e., a mutation — is likely a natural oc- cross resistance (Figure 2). It cannot be currence. The second step, however, is a emphasized enough — pathogen pop- human action. One fungicide-resistant ulations that develop resistance to one pathogen cell will not cause a problem active ingredient have the potential to on its own. The situation becomes prob- develop resistance to all other active in- lematic only when a resistant individual gredients within that class of fungicides. reproduces, causing a pathogen popula- When active ingredients from two or tion to shift toward fungicide resistance more fungicide classes with single-site as resistant offspring proliferate. Ulti- inhibitors are used to control a disease, mately, the evolution of fungicide-resis- Applying different fungicides from the resistance to more than one class of fun- tant populations is a function of selec- same class will not control a cross- gicide — i.e., multiple resistance — can tion pressure. In the world of fungicide resistant pathogen population. occur. All living things have an inherent resistance, selection pressure increases natural tendency to change or adapt in when fungicides from the same class are the evolution of resistance. Since muta- the presence of existential threats in repeatedly applied. When a fungicide is tions toward fungicide resistance are order to survive. Where single-site fun- applied to a pathogen population with re- more likely to occur in large populations, gicides from different classes have been sistant individuals, the sensitive strains tactics designed to keep pathogen pop- used against crop pathogens, resistance are neutralized, but the resistant strains ulations low can help avoid resistance. to multiple fungicide classes has devel- are still able to grow (Figure 3). There- Exercise all nonchemical options to oped. As presented in Table 2, observa- fore, applying the fungicide provides a control fungal populations. Preventive tions of multiple resistance have been competitive advantage to the resistant disease control is encouraged, especially reported for several pathogens. The issue strain, eventually allowing it to become programs that do not involve fungicides with multiple resistance is not if it will predominant in the population. As a re- with single-site inhibitors. Fungicides occur, rather how quickly and what can sult, the efficacy of that fungicide — or with multisite inhibitors are also im- be done to delay its development. fungicide class — will decrease. The dose portant tools because they decrease the and frequency of fungicide applications likelihood of resistant pathogen popu- Evolution of resistance influences the rate at which a pathogen lations. Limiting the use of single-site A mutation is the first step in developing population may evolve into one that is compounds, or tank mixing them with fungicide resistance. Current scientific predominantly resistant. Higher doses multisite products, will greatly reduce thinking holds that the appearance of a and more frequent applications hasten the rate at which resistance develops. fungicide-resistant individual in a popu- the evolution toward resistance. There Finally, and most importantly, avoid the lation is a natural but rare phenomenon. should be no question that the quickest exclusive use of one fungicide class to Since mutation is rare, the likelihood way to develop a fungicide-resistant pop- control a disease. Rotating among dif- that a resistant individual will appear is ulation is to exclusively apply fungicides ferent fungicide classes remains one of a function of population size. within the same class. the best techniques to avoid fungicide With regard to turf disease control, resistance. G implementing a preventive management A practical approach Richard Latin, Ph.D., is a professor of strategy to keep pathogen populations Eventually, a comprehensive under- plant pathology at Purdue University. low lessens the chance that a resistant standing of resistance mechanisms will strain will materialize. Odds of develop- guide the use of fungicides for turf dis- Editor’s note: For the complete version of this ing a fungicide-resistant strain will in- ease control. Until then, disease control article, visit https://www.usga.org/content/ crease if large populations of pathogen should be based on a simple strategy to usga/home-page/course-care/digitalcollec-

PHOTO PHOTO BY: RICHARD LATIN are allowed to develop. Only applying manage the two-step process that drives tions/turfgrass-disease-management.html

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // FS15

// 40 YEARS OF CADDYSHACK

Continued from page 18 // ONLINE EXCLUSIVE kids, boys and girls. We had at least four or five girls on the crew all the time. A few local guys. Real casual, jean shorts and T- shirts. I had a real kinship with that place. The people, the tools … we were kind of living that Caddyshack dream every day.”

The modern day Sandy McFiddish Cushman, Smithco and Milorganite all can say that Spackler was a customer, as they’re all visible in the movie. Too bad for us that when Ty plays through Carl’s house, Spackler was studying a turf text- book, and not a back issue of Golfdom. Harper says Spackler’s apartment in the movie was the oil room of the barn at Rolling Hills. Schlagetter says there was a ramshackle house at Indian Hill where the assistant superintendent once lived. It was next to the 12th hole, and it once was part Caddyshack videos at Golfdom.com of a sanitarium. Maybe that explains some of Carl’s behavior. Be sure to click over to Golfdom.com for additional video content on Caddyshack’s 40th anniversary. In these two videos sponsored by Carl Spackler’s preferred brand of sprayer, Since it’s Schlagetter’s course that Smithco, we talk to Indian Hill Club Superintendent Dave Schlagetter about his favorite story spawned Spackler, when people ask him from the days the Murray brothers were caddies at the course. And in our other video, we ask if he’s the modern-day Carl Spackler, he superintendents from around the country to share with us their opinion of the movie and what points out that he’s actually the modern- it means to them. Visit golfdom.com/category/golfdom-tv/ to view the videos. day Sandy McFiddish, the Scotsman head superintendent who slaps Spackler back They’re all fun,” Schlagetter says. “There’s swing. They played four or five times to- to reality with his cap. That character was a joke around every party, isn’t there? And gether the week that Murray was on the based on Joe McMoran, the longtime golf now everything seems so serious.” set of Caddyshack. pro at Indian Hill. “Harold Ramis was the director, and it “I’m lucky that Carl Spackler was the as- Don’t nobody worry ’bout me was the fourth day, and I hadn’t really done sistant superintendent, so I lean towards Mr. Ed Murray had two jobs at a very early age: anything. He said, ‘This has to change, Ed McFiddish,” Schlagetter says. “If you’re going He was a caddy and an usher. He says both hasn’t even been in the movie yet,’” Murray to be a good superintendent, you have to be jobs taught him how to behave around recalls. “There’s a scene where a lady gets Mr. McFiddish. I’ve never met anyone who adults, “a lesson in growing up.” hit in the head with a club. I’m standing didn’t like the movie. Looking back, I think “We got chewed out a few times, but most there holding a beer, I have orange plaid it’s done way more good than bad for us.” of the time, it’s pretty good people,” Murray pants on and I have dark hair. I have no Schlagetter has been better than good at says. “You don’t see too many assholes on hair now. That was my close-up.” Indian Hill for 27 years now. He gets emo- the golf course. It’s mostly good people.” The Evans scholarship was one thing, tional when he talks about how much he Ed Murray apologizes. First for his but did he ever expect the worldwide misses Nellie and Dick Wagley, PGA, retired language, then for his voice. At times it fame Caddyshack — and his brothers — pro. That’s just the culture there. shrinks to a whisper. He’s in poor health, would achieve? “From the beginning this guy was a he says. But he says it with such insouci- “Did I expect anything like that to hap- perfect fit,” Wagley says. “Great person, ance that it sounds OK. This is Danny pen? No. No way!” Murray says. “We just

STAFF smart, great experiences at great clubs, Noonan, after all. Queue the Caddyshack hoped no one would get arrested, especially terrific leader of staff and members, theme song by Kenny Loggins: I’m alright; before they were done shooting the film.”

GOLFDOM humble and fun.” Don’t nobody worry ‘bout me. Were they successful in that? “All the stories I hear about golf in the He says Michael O’Keefe was great play- “I wasn’t arrested, but I had a good time,”

PHOTO PHOTO BY: old days and working around the golf clubs? ing Danny Noonan. He had a beautiful golf he says. “Everybody had a good time.” G

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // 35 // GOLF’S MEMBER BOUNCE Looking up ... and ahead As the country reopens, the outlook for the golf industry is looking up

BY SARAH WEBB

s of mid-May, about 98 percent of golf courses in the As of press time, 96 percent of respondents to the second U.S. were open for business, according to a survey Golfdom coronavirus survey reported their courses are open for Aby the National Golf Foundation. play, compared to only 44 percent who responded similarly to Golfdom’s first coronavirus survey just one month earlier. As one survey respondent stated, “It’s a zoo!” Another respondent said, “Since reopening, we have had our busiest days ever!” Editor’s Note: Learn how rounds have exploded at Des Moines (Iowa) G&CC despite — or perhaps because of — the COVID-19 pandemic. Find the story in our Fungicide Supplement on page FS6.

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3LNH&UHHN7XUI,QF 3LNH&UHHN7XUI&LUFOH Many respondents added that while their courses have reopened, $GHO*$ they are cautious and careful to adhere strictly to COVID-19 regu- lations for the safety of crew members and golfers alike. And so, while it may not quite be “business as usual” for the golf course world, there’s certainly hope on the horizon for a productive golf season in 2020.

STAFFING Mid-May: What percent of your normal staff is currently working? 4% 9DULHWLHV$YDLODEOH 100% 10% 75-99% 7LIZD\_7LI6SRUW_7LI7XIå_7LI*UDQGä 39% 7LIGZDUI_7LI(DJOH_0LQL9HUGHå 50-74% 25% &HOHEUDWLRQå_=RUUR_0H\HU_(PSLUHä 25-49% 7ULQLW\ /) _3ODWLQXP7( å 0-24% 6HD,VOH_&HQWLSHGH6RG 6HHG 22%

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36 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.comGolfdom.com Mid-April: What percent of your normal staff is currently working? THE BREAKDOWN Golfdom 12% ’s second survey, sent in mid-May, garnered 96 respondents, comprised of 71 superintendents, three assistant 100% 32% superintendents, nine general managers, eight owners and five 75-99% 13% people in other roles. Golfdom’s first survey, sent in mid-April, 50-74% garnered 200 responses, comprised of 132 superintendents, 25-49% 15% five assistant superintendents, 30 general managers, 22 0-24% owners and 11 people in other roles. 28%

Staffing Staying up to date While in mid-April, about 33 percent of respondents said only 0 Sixty-nine percent of respondents said their personal network of to 24 percent of their staff was working, the situation changed superintendents was their top resource for learning about best drastically by mid-May, with almost 39 percent of respondents practices. Industry publications came in second, with 54 percent saying 100 percent of their staff was working. of respondents including them in their top resources. You can find As one respondent said, “In the beginning, we had half of our a plethora of resources — including superintendent interviews, guys laid off, but now we are at 90 percent back working. By June supplier and association updates, Zoom interviews with golf 1, we will be back to 100 percent.” industry experts and more — at Golfdom.com. Another respondent said, “The extremely cool spring has helped On a personal note, we’re all thrilled to see our science editor, in not needing (as many staff members), but now that the turf is Karl Danneberger, Ph.D., is recovering and already has returned starting to grow more quickly, our remaining full-time seasonal to the pages of the magazine after only a one-month hiatus. Visit staff are coming back next week.” Golfdom.com for the full story and a video detailing how Karl fell ill In mid-May, 61 percent of respondents had 75 percent or more and then successfully recovered from COVID-19. The Turf Doc’s of their staff working, while in mid-April, just 25 column can be found on page 43. Welcome home, Karl. G percent reported three-quarters or more of their crew was working. One respondent said, “We were waiting for the club 2 THE POWER to reopen, and we had to acquire an infrared ther- X THE THROW CYCLONE SQUARED

mometer and PPE (personal protective equipment) and carefully update our operating protocols to protect our crew members and golfers.”

Maintenance Superintendents proved quick on their feet — and their aera- tors — during the early stages of the pandemic, with about 34 percent of respondents saying their course changed its typical aeration schedule. One respondent said, “We already aerified greens, tees and fairways in April, before the course opened. It’s normally done in July or August.” Many golf courses took advantage of course closures to perform maintenance ahead of time. Other maintenance changes respondents mentioned include using more plant growth regu- lators (PGRs) to reduce the frequency of mowing; mowing less frequently; and reducing beautification projects such as mulching and planting flowers. At some courses, weather also had a hand EST. 1945 in changing maintenance practices, as one respondent said, “The cool spring has pushed back some chemical applications, so they DEBRIS BLOWERS • (716) 592-2700 • BuﬀaloTurbin .com are going out later than usual.”

Golfdom.comGolfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // 37 TheTh view

The last 16 years have brought dramatic changes to Michigan’s Treetops Resort

BY CHRIS LEWIS

estled in the heart of northern Michigan, Gaylord’s Treetops NResort features 63 holes of golf known as “The Five Wonders of Michigan,” including The Masterpiece, The Pre- mier, The Signature, The Tradition and Three- tops (a 9-hole executive course that hosted a par-3 shootout from 1999 to 2006 with con- course maintenance during busy times. This testants like Nicklaus, Palmer and Trevino). allows guests to have the most enjoyable ex- When Doug Hoeh, director of outside opera- perience possible. tions, first joined Treetops Resort in 2004, each “Most days, we’re packed from the first tee course had a superintendent along with a full- time, but there’s always one course that has time staff. But that changed during the Great leagues and so forth on it, which allows us to Recession, as many staff move our staff in the middle of the day to that members were laid off in course,” Hoeh adds. 2009 and 2010. Fully utilizing employees by moving them “Little did we know, to the course where their services are most re- but this would lead required has allowed Treetops to reduce its full- maining staff members time staff by nearly 35 percent. In addition to to become more efficient moving employees around during slower times and productive,” Hoeh of the day, Hoeh has a small crew that mows says. “For example, we Doug Hoeh every evening, which gives his team a head now utilize most of the staff to prep a course start for the following day. that has an outing/shotgun on it and then “I always try to provide our staff full-time move them from that course to another that hours. We operate a ski hill during the winter, is less busy.” so we’re able to offer year-round employment,” Staff members — typically 35 to 40 he explains. “Summer is our busy season, so throughout the season — always stay busy most employees average 45 hours per week maintaining the course’s more than 1,500 then. Some may even average 50 hours during acres of land, yet they rarely, if ever, conduct the golf season.”

38 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com from the Treetopsps

they’re able to apply the fungicide again during a thaw, they’ll wait at least 28 days before applying it for a second time. To control dollar spot, Hoeh’s team uses a rotation of products based on price and always uses the lowest rates possible. If they This photo was taken behind decide to use a combination of Interface No. 10 on the Stressgard and Mirage Stressgard, they’ll Premier course. apply Interface Stressgard at a rate of 3 fl. oz. This is the only course per 1,000 sq. ft. for 14 to 28 days on greens designed by and tees, beginning in either March or April Tom Fazio in (depending on the weather). Furthermore, the state of Michigan and is they’ll apply Interface Stressgard at a rate Treetops’ most- of 2 fl. oz. per 1,000 sq. ft. for 14 to 28 days played course. on fairways and other turf areas. And, at the same time, they’ll apply Mirage Stressgard at a rate of 1 fl. oz. per 1,000 sq. ft. “Our concern is dollar spot resistance, which has developed with old demethylation inhibitors (DMIs),” Hoeh says. “We’re leery of using the same products more than once per season. “During the spring and fall, we try to pro- I know there are many schools of thought on vide employees 40-hour work weeks,” he ex- this subject of rotation, but this method has plains, “but weather is a big factor in that. been working at Treetops.” And, throughout the winter, there’s definitely Aside from fungicides, Hoeh’s crew also enough positions available for staff to work 40 applies various wetting agents, which he con- hours a week.” siders one of the most important products for snow mold control (a close second to fungi- Season-long maintenance cides). Hoeh believes that as long as his staff Every golf season, Treetops encounters two pri- can control soil moisture at levels that ensure mary diseases: snow mold and dollar spot. To turfgrass thrives with proper fertilization, the control snow mold, Hoeh and his crew usually turf can fend for itself against snow mold, dol- apply Interface Stressgard at a rate of 4 fl. oz. lar spot and other environmental stresses. per 1,000 sq. ft. in late October or early Novem- Just as significant as fungicides and wet- ber, prior to the first snow accumulation of the ting agents are to consistent maintenance of off-season. If the weather allows, they’ll apply pristine conditions on more than 1,500 acres the fungicide at the same rate one more time of turf, full engagement with each of his 35 to during a midwinter thaw. 40 staff members is equally important. At the same time, they’ll also apply Mirage “The key, to me, is making sure everyone is PHOTOS COURTESY OF: TREETOPS RESORT Stressgard at a rate of 1 fl. oz. per 1,000 sq. ft. If Continued on page 40

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // 39 // 80,000 GOLFERS IN 5 MONTHS

Continued from page 39 rently has 10 to 15 full-time staff members who completely engaged and listening to each other,” “These initiatives focus only on the main property. Much like the Hoeh says. “I’m not the best greens mower on team that oversees the resort’s 63 holes, Hoeh’s the crew, so if someone tells me they’d like to try … increased the main resort crew works 45 to 50 hours per week mowing a certain way, I’m all for it.” during the summer and roughly 40 hours a week He adds, “This goes for any job. I’m open to resort’s annual the rest of the year. suggestions and willing to try anything if it total rounds “We ultimately want to add more staff mem- helps us accomplish our tasks more easily and bers to oversee the main property,” he adds. “This effectively.” substantially a few need for more assistance will likely only continue years ago, from to increase in the coming months and years, A shocking rise in rounds mainly due to Treetops’ marketing initiatives.” In addition to Treetops Resort’s 63 holes, Hoeh’s 40,000 in 2010 to These initiatives — primarily brand market- crew also oversees its 350-acre main property, ing via an updated website, nationwide magazine which includes a lodge, an inn, a spa, a golf acad- 95,000 in 2011.” advertisements, local and statewide television emy, a convention center and six bars and restau- interviews, trade show plugs and consistent rants. After the Great Recession, Hoeh adapted the ways in which deals and promotions all season — increased the resort’s annual his team maintained the property’s aesthetics, particularly its total rounds substantially a few years ago, from 40,000 in 2010 flower beds and hanging flower baskets. to 95,000 in 2011. “The main resort used to be peppered with annual flower beds “Everyone was shocked by this sudden rise in rounds of golf, and hanging flower baskets,” he says. “But, in the past 10 years, all within a year,” Hoeh states. “We had tees that didn’t have turf, we’ve dramatically reduced the number of flowers on the prop- rough that was beat so bad from cart traffic and bunker edges erty, as we only plant perennial grasses and flowers now.” that were crumbling. We had to regroup and refocus our efforts.” Additionally, Hoeh has focused more on high-traffic areas, especially hotel and restaurant entrances, to ensure the grasses, Less is more plants and flowers surrounding them always are lush and healthy. Luckily, the sharp upturn in rounds led to a dramatic increase in To maintain the beauty of each of these entrances, Hoeh cur- Hoeh’s budget, as he was able to focus on turf health throughout the course, from the rough and fairways to the greens, bunker An aerial view of the Signature Course. No. 3 is located back edges and tees. He began to conduct soil tests to see baselines then right, No. 5 is located in the middle and No. 6 is located on the left side. Rick Smith designed the course after a trip overseas used the data to identify areas that needed fungicides the most.

to Scotland and Ireland. It has 135 bunkers. “Green doesn’t mean healthy! We need vigorous-growing turf to PHOTO COURTESY OF: TREETOPS RESORT

40 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com FOR GOLF, WE KNOW CONTOURS

Pro-Flex 120B Pro-Roll 15 Contour Mower Contour Roller This photograph was taken from behind Hole No. 10 of The Tradition. The course was built to be a walking course, but Treetops does allow carts. A throwback to a more traditional- style course that plays “linksy,” The Tradition uses wooden THE NEW TDR-X flagsticks with pennant flags, along with wooden rakes and nontraditional tee markers and tee signs. CONTOUR ROLLER MOWER withstand the daily beating it receives,” he says. “Since then, we’ve been able to target certain areas that need more attention than others, mainly through aerification, fertilization and topdressing.” Hoeh and his crew have scheduled maintenance days every three weeks. During each maintenance day, the team focuses on only one course at a time, closing it until 3 p.m. Staff members perform most of their cultural practices during this time, including fertilizing, fly-mowing, spiking, spraying, trimming and topdressing. “As more and more customers continue to visit the mecca of golf that’s northern Michigan, these maintenance days are the only way we’re able to maintain our courses’ exceptional 10’6” wide cut Adaptive Swivel Hitch conditions,” he says. 3 Floating decks Lift-N-Turn In 2020, Treetops Resort likely will welcome 70,000 to 80,000 Full width rollers Choice of blades golfers. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the resort had antic- No daily greasing styles ipated upward of 100,000 golfers in the five-month-long golf season — figures it projects will be fully realized in 2021. As Hoeh For over 30 years, professionals prepares to welcome these guests, he will continue to focus on worldwide have relied on Progressive mowers. his greatest asset: the Great Lakes state’s extraordinary natural Find out why a Progressive mower is ... land features. The Better Built Choice.™ “We take great pride in what we do and the product we produce,” he says. “We also have a great staff that cares about the (800) 668-8873 • (519) 527-1080 Like us on courses and how they look and play.” Facebook “And, we’re stewards of the land,” he notes, “as we always give [email protected] the turf what it needs, but we never overdo. The fewer inputs we progressiveturfequip.com /progressiveturfequip G PHOTO PHOTO COURTESY OF: TREETOPS RESORT use, the better. Less is more, period.”

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // 41 RESEARCH FOR REAL SUPERINTENDENTS Hosted by Mike Kenna, Ph.D. | [email protected] Super Science

// PROTECT THE POLLINATORS NEWS UPDATES

MONARCHS IN THE ROUGH TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE BREEDS VIABLE ZOYSIA By Mike Kenna, Ph.D. The latest turfgrass variety in a recent string of releases by Texas A&M AgriLife Research onarch butterfly populations have declined by 90 percent during the last two breaks new ground among market decades. Fortunately, golf courses can make a difference in butterfly and zoysiagrasses, especially in its viability for pollinator conservation. golf course putting greens, according to M Texas A&M AgriLife. Monarchs in the Rough is a pollinator protection program that has already shown “Zoysias have typically not been great promise over the last two years. The United States Golf Association (USGA) considered for widespread use on is working with Audubon International to establish a network of pollinator habitat putting greens,” said Ambika Chandra, Ph.D., AgriLife Research professor and demonstration sites on golf courses across the country. The sites are marked with turfgrass breeding program lead in Dallas. educational signs and provide the habitat needed by a variety of pollinators. “This variety marks a very big stride in In 2018, Audubon International received a $150,000 grant from the National Fish the viability of zoysiagrasses for this application.” and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) to support Monarchs in the Rough habitat projects The new variety is a first-generation in Iowa, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, hybrid developed by crossing the species Missouri, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas Zoysia minima and Zoysia matrella. The result is an “ultradwarf” turfgrass well and Wisconsin because those states are on the suited for golf course putting greens in a monarch butterfly’s primary migration route. In wide range of environments across the early 2019, the NFWF allowed the program to add U.S., including the Transition Zone. It will be marketed and sold under the Ohio and all states west of the Mississippi River. brand name Lazer Zoysiagrass. It produces The USGA provided $100,000 of matching narrower and shorter leaf blades as well funds that will help increase stewardship as a shorter “dwarf” canopy compared to Diamond, a variety also developed by activities and increase monarch butterfly AgriLife Research. In research trials, Lazer habitats on golf courses. displayed resistance to tawny mole crickets Audubon International estimates that there are and boasts a low seedhead production. up to 100,000 acres available for pollinator projects on golf courses. Monarchs in the Rough fits nicely with ongoing efforts at many golf courses to Milkweed plants provide an essen- naturalize out-of-play areas and reduce inputs of tial habitat for monarch butterflies in out-of-play areas on golf courses. water, labor, mowing and plant protectants. Audubon International has a nearly 30-year TROPICAL history working with the golf course industry. It will contact golf courses, track seed distribution and planting success and monitor vegetative and butterfly response in SIGNALGRASS habitat areas. The USGA believes Monarchs in the Rough will accomplish important habitat establishment objectives by coordinating activities at golf facilities. INFESTATION CAN BE Don’t miss your chance to demonstrate how the golf industry supports the MINIMIZED BY environment. Sign up for Monarchs in the Rough today to get free native and regionally appropriate seed to help support monarch butterfly populations. G CAREFUL MAPPING

Mike Kenna, Ph.D., is the retired director of research, USGA Green Section. OF INFESTED AREAS ...” Contact him at [email protected]. Bert McCarty, Ph.D.

This project was funded in part by the USGA Green Section. (see story on page 44) PH.D. POTTER, DAN BY: PHOTO

42 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com The Turf Doc // DR. D BACK IN ACTION

“I couldn’t think of a safer, more fun thing to be plan to reduce the potential for any doing on a beautiful day than cruising down the infection and spread when staff and crew congregate. Additionally, have a road. Isolated in the car, I wasn’t worried about protocol to meet with “mobile visitors” social distancing nor coming into contact with like salespersons, extension personnel, strangers, just other hot rods and muscle cars.” consultants and others. Be aware that practices that you put in place to reduce KARL DANNEBERGER, PH.D., Science Editor the risk of virus exposure not only pro- tects you but also your visitors. For me personally, to experience this life-threatening disease firsthand and the impact it had on me, my family, friends and colleagues, I have little tolerance for people who think it’s a On the open road hoax, overblown or dwell in conspiracy theories. If you have staff or crew who refuse or think the implemented safety eturning from a four-week hospital battle measures are a joke and do not apply with SARS-CoV-2, also known as COVID-19 to them, my advice would be to send them packing. A corrosive attitude and R or the coronavirus, one of the things I was actions by a self-denier are not only most looking forward to was driving my 1969 dangerous to them, but also put you Pontiac Firebird. When the opportunity presented itself, and your staff at risk along with your families. I headed to the garage. Lastly, I would rather be writing in my area of agronomic expertise, but After removing the car cover, I went gating into groups. Some wore masks given how coronavirus dominates through the car’s interior disinfect- but most did not, and social distancing not only daily golf operations but our ing and cleaning. I even got under the was a foreign thought. I wanted to yell everyday life, it is critical to develop car and cleaned the rollover coils and out, “People, what are you doing?” a comprehensive plan to account for steering arms. Cleaning these exte- Car cruising is a lot like golf course the potential likelihood of the disease. rior parts had nothing to do with the management. Several of the daily man- As golf course managers, this disease coronavirus, they just happened to be agement practices like mowing greens, should be a priority and concern for my newest installations and I wanted fairways, roughs, along with spraying, how you keep yourself, family, staff a reason to look at them. After an bunker raking and trimming are often members and golfers healthy. initial setback (the battery was dead), solitary practices. The result is staff I came across a quote from a hot I headed down the road to join my car and crew are often isolated from each rod magazine (Good Guys) that I think, club and other car clubs in an event to other and spread across acres of turf. with a few word substitutions, support a local food bank. Considering that one of the mainte- describes in a clear, concise manner I couldn’t think of a safer, more fun nance goals is to avoid golfers so as not what course operations will look like thing to be doing on a beautiful day to disturb them, social distancing for the foreseeable future. than cruising down the road. Isolated occurs naturally. “Hot-rodding is built on the concept of in the car, I wasn’t worried about social The potential for coronavirus infec- overcoming obstacles, finding solutions distancing nor coming into contact tion and spread occurs at times when and making things better. That is just with strangers, just other hot rods and staff and employees congregate: during what our team is doing.” muscle cars. I joined the cars from my meetings, breaks, lunch, at the start of Stay aware and stay safe. G car club and others in the donation the day and at day’s end. Staggering line. While waiting, I stared out the when employees can gather, social Karl Danneberger, Ph.D., Golfdom's science editor and a professor at The Ohio State window at an adjacent parking lot distancing and wearing masks need University, can be reached at filled with men and women standing to be instituted to reduce potential [email protected]. around their cars talking and congre- disease risk and spread. Be aware and

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // 43 Super Science

// SEE YA, SIGNALGRASS! Tropical signalgrass — bringing an old foe to its knees? Much research and product introduction have a problematic weed finally on the back burner

Bert McCarty, Ph.D.

INTRODUCTION FIGURE 1 Tropical signalgrass (Urochloa subquadripara; formerly Braciaria subquadripara), is a warm-season perennial grass that spreads by stolons and seeds (Figure 1). The common name is from its seedhead producing two to seven branches angled to resemble a signal flag (Figure 2). It is native to tropical Asia, and being a warm-season perennial, it dies back with frost, regenerating itself from both stolons and seeds. In the U.S., it currently occurs from coastal South Carolina through Texas with isolated stands in other states, but the majority of the problem is throughout the state of Florida. In areas lacking frost, such as much of Florida, tropical signalgrass (TSG) remains green year-round, forming large patches Tropical signalgrass is a major problem in tropical and subtropical turfgrasses. With from stoloniferous growth. the loss of the effective organic arsenical (e.g., monosodium methanearsonate) Germination for TSG occurs when herbicides, it has exploded in the past 10 years in areas like Florida. It spreads by soil temperatures reach 77 degrees F seeds and stolons, often forming large, unsightly patches. (25 C), and a soil pH of 5 to 6 is optimal for germination (4). Seed germination (5). In bermudagrass (Cynodon species), dead TSG plants. requires moisture, and during extended repeat applications of members of the This article covers our 10-plus year droughts, TSG infestations diminish. organic arsenical herbicide families experience at Clemson University Tropical signalgrass infestation traditionally provided acceptable on battling this weed with the latest can be minimized by careful mapping suppression/control. However, since the management practices that have of infested areas and recording spray prohibition of these products for use proven successful for TSG control. applications to ensure proper herbicide on turf in Florida, an explosion of TSG application timing. Sanitation practices infestations has occurred in that state. CONTROL OPTIONS to reduce spread should include rinsing Previous research identified several For TSG control in bermudagrass, mowers between uses, controlling TSG herbicide options with postemergence several options exist depending on in hard-to-treat areas such as ditches TSG activity (1, 3). However, these can costs, how quickly control is desired, and fence rows and planting with be expensive and tend to work best turf tolerance and the season control weed-free stock. with fall applications. This timing is attempted (Figure 3). A summary of Attempts to control TSG in St. interferes with ryegrass overseeding these options is presented in Table 1. Augustinegrass (Stenotaphrum secon- and does not allow sufficient time for Many of the products listed perform

datum) have primarily been unsuccessful the bermudagrass to cover voids left by best in combination with a different MCCARTY BERT BY: PHOTO

44 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com // SEE YA, SIGNALGRASS!

FIGURE 2 mode of action herbicide. As noted in the table, fall applications provide the best control at the lowest price. However, these can interfere with overseeding, and voids created by control may have insuf- ficient time to recover before winter. Spring, as well as summer options, are generally less effective, requiring multiple applications and increasing turf phytotoxicity potential. The cheapest option is using Plateau, a plant growth regulator (PGR), but control will be the slowest, requiring at least two years of continuous use. In addition, with persistent use, Plateau typically controls many sedges and broadleaf weeds, releasing bermudagrass and allowing it to become the dominant species again. Plateau, like most PGRs, Tropical signalgrass leaves and a spikelike seedhead. Signalgrass refers to the right- is a program requiring repeat appli- angle leaves that originate from the stem, resembling a signal flag. cations throughout the bermudagrass growing season. If applications cease, the FIGURE 3 rebound effect will occur, resulting in a major flush of bermudagrass growth, leading to excessive scalping and weaker root systems. For TSG control in seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum), options are more restrictive both in terms of weed control efficiency and turf phytotoxicity (Table 1). Xonerate is probably the most effective option in

Research Takeaways

⦁ Tropical signalgrass is a warm-season perennial grass that spreads by stolons or seeds and occurs when soil Shown is an effective tropical signalgrass control with several herbicide combinations. temperatures reach 77 degrees F (25 Control requires persistence with most products over several years. degrees C). ⦁ Herbicide application timing is paspalum but will need repeat appli- an additional option is to apply salt as improved with careful mapping of infested areas and recording spray cations and currently is the costliest. a burndown product. Though rarely applications. Certainty provides approximately 70 lethal, it does burn TSG down until fresh ⦁ Fall herbicide applications are most percent control with a single appli- water such as rainfall flushes the salts, effective, though, in many situations, they interfere with fall overseeding or cation; thus, it will require repeat appli- leading to regrowth. do not allow sufficient time for turf cations. Pylex is a tricky product because recovery before winter. weed control improves with increasing CONCLUSIONS ⦁ All products and combinations will require multiple applications to achieve use rate, but so does turf whitening. For Our research program at Clemson adequate control. many Florida golf courses, summer turf University has evaluated numerous ⦁ To lengthen control, include a phytotoxicity is somewhat acceptable as herbicides and combinations over the preemergence herbicide such as indaziﬂam, oxadiazon or prodiamine. sufficient time occurs before peak play past 10 years. No particular program

PHOTOS BY: BERT MCCARTY BERT BY: PHOTOS resumes in fall. With seashore paspalum, Continued on page 46

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // 45 // SEE YA, SIGNALGRASS!

TABLE 1

Summary of postemergence herbicide options from research trials for tropical signalgrass (TSG) control in bermudagrass and seashore paspalum. Some rates, if reapplied, may exceed maximum yearly allowable amounts. Rotate to other programs to avoid this.

Trade Name Example Rate Comments Bermudagrass MSMA 6.6L 1 to 2 lb. ai/ac Traditional means of control. Repeat applications on 10-day intervals. Higher rates provide better control with less (1.2 to 2.4 pt/ac) reapplications but turf phytotoxicity increases and for longer periods. MSMA + metribuzin (Sencor 50W) at 0.3 lb./ac increases control but also increases short-term turf phytotoxicity. Tribute Total 61WDG 3.2 oz./ac Two applications are needed, 14-21 days apart. Fall applications are best. Revolver 0.19L 26 oz./ac Two applications are needed, 14-21 days apart. Fall applications are best. Xonerate 4SC 10 oz./ac Two applications are needed, 14-21 days apart. Fall applications are best.

Dismiss South 4SC 14 oz./ac Two applications are needed, 14-21 days apart. Fall applications are best. Celsius 68WDG 3.7 oz./ac Two applications are needed, 14-21 days apart. Fall applications are best. Xonerate 4L + Tribute Total + MSO 7.25 oz./ac + 3.2 Good spring/summer control with two applications, 14-21 days apart. oz./ac + 0.5% v/v Xonerate + Revolver 7.25 oz./ac + 26 Good spring/summer control with two applications, 14-21 days apart. oz./ac Tribute Total + ammonium sulfate 3.2 oz./ac + 15 Good control with spring spot (two to five) treatments. (21-0-0) lb./ac Manuscript 0.42L 19.2 oz./ac A total of 19.2 oz./ac is allowed yearly. Adigor surfactant is included. Spot treatments are more effective as are tank mixes with Monument 75DF at 0.33 to 0.56 oz./ac, Dismiss South, Revolver, Tribute Total &/or Xonerate. Refer to the label for specific spot treatment recommendations. Asulox 3.34L 5 pt/ac For use only on bermudagrass grown for sod. Expect short-term turf phytotoxicity. Plateau 2S 2 to 3 oz./ac A PGR that typically eradicates TSG with several years consecutive use. Approximately 1.5 weeks turf PGR suppression occurs with each ounce of product applied. Seashore Paspalum Xonerate 4SC 10 oz./ac At least two applications are needed, each 14-21 days apart. Fall applications are best. Pylex 2.8SC 0.125 to 0.25 As rate increases, both control and turf whitening increase. Mix with triclopyr ester (Turflon Ester 4L) at 1 pt/ac to oz./ac reduce whitening and increase weed control. Certainty 75WG 1.25 oz./ac Provides partial control. Repeat applications will be needed, 28 days apart. Add Xonerate to increase efficacy.

Note 1: With all treatments, adding 5 oz./ac glyphosate, and possibly 15 lbs./ac ammonium sulfate, typically increases control ~5 to 10%. Ammonium sulfate additions act as a pH modifier and work best in areas with high (>~7.5) pH spray water. Also, unless noted otherwise, all treatments should have NIS added at 0.5% v/v. Note 2: Incorporate a preemergence herbicide such as prodiamine (Barricade, others), oxadiazon (Ronstar, others) or indaziflam (Specticle) with any postemergence program to help prevent TSG reestablishment from seed. Note 3: Most programs require two full years for complete eradication since TSG reproduces by stolons and seeds. Resources and dedication to multiyear programs are necessary for success. Note 4: With any weed management program, to avoid potential resistance, no one herbicide mode-of-action program should be used continuously. Tank mix or rotate other modes-of-action to help delay this. Note 5: Although the author has evaluated numerous other compounds and combinations, the ones listed have consistently performed. However, if a golf course has a program that works, stick with it. Just consider Note 4.

Continued from page 45 by five to 10 percent. To lengthen control, References will satisfy every course as acceptable include a preemergence herbicide such as 1. Cross, R.B., L.B. McCarty, and A.G. Estes. 2016. Postemergence herbicide costs, and turf tolerance will indaziﬂam, oxadiazon or prodiamine. G tropical signalgrass (Urochloa subquadripara) control with nonor- ganic arsenical herbicides. Weed Technology 30(3):815-821. vary considerably. Bert McCarty, Ph.D., is a professor of turfgrass 2. McCarty, L.B.J, and D. Hall, et al. 2018. Common Weeds and Overall, fall applications are most Wildflowers. Clemson Univ. Publication Services, Clemson, SC. science & management within the Agriculutral 423pp. effective, though, in many situa- and Environmental Science Department at 3. McCarty, L.B., and A.E. Estes. 2014. Tropical signalgrass control. tions, fall applications interfere with Clemson University, S.C. McCarty can be con- Golf Course Management 82(4):80-85. tacted at [email protected]. fall overseeding or do not allow suffi- 4. Teuton, T.C., C.L. Main, T.C. Mueller et al. 2005. Prediction modeling cient time for turf recovery before for tropical signalgrass (Urochloa subquadripara) emergence in Acknowledgements Florida. Online. Applied Turfgrass Science doi:10.1094/ATS-2005- winter. All products and combinations 042501-BR. Sincere appreciation to Bob Cross, Ph.D., will require multiple applications to 5. Teuton, T.C., J.B. Unruh, B.J. Brecke, et al. 2004. Tropical signal- for his critical review of this article. grass (Urochloa subquadripara) control with pre-emergence- and achieve adequate control. Tank mixing post-emergence-applied herbicides. Weed Technology 18:419-425. glyphosate 4L at 5 ounces per acre and/ or ammonium sulfate (21-0-0) at 15 pounds per acre often improves control

46 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com Off the Record // UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES

Force (OAPTF) consists of two compa- “The MSMA controversy reminded me nies: Drexel Chemical Co. and Luxem- of ... when the USGA initated research bourg-Pamol. They submitted scientific data to the EPA about the potential risk on the environmental benefits and of MSMA to human health or the envi- impacts of golf courses.” ronment. As of this writing, I could not find a final decision by the EPA. MIKE KENNA, PH.D., Research Editor According to the OAPTF, the date for completion of the review is uncertain. It believes it will be in 2022. In response to requests from turfgrass users, the registrants of MSMA will be pursuing An important an action under the Pesticide Review Improvement Act (PRIA) to make the current turfgrass uses permanent. Based on user requests, the PRIA turf decision submission will seek to expand the label for current uses and restore other ne of the figure captions in this month’s Super Science turf uses voluntarily canceled under article from Bert McCarty, Ph.D., struck a chord. He said, the agreement with EPA in 2009. It will O request the restoration of broadcast "... with the loss of the effective organic arsenical (e.g., applications for golf course fairways, as monosodium methanearsonate (MSMA)) herbicides, (tropical well as the label inclusion of Florida. signalgrass) has exploded in the past 10 years in areas like Florida." OAPTF will file the PRIA application before the end of this year. Other turf- The MSMA controversy reminded cide products applied to a USGA putting grass organizations, such as Turfgrass me of environmental issues in the green with Tifdwarf bermudagrass. Producers International (TPI), are work- 1990s when the USGA initiated re- In some ways, the research conducted ing to restore turfgrass use of MSMA search on the environmental benefits in Florida signaled problems with the under PRIA permanently. TPI met with and impact of golf courses. use of MSMA. Both dimethylarsinic the EPA in Washington, D.C., in May The initial three-year program acid and arsenic leached through the 2019 to discuss how vital MSMA is to started 21 research projects by 1992. sand root zone of the green. But, the turfgrass sod production. The objectives were to 1) understand amounts found in the water were parts Unless the EPA makes a decision, the effect of turfgrass pest manage- per billion (micrograms per liter). the current application restrictions will ment and fertilization on water quality In 2006, water samples from two remain. Visit the following two websites and the environment, 2) evaluate valid Florida golf courses tested high for ar- if you are interested in the most current alternative methods of pest control to senic. Shortly after, the Environmental information on the status of MSMA. be used in integrated turfgrass man- Protection Agency (EPA) proposed the The United States Environmental agement systems and 3) determine the cancellation of all agricultural uses of Protection Agency website for human, biological and environmental MSMA. In 2009, the EPA announced organic arsenicals: https://www.epa.gov/ factors that golf courses influence. details to phase out MSMA usage on ingredients-used-pesticide-products/ Eleven of the projects started in 1991 all turfgrass. Companies would not be monosodium-methanearsonate-msma- focused on the fate of pesticides and nu- able to sell products containing MSMA organic-arsenical trients. By 2010, the USGA funded $5.5 after 2012. By 2013, the EPA launched Organic Arsenical Products Task million on 54 projects investigating a registration review for MSMA. The Force: http://www.oaptf.com what happens to pesticide and fertilizer timeline for completion was January Please contact me at mpkenna@ products applied on golf courses. One of to March 2019. During the review pro- gmail.com to provide any comments or the projects was under the direction of cess, the label for MSMA includes golf questions about the status of MSMA. G George Snyder, Ph.D., and John Cisar, courses in several states, but Florida is Mike Kenna, Ph.D., is the retired director of Ph.D., at the University of Florida. They not one of them. research, USGA Green Section. Contact him at were looking at what happens to pesti- The Organic Arsenical Products Task [email protected].

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // 47 Super Science // EXPERTS' INSIGHTS

Crabgrass, as seen on this Poa annua green, can be controlled by preemergence herbicides. Get ahead of crabgrass When it comes to crabgrass control, preemergence they were,” he says. “That clearly shows a warming trend. herbicide applications are critical. Fred Yelverton, Ph.D., I think this is something that’ll bounce around a bit professor and Extension specialist in turf and forage weed from year to year. But I’m comfortable with moving the science at North Carolina State University, says superinten- preemergence herbicide applications up two weeks.” dents should track soil temperatures in their area using data He says an early application is better than a late appli- from the closest agricultural research station. cation because preemergent herbicides don’t break down Monitoring the mean soil temperature will ensure much in the soil when temperatures are below 60 degrees applications hit at the most effective time. Yelverton says F because soil microbes aren’t very active. golf course superintendents should think about preemer- “There isn’t a big penalty for putting (the preemergence gence applications two weeks earlier. application) out too early, but there is a big penalty for “I’ve moved my recommendations for preemergence putting the preemergence herbicide application out too (herbicides for) crabgrass up because it is germinating late,” he says. earlier,” he says. “I’ve seen it germinate in North Carolina Beyond tracking soil temperatures, Yelverton also at the end of February two out of the last three years. I encourages superintendents to follow the growing degree haven’t seen that in the previous 30 years.” day data. Yelverton says he’s looked at long-term climate data, “I don’t look at that as much for specific germination and he says he’s noticed five out of the last 30 years have for crabgrass, but certainly growing degree days will tell been the warmest years on record, and none have been the you how far ahead or behind you may be,” he says. coldest years on record. He says at the start of this year, North Carolina was “When you drill into the data a little bit closer, what three weeks ahead of the 30-year average for growing you see as the reason for the warmer temperatures is degree days. Since then, spring had been cooler, so the

nighttime temperatures are not cooling down as much as state is only a little ahead of the average. G OF: SYNGENTA COURTESY PHOTO

48 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com PBI-Gordon Corp. Syngenta

ERIC REASOR, PH.D. DEAN MOSDELL, PH.D. Southeast research scientist Technical services manager

Crabgrass is a summer annual Crabgrass is one of first summer grassy weed that germinates annuals to emerge in the spring. in spring when soil temperatures are 55 degrees F for It is difficult to identify as seedlings, but easier in the several days. Most crabgrasses have a membranous multitiller stage and once inflorescence develops. The ligule, hairs on the collar and pointed leaves. Maintaining two major crabgrass species are smooth and large an actively growing turfgrass with proper mowing, (hairy) crabgrass. The pubescent leaves and stems of fertilization, irrigation and cultivation is the foundation large crabgrass help distinguish the differences between of an integrated management program. Preemergence the two species. Preemergence herbicides are very herbicides are important for managing crabgrass. effective for controlling crabgrass. Applications must Make initial applications prior to germination and then a be made prior to germination. Crabgrass needs light secondary application two months later. There are also and space to develop, so manage turf to minimize voids several postemergence options available. Crabgrasses in the turf canopy and use maximum mowing heights can be an issue in any turfgrass situation all over the where feasible. Postemergence active ingredients that country. Furthermore, low turfgrass mowing heights allow can control emerged crabgrass, depending on the turf more light into the turfgrass canopy, facilitating more species, include monosodium acid methanearsonate germination. Turfgrasses at lower mowing heights are (where available), quinclorac and mesotrione for cool- also less competitive against crabgrass. season grasses and pinoxaden for bermudagrass and zoysiagrass.

Bayer FMC Specialty Solutions

ZAC REICHER, PH.D. KEN HUTTO, PH.D. Green Solutions Team specialist Product development manager, herbicides/fungicides Preemergence herbicides like Ronstar can be applied to Golf course superintendents both cool- and warm-season turf, but herbicides like primarily deal with large and Specticle can only be applied to warm-season turf and smooth crabgrass. Both have should be applied at least two weeks prior to expected round to oval stems and tall, germination. Research suggests applications can be membranous ligules. Large crabgrass has hairs on applied to cool-season turf months prior to germination, the leaf and stem, whereas smooth crabgrass has especially in areas with light pressure or where a none. Adequate fertility, irrigation and proper mowing sequential application will be made in early summer. are vital to produce a dense canopy. Preemergence Sequential applications of preemergence herbicides herbicides with active ingredients prodiamine and are the most effective way to manage crabgrass in high- sulfentrazone are effective if applications are properly pressure areas from the northern Transition Zone and timed. Postemergence herbicides with active ingredients farther south. On occasion, crabgrass will escape a quinclorac and sulfentrazone can be effective on preemergence application. Herbicides with fenoxaprop- crabgrass especially when targeting smaller plants. p-ethyl should be applied to young crabgrass for most Crabgrass will infest all turfgrasses when density is effective control, and superintendents should include reduced. In certain regions, crabgrass may not be a a preemergence herbicide in the tank mix through primary concern. Crabgrass often appears in thinned midsummer to limit future germination. rough areas, bunker faces and practice range tees. These areas are susceptible to traffic, drought stress and excessive divots.

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // 49 The Shop MUST-HAVET-H NEWW PRODUCTS

1| F-19 Air Force hover mower 2| Standard Golf 3| Oregon BLH120VX The F-19 Air Force Hover Mower by personal bunker rake handheld blower SEAGO INTERNATIONAL features a tall Courses have removed bunker rakes The OREGON BLH120VX handheld impeller for high performance. This due to “no-touch golf,” but STANDARD blower has power for quick jobs that increased air flow combined with an GOLF’s personal bunker rake/cart rake professionals require, and Oregon’s advanced deck design means a high gives members and players the ability backpack battery platform offers long power-to-weight ratio. The mowers offer to help maintain the course and offers run times. With an air speed of 166 mph long handles as well as a reinforced clubs an extra revenue opportunity. and CFM of 520, the blower boasts a engine and handle mounts. Under These rakes are lightweight, durable and blowing force of 18.5 newtons, all while the deck, the F-19 offers three blade easily carried by golfers in their bag or on maintaining a bystander noise level of options and heights of cut from 0.75 a cart, the company said. The 48-inch- 56 decibels, plus a weather-ready IP56 inch to 3.75 inches (with the optional long wood handle screws into the dust and water protection standard. clip-on Hi-Lift kit). 15-inch-long, high-impact plastic head. Oregon120V.com SeagoUsa.com StandardGolf.com

50 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com 4

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4| Smithco fairway rollers 5| Par Aide AccuForm AccuSeed 6| BlueBird Turf The five-gang Smithco Ultra 15 The AccuForm AccuSeed by PAR AIDE HM200 hover mower fairway roller by SMITHCO includes a is designed with stainless steel, spring- BLUEBIRD’s HM200 hover mower balanced hydraulic system that keeps loaded spikes that puncture the turf has a 20-inch cutting width and is ground pressure even over its 15-foot 5/8-inch deep while dropping bentgrass designed for durability and productivity swath. At 10 mph, the Ultra 15 can seed precisely into the holes, allowing to conquer the most demanding golf roll 18 acres per hour. The three-gang for ideal seed-to-soil contact, according course applications. Its precise CG Ultra 10 fairway roller has a 10-foot to the company. Grass seed is easily Aspect Ratio provides optimum balance swath to provide 12 acres per hour of filled into the black housing and is only and maneuverability in all operating productivity at 10 mph. Both come with released when the spring-loaded head conditions, the company said. This, a tow-behind design. compresses. There is minimal impact combined with the machine’s proprietary Smithco.com to the surface due to the flat plate of fan and cutting blade designs, assures the seed housing, which causes little users get a perfect cut. Cut height is disruption to play. adjustable from 1 inch to 3 inches. ParAide.com BlueBirdTurf.com

Golfdom.com June 2020 Golfdom // 51 The 19thHole Patrick Affolder SUPERINTENDENT // McAllen (Texas) CC

Patrick, if I was there with you right What’s going on there in McAllen, What are your sports teams? now, what could I get you for a in regard to the pandemic? Every- Steelers. That’s the only team there is. drink? Any local IPA. I like to assimilate thing is opening back up this week, the myself into the local culture. restaurants, the gyms. The country club We’re celebrating Caddyshack will be completely reopened starting this issue. Hate it or love it? I love So, where are you from, and how’d tomorrow. Before that, it was just golf it. Working at country clubs, I can see you get to McAllen? I’m originally and takeout food. So tomorrow will be a that movie really happening, with the from Cranberry, Pa. I’m sort of the jour- big day for the country club. employees going to pool day. The super- neyman of superintendents. I’ve been all intendent could have been better played, around. Before here, I was in Austin … but he’s funny. I’ve also been to Florida, South Carolina and western Pennsylvania. Tell me an underappreciated part of your job. The time commitment that How did you end up becoming a it takes to make a course look pristine. superintendent? I was a cart boy in People don’t realize how much time high school cleaning golf carts. I slowly How hot does it get there in the that takes. realized I wanted to (work in golf) as a ca- summers? One word: hot. It’s unbe- reer. I was terrible at golf, and I didn’t like lievable. We’re talking heat indexes When was the last time you said teaching people, so I couldn’t be a golf sometimes over 120 (degrees F), for days to yourself, ‘Huh, you don’t see pro. I enjoyed being outside, so I went on end. The golfers tee off at 12:30 for that every day?’ That was probably this way and have been doing it ever some reason. I don’t understand how last week, when one of the guys raking since, for more than 20 years. they can do it. bunkers came up to me said, ‘hey … a guy came on to the golf course, climbed a tree // BEST ADVICE and is taking a nap.’ So, we had to chase him off. Right next to the green, too … “ MY DAD, AN OLD-SCHOOL up in a tree sleeping away. CARPENTER, ALWAYS SAYS, When you get a day off, what’s on the agenda? I’m at the pool with my ‘NEVER EAT LUNCH ALONE.’ wife and 5-year-old twin daughters, Ava I TAKE THAT ADVICE AS and Gabriella, attempting to cook some barbecue. GO SIT WITH THE CREW. What do you mean attempting? I’m SIT WITH SOMEONE YOU a terrible cook, but I try hard. I can mess DON’T KNOW … AND up a hot dog.

LEARN ABOUT THEM.” As interviewed by Seth Jones, May 18, 2020. PHOTO PHOTO OF PATRICK BY: JEFF LOWDER; MCCAIG/ISTOCK-GETTY IMAGES HALLOPINO/ISTOCK-GETTY PLUS/GETTY IMAGES IMAGES PLUS/GETTY (OPEN IMAGES SIGN), (HOTDOG)

52 // Golfdom June 2020 Golfdom.com Photography by Paul Hundley

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