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

08.13

Behind THE Curtain

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™ © 2013 Quali-Pro. Know The Sign, and Quali-Pro are registered trademarks of MANA. Always read and follow label directions. 08.13 Golfdom// VOL. 69 // NO. 8 SINCE 1927—The Resource for Superintendents // Golfdom.com // 22 When in need For 10 years, the Wee One Foundation has been helping those in trying times. 32

Billy Casper Golf allows us exclusive access to its annual meeting — and shows us What’s the how it’s trying to change the industry. next big idea at Spectrum BY SETH JONES Technologies

COLUMNS // 6 Keeping up with The Jones—Seth Jones 40 // 16 At the Turn—Mark Woodward // 18 From the Back Tees—Joel Jackson // 20 Assistant Living—Matt Neff // 46 The Turf Doc—Karl Danneberger // 47 Clark Talks Turf—Clark Throssell DEPARTMENTS SUPER SCIENCE // 8 Starter // 36 Secure fungicide // 12 and dollar spot control Golfdom Gallery // 14 // 40 Beat the summer heat, My Second Office plan for snow mold // 48 Professional Grade // 52 The 19th Hole

2 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com It’s why Jeff Corcoran puts our hybrid technology to work at Oak Hill.

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BEHIND THE SCENES: STANDARD GOLF Seven-time winner of the national Folio: Award for editorial excellence

EDITORIAL STAFF

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Seth Jones Think Pink. 785-690-7047 / [email protected] SENIOR EDITOR Beth Geraci 216-706-3756 / [email protected]

Like clockwork, the color pink flourishes in October ART DIRECTOR Pete Seltzer as a universal symbol of hope and unity in the fight 216-706-3737 / [email protected] CONTRIBUTING EDITORS against breast cancer. Karl Danneberger (Science), Joel Jackson, Clark Throssell (Research), John Walsh, In fact, the folks at Standard Golf are already Anthony Williams, Mark Woodward processing orders for pink flags, flagsticks, cups and tee markers as hundreds of courses around the BUSINESS STAFF CLEVELAND HEADQUARTERS country prepare for October. But does it really take 1360 EAST 9TH ST, SUITE 1070, CLEVELAND, OH 44114 the fight against breast cancer to recognize and PUBLISHER Patrick Roberts 216-706-3736 / [email protected]

appreciate women on the links? And, why do we ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Bill Roddy wait until the end of the season? 216-706-3758 / [email protected] NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER Carla Kastanis Today, nearly 25 percent of golfers are female. 216-706-7923 / [email protected] The percentage is increasing. Also, just as a SALES ASSISTANT Petra Turko 216-706-3768 / [email protected]

reminder, women drive the country’s economic MARKETING MANAGER Ryan Bockmuller engine in terms of spending, and millions of them 216-706-3772 / [email protected] MANAGER, PRODUCTION SERVICES Chris Anderson have been impacted by breast cancer one way or 216-978-5341 / [email protected] SR. AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Antoinette Sanchez-Perkins another. (If breast cancer hasn’t affected you, count 216-706-3750 / [email protected] yourself lucky. It’s an awful, insidious disease. That’s why Standard Golf proudly donates a portion of every MARKETING/MAGAZINE SERVICES REPRINTS & PERMISSIONS Nick Iademarco “Think Pink!” sale item to fight it.) 877-652-5295 / [email protected] This year, don’t let the NFL players wearing pink SUBSCRIBER, CUSTOMER SERVICE / 847-763-4942 on the first Sunday game in October be your first CORPORATE reminder. Let the women in your life — and on your PRESIDENT & CEO Kevin Stoltman course — know you not only support the Susan B. 216-706-3740 / [email protected] VP OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS Steve Galperin Komen Foundation, but also appreciate their active 216-706-3705 / [email protected] VP OF GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRODUCTION Pete Seltzer support of your venue. “Think Pink.” It’s not only the 216-706-3737 / [email protected]

right thing, but also the smart thing to do. EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Marty Whitford Want more information 216-706-3766 / [email protected] on “Think Pink”? Contact OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF American Society of Irrigation Consultants Standard Golf at P.O. Box 426, Rochester, MA 02770; 508-763-8140; www.ASIC.org www.standardgolf.com Golfdom does not verify any claims or other information appearing in any of the advertisements contained in the publica- tion, and cannot take any responsibility for any losses or other damages incurred by readers in reliance on such content. or call 866-743-9773. Golfdom welcomes unsolicited articles, manuscripts, photographs, illustrations and other materials but cannot be held responsible for their safekeeping or return. North Coast Media LLC provides certain customer contact data (such as customers’ names, addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses) to third parties who wish to promote relevant products, services and other opportunities which may be of interest to you. If you do not want North Coast Media LLC to make your contact information available to third parties for marketing purposes, simply call 847-763-4942 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT and a cus- tomer service representative will assist you in removing your name from North Coast Media LLC’s lists.

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4 // Golfdom August 2013 Lighter footprint from 31 hp Briggs and Stratton larger flotation tires engine, all wheel drive

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“I wanted to learn about the company and specifically I told them I was on a fact- finding mission. I wanted to about this meeting that was hosting some 150 learn about the company and superintendents from around the country every year, specifically about this meet- ing that was hosting some yet I had never heard a thing about it.” 150 superintendents from SETH JONES, Editor-in-Chief around the country every year, yet I had never heard a thing about it. Did I get to open every closed door at Billy Casper Golf? Of course not. This is a e embedded business, after all, and they have their methods they want to keep private. journalist Was every source com- pletely forthcoming with me? I’ll tell you that it seemed saw a headline recently about how dangerous the job of being an that everyone answered my embedded journalist is.¶ I chuckled at the thought. Well, sure, it’s questions. Especially Bryan dangerous. But those guys chose those jobs. Just like my friend Will, Bielecki, vice president of agronomy for Billy Casper whom I wrote about a few issues ago. He knows the danger of the Golf. I asked him some tough places he visits, just to take a photo.¶ And then I think of my job. questions, and he shot me We’re related, you know — the embedded journalist and the editor-in-chief straight. I think that’s why I he’s in the position he’s in of Golfdom? We might not be brothers, but we’re cousins, twice removed. today. I could see working for that guy. He’s a leader, and I’ve even had to do my own I was at the John Deere Clas- on the invitation list for the he’s not afraid to make hard kind of embedded journalism, sic, playing in a golf scramble. meeting. “I’ll look into it,” he decisions. and I’ve been doing it a lot My cart partner was Bryan told me. So I made it out of the BCG lately. Except I don’t go to Af- Stromme, BCG’s director of It took a year-and-a-half, Annual Meeting in one piece. ghanistan, I go to Augusta. I agronomy for the Midwest but this February, two weeks No blood was spilled. I even even traveled internationally region (and that day, the only after the Golf Industry Show got a putting lesson from Billy last month. I know it’s a tough player from my cart to keep a in San Diego, I found myself Casper himself (World Golf job, but luckily, England has a drive in the fairway.) at the BCG meeting in Tampa, Hall of Fame, class of 1978.) lot of pubs. We started talking about Fla. My putter has been hot ever Some of you may think the travel we had done Once again, I was an em- since. that I risked life and limb through the year, and that bedded journalist. This time There’s no telling how doing this month’s cover was when Stromme men- I was deep in management many courses Billy Casper story on the Billy Casper Golf tioned to me the BCG Annual company territory. I knew Golf, and management com- Annual Meeting. But the only Meeting. I wasn’t familiar the dangers. But hey, this is panies in general, will add to thing I risked was a sunburn, with it, so I asked him for de- my job. their portfolios in the next and maybe alienating some tails. The more I learned, the There was some hand- few years. But if you find your- staunch anti-management more impressed I was with wringing when the idea of me self at BCG’s Annual meeting, company readers. what he was describing. coming to the meeting was from what I could see? It’s not The seeds of this story By the end of the round, I proposed to the upper brass at such a dangerous job. were first planted over the asked Bryan if he could get me BCG. What did I want to write Email Jones at: 4th of July weekend in 2011. about? What was I looking to [email protected]. find out? Could I be trusted?

6 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com LAYING DOWN A WHOLE NEW STANDARD IN TOPDRESSING

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// HIRED! // 2013 PGA MAGRO COMES ON BOARD AT STEVENS WATER Carmen Magro has joined Stevens Water Monitoring Systems (Stevens Water) as the company’s vice president of business development and agronomy. Magro brings with him 20 years of agronomy expertise and business leadership. “His experience with several technology Long days were the norm at the 2013 PGA Championship at Oak Hill CC in Rochester, N.Y. companies to It was estimated that each crew member put in a 105-hour workweek. Despite the long implement self- hours, the guys could still manage a smile. designed models for stress prediction, irrigation/analysis control and overall plant health is of great value,” said TH Stevens President Scott South. 95 PGA CHAMPIONSHIP A former superintendent, Magro directed the Golf Course Turfgrass Management Program and Turfgrass PRACTICALLY PERFECT Research Facilities at Penn State University and served as the university’s CORCORAN AND CREW OVERCOME EARLY CRITICISM turfgrass media relations expert. His past experience also includes AND EARLY RAIN TO HOST A MEMORABLE MAJOR. working as the lead agronomist and director of education at Floratine BY SETH JONES // Editor-in-Chief Products Group and as vice president of agronomy with UgMO Technologies. There were plenty of magical that the greens lacked grass, and won- // A SUPER ADVENTURE moments at the 95th PGA dered if they could be sped up in time Championship. for the PGA. SUPER STARTS From when the tournament began Corcoran responded to Woods’ NEW CHARITY with a thunderclap to when it ended complaints, telling the Rochester, N.Y. Brian Peters, regional superintendent with champion Jason Dufner’s cheeky Democrat and Chronicle, “That was our for Traditional Golf Properties in North butt-pat on his wife, this was one heck game plan going into advance week, Carolina, recently established a non-profit charity called “Adventurers for Special of a tournament. have them slow. ...We will be ready for Needs” (AFSN). “This golf course, Oak Hill, is just a the Championship.” And ready it was, The charity takes adventure sports great major championship venue,” Ian despite the occasional shower. (mountain climbing, kayaking, etc.) and turns them into charity benefits for Baker-Finch gushed. Keegan Bradley, By Sunday, Corcoran was relieved children and adults with special needs. winner of the 2011 PGA Champion- the whole thing was almost over. Peters’ son, Cameron, was born prematurely at 24 weeks. The premature ship tweeted, “The PGA of America “I feel like a weight has been lifted birth left him with impairments and always sets up an amazing course for a off my shoulders,” Corcoran said Sun- developmental delays. major. They deserve more credit than day morning. “I’m going to relax… Today Cameron is progressing well. Peters created the charity to give back they get.” until I have to start thinking about to organizations like Frankie Lemmon This was a 180 from what Tiger next week’s clean-up.” School in Raleigh, N.C., which helped Cameron overcome his challenges. Woods was saying a week earlier. He CC of Orlando superintendent Kasey Learn more about the charity at

complained during a press conference Kauff contributed to this story. www.adventurers4specialneeds.com. / BY SETH JONES (RIGHT) MAGRO / CARMEN JOHN DEERE (MAIN) COURTESY: PHOTO

8 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com Joe Schmo now a BY THE NUMBERS GCSAA field staffer BY SETH JONES // Editor-in-Chief Chase Rogan, former from each other.” owner of Pure Turf Rogan, a month into the Consulting and also a former job when we spoke to him, 16 reality TV star on Spike Net- said someone stops him to say work’s The Joe Schmo Show they enjoyed watching The (“Joe Schmo is a turfie,” Feb- Joe Schmo Show at about half PERCENT ruary 2013) was hired last of the meetings he’s attended month as the GCSAA’s field so far. Rogan won $100,000 Rogan was hired as Amount of time smartphones are staffer for the Mid-Atlantic GCSAA’s Field Staff on the show for being the only used for actually making phone region. for the Mid-Atlantic non-actor (much to his sur- calls. (Source: Marketingprofs) region last month. Rogan’s territory will prise) on a fake reality show include Pennsylvania, Maryland, Dela- about the bounty hunter business. // CAREERS ON COURSE ware, Virginia and West Virginia. The But did his stint chasing crooks and FIRST TEE TOURS GCSAA field staff program is designed parole violators on TV help prepare TPC SUGARLOAF to “help chapters utilize GCSAA pro- him for his gig with GCSAA? Georgia superintendents and John grams and services to a fuller extent,” “Not really — I don’t see how it Deere recently teamed together to give according to GCSAA.org. could have,” Rogan says. “At best it’s a youngsters from The First Tee of Atlanta “I’m excited for the new position, and conversation-starter.” an intimate look into potential careers in the golf industry. Georgia GCSA director to work everyday to help advance this Rogan holds a bachelor’s degree in Mike Crawford, CGCS at TPC Sugarloaf profession,” Rogan tells Golfdom. “The tufgrass science and a master’s degree in Duluth, hosted 24 aspiring golfers between the ages of 12 and 17 on a day- GCSAA has a lot to offer its members, in agronomy, both from Penn State long course and facility tour in July. and I also hope to help chapters learn University. The outing was part of a new “Careers on Course” program included in John Deere’s landmark $1-million commitment to the First Tee organization, announced in February. “Hopefully we helped open some eyes THEY MIKE THUROW, PRESIDENT AND CEO, for these kids about future career paths SPECTRUM TECHNOLOGIES they might follow in golf,” Crawford says. “Some of the kids were very, very engaged SAID IT On how the soil moisture meter changed his and their questions were outstanding. business. (See full story on page 32) . They showed a genuine interest in the industry, not just the game.”

“In my 40 years in the industry, // GROWING BUSINESS I’ve never seen adoption of a ezLOCATOR EXPANDS product such as I have with ezLocator is developing its nationwide sales organization with the recruitment of the TDR (300). It’s because the key industry sales professionals. The Northeast Region adds David Clinkhammer, Andy Hyjek and Mitch guys at the USGA and the PGA Pizzetti. The Central Region adds Ted Bilan, Tom Conway and Dave Rutz. The believed in it. Word travels Southern Region adds Jim Burke, Bill Ehman and Wally Geesey. The Mid- Atlantic Region adds Ed Turnage and the efficiently in this industry.” Western Region adds Bill Jackson. Pat Sellers will cover PGA Tour events.

Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 9 // WE’VE GOTTA GO @ # ST. ANDREWS EMAILS TEXTS TWEETS VOTED NO. 1 The Old Course at St. Andrews has been Nice cover pack,” June). John Wake was truly named the world’s number one course by story on a lovely man, to use a phrase not a unique poll of professional golf course Streamsong. in common practice since the 19th architects from around the globe. Almost 250 architects voted in the Have heard century, but so appropriate. Architects’ Choice Top 100 Golf Courses great things I never write to magazines about rankings ballot, carried out by Golf Course about it from anything, ever, until now. Two in a Architecture magazine. The Old Course was a comfortable first, followed by Alister our members row. Who or what will you bring up MacKenzie’s Cypress Point Club (Pebble who have next month that hits me between Beach, Calif.) and Pine Valley (N.J.) GC played there. the eyes or in the heart? in third. Euan Loudon, chief executive of St. Looks incredible. Thank you for the tribute to John, Andrews Links, gave a nice tip of the cap Greg Shaffer it is appreciated by anyone who to the maintenance crew. “Achieving the @gtshaffer knew him. top spot in this poll is fitting testimony to the work of the greenkeeping team at Samuel R. Snyder VII the Links. When you see the caliber of the CGCS-Ret. courses from around the world included Seth, Shreve, Ohio in the Architects’ Choice Top 100 you can appreciate that a great deal of hard work You did it again. Another hot-button goes into delivering the Old Course in top issue for my keyboard. condition for the thousands of people who John Wake, always a gentleman, I enjoyed your article and story wish to play it every year.” effusively friendly and yet profes- (“Can’t see the forest for the trees,” sional. John was one of the remark- Karl Danneberger, July) in the latest Golfdom. OOPS... ably genuine gentlemen I’ve met True how neighborhoods through my travels and time work- can get bogged down with age and In July we stated that perennial ryegrass had a ing with GCSAA. overplanting, too. production value of $111,000 this year (“Bye bye, rye.”) We should have said it has a production I was shocked to learn that we Gary Deters value of $111 million. We regret the error (and lost John so early and did not realize @gdeters_turf must have been smoking a lot of that rye, huh?) it was 10 years ago (“No better back-

AS TOLD BY P.J. McGuire, CGCS, American Country Club Comedians, READER JOKE supplier of golf entertainment. Visit acccomedy.com to learn more. A nun rushes into Mother Superior’s office and exclaims that she needs a priest to hear her confession: she had used the lord’s name in vain while playing golf. Mother Superior has the nun sit and tell her the story. “I was on 18 and I just hit the drive of the day, when a squirrel ran out of the woods and snatched my golf ball.” Mother Superior asks, “Is that when you used the lord’s name in vain?” “No,” the nun replies, “then a hawk swooped down and caught the squirrel in his talons and flew off with my ball still in his mouth!” “Oh my!” Mother Superior shouts, “is that when you used the lord’s name in vain?” “No, Mother! The hawk flew that squirrel right over the green and the ball dropped from his mouth, on the green, and the ball rolled within 3 feet of the cup!” To which she immediately replies, “don’t tell me you missed the goddamn putt?” PHOTO BY: LARRY LAMBRECHT LARRY BY: PHOTO

10 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com Don’t Let Pythium Blight Engulf Your Turf Trust Segway® Fungicide to Fight the Spread of Damaging Pythium Blight

Once Pythium blight invades your turf, it can spread like wildfire. Safeguard your course with Segway® fungicide, a key component of your resistance management program that is proven to be highly-effective against all stages of Pythium disease. When used as a preventative treatment or even after symptoms are present, Segway stops Pythium in its tracks. Scan this tag for Don’t get burned by destructive blight. Use Segway fungicide first in your rotation program more information — and make up to three applications per season* — for superior, season-long Pythium on the causes and symptoms blight protection. For more information on Segway fungicide, contact your FMC Market of Pythium blight. Specialist or Authorized FMC Sales Agent.

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*Do not apply more than 2.7 fl oz/1000 square feet per year (or 3.0 lb a.i./acre per year). Always read and follow label directions. FMC is a trademark of FMC Corporation. Segway is a trademark of Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha, Ltd. ©2013 FMC Corporation. All rights reserved. WE CAME. 1 WE SAW. Gallery WE TOOK PICTURES. Stay off my grass! We saw this sign placed prominently on a soc- 1 cer pitch in England recently. It’s the truth, you know — you grow it, then people have to mess it all up... 3

Billy and some kid Golfdom EIC Seth Jones (right) got a free 2 putting tip from golf legend Billy Casper (left) at the Billy Casper Golf An- nual Meeting. The tip? Seth isn’t telling.

A Sunningdale day Murray Long, courses and estate manager at 2 3 Sunningdale Golf Club near Lon- don, gave us a proper tour of the No. 1 non-links golf course in England. De- 5 spite the way it looks, he did not show us how to hula. 4 Service right next door While in Ipswich, England, we got a tour of 4 RJ National, the three-hole golf course at Jacobsen’s European head- quarters. We wonder if superintendent Jamie Hughes (pictured) gets a special rate on spare parts?

Where the MAZAK happens We drove from Minneapolis over to 5 River Falls, Wis., to visit Jim Le- tourneau (left), COO of Foley United (with Golfdom publisher Pat Roberts.) The machine behind them is a MAZAK Super Turbo-X 48 MK II. What’s that mean? We’re not sure, but it sounds cool! 6

Why can’t we be friends? It took a cricket match in England to make 6 this photo happen. Toro Irriga- tion’s Robert Jackson (left) and Robert Green (right) share a friendly moment with Jacobsen’s Adam Slick (center.) 7 Blue crew Did they call each other? Jacobsen’s Ian Mitchell, 7 Seth and Jamie all are dressed eerily similar at the RJ National. And yet no one is wearing orange...? PHOTOGRAPHY BY: SETH JONES (1, 3, 4, 5, 6); RICH KATZ (2), ADAM SLICK (7) ADAM (2), SETH JONES (1, 3, 4, 5, 6); RICH KATZ BY: PHOTOGRAPHY

12 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com Protect your work of art.

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BECAUSE THE COURSE Office IS YOUR FIRST About our host ALAN FERGUSON, head groundsman for St. George’s Park near of Ipswich Town FC,) Ferguson now manages the turf at St. Burton-Upon-Trent, England, has his roots in golf. He started his George’s Park, the official home of the English national soccer career working at the Old Course at St. Andrews. But one glance team. The facility has 11 soccer fields — including one that at his office makes it clear: Ferguson is a sports turf manager is manicured to be an exact replica of the field at Wembley through and through these days. Stadium — in order to give the team the feeling of their home The former head groundsman at Portman Road (home pitch.

“The Royal Highness Prince William did a few sprinkles, I did the rest.”

1 2 3

4

1 CROATIA VERSUS ENGLAND they call the International Se- champagne and kept the bottle lovely people, easy to talk to, just “Those jerseys are signed by ries — American football games as a memento — I don’t think I’ll like you’re sitting there having a England and Croatia, from 2003. played at Wembley Stadium. I be getting too many more bottles cup of coffee. Years ago I met England won 3-1. This was during went down to help out and picked of champagne from the chairman Prince William’s father, he was the rebuilding of Wembley Sta- these up. That game has become in my career.” equally laid back. It’s a real honor dium, so they played the game at real popular here. By the way, I’ve to meet the royal family in your 4 THE ROYAL SPADE “That spade Portman Road, where I was the never seen anything like that, professional career.” was part of a ceremony where head groundsman. It was the first American football is fascinating!” we planted the eight millionth time an international game was INTERVIEW AND 3 SOME BUBBLY “That bottle was tree in the national forest that played in Suffolk, England.” PHOTO BY SETH JONES given to me by the chairman of we are a part of. The Royal High- Proud of your second office? Email us a photo of you in it to [email protected], 2 READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL St. George’s Park upon the grand ness Prince William did a few and we may feature you and your office in an “Those helmets are from what opening of the park. I drank the sprinkles, I did the rest. They’re upcoming issue of Golfdom.

14 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com Take a good look. You may never see it again.

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4 Bunker machines for “ From a distance I couldn’t tell exactly raking It was common to hand-rake bunkers. An- what he was doing. But as I got closer, other time-saving gem. 5 Deeptine aerifiers And what I saw was truly amazing.” how about this tool? Ten- inch holes that have cured MARK WOODWARD, Contributing Editor many a green or fairway problem, saving many a superintendent’s job. This month, Woodward gets an assist from Kirby Putt, director of grounds at Arizona Country Club. 6 Growth regulators Consid- ered the “extra employee” on many grounds crews, these create labor savings ‘Grassroots’ ideas are and enhance turf. 7 Wetting agents Making water wetter for much im- among the best proved infiltration. 8 Mechanics lift You want to very once in a while you run across something that make a best friend, buy your makes you say “Wow, isn’t that cool?” or “Why didn’t mechanic a lift. How many of you laid on the ground, I think of that?” and maybe still do, to repair E equipment. Shame on the I’ve been in the golf busi- what he was doing. But as labor-intensive job. course who doesn’t own one ness for more than 40 years I got closer, what I saw was Later that evening, I of these. now, and I’ve seen a lot of truly amazing. paused for a moment and 9 Spin grinders The days changes and innovations. As Kirby by nature is a funny reflected on how many cores of backlapping are over (I my friend Shawn Emerson guy, but what I witnessed I’ve pushed off greens. know some of you still pre- from Desert Mountain once when I pulled up to the green I also thought about the fer the old way.) told me, “The only thing that was a superintendent who other innovations great 10 Hydraulics Where would hasn’t changed over the years was downright giddy. He was minds have come up with that we be without hydraulics? in the golf industry is the golf- quickly and efficiently remov- helped me in my career as a There are so many more er’s ability.” If you really think ing the cores from the greens superintendent. I sat down great inventions and ideas about it, everything related to in a matter of minutes, piling that evening and quickly waiting to spring into action. golf course maintenance and them off to the side of the listed 10 inventions that I witnessed one recently that management has changed, collars for pickup. Kirby ex- came to mind: I’m sure will have a place in and for the most part, the plained, “I have one of three 1 Rolling machines for many a maintenance facility changes have been positive. made by James Hill, and I smoothing greens Prior to across the country. The F1 Recently, while completing love this machine.” these techniques, we put core collector might just go on a bunker renovation project He also advised me that bricks in the baskets of our my list of creative innovations at the Arizona Country Club the F1 will be on the market walking greens mowers. to expedite the aerification in Phoenix, I was introduced very soon. In simple terms, 2 Brushing, verticutting and process and get golfers back to a grassroots idea called the Kirby was sitting on a bunker groomer attachments We onto our courses sooner. F1 core collector by the direc- rake with the F1 core collector all know how much bet- Mark Woodward is president of tor of grounds, Kirby Putt. attached, virtually removing ter our turf is since these Mark Woodward and Associates, He was waving me over and all of the aerification plugs on came along. principal of Damarco Golf, CEO laughing as he pulled cores the entire green in seven to 3 Lightweight fairway of MasterStep Golf Group and a off his greens with this bun- eight minutes. This tool is an mowers In my day, a contributing editor for Golfdom. ker rake attachment. From a incredible time-saving device Jacobsen F10 and Toro distance I couldn’t tell exactly for what is often a tedious and Parkmaster ruled the earth.

16 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com MSMA ALTERNATIVE

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“We are always at the mercy of the weather, meter. The use of moisture but with this new research we might be able sensors and meters is becom- ing more commonplace as to modify some of our inputs or practices to we have to face concerns improve plant vigor and make wiser decisions.” over water availability (check out the story on page 40 for JOEL JACKSON, Contributing Editor details on how popular these meters have become for one company.) Now the amount of light a plant receives during any Road trip research notes given period is being explored as it affects plant transpira- tion, which affects not only y road trips to education sessions so far this year have water and nutrient uptake, included the Nutrient Management Symposium, but also the ability to fight disease and withstand wear. the Central Florida Vendor Expo and the Everglades We know turf suffers in the M shade, but now simple hazy, GCSA Spring Symposium. And they all had me wondering what cloudy days can limit turf new or modified turf management practices are on the horizon. viability. We are always at the mercy It’s no secret that Florida Common sense precautions roots must sprout from the of the weather, but with this has been ground zero for EPA’s against applying fertilizers in stolons before they can take new research we might be Numeric Nutrient Criteria, advance of forecasted heavy up nutrients. able to modify some of our spawned by a court settlement rains or too close to water Fertilizer formulations inputs or practices to im- and not the result of open de- bodies are always in effect. were another topic that prove plant vigor and make bate of the facts. In the wake Another key find was that piqued my interest. Over the wiser decisions. of all the angst raised by activ- if you bring in sod you need to years we have seen phospho- One thing I have learned ists about nutrient pollution find out when the plots were rous fade from most blends. from my travels so far this of waterways, the University last fertilized. Sod farms keep There are times when it is year is that continuing educa- of Florida undertook an eight- the plots lean and mean like appropriate to apply phospho- tion is more important than year study of nutrient man- a lot of “firm and fast” golf rous, and we do more soil and ever in the golf course mainte- agement practices sponsored courses. But when harvesting tissue testing to determine nance industry. by the Florida Deptartment of the sod for a customer, the that need. Recent comments We will always have basic Environmental Protection. farms want it looking good, so by Auburn University’s Eliza- truths when it comes to The most important result they fertilize. beth Guertal, Ph.D., at the Ev- cultural practices, irrigation was that the summer fertil- Researchers have found erglades Symposium indicate management and nutrient izer application bans forced that if a sod farm has fed the we might want to start look- requirements, but you can people to apply in the spring turf in a two- to six-week ing at potassium levels in our bet there is always going to be and fall when plant roots are period before harvesting, blends as well. room for improvement. just renewing growth or shut- a lot of the nutrients are Another area gaining re- Thanks to advancements ting down and plants are less transported in that soil layer search interest is how light in research technology we can effective at absorbing nutri- with the sod. Because of that intensity and duration af- unlock more of nature’s se- ents. Nutrients applied on test information, the state may fects plant growth efficiency. crets and learn to modify our plots in the summer months change its model fertilizer Pretty soon, “What’s in Your practices to become even bet- were essentially taken up with ordinance to include a 30- to Cart?” might contain a light ter environmental stewards. little or no leaching at all. 60-day waiting period before meter along with the moisture Joel Jackson, CGCS-Ret., is director of applying more nutrients. communications for the Florida GCSA. That makes sense, as new

18 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com ™

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The key, as I see it, is to “I think most people would assume a suit listen carefully to the contact person when you’re setting up is the proper interview attire. However, the interview. Take note not that’s apparently not always the case.” only of the person’s words, but also of his or her tone. MATT NEFF, assistant superintendent, The importance of both Wedgewood G&CC, Powell, Ohio of those things can be easily forgotten when you’re in the midst of trying to coordinate schedules, learn about the interview format and deal with the other miscellaneous No jacket required details that are involved in setting up an interview. his past winter at the Ohio Turfgrass Foundation Conference Nonetheless, listening carefully on that phone call and Show, I attended a couple talks on career development led will enable you to more ac- by a human resources director and a respected superintendent. curately gauge the company’s I took quite a bit away from both speakers, but a comment on expectations and give you an idea of how best to approach interviewT attire from one of the attendees — and the resulting discussion the interview. — is what stuck with me. I knew my interview was going to be a one-on-one He relayed the story of Nonetheless, I’ve won- of professionalism and men- meeting with the owner, and an interview he had for a dered ever since if the fact tal stability. I got the impression that it superintendent position. The that I looked “more like a In any case, that incident, wasn’t going to be a highly interviewer had commented banker” to him factored into along with the discussion at structured, formal interview. on the fact that he wore a his decision to not hire me. the OTF conference, got me However, attire wasn’t ad- suit and said he should have I’m still not really sure thinking about how to handle dressed in the phone call, dressed more casually. what a superintendent is the same situation in the and I chose to go with a suit. The story stuck with me supposed to look like. Maybe future. I think most people, Frankly, I’d rather be over- because the same thing hap- I should have shown up in me included, would assume dressed than underdressed pened to me, and, as it turns a pair of Carhartts’s that a suit is the proper interview for something as important as out, to another guy in the smelled like 2,4-D with a attire, unless otherwise told. a job interview. room. Stimpmeter hanging in the However, that’s apparently Maybe it cost me an op- In my case, the interviewer hammer loop and a hose over not always the case. portunity, I don’t know. I do actually said, and I’m not my shoulder. It may not necessarily be know that it made me realize making this up, “You look I could have opened with a a bad idea, but I’ve always the need to listen intently more like a banker than a Carl Spackler impression and been a little uncomfortable when dealing with potential superintendent.” I don’t want then randomly alternated be- asking the contact person employers, and to always to imply that he was rude. tween a slight country drawl with whom I’m setting up the trust my judgment about But he made that comment (to subtly imply that I was interview how I should dress. their expectations. more than once during the raised on a farm) and a Scot- On one hand, by asking, you And I guess, if all else fails, interview. tish brogue (to subtly imply run the risk of coming off as you could just ask. Now, to be completely hon- that I’m descended from Old unprofessional or ignorant. Matt Neff ([email protected]) est, I do look great in a suit. Tom Morris). That would On the other hand, you may is assistant superintendent at And I do have impeccable have covered pretty much all lose an opportunity because Wedgewood G&CC in Powell, Ohio. taste in shirt-and-tie the major stereotypes while your attire is not exactly what combinations. leaving a lasting impression was expected.

20 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com VISIT JOIN LIKE SUBSCRIBE http://griggbros.com http://gri.gg/join http://gri.gg/fb http://gri.gg/tv Behind THE

BY SETHCurtain JONES Billy Casper Golf allows us exclusive access to its annual meeting — and shows us how it’s trying to change the industry.

or three days in Feb- Schedule change ruary, golf industry Virginia-based Billy Casper Golf owns or man- ages roughly 150 golf courses in 28 states. The professionals from company, now 23 years in operation, employs across the country a fair share of turf professionals. But it’s only converge on Tampa, been recently that those superintendents have Fla. They come from as far as Ha- truly felt like an integral part of the BCG team. F Six years ago, the superintendents in the waii and Pennsylvania and just company didn’t attend the BCG Annual Meet- about everywhere in-between. ing. They weren’t invited. Their job titles include superin- It was at this time that Bryan Bielecki, vice president of agronomy tendent, golf professional and for the company, affected sales director. change. He decided that They’re there to learn about the business, superintendents must network and take classes. attend the national This isn’t the Golf Industry Show. It’s not a meeting in order to get regional conference. the credit they deserve, Welcome to management company Billy and enhance the busi- Casper Golf’s Annual Meeting. Bryan Bielecki ness, art and science To some, the thought of having to attend a skills they bring to their properties daily. management company’s annual meeting would “We had that typical struggle with the per- be a horror. Because that would mean that their ception of superintendents within the organi- course was now being operated by a manage- zation — like in the real world — about what ment company. superintendents do,” Bielecki recalls. “The But to the attendees of the BCG meeting, superintendents needed to be exposed to the this is one of the best weeks of the year. Because rest of the organization, and the rest of the or- it’s the biggest reminder that they are a part of ganization needed to be exposed to our super- a management company — or, as many call it, intendents, to see they are real professionals.” “a team.” Or, as BCG Chairman and CEO Peter Hill

And they wouldn’t want it any other way. Continued on page 24 GOLF CASPER CLEMENTS/BILLY MICHAEL COURTESY: PHOTOS ISTOCKPHOTO

22 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com The guys who haven’t been to the annual meeting, or haven’t been a part of our team for a long time, they’ll talk about Billy Casper Golf in the third person—it’s ‘you guys,’ even though they’re employees of Billy Casper Golf,” Bielecki says. “Once they’ve had a chance to indulge themselves in the culture, after they get a few regional meetings and a national meeting under their belt, all of a sudden it’s ‘us.’” PHOTO CREDIT PHOTO

Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 23 // BCG UNIVERSITY

“We’ll do an agronomy meet- ing, then you go do a budget meet- ing, then a report- ing meeting,” says Bryan Nuss, super- intendent at Jack Bryan Stromme Frost National GC in Blakeslee, Pa., who has attended five BCG Annual Meetings. “It’s general, but you learn more about the overall aspect of the golf course, not just our department.” Following the education sessions is the awards ceremony, where top performers 20 years ago are recognized. The morning of the last Billy Casper believed day features a guest speaker for the group, that golf courses were covering topics such as leadership and cre- ative thinking. behind the times in the Louis Bischoff, superintendent at the way they were run. Today, BCG owns BCG-managed North Course in City Park, and operates 150 courses in 28 states. New Orleans, savors the Annual Meeting, and is among its biggest advocates. He’s won awards at the event twice — Rookie of the Year and Top Performer. Continued from page 22 the first night. Then the meeting gets a “There are a ton of great things about says, “Superintendents are integral to proper start with an opening session the the BCG Annual Meeting,” Bischoff says. Billy Casper Golf, furthering its mission following morning. Company namesake “People I call friends, people if you’re lucky to build the best operating platform in the and World Golf Hall of Famer Billy Casper to see them once, maybe twice a year, and history of golf.” and CEO Peter Hill you actually spend time with them at the At first blush, telling a superintendent both address the ‘Annual.’ We all chew the same dirt, it’s to prepare for a three-day trip to Florida group. Following interesting to hear stories from others.” seems like the move of a person trying to the opening ses- Bischoff hasn’t been to the Golf Indus- make friends. But if BCG were to make an sion, attendees can try Show in “quite a few years,” but doesn’t addition, that meant a subtraction must choose to go on a seem to miss it. happen. GCSAA’s annual Golf Industry golf outing, fishing “Some of the knowledge that roams Show, the biggest turf maintenance event trip or cruise around around the BCG halls… it’s horrifying, in the industry, would no longer be a trip Peter Hill Tampa Bay. they’re so smart,” he says. “I always feel that BCG would pay for. The next day, classes begin. Courses like I can get accomplished whatever I need “We were in a real tough spot. If we cut such as “Revenue Strategies to Grow Your to do at the Annual.” out the GIS for all of our superintendents, Business” and “Golf Course Ownership On the contrast, John Spiwak, superin- they might lock us up and throw away the Workshop” are offered to all attendees, as tendent at BCG-managed Eastpointe CC key,” Bielecki recalls thinking. “But if we well as some turf-specific classes for the in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., doesn’t like didn’t get our superintendents exposed to superintendents at the event. missing a show so important to him as the the organization, and vice versa, we risked “There’s also a lot about running a busi- Golf Industry Show. So he attends every being stuck in neutral.” ness, finance classes and growing your ca- year on his own. reer,” says Bryan Stromme, Midwest direc- “The GIS allows guys to experience things Anatomy of an annual meeting tor of agronomy. “The education is a huge more on their own, put your hands on all Much of the BCG annual meeting is about part of the meeting. And it’s not just turf, the equipment, and get that type of knowl- being around fellow members of the BCG it covers business, HR classes, contracts edge,” Spiwak says. “Some of it does cross

family. Region-by-region dinners kick off and more.” over, but you couldn’t say it’s the same.” JOHN SPIWAK COURTESY: PHOTO

24 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com Nuss agrees. “Being a superin- employee engagement, employee mo- “It’s nice to get away, heading to Florida tendent, you have rale, they’ve far, far outperformed their in February is great. It’s two days where your local chapter, competitors. We’re trying to create that,” you learn a lot in classes and at the golf and you can rely Bielecki says. “We’re not there yet. But the outing,” he says, adding that the GIS com- on those guys… it’s annual meeting is just one component of plements the BCG Annual Meeting. similar to that, just making sure Billy Casper Golf brings its Almost to a superintendent, there’s much bigger,” Nuss best game to each proprty every day. If we great value placed on the worthwileness says of how he feels can attract and retain the best superin- of the education at the BCG meeting, but about BCG. “Instead John Spiwak tendent professionals in the industry, it Bielecki, maybe surprisingly, says educa- of local guys you’ve got very smart people makes our jobs a whole lot easier. And it tion isn’t the main reason the company all over the country. If you run into any makes the results at our facilities a whole has brought superintendents to Florida problem, you can easily contact any of lot better.” the past six years. them and get a good answer and trust it.” Count Bischoff on board. After 20 years “What do we hope to get out of it? It’s Bielecki says taking the GIS off every- working at private country clubs, he re- probably more cultural than anything one’s plate instantly drew some criticism. grets not joining the team sooner. else,” Bielecki explains. “It’s camaraderie But he stands by the decision. “I’ll tell you exactly what I told (BCG and exposure.” “I really believe, still, that it’s the right CEO) Peter Hill my first year… this is the decision,” he says. “The exposure (BCG future of golf, the management company,” Team first superintendents) got to the organization, Bischoff says. “It’s called country club A team-first attitude is everywhere at the exposure that the organization got to syndrome — that’s my own term for it. the BCG meeting. Some of these super- them, has really paid dividends for how Grandma and grandpa might have started intendents may miss attending the GIS, those superintendents are perceived.” the country club, mom and dad grew up but they’re also fiercely loyal to their Billy Bielecki says the goal is to create the in it, they participated, they played. Then Casper Golf team. Southwest Airlines of the golf course they had their children. Their children “They use the word a lot; ‘team,’” Spi- maintenance industry. He wants to create want to participate and play, but they wek says. “It gives you the feeling that an organizational culture that can attract don’t want to pay. They’re slowly, one by you’re a part of a group that others aren’t. and retain the best superintendents in the one, dropping off the face of the planet. A very positive thing about (the BCG An- business. “Management groups are the way to go nual Meeting) is you don’t feel alone after “If you look at the history of Southwest, — they’re the way of the future.” G you’ve been to one of those meetings.” and the performance of the stock price,

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Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 25 For 10 years, the Wee One Foundation has been helping those in trying times.

BY JOHN WALSH

yan Kopke, golf course mine the cancer had reached stage 4 and metasta- superintendent at New sized into her lungs. It’s been crazy for the Kopke family since then. RAlbany (Ohio) Country They have to deal not only with chemo treatments Club, has been living a but also with the pressures of being new home own- nightmare for the past two years. ers, skyrocketing medical bills and having to take time off of work. On top of that, Cara lost her job at It started when Kopke’s wife felt pain in her ab- a floral shop because it went bankrupt. domen and subsequently made several trips to the “It was impossible to focus on my job with what emergency room; but doctors couldn’t determine was going on with Cara,” Ryan Kopke says. “It was the cause. After several CT scans and ultrasounds, nerve-racking. I took a month’s worth of vacation doctors determined her appendix needed to be re- last year, but thankfully, the amazing people I work moved; but that didn’t stop the pain. So after more with donated 24 vacation days to me and gave me tests and scans, they decided to remove her gall a monetary gift.” bladder. Kopke was stressed out about everything: medi- Still the pain didn’t subside. Only after explor- cal bills (Cara’s drugs alone cost $8,000 every other atory surgery did doctors discover that Kopke’s week), his new home and how his wife’s health would 35-year-old wife, Cara, had a golf-ball-sized tumor affect their 6-year-old son. It was a lot to deal with. in her intestine. The doctors removed the tumor Joe Enciso, a sales representative for Floratine, along with 18 inches of her intestine only to deter- knew it, too. That’s why he recommended Kopke ISTOCKPHOTO

26 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com // wee one

The 10th Annual Wee One Foundation Golf Outing will be played Sept. 16th at Pine Hills CC in Sheboygan, Wis. Rod Johnson, CGCS, is the host superintendent. As of press time, spots were still available.

look into the Wee One Foundation. The “People in the golf industry have always Foundation (the name stems from a trip foundation was developed as a tribute to rallied around sick people for fundraising, to Scotland, where the caddies were mak- Wayne Otto — who was superintendent at but there was nothing permanent or be- ing wagers as golfers stood on the tee and Ozaukee Country Club in Mequon, Wis., yond the needs of an individual,” says Luke one caddie declared, ‘My money’s on the from 1969 to 2002 and died of pancreatic Cella, executive director of the Wee One Continued on page 28 cancer in 2004. The Wee One Foundation aims to help golf course management pro- fessionals (or their dependents) who incur Dura Flow Hose From Kochek overwhelming medical expenses. NEWNEW “One day in March 2012, I Googled it, Available and reached out,” Kopke says. “Cara and I NOW * IRRIGATION wrote a letter and shared our story. Two In Bulk HOSE for 3/4” & 1” *Discount Available weeks later a representative from the Powder Coated Coupling + foundation called to let me know we’d be Stainless Steel Screws Dura Flow Quick receiving a one-time monetary gift. I was Easy to install Reusable blown out of the water. I’ve never had any- View the web for Available Options VOLUME one be so nice to me.” & Clear GH Series NZ015 PRESSURE 1” NPSH Nozzle Looking out for each other 10 To 60 GPM Since the Wee One Foundation’s inception NZ015-HV in 2004, when friends of Otto banded to- GH Series 1” NPSH Nozzle gether to assist him financially in his 10 To 100 GPM battle against cancer, the foundation’s membership has grown to more than Unparalleled Maximum Flow 270 in 17 states. More importantly, the Pressure Rating 250 PSI WP 750 PSI Burst Kink Resistant foundation has gifted almost $600,000 Heavy Duty Durable

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Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 27 “I’ve been a superintendent for more than 20 years and we always seem to have dollar spot issues. I didn’t have those issues this year while using Daconil Action, and I know others did. I’m definitely going to use Daconil Action again.”

Kelly Kressler Southmoore Golf Course, Bath, PA

Continued from page 27 wee one!’). “The group evolved as they saw fit and crafted a mission statement. The foundation’s gifts aren’t insurance plans or for families recovering from the loss of a loved one. They didn’t want to fall into that.” In addition to the WGCSA, the founda- tion partners with other local chapters in states such as Minnesota, Illinois, Michi- Recipients don’t have to be members since 2006, and 60 percent of those are gan, Kentucky, Indiana and Virginia to of the foundation to receive funds, which superintendents. Five people have passed raise funds. often are turned around quickly. The dis- away. When gifts are given, no strings are “We’re gaining traction,” says Cella, a tribution of funds works through a benev- attached, and recipients aren’t stipulated former superintendent who also runs the olent committee on a case-by-case basis. to pay medical bills. Chicagoland and Midwest GCSA chapters. The committee, which talks to as many Funds can be used for items such as a “It’d be a wonderful goal to have all local people as possible, has never refused a re- hotel room so family can stay nearby; fuel chapters be part of the foundation.” quest. Sixty-one people have been helped (driving 100 miles to and from a hospi- tal, for example); a wheelchair-accessible ramp; or a special van. “When a gift happens, it really hits home,” Cella says. “The impact of the foundation doesn’t click until someone benefits from a gift.” Until this year, the foundation didn’t invest its money. Funds came in and went out. But it started a 1-percent endowment campaign to fund the foundation long term, with a goal of $10 million in 10 years. “The 1 percent idea came from every- body giving the same. We’re all in it to- gether, equal sacrifice,” Cella says. Still, several challenges to growing the foundation remain, such as obtaining long-term commitments from people, and slower responses from people to trust and give. “It’d be a wonderful goal to have all local chapters be a part of the foundation,” Cella says. The foundation’s membership has grown to 270 in 17 states, and gifted almost Even though the bulk of the founda-

$600,000, according to Cella. Continued on page 30 LUKE CELLA CREDIT: PHOTO

28 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com YEAH, YOU COULD SAY THIS IS A HOSTILE WORK ENVIRONMENT.

FOR THE TURF, THAT IS.

Day in, day out—your turf has it tough. It must endure daily mowing, UV rays, golfers and extreme weather conditions, not to mention the constant threat of disease. Daconil Action™ fungicide combines the power of Daconil® fungicide with a revolutionary Turf Protein Booster that helps turf activate its own natural production of PR proteins. Use on a regular application interval for stronger and healthier turf that is better able to defend itself against disease while offering greater drought tolerance. So whether it’s disease or cleats, it’s not a problem. To learn how to rotate Daconil Action with Secure™ fungicide, visit GreenCastOnline.com/programs

To hear what superintendents are saying, visit GreenCastOnline.com/DaconilAction

© 2013 Syngenta. Important: Always read and follow label instructions before buying or using Syngenta products. The instructions contain important conditions of sale, including limitations of warranty and remedy. Daconil Action is not currently registered for use or sale in all states. Please check with your state or local extension service prior to buying or using this product. Daconil,® Daconil Action,™ the Alliance Frame, the Purpose Icon and the Syngenta logo are trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. Secure™ is a trademark of ISK Biosciences Corporation. Syngenta Customer Center: 1-866-SYNGENT(A) (796-4368). MW 1LGG2061-P1-GD 2/13 // wee one

Continued from page 28 “Companies don’t want to make a long- “It will be kept simple because the tion’s support is through superintendents, term commitment,” Cella says. “We’d like people involved from the get-go only which makes it a grass-roots organization, it to grow faster than it does, so every little want to draw attention to the founda- it has had support from suppliers from the bit helps.” tion to make sure funds are available start. Those include Becker Underwood, The foundation will mark its 10-year to help others,” Cella says. “This is just Turf Ventures, Barenbrug Seed, Blue Pe- anniversary in a rather low-key way — on the beginning to make sure it’s always troleum and Floratine, which is giving some of its signage and within its general around and viable for those who might $5,000 a year for the next 10 years. promotion. need assistance.”

Thankful and appreciative For the Kopkes, life has settled a bit. But by no means is their future certain. Ryan Kopke is thankful he works for a facility that practices a family-first mentality. His crew stepped up to pick up the slack after he had to begin tending to his wife. And the club’s general manager and director of golf course maintenance told him not to worry about the golf course and do what he needs to do. “Everyone has been more than accom- modating,” he says. As for Cara Kopke, she experienced nerve damage in her hands and feet as a result of her first type of chemo and felt like she was walking on pins and needles. She also experienced temperature sensitivity, so anything she ate, drank or touched had to be room temperature. Every two months she has a CT scan to monitor the cancer in her lungs. After a year of the chemo she had to start a different type of chemo when tu- mors started growing again. The new, powerful drug knocks her out for days. After seeing 15 pea- to BB-sized tumors in her lungs, doctors explained surgery and radiation aren’t options because those treatments are too risky. The future is un- certain, but the Kopkes are being as strong as possible in this trying time. “I’ll tell anyone who wants to know what’s going on,” Ryan Kopke says, adding that no one at New Albany was familiar with the foundation before he found out about it. “Wee One has helped my family during this difficult time in our lives, and we appreciate it.” G John Walsh is a freelance writer based in Cleveland, Ohio.

30 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com One Cause. One Goal. One Percent.

One Cause: Help golf course management professionals and their dependents that are having trouble paying medical bills due to the lack of comprehensive insurance or adequate financial resources.

One Goal: Raise $10 million in 10 years to support these families.

One Percent: Donate 1% of your 2013 revenue, maintenance budget, or salary over the next 10 years in 10 payments.

Example Contribution:

2013 maintenance budget = $65,000 1% = $650 Donation = $65 per year for 10 years

To learn more about One for the Wee One, visit weeone.org/onepercent or call (630) 457-7276.

Wee One Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit association. A tribute to Wayne Otto, CGCS. What’s the next big idea at Spectrum Technologies

BY SETH JONES

Mike Thurow likes pain.¶ Not physical pain, but pain in business. When a group is having a pain with their business, he says he sees that as a busi- ness opportunity.¶ So it could be said that Thurow, president and CEO of Spectrum Technologies Inc., enjoys it when superintendents have a pain in the grass.¶ “If a superintendent has a pain, then we will look for the solution,” Thurow says.

32 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com or example, the FieldScout determine ground firmness. TDR 300. Available for about The USGA has partnered 15 years now, the technology with Spectrum Technolo- has caught the industry by gies to leverage the tech- stormF in the last five. The portable tool nology and create a more gives instantaneous readings of root zone affordable version of the soil moisture, allowing turf pros to spot- TrueFirm. Through a licensing water only the areas that really need it. agreement, this new TruFirm Today the TDR 300 can be seen at golf will include both the USGA and courses across the country. “It’s the single Spectrum Technologies logos on best tool I’ve bought in the last five years,” the tool. says Dan Dinelli, CGCS at North Shore CC Through a photo taken by a smartphone, the “We’ve redesigned it to make it in Chicago. That seems to be a common GreenIndex will give superintendents an exact better value for superintendents,” sentiment around the industry, so much measurement of how green the grass is. says Jacob Madden, director of so that here at Golfdom we even featured marketing at Spectrum Tech- the product on our cover last year. ments more consistent and objective. The nologies. “The first TruFirm and similar So it’s no surprise that Thurow has a big app can assist in making decisions associ- competitive products are more elaborate grin on his face when he makes his next ated with declining greenness. It’s a tool to and expensive.” statement. “In my 40 years in the indus- help keep turf in the optimal range, not The new TruFirm — available this try, I’ve never seen adoption of a product over- or under-fertilized,” Rusciolelli says. fall — will also include an app that al- such as I have with the TDR,” he says. “It’s “Once it’s calibrated any person can go out lows users to break down greens in nine because the guys at the USGA and the PGA and take the measurements.” segments and save that information for believed in it. Word travels efficiently in The equipment includes a small board future reference. this industry. It’s a network, more so than with three colors, and a smartphone app. any other crop segment.” The user takes a photo of the board and Bluetooth-enabled TDR Thurow says sales of the TDR increased surrounding turf with the smartphone. The TDR 300 — the first product men- 80 percent from 2010 to 2011, then dou- The app locks in on the board, and uses tioned in this article — has been so bled from 2011 to 2012. He anticipates those colors as a control. So shadows, good for Spectrum Technologies that it more success for the product this year. sunlight or hazy weather won’t impact shouldn’t be a surprise that the company Behind the TDR, turf now accounts for 30 the reading of the grass. is looking for ways to improve it. percent of his total business. Previously it The photo then gives the user an objec- By giving it the power of Bluetooth, accounted for 5 percent of they believe they have. his business. “We’re in the measurement “Bluetooth is so pow- Golfdom recently visited erful and affordable. It’s Spectrum Technologies business. We want to help simply a chip,” says Mad- in the Chicago suburb of superintendents figure out den. “You can already log Aurora, Ill. We asked one the data and download the main question: What is the how to do their jobs better.” data, but you can’t auto- company’s next big idea? MIKE THUROW matically shoot that data to a device at this point in GreenIndex+ tive numeric value as well as an equivalent time. Bluetooth would simplify this pro- Available beginning next month is the visual rating for how green the grass is. cess to save valuable time.” FieldScout GreenIndex+ for turf applica- “For even the most experienced turf The target release date for the Blue- tions . The premise is simple: it’s a tool to professional, finding the right fertiliza- tooth TDR 300 is the 2014 Golf Industry give an exact reading on how green the tion formula can be challenging. Nitro- Show in Orlando. G grass is. gen should be spoon-fed. If you get a rain The value, according to Adam Rusci- event, it’s gone,” Thurow says. Would you like to see articles similar to olelli, vice president of product develop- this in the future? If so, what companies ment for Spectrum Technologies, is it takes Perfecting the TruFirm would you like to see profiled? Write to us at [email protected] or tweet at the guesswork out of applying nitrogen. Invented by Matt Pringle, Ph.D., of the us @Golfdom.

PHOTO CREDIT: SETH JONES / ISTOCKPHOTO (OPPOSITE) / SHUTTERSTOCK (TOP) / SHUTTERSTOCK (OPPOSITE) SETH JONES / ISTOCKPHOTO CREDIT: PHOTO “We’re trying to make color measure- USGA, the TruFirm has been utilized to

Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 33 2013

December 3–6, 2013 Q Reunion Resort Q Orlando, Florida

Exclusive, Invitation-Only Event Bringing Together Superintendents with Leading Suppliers & Dealers Superintendents looking for an opportunity to gain supplier and educational insights, network and have fun should apply to attend. Qualified applicants will receive a complimentary travel and participation package. Apply today at www.golfdomsummit.com!

Suppliers and dealers interested in sponsoring the event and meeting one-on-one with attending superintendents, should contact:

Patrick Roberts Bill Roddy Carla Kastanis Publisher Associate Publisher National Account Manager 216-706-3736 216-706-3758 216-363-7923 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] RESEARCH FOR REAL SUPERINTENDENTS Hosted by Clark Throssell, Ph.D. | [email protected] Super Science

// TIMING IS EVERYTHING NEWS UPDATES METHIOZOLIN RATE AND SPRING E-PAR USA OFFERS CERTIFICATION APPLICATION TIMING AFFECT ANNUAL The e-par Group and e-par USA announced recently that their Enviornmental Management System Certified Professional BLUEGRASS CONTROL ON PUTTING GREENS program is now available to superintendents in the U.S. ethiozolin is a new herbicide reported to control annual bluegrass in The program has been available in Australia since 2010. It recognizes creeping bentgrass putting greens. However, the appropriate appli- individuals who have knowledge of systems- Mcation timing and rate to maximize efficacy is still not clear. based environmental management and the The objective of this experiment was to determine the optimum rate and requisite skills to build and implement a comprehensive environmental management timing of spring applications for annual bluegrass control. The experiment system. was conducted in Knoxville, Tenn. and West Lafayette, Ind. Individual appli- "I think it's cations in March, April and May, or programs of March + April, April + May important to be able to provide or March + April + May at two the option of methiozolin application rates professional (0.45 or 0.9 lbs. /acre) were recognition to individuals who tested. Applications were made are leading at the first of each month in the way in golf through the use of well- Tennessee and the middle of established environmental management standards," says Kevin Fletcher, Ph.D., each month in Indiana. Results president and CEO of e-par USA. from both locations concluded The e-par EMS Certified Professional that sequential applications program is based on internationally recognized standards, meeting ANSI/ISO/ which contained the early spring IEC 17024:2003 standards. For more (March) applications provided information visit www.eparusa.com. the best efficacy. In Indiana, plots receiving The research site on the Ackerman Hills Golf 0.9 lbs./acre methiozolin sequen- Course at Purdue University. tially applied March + April + May controlled annual bluegrass up to 44 percent, in Tennessee the same USING RESULTS OBTAINED treatment provided 99 percent control. A single March application was not FROM OUR RESEARCH, THERE effective in Indiana but provided 97 percent control in Tennessee. Tennessee reported up to 40 percent annual bluegrass control with either a single April or ARE OPTIONS FOR AFFORDABLE May application at 0.9 lbs./acre, but no control was observed in Indiana. Annual bluegrass was not controlled from the 0.45 lbs./acre applications in SNOW MOLD REDUCTION. ALL Indiana, but in Tennessee the 0.45 lbs./acre rate provided control that was similar 6 OF THE TREATMENTS LISTED to 0.9 lbs./acre. Differences between locations were likely due to different annual bluegrass biotypes at each location, and emphasize the importance of conducting WERE BELOW $10,000 FOR 30 annual bluegrass research at multiple locations. In general, methiozolin proved to be a useful tool for annual bluegrass control in creeping bentgrass greens. ACRES OF COVERAGE IN 2011.” Jon M. Trappe, Aaron J. Patton and Daniel Weisenberger work in the Agronomy Department at Paul Koch, Ph.D. Purdue University. Gregory Breeden and James Brosnan work in the Plant Sciences Department at (see full story on page 40)

PHOTO BY: AARON PATTON AARON BY: PHOTO University of Tennessee. Trappe can be reached at [email protected].

Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 35 Super Science

// DISEASE MANAGEMENT Secure fungicide and dollar spot control By Mike Agnew, Ph.D., and Lane Tredway, Ph.D. ungicides have been used to No known resistance has developed to control turfgrass diseases since the early 1900s. Up Secure, making it an excellent partner for until the late 1960s, fungi- cides that were developed products that require the use of a protectant Fcan be classified as having a multi-site fungicide with a different mode of action. mode of action. Multi-site fungicides, such as chlorothalonil and Mancozeb, are surface protectants (contacts) that is a preventive contact fungicide for pounds of active ingredient (fluazinam) disrupt different metabolic processes in golf course use that provides control per gallon. The use rate for Secure is 0.5 the fungal cells (Latin, 2011). With the of multiple diseases, including dollar fluid ounces per 1,000 square feet of development of benomyl in 1968 and up spot, brown patch and leaf spot. turf applied on a 14-day interval. This to 2012, all fungicides that were intro- The active ingredient in Secure is delivers a very efficacious fungicide at a duced into the turfgrass market can be fluazinam. It is the only turf fungicide rate that is 58 to 85 percent less active classified as single-site fungicides. These in the Pyridinamine chemical class. ingredient per acre than any other fungicides bind to a specific enzyme or Classified by the Fungicide Resistance multi-site fungicide (Anonymous, 2006, interfere with a single metabolic process Action Committee (FRAC) in Group 2011, 2012). The product label allows for within the disease-causing fungus. 29, fluazinam disrupts the production a maximum number of 12 applications Most penetrate and translocate in the of energy at multiple metabolic sites per year, allowing the golf course to have plant, and many are at risk to the devel- within the fungal cell (Anonymous, a multi-site fungicide in every appli- opment of fungicide resistance. 2013). This unique class of chemistry, cation. As with any multi-site contact In the fall of 2012, Syngenta intro- along with its multi-site mode of action, fungicide, applications should be made duced Secure, the first multi-site translates to minimal risk of fungicide preventively. fungicide since the registration of resistance. Dollar spot (Sclerotinia homoeo- Daconil fungicide 2787 in 1966. Secure Secure fungicide contains 4.17 carpa F.T Bennett) may well be the most

TABLE 1

Impact of Fungicides on Dollar Spot Development of a Creeping Bentgrass Fairway — Rutgers University 2011

Number of lesion center/plot1 FRAC Rate Fungicide² Code (/1000 ft²) June 29 July 8 July 19 July 29 Aug 10 Aug 18 Aug 26 Secure³ 29 0.5 fl oz 2.3 p-s 1.8 k-m 0.5 fg 0.0 r 0.0 s 0.0 x 0.0y QP Chlorothalonil 720³ M5 2.0 fl oz 4.5 m-s 5.5 e-m 4.8 d-g 17.5 i-o 8.8 f-n 26.3 g-j 18.5 j-r Banner Maxx 1.3 ME 3 1.0 fl oz 0.3 rs 1.3 lm 0.0 g 2.0 p-r 0.0 s 4.0 t-x 4.5 t-y 26GT³ 2 2.0 fl oz 0.5 rs 2.3 j-m 1.0 fg 2.3 p-r 1.3 q-s 11.8 l-v 15.8 k-s Emerald 70WG 7 0.13 oz 0.3 rs 1.3 lm 0.0 g 0.0 r 0.0 s 1.0 v-x 0.5 xy Untreated 61.5 a 38.0 a 30.8 a 101.0 a 32.5 a 70.0 a 73.8 a Days After Application 8 3 14 10 8 2 10 ¹ Values are means of four replicates. Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Waller-Duncan k-ratio t-test (k=100). ² Fungicides were applied on May 24, June 7, June 21, July 5, July 19, August 2 and August 16. ³ Treatments were applied in 1 gallon of water/1,000 sq. ft., whereas all other treatments were applied using 2 gallons of water/1,000 sq, ft.

36 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com // DISEASE MANAGEMENT

TABLE 2

Impact of Secure Application Interval on Dollar Spot Development of a Creeping Bentgrass Fairway — University of Connecticut 2012

Application Number of lesion center / plot1 FRAC Interval Rate Fungicide² Code (days) (/1000 ft²) July 7 July 18 July 27 Aug 9 Aug 17 Aug 23 Sep 7 Secure 29 14 0.5 fl oz 0.3 d 0.0 g 0.3 e 0.5 i 0.0 d 0.0 c 1.8 de Secure 29 21 0.5 fl oz 0.0 d 27.5 d 9.0 de 45.3 de 0.3 cd 0.0 c0.8e Untreated 112.5 a 158.5 a 212.0 a 191.5 a 163.0 a 111.5 a 222.8 a Days After Application 10/10 7/21 2/8 1/1 9/9 15/15 30/30 (14/21) ¹ Values are means of four replicates. Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different. ² Fungicide applications were initiated on May 18th and applied on either a 14- or 21-day spray interval.

economically important disease on golf TABLE 3 course turf. This disease will infect many turfgrass species, but especially creeping Impact of Water Carrier Volume on the Efficacy of Secure for Dollar bentgrass and annual bluegrass greens, Spot Control 2012 tees and fairways (Latin, 2011). Dollar Water Carrier Rating spot causes sunken, circular patches that Volume measure up to 2 inches in diameter on Application Date Test Location¹ Date (2012) 1 gallon 2 gallon Untreated golf greens and several inches on higher Penn State University August 1 August 8 0.0² 0.0 201 mown turf. Under severe disease condi- University Park, PA tions, these spots can coalesce, forming University of Connecticut July 18 July 29 0.0 0.0 280 irregularly shaped areas. Storrs, CT The dollar spot pathogen survives Bellwood Golf Couse August 13 August 20 0.3 0.0 15 unfavorable periods as mycelium in Pottstown, PA plants and as stroma on the leaf surface. ¹ Cooperators are Dr. John Kaminski, Penn State University, University Park, PA; Dr. John Inguagiato, University of Connecticut; Mike Fidanza, Ph.D., Penn State University, Reading, PA. The fungus is easily disseminated from ² Data indicates the number of dollar spot infection centers. plant to plant by mowing and water. When weather conditions favor the fungus, the mycelium will colonize the FIGURE 1 foliage. These conditions include warm days, high humidity, cool nights and intense dews. Cultural practices such as morning dew removal, minimizing irrigation frequency and applying adequate nitrogen can help reduce dollar spot development, but preventive fungicide applications remain an essential practice for golf course tees, fairways and greens. While there are many fungicides available for the control of dollar spot, Impact of water carrier volume on the efficacy of Secure — Penn State, University annual application limits and fungicide Park 2012. resistance have created a need for more options. The development of a Secure fungicide has been evaluated types of nozzles; and demonstrate its new fungicide for the control of dollar in dollar spot efficacy trials to compare it effectiveness on DMI-resistant dollar spot should be accompanied by deter- to other multi-site fungicides; determine spot. mination of the optimum application optimal water carrier volume; evaluate its

PHOTO COURTESY: MIKE AGNEW, PH.D. AGNEW, MIKE COURTESY: PHOTO techniques for disease control. efficacy when applied through different Continued on page 38

Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 37 Super Science

TABLE 4 conducted by John Inguagiato, Ph.D., Impact of nozzles on the application of Secure in a Curative Dollar of the University of Connecticut. The Spot Trial — Penn State University, Reading, PA 2012 trial was conducted in 2012 at the Plant Number of lesion center / plot1 Science Research and Education Facility Nozzle Droplet Size² July 9³ August 5 AUDPC4 in Storrs, Conn., on "Putter" creeping Raindrop (UC) Ultra Coarse 15.0 ab 15.0 bc 788 b bentgrass mowed at 0.5 inches. Test plots measured 3 feet by 6 feet. Fungicides TurfJet (EC) Extremely Coarse 11.7 bc 7.3 cd 560 bcd were applied in a water volume of 1.0 Air Induction(VC) Very Coarse 2.7 gh 3.0 d 305 de gal/1,000 square feet. Secure applied on Turbo TeeJet (C) Coarse 3.3 fgh 4.3 d 421 cde a 14-day spray interval provided greater XR TeeJet (M) Medium 1.7 gh 1.7 d 236 e than 98 percent control (Table 2) despite XR TeeJet (F) Fine 8.7 cde 7.0 cd 655 bc very severe dollar spot pressure. Secure Untreated 18.3 a 13.3 ab 1372 a applied on a 21-day spray interval ¹ Values are means of four replicates. Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different. provided a significant reduction in ² Ultra coarse water droplet size diameter of > 622 microns; Extremely coarse water droplet size diameter of 428 to 622 microns; Very coarse water droplet size diameter of 349 to 428 microns; dollar spot incidence, but this reduction Coarse water droplet size diameter of 218 to 349 microns; Medium water droplet size diameter of 177 to 218 microns; Fine water droplet size diameter of 136 to 177 microns. was not agronomically acceptable on 3 ³ Fungicides were applied on July 2, July 16 and July 30. of the 7 rating dates. This demonstrated 4 The area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) is a useful quantitative summary of disease intensity over time. that a more consistent level of control is achieved with a 14-day spray interval. Continued from page 37 and Emerald (boscalid) were applied in a water volume of 2.0 gal/1,000 square WATER CARRIER VOLUME EFFICACY TRIALS feet. Secure provided nearly 100 percent Secure fungicide was tested at three Secure fungicide has proven to be a very control for the duration of the trial (Table locations to compare its effectiveness effective dollar spot control product. It 1), and it provided significantly better when sprayed in different water carrier has performed equal to or better than dollar spot control than the untreated volumes. The sites included Storrs, other dollar spot fungicides. The effec- plots on all dates. When compared to Conn.; University Park, Pa.; and tiveness of Secure was demonstrated Chlorothalonil 720 and 26GT, Secure Pottstown, Pa. All sites were mowed at in a trial conducted by Bruce Clarke, provided significantly better dollar spot 0.5 inches. The Storrs and University Ph.D., of Rutgers University. The trial control on 4 and 2 rating dates, respec- Park trials were initiated prior to any was conducted in 2011 at Hort Farm tively. Dollar spot control was equal disease infection, whereas the Pottstown II located in North Brunswick, N.J. on to Banner Maxx II and Emerald, both trial was applied post infection. Secure ‘Crenshaw’ creeping bentgrass (Agrostis excellent dollar spot control fungicides. was applied in a water volume of either stolonifera L.) mowed at a height of 0.375 Secure and Chlorothalonil 720 only act 1.0 or 2.0 gal/1,000 square feet. Trials inches. Test plots measured 3 feet by 5 on the surface of the plant as a contact were conducted on creeping bentgrass feet and were replicated 4 times. Secure, fungicide while the other fungicides mowed at 0.5 inches. There were no Chlorothalonil 720 (chlorothalonil) penetrate the plant to protection from differences in the dollar spot efficacy and 26GT (iprodione) were applied in a inside the plant. of Secure when applied at either water water volume of 1.0 gal/1,000 square feet Another example of Secure’s ability volume (Table 3). This demonstrates the and Banner Maxx II (propiconazole) to control dollar spot is shown in a trial versatility of Secure in controlling dollar TABLE 5

Impact of Secure on the control of DMI insensitive dollar spot in a curative trial – Turfgrass Disease Solutions, 2010

Number of lesion center / plot1 Rate Fungicide (fl oz/1000 ft²) Initial Oct 8 Oct 22 Oct 28 Nov 3 Nov 19 Dec 17 Secure² 0.5 11.5 12.3 b 5.5 b 2.5 b 3.3 b 2.9 c Daconil WeatherStik 3.6 10.8 19.0 ab 21.3 b 12.0 b 5.0 b 4.1 c Banner Maxx 1.5 17.3 31.5 ab 16.0 b 10.8 b 10.3 b 9.5 bc Untreated 16.5 35.3 a 56.3 a 40.0 a 29.3 a 32.5 a ¹ Values are means of four replicates. Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different. ² Fungicides were applied on October 8, October 22 and November 3.

38 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com // DISEASE MANAGEMENT

FIGURE 2

Pathogen Fungicide Reduced sensitivity isolate type

DMI sensitive Seven-time winner of the national Folio: Award Propiconazole for editorial excellence DMI insensitive

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD DMI sensitive Mike Bavier, CGCS-Ret. Secure Barrington, Ill.

Conrad Broussard, CGCS DMI insensitive ST. JAMES PLANTATION 0 0.001 0.01 0.1 1.0 10 Southport, N.C. Rate of active ingredient (mg/L) in the media Control of DMI Julio Diaz insensitive isolate PUNTACANA BEACH AND GOLF CLUB Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

In vitro control of DMI of insensitive isolates. Damon Di Giorgio FIELDSTONE GOLF CLUB Wilmington, Del. spot. Figure 1 demonstrates the effective for products that require the use of a Chris Erickson control of dollar spot by Secure in both protectant fungicide with a different SHADOW HAWK GOLF CLUB water carrier volumes. mode of action. In lab studies, Secure Richmond, Texas fungicide has demonstrated excellent David Hay, CGCS NOZZLES AND control of dollar spot (Sclerotinia INDIAN WELLS COUNTRY CLUB Indian Wells, Calif. WATER DROPLET SIZE homoeocarpa) strains that are insen- Mike Fidanza, Ph.D., of Penn State sitive to DMI fungicides (Figure 2). Bill Irving LAWRENCE CC University, evaluated Secure when Steve McDonald of Turfgrass Disease Lawrence, Kan. applied through six different nozzles Solutions (Spring City, Penn.), conducted Rees Jones that emitted six different droplet sizes. a curative dollar spot control trial on a REES JONES, INC. The test site was a creeping bentgrass golf course fairway with known resis- Montclair, N.J. driving range that was maintained tance to benzimidazole and DMI fungi- Tim Kreger at a height of 0.5 inches. Secure was cides (Table 5). On October 22, turfgrass EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CAROLINAS GCSA applied at a rate of 0.5 fl oz per 1,000 treated with Secure had significantly Tom Lively, CGCS sq. ft. to turf that had active dollar spot. less dollar spot, when compared to TPC SAN ANTONIO The nozzle types and droplet sizes are the untreated control. Generally, plots San Antonio, Texas described in Table 4. The application treated with Secure had the least amount Tom Marzolf of Secure through nozzles with droplet of dollar spot when compared to all other FAZIO GOLF COURSE DESIGNERS Hendersonville, N.C. sizes in the 177 to 428 micron range treatments. provided the best dollar spot control. Secure is a novel fungicide that offers Roger Meier VALHALLA GOLF CLUB Secure applied through a nozzle that the superintendent a valuable tool for Louisville, Ky. emitted a droplet size greater than 428 the control of dollar spot and other Jeff Plotts microns or less than 177 microns failed diseases. It allows for the application TPC SCOTTSDALE to provide adequate disease control. of a multi-site dollar spot fungicide in Scottsdale, Ariz. every application. Jackson Reiswig RESISTANCE CORAL CREEK CLUB Mike Agnew, Ph.D., and Lane Tredway, Ph.D., are Placida, Fla. Secure is ideal for inclusion in programs senior technical managers at Syngenta. Agnew designed to minimize disease resis- can be reached at [email protected]. Steve Sarro PINEHURST COUNTRY CLUB tance to single-site fungicides when References Denver, Colo.

used as a tank-mix partner or alternated Anonymous. 2013. FRAC Code List *2013: Fungicide Resistance CGCS, CGM Action Committee. Anthony Williams, in a disease management program. STONE MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB Anonymous. 2012. Secure fungicide product label. ISK Biosciences Stone Mountain, Ga. Fungicide resistance commonly Corporation Anonymous. 2011. Daconil Ultrex fungicide product label. Syngenta develops due to the repeated use of Group Company. Andy Wilson BETHPAGE STATE PARK GOLF COURSE single-site mode of action fungicides. Anonymous. 2006. Fore fungicide product label. Dow AgroSciences Farmingdale, N.Y. No known resistance has developed to LLC, Indianapolis, Ind. Latin, R. 2011. A Practical Guide to Turfgrass Fungicides. APS Press,

PHOTO COURTESY: MIKE AGNEW, PH.D. AGNEW, MIKE COURTESY: PHOTO Secure, making it an excellent partner St. Paul, Minn.

Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 39 Super Science

// SNOW MOLD DEFENSE Beat the summer heat, plan for snow mold By Paul Koch, Ph.D. he dog days of summer snow cover greater than 90 days; or even pretty much buried as deep as your turf are upon us, and it seems Microdochium patch (Microdochium is under snow. To add insult to injury, a little odd to be thinking nivale) in cool and wet conditions; snow snow mold diseases can be particu- about snow mold when you mold can be a devastating disease for larly damaging to a golf course facility’s can’t stop sweating. Alas, turfgrass managers (Figures 1, 2, and 3). bottom line for two primary reasons. TMother Nature relentlessly bulldozes Snow mold diseases are particularly First, the symptoms occur in the onto the next season whether we’re ready important diseases to manage because spring as golfers are at their most rabid to or not. And to make sure we in the turf you usually only get one shot at it. It’s get out of the house and play golf. Second, industry are ready for winter, it’s time one thing if you cut back on a dollar spot if a cool spring persists that prevents for many of us to begin preparations to or brown patch management program, rapid turf recovery, snow mold damage protect our turf from snow mold. for if the disease breaks through you can can be observed well into June. That can Those in temperate climates with curatively apply a fungicide and usually send golfers scrambling to neighboring significant snowfall know just how be back to normal in two weeks. Not so courses for weeks or even months, drive important snow mold diseases can with snow mold. down revenues at your course, and may be. It doesn’t matter whether it’s gray If money is tight and you cut back on have you polishing up your resume. snow mold (Typhula incarnata) in your snow mold management program Fortunately, there are a multitude places with snow cover greater than 60 after hearing forecasts of a mild winter, of options for effectively and affordably continuous days; speckled snow mold but instead receive a shellacking from managing snow molds. But rather (Typhula ishikariensis) in areas with Old Man Winter, well then you’re unfortunately, there are so many options that choosing the right one can FIGURE 1 be overwhelming. In a search for clarity, many superintendents will contact me for recommendations, though I always disappoint them with my answer: “It depends.” “Well what does it depend on?” they often respond. The variation in disease pressure, course expectations, and financial capacity between courses renders an effective fungicide recom- mendation impossible without further information. The fungicide program I recommend for a private country club in Minneapolis is not likely to be the same program I recommend for a 9-hole municipal golf course in northern Wisconsin.

WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY? Even after receiving all the pertinent Gray snow mold, caused by Typhula incarnata, can decimate turf under snow cover for 60 days or more. Note the sharp line delineating between sprayed and non- information, it's difficult to recommend

sprayed turf at this course in Wisconsin. a single fungicide for snow mold PH.D. KOCH, PAUL COURTESY: PHOTOS

40 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com // SNOW MOLD DEFENSE

FIGURE 2

Speckled snow mold, caused by Typhula ishikariensis, causes severe damage in areas with snow cover greater than 90 consecutive days. At this course in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where disease pressure is extreme, a "clean up" fungicide pass is made to protect the rough closest to the fairway while anything unsprayed is severely infected. control because there are many (www.tdl.wisc.edu/Research.php). active ingredients often are a mixture effective options. One place to turn for When looking at our trial results of different physical modes of action help is university research, which is an over the years the treatments generally (contact, penetrant, etc.) and chemical independent means for determining can be separated into three groups: (1) modes of action (strobilurin, DMI, etc.). what products are going to be effective. those treatments that manage snow This mix provides the best opportunity Several different universities across the mold extremely well even under heavy for your treatment to survive exposure to country conduct fungicide research on disease pressures; (2) those treatments the harsh winter elements over a period snow mold, and here at the University that significantly reduce snow mold of two, three or four months or longer. of Wisconsin we have conducted snow severity but oftentimes allow some Which treatments have proven to mold fungicide efficacy trials at golf disease to develop; and (3) those that do be the most effective under heavy snow courses in Wisconsin, Minnesota and not effectively manage snow mold. mold pressure? Based only on our own the Upper Peninsula of Michigan for As evidenced in research conducted research here at Wisconsin, products years. The full list of all of our snow during the winters of 2010-2011 (Figure that have consistently performed well mold efficacy reports over the years, 4) and 2012-2013 (Figure 5), those over a number of years under heavy along with treatment pictures, can treatments most effective at managing pressure include Instrata (chloroth be found on the Research page of the snow mold often contain three or alonil+propiconazole+fludioxonil), Turfgrass Diagnostic Lab’s website even four active ingredients. These Continued on page 42

Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 41 Super Science

FIGURE 3

Microdochium patch, also called pink snow mold, doesn’t actually need snow cover to develop and will develop any time conditions are cool and wet. But the most severe symptoms usually develop following snow cover on unfrozen ground, as evidenced at this course in the Rocky Mountain West.

Continued from page 41 will likely depend on the program’s Are there lower cost options that may cost and who you’re most comfortable not completely control snow mold but Interface (iprodione+trifloxystrobin) working with. But the point is clear: still provide some level of protection? + Triton FLO(triticonazole), Insignia You have options when choosing an Fortunately, the answer is yes. Using SC(pyraclostrobin) + Trinity (triti- effective snow mold fungicide. the results obtained from our research conazole), Torque (tebuconazole) over the years, there are several options + 26/36 (iprodione+thiophante- TIMES ARE TIGHT, ARE THERE for affordable snow mold reduction methyl), and Quali-Pro TM/C ANY LOWER-COST OPTIONS? (Figure 6). All six of the treatments (chlorothalonil+thiophanate- While the products listed above are listed in Figure 6 were below $10,000 methyl) + QP Ipro (iprodione) + QP certainly effective, they also can for 30 acres of coverage in 2011 prices. Propiconazole (propiconazole). You be costly. That is especially true Torque and Trinity were just more will probably notice that each one of when considering protecting acres than $3,000 for 30 acres, and Turfcide these treatments includes at least three of fairways. Based on an analysis I 400(PCNB) was closer to $1,000. It’s active ingredients, and some contain completed in 2011, protecting 30 acres important to note that fungicide prices four. You will also probably notice of fairways with the treatments listed in vary considerably due to a number of that Syngenta, BASF, Bayer, NuFarm, the previous section can cost anywhere factors and that these prices are from and Quali-Pro are all represented in from $8,500 to over $15,000. 2011. But it still gives a general picture this list. That is not coincidental; each But what if your course doesn’t of affordable yet effective options. It’s company has treatments that can effec- require disease-free fairways every also important to note that these treat- tively manage snow mold. How do you spring? Or what if snow mold pressure ments aren’t likely to give you complete

choose among these, you may ask? That at your location is generally pretty light? snow mold control. PH.D. KOCH, PAUL COURTESY: PHOTO

42 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com // SNOW MOLD DEFENSE

FIGURE 4 All the treatments shown in Figure 6 reduced snow mold to less than 10 80 percent, an acceptable level on many 70 fairways. However, if you’re looking for much less than 10 percent snow mold 60 control, I would recommend a more 50 diverse mixture of compounds similar 40 to those listed in Figures 4 or 5. It’s also important to note that this analysis 30 was only done on treatments that were 20 included in our research at Wisconsin, Snow mold severity (%) and there are several other compounds 10

(not to mention generic fungicides) 0 not included in our research that can provide an affordable reduction in snow Nontreated Velista (0.7) mold severity at your course. Interface (5) Instrata (9.3)

THE INTANGIBLES Torque (0.9) + 26/36 (4) 26GT (4) + Dac WStik (5.5) It should be pretty clear by now Interface (5) + Triton FLO (0.85) Concert (8.5) + Banner MAXX (1) that options for effective snow mold management are plentiful. That reality QP TM/C (6) + QP Ipro (4) + QP Pro (2) has led superintendents to look at Insignia SC (0.7) + Trinity (1) + Dac Ultrex (3.2) aspects in addition to disease control to help them make their decisions. Since Comparison of a select number of treatments for speckled snow mold management at Sentryworld GC in Stevens Point, WI in the winter of 2010-2011. Fungicide rate in fluid many products are priced competi- ounces per 1,000 ft2 is in parentheses. For the full trial results visit www.tdl.wisc.edu/ tively, the other intangible that can Research.php help sway a purchaser’s decision is turf color. That is certainly nothing new to FIGURE 5 the turf fungicide market, as fungi- cides promoting improved turf color, 70 health and stress tolerance are heavily marketed for summer fungicide appli- 60 cations. More recently, however, super- 50 intendents have been looking toward their snow mold fungicide applications 40 to improve the color of the golf course 30 coming out of snow melt the following 20 spring. Bayer’s Stressgard pigments long Snow mold severity (%) 10 have been a part of fungicides geared 0 toward summer diseases but are now also included in products such as Trinity (1) Nontreated Secure (0.5)Instrata (9.3) Torque (0.9) Interface that are primarily intended Concert II (8.5) QP Enclave (8) for snow mold. Other pigments such Turfcide 400 (10) as Foursome by Quali-Pro and PAR 26GT (4) + Dac WStik (5.5) Insignia SC (0.7) + Trinity (1) by Harrell’s also have been included in Interface (3) + Triton FLO (0.55) snow mold research here at Wisconsin Banner MAXX II (3) + Secure (0.5) the past few years, and the turf is signif- Torque (0.9) + 26/36 (4) +QP Spectro TM/C (3.67)(6) + QP Ipro (4) + QP Teb (1.1) icantly greener the following spring. Civitas (mineral oil), which includes Comparison of a select number of treatments for speckled snow mold management at Wawonowin CC in Champion, MI in the winter of 2012-2013. Fungicide rate in fluid the green pigment Harmonizer, has not ounces per 1,000 ft2 is in parentheses. For the full trial results visit www.tdl.wisc.edu/ Continued on page 44 Research.php.

Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 43 // SNOW MOLD DEFENSE

Continued from page 43 looking for any advantage they can get program should leave you drooling. provided acceptable snow mold control in difficult early spring conditions may Too many effective options exist for me in most of our trials at Wisconsin but find the brief green-up beneficial. to list just a few, and what may work has provided exceptional green color the well for one facility may not quite fit following spring (Figure 7). This green THE FINAL WORD with another facility for a number color fades rapidly as the turf comes If options are what you crave in life, of reasons. The best recommen- out of dormancy, but superintendents then choosing a snow mold fungicide dation I can give is to use the research provided by university efficacy trials to FIGURE 6 determine what products are effective in conditions similar to yours. Take AB 80 these products and discuss pricing 70 and other intangibles with a sales 60 or technical representative you’re 50 40 comfortable with, and come up with 30 a plan for effective and affordable 20 management of snow mold at your 10

Speckled snow mold (%) course. Then sit back and rest easy for 0 the winter…unless ice starts to form. Author’s note: Listing of specific Trinity (1) Nontreated Nontreated Concert (8.5) Torque (0.9) products in this article is based on research Turfcide 400 (10) conducted at the University of Wisconsin

Torque (0.9) + 26/36 (4) and is not intended to be an endorsement Interface (4) + Daconil (3.2) of the product or of the manufacturer.

Efficacy of lower-cost options for control of speckled snow mold (Typhula ishikariensis) Paul Koch, Ph.D., is a research scientist at the at (A) Sentryworld GC in Stevens Point, WI in 2010-2011 and (B) Wawonowin CC University of Wisconsin-Madison. Contact him at in Champion, MI in 2012-2013. Fungicide rate in fluid ounces per 1,000 ft2 is in [email protected]. parentheses. FIGURE 7 Ad Index

Companies featured in this issue ADVERTISER PAGE Agrium Adv. Tech. 19 AMVAC 13 Bayer 15, CV4 Control Solutions 1 FMC Corp 11, 17 Grigg Bros. 21 J2 Golf Marketing 30 John Deere 3 Kochek Co. Inc. 27 PetroCanada CV3 Redexim 5 Smithco CV2 Standard Golf 4 Syngenta 28, 29 Tur f co 7

Civitas combined with Harmonizer, in addition to several other turf pigments and WS Darley 25 pigmented turf fungicides, applied in the fall can produce dramatically "greener" turf This index is provided as an additional service. The publisher the following spring compared to non-treated turf. This photo was taken five months does not assume any liability for errors or omissions.

after the application on March 15th, 2012, in Madison, WI. PH.D. KOCH, PAUL COURTESY: PHOTO

44 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com THE

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“When an employer looks at a prospective ployee’s willingness to learn, adapt employee who has worked on a golf course, and take responsibility. it should immediately register that the 5 “I communicate effectively.” Stu- applicant is not afraid to work and does dents are continually questioned by golfers about what they are doing what it takes to get the job done.” and why. How many times across all the golf courses in the United KARL DANNEBERGER, PH.D., Science Editor States do golfers ask, “Digging for worms?” when someone is trying to fix an irrigation leak? An employee has to be able to address questions in a friendly tone and concise man- A special summer job ner (even if they don’t feel like it) so not to offend the golfer and slow the pace of play. For many golfers the or many high school and college students, hav- only contact they have with course ing a summer job helped pay for school, a car officials is through a question or comment to a grounds staff person. or just a night out. Unfortunately, most stu- dents who had a job this past summer had lit- This is just a small list of attributes tle beyond pay to add to one’s résumé.¶ Those that an employer could surmise from a potential employee who has worked whoF worked on a golf course maintenance crew, however, on a golf course. I am sure many of you were able to add the experience to their résumés, and it could add to the list. If I were a potential employer, in spoke volumes about their character. What did it say? Here any line of business, wading through a are a few things that come to mind: stack of résumés, an applicant who had successfully worked on a golf course maintenance crew would stand out. 1 “I work hard.” When I have visited employee shows up on time to class. That experience would tell me that the golf courses, students working on Dependability speaks to a student’s applicant could handle hard work and the crew are able to save quite a bit enthusiasm and interest in the job. long hours. That experience would tell of money because they often don’t me more about the character of the have time to spend it. It’s common 3 “I pay attention to detail.” A applicant than grade point average or for staff to work over 50 hours a student is exposed daily to the outside activities. week. And in some cases, especially importance of the small things So to all of you who are working on around tournaments, a 100-hour that go into the presentation of a a golf course maintenance staff this week is not uncommon. When an golf course. For example, the im- summer, don’t think about how hot and employer looks at a prospective portance of mowing straight lines, tired you are or the long hours that kept employee who has worked on a golf whether on greens or fairways; you away from social activities. Rather, course, it should immediately reg- how equipment is cleaned and think about what all you have learned ister that the applicant is not afraid stored after use; or raking a bunker and how you can apply it to your future. to work and does what it takes to get properly. the job done. Karl Danneberger, Ph.D., Golfdom's science 4 “I’m responsible.” Students are editor and a professor at The Ohio State 2 “I’m dependable.” If you are em- required to operate technically ad- University, can be reached at ployed on a golf course, showing up vanced equipment, including mow- [email protected]. late usually means being fired. It ing equipment ranging from $7,000 is the same thing when a company to $70,000 in value. For a potential or golf course asks if a prospective employer, that speaks to an em-

46 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com Clark Talks Turf // TIMELY TURF ADVICE by Clark Throssell, Ph.D.SuperScience

All things water and irrigation

fter a long, hot summer during which your your attention will have to be devoted to other projects. irrigation system has been tested, it’s time Did you record water use during the to assess all things related to water and irrigation season? In some locations irrigation. Do the assessment now. The recording water use is a requirement. If it is not a requirement, you should still evidence — turfgrass performance — is record water use on a daily basis so you right in front of you, and the experiences of summer are can become a more efficient water user. A Also, hard data to support your claims still fresh in your mind. about water use is invaluable. Without data, it is just your word against theirs. TURFGRASS PERFORMANCE “In late summer, Did the turfgrass meet the demands PRIORITIZE WATER USE of golfers? Did the irrigation manage- water quality is Do you have a written priority system ment help achieve the performance for which areas of the golf course will criteria established for the golf course? generally at its be watered and which will not? If you Identify wet and dry areas. Devote worst, due to the low don’t have an established written pri- time to figure out why these areas were ority system, prepare it now while you wet or dry and formulate a plan to cor- volume of water in can show the leaders of the golf club rect these shortcomings this fall. what the turf looks and plays like near Check the distribution of water to rivers, streams, lakes the end of the period when the irriga- make sure it is as uniform as possible. and reservoirs.” tion system is used the most. Seeing Conduct a catch-can analysis so you turf conditions will make developing have data to help plan your actions. the policy easier. The uniformity data also can be used streams, lakes and reservoirs. Low If you have a written priority system to make an effective case for irrigation volume means that salts are most con- for water use, was it effective? Did the system upgrades. centrated, so now is the best time to highest priority areas receive all the test water. water needed? How did the golf course IRRIGATION SUPPLY Have you identified a back-up water play? Make changes to the water prior- Now is the time to assess the reliability supply in case something unforeseen ity policy now while all the golfers can of your irrigation supply and ensure happens to the primary water supply? see the impact of the previous policy you received the volume of water you While this is easier said than done, it and the value of the changes. expected. Talk with your water pro- is critical that you have a back-up sup- While cooler weather and football vider to understand their situation. ply or a large amount of water storage might be on your mind, use the results At the end of the summer, your water capacity onsite to get you through an of the 2013 irrigation season that are provider will have the best handle on emergency. right in front of you to make improve- the current situation and can offer Routine, preventive maintenance ments for 2014. thoughts on the water supply for next on your pump station is always a good year. idea. So is a thorough inspection of Get your water tested by a reputable your irrigation system. Make sure testing lab. In late summer, water every sprinkler head is level, free of ob- Clark Throssell, Ph.D., loves quality is generally at its worst, due structions and performing at its best. to talk turf. Contact him at to the low volume of water in rivers, Do it now, before fall settles in and [email protected].

Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 47 NEW PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS // DOLLAR SPOT CONTROL

DOLLAR SPOT IS A WIDESPREAD AND DESTRUCTIVE TURFGRASS DISEASE caused by Sclerotinia homoeocar- X MARKS THE pawthat can be found year-round in the United States. It is known to attack most turfgrass species includ- DOLLAR SPOT ing annual bluegrass, bentgrasses, fescues, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, bermudagrasses, zoysia- GOLFERS DON’T CARE WHAT IT IS, THEY JUST grasses, centipedegrass and St. Augustinegrass. Here are KNOW IT LOOKS BAD. just a few products to help you fight back against it.

KEN MOUM // Contributing Editor

1. Secure Secure also controls 10 partner with strobilurins. disease control through root SYNGENTA Designed to be additional turf diseases. betterturf.basf.us and foliage uptake, resulting the ideal rotation partner greencastonline.com/Secure in less susceptibility of prod- with Daconil Action fungi- 3. Eagle uct to weather and mainte- cide, the multi-site mode of 2. Curalan EG One application of DOW nance conditions. action in Secure helps de- BASF’S Curalan EG offers AGRO EAGLE will deliver up andersonspro.com liver season-long protection economical, effective dol- to 21 days of disease con- against the toughest turf lar spot control in cool- and trol. So, whether you apply 5. Triton 70 WDG diseases. Now, systemic warm-season turfgrasses it on a 14-, 21- or 28-day Chipco Triton 70 WDG from fungicides no longer replace with strong preventative spray schedule, it allows BAYER is a water-dispers- superintendents’ contact protection and long residual maintenance staffs to make ible granular product con- applications, but rather results and significant cost the most of their time by taining the active ingredient compliment for inside-out savings compared to many providing long-term disease triticonazole that provides protection. other fungicides. protection when it’s needed broad-spectrum, systemic, The only registered fungi- It controls dollar spot most. residual disease control of cide for turf in FRAC group and eight other diseases Dow Agro recommends key turf diseases, such as 29, Secure contains the including brown patch, leaf using Eagle in a tank mix or dollar spot, anthracnose active ingredient fluazinam. spot and melting out. It is treatment rotation strategy and brown patch. It has no known resistance safe to use on all cool- and with other broad-spectrum When applied as a preven- and as a multi-site contact, warm-season grasses at fungicides to provide maxi- tive treatment the new fun- it has a low risk of future any stage of growth. It also mum control of a wide va- gicide product has provided resistance. makes an excellent tank-mix riety of diseases. excellent results in research dowagro.com/turf/ trials conducted at both uni- versities and golf courses, 4. Fungicide IX on both residential and com- TIPS FROM DR. DANNEBERGER ANDERSON’S combines mercial turf. chloroneb and thiophanate- ■ Cultural practices to reduce disease severity backedbybayer.com center on soil/leaf moisture and nitrogen fertility. methyl to prevent and Prolonged periods of wetness when temperatures control dollar spot, gray 6. Daconil Action are favorable are conducive for disease symptoms. snow mold, pink snow mold, SYNGENTA’S Daconil Action Pythium Blight, brown patch contains the most utilized ■ To reduce disease severity try practices that help reduce leaf wetness, including dew removal through and copper spot. active ingredient in turf: a light morning syringe or whipping or dragging the Suitable for use on all chlorothalonil. But it adds turf. This would be especially helpful on the days putting green turf and other acibenzolar-s-methyl — a fairway mowing is not done. turfgrasses, including bent- turf protein booster. This grass, bluegrass, bermudag- has no direct effect against ■ For greens, rolling after mowing has been reported to reduce the incidence of dollar spot. rass, fescue, ryegrass and pathogenic fungi and bacte- St. Augustinegrass, it pro- ria, instead it triggers vides fast-acting, sustained the natural defense re-

48 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com DOLLAR SPOT CONTROL

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6

8 5 9

sponse or activating pro- product specifically formu- cells of energy, disrupting dollar spot pathogen, which duction of pathogenesis- lated for greens and tees on fungal growth and develop- delays the development of related proteins, like a golf courses. ment. Because the mode an epidemic until midsum- vaccination. The latest addition to the and site of action differ from mer. valent.com/professional/ The protein boost awak- line is a collaboration with other fungicides used to golfcourse ens the turf’s resistance to The Andersons, Inc. a co- control dollar spot, it can ef- biotic and abiotic stresses marketed, 3336 G with The fectively control pathogens 10. Enclave like drought. This internal re- Andersons patented DG Lite that have developed resis- QUALI-PRO’S Enclave, sponse within the plant en- technology. The product is tance to other fungicides. featuring quad-control tech- hances its defense system marketed under the Cleary betterturf.basf.us nology, controls major turf against certain fungal and brand and is distributed and ornamental diseases, bacterial disease attacks. through The Andersons, Inc. 9. Tourney including dollar spot, brown While the chlorothalonil pro- and Cleary Chemicals LLC. VALENT’S Tourney is one of patch, anthracnose and vides excellent protection as clearychemical.com the most active fungicides snow mold. It provides con- a multi-site fungicide on the on the market for effective trol at the point of contact plant surface, acibenzolar-S- 8. Emerald control of a spectrum of as well as systemically. Its methyl achieves broad plant Emerald from BASF can ef- tough diseases, including synergistic formulation pre- coverage. fectively control dollar spot dollar spot, anthracnose, vents and controls disease greencastonline.com that has developed resis- brown patch, summer patch, through multi-site activity. tance to other fungicides. take-all patch, fairy ring, quali-pro.com 7. 3336 When used as directed it necrotic ring spot, gray leaf CLEARY offers its 3336 provides dollar spot control spot, snow mold and other fungicide in a number of for up to 28 days in virtually patch diseases. versions, including flowable, every major turf species, and For early season dollar CONTINUED ONLINE wettable powder and granu- in every region, of the U.S. spot control and early ap- For more listings of top Dollar lar. They also offer a greens The active ingredient plication, it reduces the Spot Control products, go to grade, sand core granular boscalid deprives the fungal primary inoculum level of the golfdom.com/DollarSpot

Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 49 // SEED

1. Annuity Annuity (FLRS) Turf-Type Annual Ryegrass offers faster establishment and better transition in spring/ summer according to SEED RESEARCH OF OREGON. It has a finer leaf texture and darker green color than other turf-type annual rye- grasses. Can be combined with perennial and transi- tional ryegrasses for winter overseeding. sroseed.com 2. Hollywood Hollywood bermudagrass 5. TransFix with dark color and medium 11. Blade Runner II from JACKLIN SEED, al- TransFix (46-09 IR-SAS) texture. PICKSEED'S Blade Runner though it has a limited seed transitional ryegrass from turfmerchants.com II (PSG 85QR) tall fescue availability, its fine leaf SEED RESEARCH OF OR- has improved spreading via texture, dark green color, EGON is available this fall. 8 Amazing A+ rapid tillering and rhizome especially winter color in It has is a darker green and Amazing A+ (IS-PR 463) production. It will germinate the southwest, quick spring finer textured variety com- perrennial ryegrass from in salt levels up to 14,000 green-up make it ideal for a pared to perennial ryegrass. AMPAC SEED CO. offers ppm, has broad geographi- wide range of applications. Its improved germination in superior overall turf quality, cal adaptation and excel- jacklin.com low soil temperatures, fast dark green genetic color, lent resistance to heat and germination and establish- salt tolerance, improved drought stress. 3. North Shore SLT ment, make it a superior spring green-up, dense pickseed.com North Shore SLT bermudag- nursery grass or for quick upright growth, improved rass from ROSE AGRI-SEED repairs. disease resistance including 12. ATF1258 & ATF1376 will be available this fall and sroseed.com exceptional gray leaf spot PENNINGTON'S ATF1258 offers excellent drought, resistance. and ATF1376 tall fescues heat, salt and wear resis- 6. Transist 2600 ampacseed.com are both qualified as drought tance with a medium-fine Transist 2600 transitional tolerant by the Turfgrass leaf texture and medium- ryegrass from PICKSEED 9. Green Supreme Water Conservation Alliance. dark green color. It greens up offers rapid germination AMPAC'S Green Supreme And they offer very good early in the spring and offers and establishment making perennial ryegrass offers ex- brown patch resistance and excellent fall color retention. it a good fast-starting turf cellent spring green-up and very good turf quality with Best in full sun. cover over dormant bermu- traffic tolerance with dense good genetic color. pureseed.com dagrass. Much darker green upright growth habit. It is penningtonseed.com and finer texture than other salt and drought tolerant. 4. Pure Select intermediates and annuals. ampacseed.com 13. Sea Fire Pure Select creeping bent- Excellent tolerance to high Available this fall, COLUM- grass from TEE-2-GREEN salt levels. 10. Wicked BIA SEEDS' Sea Fire slender CORP. will be available this pickseed.com Wicked perennial ryegrass creeping red fescue is toler- fall in limited quantities. from PICKSEED will germi- ant of salt, heat and drought Thanks to its dense and 7. Artesia & Waterworks nate in salt levels as high as with improved mowability. . aggressive growth habit, it Artesia and Waterworks 12,000 ppm while offering columbiaseeds.com recovers quickly from wear. Kentucky bluegrass from excellent disease resistance Has exceptional resistance TURF MERCHANTS is avail- and specific resistance to to brown patch, dollar spot, able after the 2013 harvest. gray leaf spot. It greens up microdochium patch, fu- Qualified a drought tolerant early in the spring, with good CONTINUED ONLINE sarium patch, leaf spot and by the Turfgrass Water Con- summer persistence and For more listings of top seeds, anthracnose. servation Alliance. Compact heat resistance. go to golfdom.com/Seed tee-2-green.com American type bluegrass pickseed.com

50 // Golfdom August 2013 Golfdom.com TOPDRESSERS // AND SPREADERS

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1. Carrier 2. WRF & WGR 3. WideSpin 1550 4. Pro Series Spyker REDEXIM CHARTERHOUSE The WFR and WGR LELY With TURFCO’S patented The 560-12020 Pro Se- unveils the Carrier, a multi- spreaders are land-wheel WideSpin technology, the ries Spyker Spreader from functional tool designed driven and utilize the same new WideSpin 1550 is eas- SEAGO International has a to handle a variety of hard patented ejector disc tech- ily adjustable for maximum 120 pound capacity with a working implements, such nology as all PTO units. A control — belt speed, spin- stainless steel frame. The as spreaders, topdressers, unique wheel gear system ner speed, spinner angle enclosed metal gears of the deep-tine aerators, seeders, lets the tires drive indepen- and metering gate. And spreader have a lifetime verti-cutters and sod cut- dently for uniform applica- specially designed twin spin- warranty. The spreader has ters. The Carrier’s large tires tion, even on turns. A hop- ners provide a consistent a patented split-shaft design increase traction and mini- per capacity of 800 pounds spread, from superlight to for easy calibration, as well mize ground compaction. and forward speed of 4.5 heavy, and everything in as a positive on/off system Redexim says the Carrier mph gives effective spread- between. The new control- with no cables. With an ex- is faster, deeper and wider ing. This trailed broadcast ler allows employees to tension hopper, the capac- with more options than any spreader can also do an calculate rates while also ity of the spreader can be other product on the market. excellent job for spreading giving them a wider range increased. With a 31-hp Briggs & Strat- sand (topdressing) or salt of rates to choose from. A seagointernational.com/ ton engine, the machine can (snow and ice). For sand/ superintendent can lock in lift over 1,000 pounds. salt, a special ejector disc their favorite rates using the Redexim.com with short spoons gives a controller’s four presets. CONTINUED ONLINE spreading width of up to 18 Turfco.com For more listings of topdressers feet. and spreaders, go to golfdom. turfcare-us.lely.com/en/home com/Topdressers

Golfdom.com August 2013 Golfdom // 51 The

with... Bryan Nuss SUPERINTENDENT // Jack Frost National Golf Club, Blakeslee, Pa.

Ever had any cool celebrity you get older, to try and ride like the way encounters at the course? We met you used to ride? You just can’t do it any- Tony Hawk the first year we were in more. I do miss it, but I don’t miss being construction. We had the Jeep Jamboree sore and beat up all the time. Bryan, thanks for taking here. It was right next to the golf course. the time. What can I get He was a really cool guy. Are you a fan of any other sports? you? I’ll have a Captain and Besides motorcross I watch football. Rut- Coke, thanks. You’re a fan of extreme sports, gers football and the Oakland Raiders. I right? Me and my friends used to race grew up in Philly, and honestly, I like the What’s the best thing about your motorcross. But once we started having Raiders because everyone around Philly part of Pennsylvania? The views in kids that stopped. I still watch the races hates them. I always like to go with the the fall. The weather’s good, the colors, on the weekends. opposite team of what everyone likes. the fall foliage. It’s the thing that people know us most for in the Poconos. Do you still have a motorcycle? Have you been trying anything new I just sold it last year. I had a Honda out on the golf course lately? We’ve So are you married? Do you have CR450. Jack Frost has a track right here. been using Velocity in Weed Wands — it’s kids? Yes, Jaime and I have two We would ride all the time. a stick with a little sponge tip. I picked this boys. Tanner is 9 and Karter up from another superintendent. We’re is 7. Tanner plays soccer, Ever have any bad wrecks? a newer course, so we don’t have a lot of Karter is playing foot- I banged my head a couple Poa. We go walk the greens every once in a ball for the first time. times, but nothing major. As while and just dab it out. It works great.

Who has the best nickname on the crew? “The Pocono Prowler.” That’s our mechanic, Jeff. We bust on him, the girls in the pro shop always say that they think he’s looking at them. We always bust on him and he says, “I’m not looking at them, they’re all too young for me!”

That’s a great nickname. I just hope he doesn’t mind (MOTORCROSS) SETH JONES / DREAMSTIME BY: PHOTO MAIN / ISTOCKPHOTO FOLIAGE) (FALL SHUTTERSTOCK seeing it in the magazine. It’s OK, he already knows he’s the Pocono Prowler! “WE’VE BEEN USING VELOCITY IN WEED WANDS. WE As interviewed by Seth Jones, GO WALK THE GREENS EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE AND July 31, 2013. JUST DAB (THE POA) OUT. IT WORKS GREAT.”

52 // Golfdom August 2013 It’s all teed up and ready to go.

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