Breakout Sessions
“Turfgrass Cultivar Selection for Drought and Cold Resistance,” presented by Jack Fry, PhD, Professor of Turfgrass Science, Director of Rocky Ford Turfgrass Research Center, Kansas State University
Drought resistance is critical in today’s turfgrasses, both warm- and cool-season species. Cold resistance in warm- season grasses is important for those grown in the upper south and the transition zone. Learn about ongoing research that will help you select the best cultivars for your area.
“Why My Sod is Better: Communicating the Value of Natural Turf,” presented by John Sorochan, PhD, Distinguished Professor of Plant Science, University of Tennessee and Tomas Silvani, Manager,
Buffalo.Agency
Learn the science and technical facts that can help convince officials and buyers in your area that natural turf is the best solution for their needs. Dr. Sorochan will share his knowledge, experiences, and research and then Tomas Silvani will use his vast marketing and public relations knowledge to use that information to craft a message you can use to promote the value of natural turf in your community. A PowerPoint template will be made available to all TPI members that can be downloaded and personalized for your use in your community.
“Reducing Inputs and Enhancing Turfgrass Growth through Site Specific Management,” presented by Gerald Henry, PhD, Associate Professor of Turfgrass Science, University of Georgia
Learn how you can apply new and emerging technologies to develop efficient, site-specific turfgrass management plans that will allow you to identify specific areas of need in your fields, and then reduce the amount of time and product used by treating only these specific areas instead of treating the entire field.
“An Overview of Technology Tools Available for Sod Producers,” presented by Douglas Karcher, PhD, Professor of Horticulture, University of Arkansas
You can’t afford to miss this unbiased, research-based assessment of some of the new tools and technologies that are being marketed for sod producers, including: moisture management tools, smartphone apps, and the use of drones for remote sensing to assess general turf health and stress. You will learn what works, what doesn’t, and what you can do with the information gained through these tools.
“Managing Stress and Avoiding Burnout,” presented by Lisa Goatley, MS, LPC, Te Cascade Group Blacksburg, VA
Turfgrass producers face a multitude of stressors in their professional lives. It’s difficult to meet the expectations of your clientele, and even yourself; the uncertainties of Mother Nature create stress; budgetary and labor limitations are problematic; long and uncertain hours are hard; and balancing family demands creates conflicting priorities. Setting boundaries around work life and family life can be difficult in a family business. Tis presentation will address techniques to assist you in managing stress to avoid burnout. You chose this profession because you have a passion for the field and a commitment to your business. Don’t let stress interfere with your ability to have a long and satisfying career.
“Seeding Your Fields While Having a Cocktail on Your Porch,” presented by Mike Wagner, M & M Turf Farm, and Ed Lee, Summit Seed, Inc.
Learn about the process of aerial seeding bluegrass or tall fescue seed into Roundup-Ready soybeans just prior to the soybeans dropping leaves. Te leaves from the soybeans act as a mulch to promote seed germination. Te benefits of this procedure include: controlling weeds that would be of concern to the sod crop including Poa annua, saving moisture, reducing tillage, and more. Mike has harvested five successful sod crops using this program.
TPI Turf News January/February 2018
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