CULTIVATING GLOBAL CONNECTIONS— FUTURE TURFGRASS LEADERS TOUR ITALY
By Allie Roed
Members of the Future Leaders Fellowship who took part in the TPI Italy Study Tour are pictured here with representatives of Paradello Sod Farm. Pictured from left to right are (standing) Andrea Piva, an owner of Paradello; Alec LeMay, A-G Sod Farms; Zac Hanka, Hanka Sod; Slater Helt, Helt’s Turf Farm; David Marquez, Sod Shop; Haley Alford, Horizon Turf Grass; a Paradello employee; Weston Guetterman, Grassroots Sod; (kneeling) Ben Storbeck, H&E Sod Nursery; Henry Kerfoot, Modern Turf; Meccay Nimmer, Nimmer Turf Farm, and a Paradello employee. Photo courtesy of Allie Roed
In the picturesque landscapes of Italy, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, the next generation of turfgrass leaders embarked on an educational journey that blended learning with cultural immersion. Tis exclusive study tour brought together emerging professionals from the turfgrass industry for an unparalleled opportunity to explore world- renowned turf management practices and the rich agricultural heritage of one of Europe’s most captivating countries.
Organized with the goal of fostering leadership, collaboration, and a global perspective, the Italy Study Tour offered participants a chance to step beyond their everyday roles and gain inspiration from an international perspective. From visiting local sod producers and agricultural experts, the tour was packed with experiences that enriched their professional knowledge and strengthened their commitment to innovation in turfgrass management.
But it wasn’t all work and no play. Between hands-on field demonstrations, attendees savored Italy’s renowned hospitality. Whether walking the cobblestone streets of Florence, enjoying the rolling hills of Tuscany, or dining on authentic Italian cuisine, the tour offered a cultural experience as rich as the industry insights it provided.
Tis journal takes you behind the scenes of the TPI 2024 Study Tour and the lessons learned by the Future Leaders of Turfgrass Fellows. Read on to discover how this unique experience is shaping the future of the industry and inspiring its brightest minds to think globally while acting locally.
Meccay Nimmer, Nimmer Turf Farm, South Carolina, presented her impressions of the Italy Study Tour in a Photo Journal format. Te photos throughout this article are courtesy of Meccay Nimmer unless otherwise noted.
Photo courtesy of Haley Alford 34 TPI Turf News January/February 2025
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