at Needwood, the exhibit is being set up behind the ninth green of the executive course, by a parking lot, so the public can easily access the site.
Eighteen museum-quality banners are being installed that will tell visitors about topics ranging from irrigation and responsible water use to the history of lawns and turfgrasses. Support from the turfgrass industry was provided, such as sprinkler heads donated by Ewing Irrigation, the local Rain Bird distributor.
“It was a natural fit at this site, which has been used over the years for in-house turfgrass research aimed at reducing turfgrass inputs,” Lobenstine says.
Morris, an eight-year GCSAA member, underlines the importance of projects like Grass Roots in creating more awareness and understanding.
“I think our industry is tremendously misunderstood and undervalued by the general public,” Morris says. “We all have a role to play in educating the public about the importance of the turfgrass industry, number of jobs created, the health benefits of turfgrass, the environmental benefits, how turfgrass filters water, reduces erosion, cools the air in urban areas, reduces the heat island effect, etc. Grass Roots helps to do that.”
Looking Ahead to Similar Exhibits
Rinehart says he hopes that people passionate about turfgrass in other states will consider establishing similar exhibits. He envisions projects spearheaded by Extension agents or people retired from turfgrass management and says advice and support, such as templates for display materials, are available for such initiatives.
Te exhibit at Needwood is expected to open this summer. Morris says Grass Roots has created opportunities for people to ask questions on topics like organic production, use of pesticides and fertilizers on turfgrass, genetically modified organisms, and why golf courses cultivate greens, which can lead to good dialogue and teachable moments.
“Visitors to the original Grass Roots exhibit at the National Arboretum often walked by or through the exhibit while enjoying a day at Arboretum, taking the kids out for some walking and play time, or exercising themselves,” Morris says. “If they read one banner or looked at one display while passing by or through, it was an opportunity to educate them on the importance of turfgrass. Hopefully, this new site at Needwood Golf Course will provide the same opportunities.”
Darrell J. Pehr is GCM’s science editor. Photo courtesy of Jon Lobenstine and GCM.
TPI Turf News September/October 2022
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