Introduction to NCGA Turfgrass Services Department

What a privilege it is to be on board with the NCGA and be responsible for a new department. The fruits of many people’s labor regarding this position have finally become a reality. Various NCGA directors, staff and several outside professionals spent many hours debating and discussing the merits of making this department a special place within the NCGA. Without their time, dedication and persistence, this dream would not have come true. I personally want to thank all of them for their time and efforts.

I am extremely excited about all of the possibilities that are ahead of this department. Some of my goals for the turfgrass program are to expand the current superintendent internship program and make room for more qualified candidates and participating golf courses. The internship is an excellent opportunity for individuals to prepare themselves for a future in golf course management. Another idea is to implement a research group that provides funding to find answers for common turfgrass problems for superintendents throughout Northern California. The results from the research projects can be publicized in various superintendent association newsletters and the NCGA web site. Finally, at the request of the superintendents, performing on-site consultations will round out the day-to-day operations of this position. These visits are designed to assess and analyze golf course conditions, turf operations and maintenance practices.

As one can tell, being an advisor/troubleshooter/researcher/consultant, ensures that every day will hold new challenges. One of the most exciting aspects of this job is how much learning goes on during each day. I do not proclaim to know every answer to every turfgrass problem. I do, however, know where to look for the answers and know when to say let me check on that. I will get back to you with the answer. I’m here to be a service to the superintendents of Northern California.

During some of my travels across the region, I have listened to the superintendents in regards to their specific problem areas. Here is a short list of some of the topics that they have mentioned as possible research projects: salt content in irrigation water, english daisy control, kikuyu management, poa annua control on bentgrass greens, nematodes on poa annua greens, ground squirrel control, fairy ring control on greens, and maintaining turf on bunker slopes just too name a few.

Now that every NCGA member knows what I’ll be doing in the coming months, I need to ask a favor of every one of you. The NCGA Foundation was formed to promote Junior Golf and provide resources for Turfgrass Research. My hope is that more NCGA members will designate monies on their NCGA entry forms or make a contribution towards the NCGA Foundation. The research that we will be undertaking will go toward making our golf courses more environmentally friendly by reducing the amount of pesticides used on a yearly basis, to provide a more uniform condition of turf and eventually lead to better playability for all to enjoy. Your donations will make a difference.

Here is to growing better turf. So, remember to replace, fill and repair those divots. The group behind you will thank you.

Most recently, I was employed by the University of Missouri Extension Service. I served five and half years as a Horticulture Specialist. The last year was spent in the Kansas City, Missouri office. During college, I worked at several top-rated courses in the nation. These include Southern Hills in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and our neighbor down the street Pebble Beach Golf Links.

My wife, Kristin, is a school counselor at Seaside High School. We have been married for almost 6 years and we have a big, orange cat named Pumpkin. We are residing in Salinas and are enjoying the wonderful California scenery and beautiful weather.