Golf Course Superintendent Show Review

Throughout the month of February I’ve been attending the area meetings that the NCGA organizes throughout Northern California. I spoke at these meetings about the goals and objectives concerning the new department of Turfgrass Services. I received many positive remarks concerning the usefulness of the program and how it should benefit the members and member clubs of the NCGA.

I recently attended the Golf Course Superintendent Association of America’s annual trade show held in mid-February in New Orleans. The trade show is absolutely unbelievable. More than 700 companies and vendors were represented on an area that was bigger than five football fields. Seeing every vendor in one day is almost impossible because there is just so much to see. One booth I thought was interesting was for a company that uses computer software to determine the shady spots on putting greens. The company takes photographs of the greens that are not receiving adequate sunlight. The pictures would then be transferred into the computer, which simulates the different seasonal light conditions. An inventory of trees is also performed. The inventory consists of documenting trees in and around the greens complex. Trees that pose significant problems in reducing sunlight can be removed, or portions of certain limbs can be pruned out. This process can also work with tees or other shade-related problems on the golf course.

I also learned that several other professional turf managers attend the show. Several professional sport stadiums grounds superintendents also come to the show to see the latest in equipment and materials. Where else can a person see everything under the sun in regards to the green industry?

NCGA Intern Program

The 1999 NCGA golf course superintendent intern program has three new graduates. Steve Woodruff, Greg Ireland, and Art Lucero have successfully completed their duties and have moved on. All of the graduates are excelling in their fields and are representing the NCGA very well.

The goals and objectives of the NCGA two-year golf course superintendent intern program are to provide the best on-the-job training as possible for individuals who are preparing themselves for a career in golf course management. Currently, the program has three interns and they are located at Poppy Hills, Poppy Ridge, and Cinnabar Hills. The intern program will expand by three in July. The new interns will be placed at Stockton Golf and Country Club, Castlewood Country Club, and Cypress Point Club. Applications are now being taken for these positions. A qualified applicant should have at least two years of college coursework with an emphasis in agronomy, horticulture, or turfgrass management plus some experience working on a golf course. Selection of the interns will occur in late May or early June.

So remember to repair, fill and repair those divots. The turf will thank you with a kind kick, bounce, or roll next time out.