CHIPS & PUTTS OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE POCONO TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION www.ptga.org Founded in 1936 VOL. 17 NO. 2 April 2011 April Meeting Southmoore Golf Course Bath PA Host: Kelly Kressler, GCS Southmoore Golf Course will be our April host this year. Southmoore is a great jumping off point for the 2011 Golf Season. It is a Jim Blaukovitch course that opened in 1994. The course is laid out in Bath, Pennsylvania. It is an 18 hole layout measuring 6.165 yards and having a Par of 71. The course is rated at 70.4 with a slope of 128. Kelly Kressler will be our host for this meeting. Kelly has been at Southmoore since construction be- gan in 1994. He has a staff of 15 in the summer and a winter crew of 2. The staff cares for 3-½ acres of greens, 2-½ acres of tees, and 22 acres of fairway. There are another 80 acres of maintained turf on the property. Since our last visit, the 12th hole has seen a new tee added with new tees planned for the 3rd, 12th, and 15th holes this season. This month Joe Gallagher of Ecological Solutions will be our speaker. Joe is an avid supporter of the environ- ment and will be speaking on restoring lakes and ponds. This presentation will focus on management tech- niques to effectively and efficiently manage golf course ponds. Specific management considerations that will be discussed include:  Chemical, biological, and mechanical control of plants and algae.  Aeration: fountains vs. bubblers.  Sediment removal and disposal.  Aquascaping to improve water quality and aes- thetics. Our meeting sponsors for this month are Lee Koszey of Syngenta and Barry Goodhart of Advance Turf Services. Come on out and shake the rust of those clubs. Remember, MET GCSA qualifying is Stableford-based, so every meeting gets you that much closer to the fabulous Galloway National Golf Club in October! Page 2 President's Message..... Officers & Directors 2011 UGH! I am pretty sure that a Polar Bear just walked by my window, looking as bewildered as me. As far as records go, I am not sure if this has been the longest winter ever, or it only feels that way. Every time we start to see the light at the end of the tunnel, it turns out to be a PRESIDENT locomotive headed our way. The weather man says spring is really Rick Anglemyer, Water Gap CC going to arrive, just not sure when. Ok, Mother Nature, you win. We 570-424-6391 promise not to over water this summer, and we will also do a better job VICE PRESIDENT of not complaining that it is too hot. John Downer, Elkview C.C. 570-840-0078 Hope you all are well and eager to get started on a new year. Try TREASURER to make a meeting or two and have some fun and maybe learn a few Ray Wadell, Elmhurst CC things on the way. 570-842-4705 SECRETARY Good luck and see you soon, Patrick Knelly Sugarloaf Golf Club 570-384-4724 DIRECTORS Rick Anglemyer Steven Chirip, Grass Roots, Inc. 973-418-3468 Matthew Brown, Turf Equipment & Supply 484-357-6312 Greg Boring, Country Club of Scranton 570-587-4046 Patrick Healey, Scranton Canoe Club Editor’s Notes….. 570-378-2249 Thomas Height, Country Club of Scranton 570-237-0878 Gino Marchetti, Glen Oak CC. 570-586-5791 __________________________ Wow, April is here and Spring still hasn’t shown its head yet. Punxsu- CHIPS & PUTTS STAFF tawney Phil was wrong this year. What say we make a nice ground- EDITOR Jim Gurzler, George Schofield Co. hog stew and stick with Al Roker and The Weather Channel. 732-433-5474 jim@gurzler.com In my travels this spring I have seen everything from pristine putting Managing Editor surfaces to total devastation. Hopefully you are lucky and have a Melinda Wisnosky good starting point for this season’s golf conditions. The Golf Commit- 570-388-2167 tee has worked hard this off season to put together a schedule of Editorial Committee Darrin Larkin good golf and speakers to help you further your career through Matt Brown networking and education. Make sure you take advantage of what the Association is trying to do for the membership. If there are things Past President Darrin Larkin, Greenfield Power Equipment you would like to see the Education or Golf Committee do, please be 570-222-4330 sure to drop a line to our Directors so we can help the Association and its membership stay strong. A word about the golf meetings…In an attempt to quell some complaints we are doing many new formats and blind draws. These are the tournaments we are running. If you would like to play with PTGA Office friends or club members, this isn’t a problem - just opt out of the tour- 309 Terrace Avenue nament and play with your friends or guests. We are trying to make Harding, PA 18643 Phone/Fax: 570-388-2167 these events fun days, so come on out and enjoy. Any opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author and/or person quoted, and may not represent the Jim Gurzler position of PTGA. Information contained in this publication may be used freely, in whole or in part, without special permission, as long as the true context is maintained. We would appreciate a credit line. PagePage 3 3 Research and Where it’s Headed: Is Regionalization the Answer? by Jim Gurzler T rade Shows are dying! …...I can get my infor- mation from the web. I have all my credits for my license. I don’t have the time. All too common are the above reasons for not at- You have most recently seen this at the national level where dues increases, smaller trade shows, and staff reductions have been all the rage this off season. De- pending on how you view the attendance at Orlando, whether from the rose-colored side of the room the tending events that strengthen your association. A GCSAA paints, or the more restrained side seen on strong association with active members means a Turfnet, the show was noticeably smaller than in past good sharing of ideas, fundraising for research, schol- years. Orlando was always a strong venue as atten- arship offerings, and general fellowship of the like dees could bring their families and the fact that a minded. These events, largely run by volunteers and heavy weighting of golf courses exists on the east educators, take a great deal of time to put coast. When you look at this model as a pre- together and are a value for their member- ship. As an example, for one regional confer- Depending on cursor to challenges local groups will face, the cry of “Trade shows are dying” seems well ence, I had heard 600 hours of his time was how you view the based in fact. This is a problem universities given by a superintendent working to make attendance at must face, which in turn the turf manager will a successful event. This is time well spent be- face. The GCSANJ has conceded the Crystal cause he had an eye to the future and the Orlando…..the Conference to strengthen the state associa- association and his peers in mind. show was tion and I know other associations are consid- ering the same. noticeably Conferences, so often taken for granted be- cause they occur every year like clockwork smaller Not knowing what research is needed by su- in the off season, are of a real importance to perintendents could be a moot point should the furthering of turfgrass research and edu- the funding slow or cease. You may not have cation. This research is currently in jeopardy because seen it, but there have already been reductions in re- of declining state budgets, a shift in priorities, and re- search programs at universities nationwide. Should re- duced resources of national golf-related organiza- search dollars slow further from local chapters, opportu- tions that has resulted in decreased grant support to nities to fund research and do more testing to promote universities. Penn State University is currently under healthy turfgrass will also continue to decline. Large tremendous pressure due to proposed budget cuts donors such as the GCSAA and USGA have severely by Governor Corbett. These proposed cuts could re- curtailed or stopped funding research altogether in a duce University staff by as much as 50%. If these cuts budget tightening effort. This makes your local events, are rescinded, the farm budget could still see a 30% be they golf outings, research field days, or annual con- reduction, says Dr. Landschoot. This shortage will be ferences, even more important fundraisers for research dealt with by reducing summer staffers and diverting dollars. What might have been thought of as a small funds normally earmarked for research to mainte- contribution in prior years could now be enough to fur- nance costs. Dr. Dernoeden of the University of Mary- ther an existing research trial or start a new one. land echoed these sentiments as well. The Maryland Turfgrass Council has seen their numbers drop as well Environmental restrictions such as fertilizer ordinances, in both vendor and attendee participation. This has water restrictions, or pesticide reductions will put addi- resulted in a reduction in funding for research. Should tional pressure on superintendents, heightening the conferences cease to exist, they could be replaced need for science-based solutions to emerging and con- by webinars, social media, or websites, but interac- tinuing problems. Future studies essential to prevent tion with peers, funding for research, and the free diseases on turf and landscape impacted by new laws flow of ideas would suffer. Educators and researchers will need funding and with golf still on the down turn, benefit from these gatherings as well. This is a time for don’t think you and your local association can’t make educators and researchers to take the pulse of the a difference. That $180 conference registration fee will industry- be it golf, sports turf, or lawn and landscape, be benefiting you not only during the conference and to see what areas are relevant and where research trade show, but during the coming seasons with the ap- funds need to be focused. plied knowledge and the forthcoming research. (Continued on page 4) Page 4 (Continued from page 3) and to make the sharing of information easier and Those before us who started the PTC, NJTA, NYSTA, more relevant. These conferences grew from the need and PTGA had an eye toward the future and saw the for improvements in conditioning and the enhance- need for research. Don’t falter now when conditions ment of turfgrass and pest control. are more demanding and environmental stresses are increasing, as are outside influ- I wonder what the anthracnose outbreaks of the ences such as legislation. 2000’s, gray leaf spot of the 90’s, and summer patch of the 80’s would have done to golf Having spoken with Dr. Bruce Clarke of Rutgers courses and fine turf had research efforts not University and Dr. Peter Landschoot from Penn benefited from the golf boom of the same pe- State University about their take on these confer- riod? Now as the economy settles in for a new ences, both agreed that they strengthen the associa- trend, funding is limited on all fronts. Golf maintenance tion and are important tools for their programs. These budgets are trimmed, expenses scrutinized, labor venues create an area of free thinking on turfgrass budgets reduced and with this come more trials for the conditions and issues, as well as provide a revenue turfgrass manager. These budgets are analyzed on the stream to the various researchers to continue benefi- other side as well since vendors, distributors, and manu- cial studies. They also agree the internet and social facturers have all had their budgets cut. This leads to media are a great benefit in getting information dis- less vendor participation at association events which, seminated to the public in real-time, but conferences leads to smaller income totals for the organizations. should not be overlooked for their importance in dis- This, in turn, will lead to restructuring of local associa- seminating the latest in depth research findings and tions, thus the benefits of the local will be curtailed as getting feedback from the field in applied condi- donations and events will be hampered. Don’t under- tions…..as well as being a great place to drain a few estimate your participation in local events; as a non- pints with friends from school and catch up on events attendee we all suffer your loss be it from your insight, in each other’s lives. your camaraderie, or your cash infusion. When you say a turf conference or tradeshow isn’t of value, remem- These turf conferences were started, as well as many ber those that support them have a hard time justifying local organizations with a common foundation, “To their participation as well without your attendance and promote interest and good will in the association, en- support. When you see those notes in conference bro- courage good relations between members and the chures and newsletters asking “Please support our clubs they represent...And to keep up with the cur- sponsors” remember this means taking the time to at- rent developments in turf and related work.” -Bill tend these gatherings as well. Smart HVGCSA 1961 I remember reading an article, from Golfdom, I believe, The PTGA, GCSANJ, PTC and most organizations have about where a superintendent would spend his money this standard in their incorporation documents some- should the need arise to reduce expenses; a resound- where. This was the purpose of the organizations to ing “locally” was the outcome. With this in mind re- group the like-minded, which are regionally attached (Continued on page 5) Page 5 (Continued from page 4) member that when the next conference rolls around, not that national conferences should be overlooked, local support relates to local benefits. National groups have made great contributions to research throughout the country, but St. Augustine research or Bermuda trials aren’t really of benefit to those in the Northeast, nor are gray leaf spot on ryegrass beneficial to those in southern climates. When a group like the Pennsylvania Turfgrass Coun- cil can donate more than $2,000,000 over their years of ex- istence to research, realize your conference participation bene- fits everyone. There are still positives out there for turfgrass research, as shown by the continued positive support given to events such as the annual Rutgers Turfgrass Research Golf Classic. This May will mark its 16th year and the tournament has gener- ated over $1,000,000 for research and education programs at Rutgers University. At Penn State, a new endowment has recently been established through the hard work of superintendents who formed Pennsylvania Turfgrass Research, Inc. This endowment, in the amount of $300,000, was devel- oped through donations by private individuals and corporations. Stories such as these do give us hope for continued research funding but also remind us of the hard work that is required to continue such growth through our various turfgrass organizations. Research is truly needed, because as everyone learns, plant science doesn’t always equate to the landscape art we are all expected to provide. One thing to consider might be the consolidation of turfgrass conferences to bring together large groups from the turf and landscape industries and regionalize these shows on a larger scale. This, in conjunction with the growth of web based informa- tion sources, could be just the thing to continue the needed research and fulfill the mission statements of these organizations. So, come on out to your local events be they golf outings, education confer- ences, or field days. Show your support for your lo- cal associations and turf research, and strengthen your profession. Enjoy the interaction with those who understand what you do. Thanks to Dr. Bruce Clarke, Dr. Peter Dernoeden, Dr. Peter Landschoot and Matt Shaffer for their help with this article. Page 6 Pocono Turfgrass Association 2011 Scholarships The Patterson Scholarship for Turfgrass Related Studies The Pocono Turfgrass Association is now accepting scholarship applications for the Patterson Scholarship. The dead- line for application is June 30, 2011. The following is a list of guidelines for all individuals interested in applying for the scholarship: 1. Applicant must be in his or her final year of study or a recent graduate of a two- or four-year turf related pro- gram. 2. The applicant must be a member of the Pocono Turfgrass Association, employed by a member of PTGA, or an immediate family member of a member of PTGA. 3. The applicant must submit, in writing, why he or she would like to be considered for the scholarship. The es- say should include what he or she feels their contribution to the turfgrass field will be. 4. Applicants must include a letter of endorsement from their PTGA relation with their application. The Pocono Turfgrass Association Scholarship for Non-Turf Related Studies The Pocono Turfgrass Association is now accepting applications for a non-turfgrass related field of study scholarship. The deadline for application is October 31, 2010. The following is a list of guidelines for all individuals interested in applying for the scholarship: 1. Applicant must be in his or her final year of study or a recent graduate of a two- or four-year non-turf related program. 2. The applicant must be a member of the Pocono Turfgrass Association, employed by a member of PTGA, or an immediate family member of a member of PTGA. 3. The applicant must submit, in writing, why he or she would like to be considered for the scholarship. The es- say should include information pertaining to field of study, educational achievement, and future goals with respect to utilization of his or her education. 4. Applicants must include a letter of endorsement from their PTGA relation with their application. Applications should be submitted to: Rick Anglemyer Water Gap Country Club PO Box 725 Mountain Rd. Delaware Water Gap, PA 18327 Next month we return to Jack Frost for some June golf with Bryan Nuss. Mark your calendar for some fun on May 17th Page 7 Winter Injury Alert! By David A. Oatis, director, Northeast Region February 17, 2011 I n recent weeks, Green Section agronomists have been speaking with superintendents all over the Northeast Region with respect to winter injury and various strategies associated with possible removal of snow and ice layers from putting green turf. Although others will aerate and seed. Regardless of the chosen method, keeping damaged greens closed until the turf has recovered is the most important first step. Damaged turf that is subjected to play will recover much more slowly, and this prolongs the aggravation. Furthermore, we currently are still several weeks away from under- winter injury is an opportunity to establish new and im- standing the extent of injury, damage already has proved bentgrasses in putting greens, so, although there been documented at a few courses. As the snow and clearly is plenty of short-term pain, there can be long- ice recedes and/or is removed, more damage likely term gain. will come to light. If you have questions or would like to discuss damage At least at a couple of golf courses, it appears that prevention and/or recovery strategies, give us a call. We significant injury occurred in late December and early are always ready to help. Source: Northeast Region January and likely can be attributed to crown hydra- Green Section- Dave Oatis, Director doatis@usga.org; tion injury. A thick layer of ice has covered many put- Adam Moeller, Agronomist amoeller@usga.org Jim ting greens since then, and some superintendents who Skorulski, Senior Agronomist jskorulski@usga.org. have cut through the ice are discovering signs of an- oxia. Toxic gases build up slowly under ice layers after prolonged cover, and even courses with ice layers intact for 35-40 days have discovered the tell-tale foul smells. On at least one course, the water from the melting ice quickly turned green, a sure sign that plant cells have been ruptured and the chlorophyll is leak- ing out. Thus, if the “smell of death” is present under the ice layer on your greens, the ice should be removed as soon as possible. Unfortunately, some damage has already occurred, and the process of ice removal it- self can further injure the turf. Exposing the turf to ad- ditional freeze/thaw cycles also can result in more damage. However, leaving the ice alone with anoxic conditions would practically guarantee damage, too. Courses facing this dilemma clearly are in a no- win situation. Recovery obviously is weeks and perhaps months away, so the only thing that can be done now is to assess damage by uncovering the turf and bringing plugs inside for incubation. Within a week or so, you should get a feel for whether or not damage is present and how extensive it might be. Taking plugs from low areas and high areas will provide an indication of the extent. Armed with this information, you can begin preparing your golfers and developing recovery strategies. There are many different ways to promote recovery, and some courses quickly will resort to sod, whereas PTGA SCHEDULE POCONO ROUNDUP April 19 Southmoore Bath PA The By laws are under review and changes will be Kelly Kressler, Supt voted on in June at Mountain Valley Golf Course. Joe Gallagher, Pond Management Check the website and newsletter for the revisions. Congratulations to Lance Heil, formerly of the May 17 Jack Frost National, Blakeslee, PA Shawnne Inn & Resort on his new position at Suffield Bryan Nuss, Supt. Country Club in Connecticut. Lance began there the Dr. Peter Landscoot, PSU end of March 2011. Good Luck, Lance. June 21 Mountain Valley, Frackville PA Congratulations to Jeff Reber, Jeff is taking over for Jeff Reber, Supt. Bob Kaufmann as Superintendent at Mountain Valley Mike Hartley, TES Golf Course in Frackville, PA. Jeff will be our host for July 12 Scranton Canoe Club, Lake Winola, PA the June meeting. Join us in wishing Jeff well in his Pat Healey, Supt. new position. John Kaminski , PSU Aug 16 Buck Hill Country Club Buck Hill Fallls, PA Tim Stem, Supt. Sept 27 Paupack Hills Country Club, Greentown PA Mark Monahan, Supt./GM Doug Linde, Del Val Oct 18 Blue Ridge Country Club, Palmerton PA Pete Bablevy, Supt Stan Zontek, USGA POCONO TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION R.R. 1, BOX 219 POSTAGE HARDING, PA 18643 POCONO TURFGRASS ASSOCIATION 309 TERRACE AVENUE HARDING, PA 18643 NAME & ADDRESS PHONE/FAX 570-388-2167 WEBSITE: ptga.org ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED.