new jersey turfgrass association Clippings & Green World njta Winter 2007 VOL 65 Growing Together... n o i t a r b e e c a s ' t i . . . l 6 0 0 2 O P X E Inside this issue: Expo 2006 Pictorial Review 2006 NJTA Award Recipients Rutgers Golf CIassic Registration STC Storr Tractor Company Distributor of Toro Commercial Turf Care Equipment TORO Count on it. 3191 Route 22 • Somerville, New Jersey • 08876 www.storrtractor.com 908-722-9830 www.njturfgrass.org President’s Message By Chris Carson, NJTA President CHANGES...WE’VE MADE CHANGES! Recently, I’ve been telling you about some of the initiatives we’ve taken to improve NJTA. I’d like to tell you about some of the important changes we’ve made at Expo 2006, and to report on our success. Chris Carson NJTA President In response to multiple requests from our loyal trade show partners, we compressed the tradeshow hours from three days to two. We felt our vendors’ costs would be reduced - as well as their time away from home and family - if we made the show Wednesday night and Thursday morning only, and I am delighted to report that we have received almost universal support and acclaim for this change. Expo has been tightened, and the result has made for a better show with happier tradeshow partners. In addition to a ten percent increase in our tradeshow, attendance at our always popular education sessions was up as well! This year, we welcomed our new presenting partner, the NJ Landscape Contractors Association to Expo. Though we experienced some growing pains, both organizations are pleased with our first effort. In fact, we are in the middle of planning for next December’s event. I know this new partnership will result in continuing improvement, and also in a more diverse tradeshow floor. Executive Director Michelle Rickard announced her resignation at Expo; she’s moved back to Colorado for family reasons. I’m happy to report that she has agreed to stay on during our transition period, and will continue to do her duties remotely until our new Executive Director is hired. She continues to work tirelessly on her many duties, and I’d like to let all members know that her hard work and strategic guidance has made NJTA a better organization. We accepted her resignation with deep regret. Thanks, Michelle, for all you’ve done for NJTA. You will be sorely missed. A number of our vendor partners have continued to support our association and our mission. I thank Ken Kubik of Grass Roots for hosting a great ‘meet and greet’ cocktail party on Tuesday night at Expo; Rob Finnesey from Tree Tech, Chris Walick from Course Contractors Inc. and Jim Pelrine from Wilfred MacDonald for sponsoring education sessions; Mary Lou DesChamps and Storr Tractor for providing Wednesday’s lunch for all attendees; and Lee Kozsey from Syngenta for supporting the grand opening of the tradeshow. Without the loyal support of these folks, and from all other contributors as well, the show would not be the success it is. I thank you all most sincerely. Your NJTA Board is working hard to shape our future, and to that end we just completed our third annual strategic planning meeting. From these meetings has come a focused vision of our mission and our methods for continued on page 22 Table of Contents Clippings President’s Message Signing Off... NJTA Hall of Fame Winner John P. Morrissey NJTA Member of the Year Winner Barbara Vydro Getting to Know New Board Member Rick Krok In Loving Memory... James C. McCormick 3 4 5 7 8 9 12th Annual Rutgers Turfgrass Golf Classic Info. & Registration 10 2006 Expo Pictorial Review Highest Honors Expo Sponsor Thank You NJTA Environmental Stewardship and Recognition Awards 12 14 14 15 College Students Career Opportunity at the “Landscape Olympics” 16 County Extension Office Contact List New Member Welcome Do You Find the new New Jersey Sales Tax Laws Confusing? NJTA Membership Application NJTA Patron Listing Calendar of Events Green World 17 18 19 19 22 23 The Prospects of Using Mating Disruption for Management of the Oriental Beetle 21 Cover Photo Courtesy of Jerry Schoonmaker. New Jersey Turfgrass Association P.O. Box 340 Milltown, NJ 08850-0340 Phone: (215) 757-NJTA Fax: (215) 741-NJTA www.njturfgrass.org There comes a time in every person’s life when they are faced with a difficult decision. Last year, due to family medical reasons, I decided to return home to Colorado. It was difficult, because I have truly enjoyed my time here at NJTA. I have enjoyed working with the members, vendors, Rutgers faculty and staff, and especially my Board of Directors. I have written in past issues of Clippings how NJTA is like a family, and indeed it is to me. Together, we have experienced the growing pains of bringing this association into a new era. Your Board of Directors, both old and new, has worked tirelessly to get our finances in order, to increase membership and awareness of the association, to improve our communications through our newsletter and website, and to enhance our annual events like Expo, Field Day and the Golf Classic. Together we have accomplished many of our goals. The bottom line is we have worked to make this a better association for you, our valued member. Making NJTA a better association is truly a labor of love for those involved. Over the last two years, NJTA has experienced tremendous growth. We have increased our membership by 20%, we have improved our communications and we continue to find ways to partner with other industry groups to help strengthen the Turfgrass Signing Off... By Michelle Rickard, NJTA Executive Director Industry in New Jersey. Each Director and volunteer gives countless hours to make the growth and improvement of NJTA possible. I have made many friends here, and some will remain lifelong friends. When you consider ways to get involved in your industry, I hope you will give consideration to volunteering for NJTA. There are many opportunities available from serving as a Director to working on a committee. Each position within NJTA is critical to our success. By volunteering, you will meet new people within your industry and make a few friends along the way. We welcome the opportunity to work with you as we continue to grow. Although my successor has not been chosen at this time, I am confident the search committee will find the perfect person to continue to usher NJTA to new heights. This is a tremendous association with quality people behind the wheel. I wish NJTA and its new Executive Director the best of luck on this new journey. I want to thank my NJTA family for your friendship and support along the way. I will miss you! Don’t miss your opportunity to advertise in Clippings. Call (609) 462-4244 to learn more. Trucks! any job you do, we Have a truck for you! ALWAYS 250 NEW & USED TRUCKS IN STOCK! Explorers • Excursions * Escapes * Windstars & much more! 201-617-0700 Ford TRUCKS Sterling Trucks http://www.meadowlandford.com email:sales@meadowlandford.com 330 COUNTY AVENUE, AT SECAUCUS ROAD SECAUCUS NJ Opp. Motot Vehicle Inspection Station Award Spotlight! NJTA Hall of Fame Winner - John P. Morrissey By Mary Beth Ruh, F.M. Browns' Sons, NJTA Member John Morrissey worked for one company - Lofts Seed then in Bound Brook, NJ for his entire career. He started as a young man in sales and is a walking encyclopedia on the roots of the seed industry. Always a hard working and dedicated professional, he worked his way into being the Vice President of the company. John P. Morrissey During his years at Lofts, he was very active in the NJ Sod Growers Association and the Atlantic Seed Association (he was a past-president, was honored with Seedsman of the Year and was presented with a life-time membership). whom were family businesses, he connected with (then) young sod growers, landscapers, lawn care professionals and garden center operators. Those folks have also worked their way into key positions in their industries. Now retired, John keeps in frequent contact with many, many people in the industry, always hungry for news and updates. He cares deeply about the people that he interacted with over the course of his career, and continues to offer support, advice, consolation, encouragement - whatever is needed. Let’s hope that there are more like him out there now working with the young people of our industry, but those shoes would be hard to fill as they were apparently custom made! ■ But, John’s true impact on the industry was unique and enormous, in his own way. You see, John was a devoted mentor to young ambitious people entering the industry. He did not limit his influence to those at Lofts. He was supportive, instructive, and a voice of confidence and encouragement (and correction, when needed) to so many people, who are now scattered throughout the industry, many of whom are in key positions at numerous companies. His ethics and professional mannerisms made him an inspiration to those learning the trade, and honored him with the respect of his competitors. John also reached out to young people beyond the seed industry. As he interacted with customers, many of TEXTRON TURF CARE AND SPECIALTY PRODUCTS 19 Central Boulevard South Hackensack, NJ 07606 Sales: (888)-831-0891 Parts: (888)-831-0911 Service: (888)-831-0919 www.wilfredmacdonald.com AQUATROLS Revolution There's no reason for you or your turf to stress over maintaining healthy, fast greens. Revolution® puts you in control of rootzone conditions. It ensures top performance and better plant health throughout the season, and increases turf survival under extremes. Isn't it time you joined the Revolution? grass roots (973) 361-5943 Distributing Aquatrols products since 1978 "In a matter of seconds, you can go from mulching to side-discharge There's not another mower that can do that." The New John Deere 7-lron II Mulch-On-Demand Deck, "When we want to side-discharge, we can do it right from the seat," says Mike. "And we don't have to carry an extra piece of equipment." Just by engaging a lever from the operator's seat, the 7-lron II mulch-on-demand deck goes from mulching to side-discharge in an instant. Mike Dykstra, Dykstra Landscape Services Inc., Grand Haven, Michigan 7 Iron II See more of what Mike Dykstra has to say at www.mowpro.com John Deere Award Spotlight! NJTA Member of the Year - Barbara Vydro By Michelle Rickard, NJTA Executive Director It wasn’t easy to keep the secret from Barbara Vydro that she had been nominated for the NJTA Member of the Year Award. After all, she is so involved with NJTA that it’s hard to get anything past her. When it came time to send the ballot to the Board for this year’s nominee selection she was shocked and thrilled to see her name on the list of potential NJTA members who are deserving of this award. And, this wouldn’t be the last in the Grand Ballroom of the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City with her family. Her husband Stan, daughter Carolee, son-in-law Dave, and grandson Bren were all in attendance as she graciously, and yes, tearfully accepted the NJTA Member of the Year Award. The Member of the Year Award is presented annually to a member who has exhibited exemplary behavior and dedication in support of the goals and objectives of the Association. Although this is a new award, it is perhaps one of our most significant. It gives NJTA the ability to spotlight an individual whose efforts have made a tremendous impact to improving our association. Barbara is truly deserving of this award. Upon accepting her position as NJTA Treasurer, Barbara immediately began to make changes. She is responsible continued on page 17 Barbara Vydro time she would shed a tear over this honor. On December 6, 2006, NJTA Treasurer Barbara Vydro sat Plant Food Company, Inc. The Liquid fertilizer experts We specialize in liquid fertilizers and sell many other types of fertilizers, biostimulants, lime and protection products. Everything in the green industry, including trees and shrubs, turf and flowers, grow stronger and more beautiful with our products. Contact us to learn more and request your free catalog. 800.562.1291 609.443.8038 (fax) pfc@plantfoodco.com www.plantfoodco.com Grow with us as part of our expanding family of customers. Getting to Know New Board Member Rick Krok By Richard Krok, NJTA Board Member I have been involved in the Turfgrass business now for about 23 years. My first job was at Fiddler’s Elbow G.C. in Bedminster, NJ, working for David McGhee in 1984 as a summer job. Soon after, I transferred to Cook College and received my Plant Science degree while working full-time and eventually moving up to Assistant Superintendent at Fiddler’s Elbow G.C. I even attended Turfgrass management with Dr. Karen Plumley in 1990. In 1995, I went to work for Bob Dwyer at Somerset Hills C.C. in Bernardsville, NJ as Assistant Superintendent and met my wife, Denise soon after. She would help at times changing cups on the weekend. In 1997, I was hired as Golf Course Superintendent at Pebble Creek G.C. in Colts Neck, NJ, in which I worked very closely with Dave Pease from Richard Krok Monmouth County Parks during my tenure at Pebble Creek G.C. In April of 2000, Ms. Mary Lou Des Champs hired me as Golf Irrigation Salesman for Storr Tractor Company. Presently, I cover Central and Northern NJ, Lower Hudson Valley for Toro, Flowtronex and other Allied Irrigation products. Since working at Storr Tractor Company, my son, Richard was bom in 2001 and my twin daughters, Jessica and Jennifer were born in 2002. It wasn’t until last year when Dr. Bruce Clarke called looking to upgrade the irrigation at the research plots at Hort. Farm II that I realized I could do more for Rutgers University. Through the Toro Foundation, I was able to get approximately $100,000 of irrigation equipment at no charge to help out Bill Dickson, TJ Lawson and Joe Clark at the Turf Farm. While at Field Day this past year a current NJTA board member (Keith Kubik) suggested I get on the Board and help out even more with the NJTA continued on page 22 Available Through: grass roots LIQUID FERTILIZERS, MICRONUTRIENTS, AND NATURAL ORGANICS (973) 252-6634 Fall Preparedness • Pro-Balance (15-2-15) focuses on increasing potassium to improve cold tolerance, strengthen roots and build up carbohydrates. • Micrel Total (6-0-0) with 8 fully chelated minors cover all of your micronutirient bases. • Control-De Thatcher treatments helps to keep thatch at bay. • Essential® Plus adds your fundamentals, uncluding Organic L- Amino Acids, Humic Acid, Kelp, and Biostimulants to improve root structure prior to winter stress. (800) 648-7626 www.GrowthProducts.com Celebrating Over 20 Years In The Green Industry! In Loving Memory... James C. McCormick By Gary E. Nokes, Bey Lea Municipal Golf Course, NJTA Member I regret to inform you that a Charter Member of the New Jersey Turfgrass Association, James C. McCormick passed away on Tuesday, January 30, 2007 in a nursing home in Key West, Florida. Jim was the first Superintendent of Bey Lea Municipal Golf Course, hired by Dover Township in 1967, overseeing the construction phase and “growing in” of the course. The golf course opened for play on September 19, 1969. The following year he became one of the original charter members of the New Jersey Turfgrass Association in 1970. Jim was very involved with the New Jersey Turfgrass Association, NJ Golf Course Superintendents Association as well as the National Association of Golf Course Superintendents. Jim participated in many New Jersey Turfgrass Association events throughout his years as Superintendent. Jim worked closely with Dr. Henry Indyk participating in a turfgrass trial incorporating some of the first available Manhattan perennial ryegrass in the 18th fairway at Bey Lea. Jim was known as a hard working, dedicated man who applied his years of farming and machinist skills to his passion of fine turfgrass maintenance. Jim was known for his woodcarving skills and the restoration of his many antique motorcycles and high wheeled bicycles. Jim remained Superintendent at Bey Lea until his retirement in 1979 where he retired to Big Pine Key Florida. Jim (who later became my father-in-law) was a great influence to me in life. I decided to work the summer at Bey Lea, fell in love (not only with his daughter) but fell in love with the golf course and turf industry working under Jim’s direction on the maintenance crew. Jim taught me so much over the years, cultivating my love of the course. Jim encouraged me to become involved, and I began attending the NJTA Expo (in Cherry Hill). I obtained my pesticide licenses and became foreman in 1977 and then Superintendent upon his retirement. Jim introduced me to a friend who worked at Rutgers, Dr. Ralph continued on page 22 The Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Lab The Plant Diagnostic Laboratory provides accurate and timely diagnoses of plant problems. Below is a sample of services performed: Disease and Insect Pest Diagnosis Plant and Weed Identification Insect Identification Fungus and Mold Identification Nematode Assays Screening for Neotyphodium Endophytes Fungicide Resistance Screening Other Services Available by Contract For more information please call us at 732/932-9140 or visit the web for sample submission instructions and forms at: www.rcre.rutgers.edu/plantdiagnosticlab. NJ AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION RUTGERS & EXTENSION cooperative Research THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW JERSEY RUTGERS COOK COLLEGE The Rutgers Soil Testing Lab The Rutgers Soil Testing Laboratory performs chemical and mechanical analyses of soils. The following services are routinely performed: Landscape Level 1 Fertility Test: Nutrients, pH, recommendations Level 2 Problem Solver (soil/plant suitability test] Level 3 Topsoil Evaluation Greenhouse Saturated (Organic) Media Extract Analysis: Nutrients, pH, electrical conductivity, inorganic nitrogen Sport Turf Level 1 Fertility Test: Nutrients, pH, recommendations Level 2 Complete Test: Nutrients, pH, estimated CEC & cation saturation, soluble salt level, organic matter* * content, soil textural class Level 3 Sand Root Zone Test *Organic matter content would be determined by loss-on-ignition for golf course greens, as described by USGA guidelines. For more information please call us at 732/932-9295, or visit us on the web at: www.rcre.rutgers.edu/soiltestinglab www.rcre.rutgers.edu/services Come Celebrate with us! The New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation Presents... Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club 811 Rattlesnake Bridge Road Bedminster Township, NJ 07921 For sponsorship and registration information, please visit: www.njturfgrass.org 2006 Premier Sponsors ...The Event... The Rutgers Turfgrass Research Golf Classic was established in order to provide an annual fundraiser for the New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation. The Foundation is a non-profit organization which may accept and manage tax-deductible monetary donations and the proceeds from events such as this golf classic. The interest generated from the investment of these funds will be used for Research Grants, Scholarships, Equipment, Supplies, and Facilities to support Turfgrass Research and Education at Cook College/Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. The New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation and the University represent a formidable alliance in support of the Turfgrass Industry in the State of New Jersey and across the country. ...Sponsorship Opportunities... Each Sponsorship will receive: • Listing on Sponsor Sign at Entrance to the Grand Reception • Tee or Green Sign Premier Sponsor- $7,500 (Call for additional details) • The Premier Sponsors are an elite group. As a Premier Sponsor you will receive two foursomes; recognition on the NJTA web site and press releases; product literature and samples may be displayed; and your company name will appear on the sponsor banner which will be displayed in the activity area. - 5, OOO Eagle Sponsor • Two Foursomes • Display Product Literature or Samples • Sponsor Banner will be Displayed Birdie Sponsor - $3,500 • One Foursome • Sponsor Banner will be Displayed Par Sponsor - $2,000 • One Foursome Hole Sponsor- $500 • One Ticket to Grand Reception theRutgers Turfgrass Research Golf Classic ...Registration Information... Name:_____________________________________________________________ Company Name:___________________________________________________ Address:___________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip:____________________________________________________ Phone:____________________________ Fax:____________________________ E-mail:____________________________________________________________ Requested Foursome (Please Print): 1. ________________________________ Sex: M or F Size:____________ Shirt Size: 2. ________________________________ Sex: M or F Size:_____________ 3. ________________________________ Sex: M or F Size:____________ 4. ________________________________ Sex: M or F Size:____________ ...Payment Information... Please Check One of the Following: □ Birdie $3,500 □ Premier $7,500 □ Individual $325* □ Par $2,000 □ Grand Reception $ 100 □ Other Sponsorship:___________________ Eagle $5,000 □ Hole $500 *Individual Registration Includes: • Greens Fee & Golf Cart • Lunch • Grand Reception • Gift Amount Enclosed: $--------------------- Check #_______ Visa________ Mastercard________ AmEx________ Name on Card:_____________________________________________________ Card Number:_____________________________________________________ Security Code:____________ Expiration Date:_______________________ Signature:_________________________________________________________ Please Make Checks Payable and Mail to: New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation P.O. Box 340, Milltown, NJ 08850 (609) 462-4244 Growing Together... Chris Carson congratulates Member of the Year Award winner Barbara Vydro. (Photo Courtesy of Jerry Schoonmaker.) Expo General Chairman Bob Dickison (left) takes time out of his hectic schedule to say hello to old friends (from left) Steve Chirip, Sam Leon, and Joe Bianco. (Photo Courtesy of Shaun Barry.) New Jersey Turfgrass Association Background Photo Courtesy of Shaun Barry. Photos on Opposite Page Courtesy of Jerry Schoonmaker. Dean Robert Goodman welcomes Expo attendees at the General Session. Attendees participate in the General Session. Expo attendees enjoy the lunch sponsored by Storr Tractor Company. NJTA Board Member Brian Feldman assists with certification credits after the General Session. Expo 2006! Highest Honors NJTA President Chris Carson presents Darrell Marcinek of the Somerset County Park Commission with the NJTA Recognition Award. Chris Carson accepts the Environmental Stewardship Award on behalf of the Tri-State Research Foundation. A Special Thank You to Our 2006 Expo Sponsors -Lunch Sponsor­ storr Tractor Company -Trade Show Grand Opening- Syngenta Golf Reception Sponsor Grass Roots -Session Sponsors- Course Contractors, Inc. Tree Tech, Inc. Wilfred MacDonald Background Photo Courtesy of Jerry Schoonmaker. NJTA Environmental Stewardship Award By Chris Carson, NJTA President At Expo 2006, the Tri-State Turf Research Foundation was honored with one of NJTA’s highest honors: The Environmental Stewardship Award. Presented to a person or organization that best exemplifies high environmental awareness while promoting the turfgrass industry, this honor has previously been given to a number of nationally known recipients. Tri-State began as a joint effort of area golf course superintendent organizations in 1988. Rallying around the need for answers on a then unknown disease called summer patch, the group funded the groundbreaking research at Rutgers that quickly (within two years) identified the causal agent and methods of control. This rapid response to a serious local problem enabled golf course superintendents to apply appropriate control measures at proper rates, resulting in control and a dramatic decline in pesticide usage: by understanding the pathogen, superintendents were able to stop ‘shotgun’ spraying with everything in their arsenal, and utilize only effective materials. This one piece of research saved many jobs, a great deal of money, and -in the context of this award- greatly reduced the amount of pesticide inputs into our environment. NJTA Congratulates Our Award Winners! -Hall of Fame- John P. Morrissey -Member of the Year- Barbara Vydro -Environmental Stewardship- Tri-State Turf Research Foundation -Recognition Award- Somerset County Park Commission Organized under the auspices of the Metropolitan Golf Association’s Green Committee, Tri-State has gone on to identify and fund research on many other local problems. Anthracnose, earthworms, grubs, nematodes, green soil structure, moss, and a wide variety of other important problems have been looked at, and a wealth of information on these concerns has been developed. And this information has not given us just the most effective spray protocols; it has focused on cultural methods to prevent pest onset as well. The Tri- State is funded by area clubs, by local superintendent associations, and by committed commercial companies. More than $400,000 has been directed to local universities since its inception, and it has also grown an endowment to more than $250,000. This endowment will, in due course, serve to further finance issues of local concern. The Tri-State Turf Research Foundation has helped golf course superintendents do their job efficiently and with better environmental understanding, and is a most deserving recipient of NJTA’s Environmental Stewardship Award. NJTA Recognition Award By Shaun Barry, NJTA Board Member The NJTA Recognition Award is given to the candidate who demonstrates an “outstanding effort and accomplishment in pursuit of better turf thereby contributing to the beautification of facilities, a greener world and a more attractive environment.” This can go to an individual, a club, an association, a business or an organization. In 2006, Somerset County Park Commission received the award. Their vision is a commitment to excellence in promoting stewardship of land and resources providing outstanding recreation opportunities and leisure services while fostering an environment which is service oriented and responsive to public needs. The Park System has over 10,000 acres of open space with a goal of a 20,500 acre network of parks and open spaces. In addition to their beautiful parks, they maintain 5 golf courses. These facilities are superbly kept and are a challenge to every level of golfer. Neshanic Valley Golf Course is their newest facility. This 27-hole course is a destination for private and public golfers, because of its design and especially because of its condition. It continues a 50-year tradition and is one of the many reasons they were awarded the 2006 Recognition Award. ■ College Students Career Opportunity at “Landscape Olympics” Released by Professional Landcare Network HERNDON, VA, January 31, 2007 They climb trees in record time, build patios brick- by-brick, dig ditches, identify dozens of horticulture specimens and safely maneuver dangerous machinery through a course while facing fierce competition. All of this to prove they are the best and brightest in their field and to gain scholarships and recognition from some of the country’s top landscape, lawn care, interiorscape, and tree care firms and related companies. This is the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) Student Career Days held each year at a different college or university across the country. Now, in its 31st year, the event is steadily growing and expects nearly 900 college students from more than 53 schools to participate at Michigan State University , from March 29-April 1, 2007. The excitement gets underway rain or shine and includes 24 individual and team competitive events. Events range from personnel management, sales presentation, and exterior/interior design to irrigation troubleshooting, wood construction, equipment operation, patio installation, tree climbing, and more. The competitions not only provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their skills, they also validate what the students have learned in school. Fellow students crowd the events to cheer on their classmates. PLANET Student Career Days also draws the largest national gathering of landscape, lawn care, and interiorscape employment recruiters. Students are serious about this competition and many give up their spring break to participate. This is the best resource for qualified employees in the green industry. A career fair that takes place during the event offers students the opportunity to interview with green industry companies for full-time positions and internships. For additional information on PLANET’S Student Career Days, visit the Web site at www.StudentCareerDays.org. ■ HEALTH INSURANCE FOR YOUR TURF. It’s all about the kind of coverage you have. And Hunter irrigation products deliver performance that ensures your turf is lush and healthy over every inch. As a sports turf manager, your work is on display for the world to see. That’s why I use Hunter. Hunter The Irrigation Innovators Ask for your Free Hunter Products Catalog 1-800-733-2823 www.Hunterlndustries.com Member of the Year - continued from page 7 for cleaning up the association’s record keeping and straightening out the NJTA books. This was no easy feat, but Barbara trudged forward and created a system which allows NJTA to keep accurate records, to provide a history of our financial transactions, and to monitor the solvency of our association. Without her hard work and dedication, NJTA would not be the solid association we are today. Barbara began her career as Executive Secretary to the 1st Vice President of Lehn & Fink in New York who ran Lysol and two additional cosmetic companies. After her work with Lehn & Fink, she became a stay at home mom raising her daughter. In 1972, she was, in her words, “pushed into” being the Assistant Secretary/Treasurer for Bloomfield Cemetery Company. In 1980, she again was “pushed into” Superintendent (as well as Assistant Secretary/Treasurer) of Bloomfield Cemetery on a temporary basis. This temporary position lasted 24 years. Barbara was elected a Director of the New Jersey Cemetery Association in 1988 and was Secretary from 1991 - 2001. She joined the New Jersey Turfgrass Association in the mid-1980’s. Later, she was asked to fill the six-month unexpired term of the late Bruce Nagy in 1997. Then in December of '97, she was elected to the Board of Directors for the next 9 years. In 2001, Barbara accepted the role of Treasurer. Without knowing, that’s when Barbara began her journey toward becoming only the second Member of the Year in NJTA history. Congratulations and thank you, Barbara! Rutgers Extension Offices (609) 625-0056 RCE of Atlantic County (201) 336-6780 RCE of Bergen County RCE of Burlington County (609) 265-2900 (856) 566-2900 RCE of Camden County RCE of Cape May County (609) 465-5115 RCE of Cumberland County (856) 451 -2800 (973) 228-2210 RCE of Essex County RCE of Gloucester County (856) 307-6450 RCE of Hunterdon County (908) 788-1339 RCE of Mercer County (609) 989-6830 RCE of Middlesex County (732) 398-5262 RCE of Monmouth County (732) 431-7261 (973) 285-8307 RCE of Morris County (732) 349-1246 RCE of Ocean County RCE of Passaic County (973) 305-5742 (856) 769-0090 RCE of Salem County RCE of Somerset County (908) 526-6293 (973) 948-3040 RCE of Sussex County (908) 654-9854 RCE of Union County RCE of Warren County (908) 475-6505 3336 BEEN THERE, DONE THAT... and STILL GOING STRONG Continuous field testing shows that 3336 remains strong today and will continue to be effective well into the future. 3336 fungicide provides broad spectrum systemic control of major turf diseases year after year, time after time. It has excellent handling and delivery characteristics that insure total release in your application equipment. Formulated three ways for your convenience: • 3336 F, a flowable; • 3336 WP, a wettable powder in water soluble bags; and • 3336 G and GC, granulars 3336 lets you do what’s needed to get the job done. CLEARY www.clearychemical.com 178 Ridge Road, Dayton, NJ 800-524-1662, 732-274-0894 fax The Cleary logo and 3336 are trademarks of Cleary Chemical Corporation fisher son company, inc. The “Green Industry” Supplier SUPERIOR PRODUCTS FOR THE TURF & HORTICULTURAL PROFESSIONAL Grigg Brothers EarthWorks TriCure Randy Rider 302-242-6848 Bruce Cadenelli 732-245-2599 Jeff Borajkiewicz 609-532-4837 Lebanon Fertilizers Lido Chem Plant Health Care Grass Seed www.fisherandson.com Reed Perrine Fertilizers • Grass Seed • Control Products MAIN STREET • TENNENT NJ 07763 SALES, INC. Your Partners For Total Control CLEARY 800-222-1065 ext. 5 Chris Zelley • Chuck Reynolds Keith Haines Greg Mendina A Breath of Fresh Air! Keith Eilertsen - Student Gregg-Armbruster - Medford Lakes CC Casey Sheehan - Arcola Country Club Lou Salvatore - Medford Lakes CC Ronald Ruff - Avant-Gardens Paul Mulholland - Morris County Golf Club Fred Bertrand - Bertr and Estate Care Victor Navarette - Colts Neck Golf Club Brian Carney - County of Ocean Donald Douglas - County of Ocean Brad Travis - County of Ocean Junova Gordon - Moses E. Gordon Landscaping, Inc. Moses Gordon - Moses E. Gordon Landscaping, Inc. William Kerry - Moses E. Gordon Frank DiMeglio - DiMeglio Landscapes, Inc. Landscaping, Inc. Douglas Paluck - Douglas Paluck & Associates, LLC Karl Baumann - Eagle Ridge Golf Club Rick Moran - East Coast Seed Connection Paul Dotti - Edgewood Country Club Fred Blaicher - Farmingdale Tractor Corporation Larry Brennan - Farmingdale Tractor Corporation Ron Guarro - Nature's Architect, LLC Jeremy Dilks - Pine Valley Golf Club Bruce Ritchie - Pomona Golf Course Frank Leccese - Pro Image Lawn & Landscaping, LLC Chris Hewey - Rich Green Lawn Mike Jack - Riverton Country Club Chuck Perkins - Riverton Country Club Jim Stewart - Southward Ho Country Club Mark Fine - Fine Golf Design, Inc. Peter Paskewicz, - Forsgate Country Club Matt Szumski - Golf Consultants Gary Beesley - Turfnology, LLC Roger Beesley - Turfnology, LLC Mike Smith - Turfnology, LLC Jeffrey Berg - Goose Creek Golf Club Steve Lane - Twisted Dune Golf Club Robert Stein - Manalapan B.O.E. Welcome New Members! Do You Find the new New Jersey Sales Tax Laws Confusing? By Thom Ritchie, NJTA Board Member well, you are not alone if you do. The New Jersey Division of Taxation cannot agree on how to interpret all of the details of the new sales tax laws. Do not count on your accountant knowing all the correct answers if the Division of Taxation is not sure. A publication, ‘Informational Guide on Landscaping Services and New Jersey Sales Tax’ by the New Jersey Department of Agriculture with assistance from the New Jersey Nursery and Landscape Association, is getting a technical review by New Jersey Division of Taxation. This has been distributed at some recent seminars and presented by Robert Bruch from the NJ Department of Agriculture. He can be reached at (609) 984-2503 or e-mail at Robert. Bruch@ag.state.nj.us. NJTA will do our best to keep our members informed as the water clears and there is a better understanding of the gray areas in this new law. For more information on landscapers and New Jersey sales tax, contact the Division’s Consumer Service Center at (609) 292-6400, e-mail at: nj.taxation@treas.state.nj.us. There are many state tax forms and publications available by fax or on their web site. Call NJ TaxFax at (609) 826-4500 from your fax machine’s phone, or access the Division’s home page at www.state.nj.us/treasury/taxation. When we get updated information we will put it on our web site, so keep checking www.njturfgrass.org. Membership Application Name:_________________________________________________________________________________ Business:______________________________________________________________________________ Address:_______________________________________________________________________________ City:___________________________________________________________________________________ State:___________________________________ Zip:__________________________________________ Phone:__________________________________ Fax:_________________________________________ Email:_________________________________________________________________________________ Check one category which best describes your profession: □ Golf Course □ Lawn Care Applicator □ Landscape/Lawn Maintenance □ Cemetery □ Irrigation □ Sod Producer □ Parks & Recreation □ Schools & Athletic Fields □ Manufacturer/Supplier □ Professional (Architect, University) □ Student □ Other______________________ □ Green Industry Business Partners □ Additional Business Partners $250.00 (4 members)* 1.______________________________ 2_______________________________ 3 ___________________________ 4 _______________________________ $60.00 each** 1_______________________________ 2_______________________________ 3 _______________________________ 4 _______________________________ □ Individual Member $75.00 (1 member) 1.______________________________ □ Student Member $20.00 (1 member) 1.______________________________ NOTE: *On a separate sheet of paper, please provide a mailing address for each member if it differs from main contact. **Must be registered as a Business Partner. Please make check payable to NJTA or provide credit card information. □ VISA □ MasterCard □ American Express Card #___________________________________________________________________________________ Exp. Date__________________ Cardholder’s Name_____________________________________________ Signature____________________________________________ □ Please check this box and write the amount of money in the space provided if you wish to make a contribution to the New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation $ __________________ MAIL TO: New Jersey Turfgrass Association • P.O. Box 340 • Milltown, NJ 08850-0340 Or Join Online at www.njturfgrass.org New Jersey Turfgrass Association njta Green World > The Prospects of Using Mating Disruption for Management of the Oriental Beetle Applied Turfgrass Research from Rutgers, the State University, and the New Jersey Turfgrass Association Editor ’s Note: Each year, NJTA and the New Jersey Turfgrass Foudation work to raise funds for Rutgers University. These funds are used to provide scholarships for students interested in pursuing careers within the green industry and to help fund the many research projects that are conducted at Rutgers. Significance and Biology of the Oriental Beetle A complex of white grubs species are the most widespread and destructive pest of cool- season turfgrasses in the Northeast. In New Jersey, southeastern New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island the oriental beetle (OB) has become the most important white grub species in turfgrass. In surveys conducted in 2001 and 2002, 61% of the white grubs found were OB followed by 15% Asiatic garden beetle and 12% Japanese beetle. The OB has been erroneously considered a relatively minor pest until recently, because adults are cryptic and largely go unnoticed and the larvae of the Japanese beetle and OB are indistinguishable without magnification. The OB is also the major white grub species in ornamental nurseries and blueberries. An increase in OB significance can be expected in other areas where it is already established, i.e., all of coastal New England and Middle Atlantic states as well as Ohio, Virginia, the Carolinas, West Virginia, and Tennessee. Fig. 1. Male oriental beetle screening the air for sex pheromone. The OB has a 1-year life cycle similar to that of other white grub species. At the latitude of New Jersey, OB flight occurs from early June through early August with peak flight activity typically in late June/early July. The adult beetles only live for about 2 wk and do not cause significant damage. After mating, the females lay eggs among the roots of host plants, and the eggs hatch in 2 3 wk. The first and second larval stage each last around 3 wk so that by mid-September the majority of the larvae are in the third stage. After overwintering below the frost line, the grubs resume feeding until pupation in late spring. OB larvae cause damage similar to that caused by other white grub species. OB Mating behavior and principles of mating disruption As in all scarab beetle and most insects, female OB release a sex pheromone to attract males for mating. The pheromone is distributed downwind in a plume and picked up by males sitting around in the vegetation (Fig. 1). The males respond with a combination of flying upwind and walking short distances into the plume. Sex pheromone- mediated mate finding and copulation of OB occur at or near the soil surface. Both sexes are most active between 6 and 10 pm, but males are responsive to the pheromone at any time. The OB sex pheromone consists of a 9:1 blend of the (Z) and (E) isomers of 7-tetradecen-2-one. Mating disruption with sex pheromones is widely used as an environmentally safe, non-toxic alternative to broad- spectrum insecticides for several moth species, mostly in orchard systems (Cardé and Minks 1995). In mating disruption the environment in which the sexes normally mate is saturated with synthetic sex pheromone with the result that female location by males is drastically reduced. Mechanisms involved in mating disruption can be (1) imbalance of sensory inputs in the males, (2) sensory habituation in the males, (3) camouflage of the females against the pheromone-saturated background, and (4) false-plume following (i.e., waste of time and energy) by the males. Which mechanism exactly may work in the OB still needs to be determined. Sex pheromones of scarab beetles have been used for monitoring purposes, but only recently has mating by Albrecht M. Koppenhofer, Associate Professor and Extension Specialist, Turfgrass Entomology Green World njta Applied Turfgrass Research from Rutgers, the State University, and the New Jersey Turfgrass Association disruption technology been considered as a possibility for management of white grubs. Studies at Rutgers University have shown the feasibility of mating disruption in OB in large-scale field experiments in blueberries and ornamental nurseries with a microencapsulated sprayable formulation of its sex pheromone, and more recently also with point- source dispensers. Microencapsulated Sprayable Formulations for OB Mating Disruption in Turfgrass We conducted field trials with sprayable microencapsulated formulations of the OB sex pheromone from 2002 to 2004. Two methods were used to determine the effect of treatments on the mating success of OB. The first method measured the ability of OB males to locate a pheromone source similar to a female by determining the number of OB males captured in traps lured with the pheromone (Fig. 2). Trapping was also used to monitor OB male flight and optimize the application timing. Traps were first placed in early June of each year and emptied every 3-4 days until beetle flight was very low. The second method estimated OB larval densities during September following the applications by taking soil/sod cores (4.25” diam x 4” depth) in a grid pattern at least 50 feet inside from the plot’s border. Field plots were situated in large lawn areas and in golf course rough areas (typically between tee and fairway) in Monmouth County, NJ. The plots measured between 0.8 and 1.4 acre in size and were separated from other plots by a minimum of 300 feet. The treatment plots were broadcast sprayed once or twice with microencapsulated OB sex pheromone. The first spray was applied about 10 days after the first OB males were captured in traps. Where applicable, a second spray was applied about 14 days after the first spray. The control plots were not sprayed. All plots received 1/4” overhead irrigation after treatment. Treatments consisted of different rates of sex pheromone (0.2 to 1 oz ai per acre). OB larval densities in spring and OB male trap captures before treatment did not differ significantly between plots designated for the controls and treatments in any experiment. Larval populations at the time of evaluation in September consisted of 65 - 95% OB, the remainder typically being larvae of Japanese beetle, Asiatic garden beetle, and/or northern masked chafer. The experiments showed that there was no significant effect of pheromone rate and that the sprayable formulation only provided about 2 weeks protection, thus making two applications necessary. With two seasonal applications, male OB trap captures were reduced by 87 - 88% and OB larval densities in September were reduced by 68 - 74%. Fig. 2. Sex pheromone-lured trap used for monitoring oriental beetle flight. In additional experiments, we showed that about 1/4” post­ treatment irrigation (as done in the above experiments) was necessary to optimize pheromone persistence. Other experiments and personal observations showed that shoes walked through the pheromone treated areas within a few days of treatment became contaminated with the pheromone. Such contaminated shoes attracted significant numbers of OB males outside treated areas. Overall the experiments with the sprayable pheromone formulations showed the feasibility of OB mating disruption in turfgrass. It is likely that a third seasonal application would have further reduced OB larval populations, maybe to levels comparable to that by insecticides such Continued on page 22 Presidents Message - continued from page 3 success. I’m sure you’ve noticed the changes: improved website and newsletter, new strategic partnerships, an upgraded vision of our future, and many more large and small improvements have been accomplished or are in the works. For all of the Board, I wish for you a great and prosperous season, and keep an eye out for more positive changes at NJTA. ■ Oriental Beetle - continued from page 21 as imidacloprid (Merit). However, the need for multiple applications per flight period and the potential liability due to pheromone contamination of shoes suggested that formulations needed to be developed that overcome these limitations before mating disruption can compete with chemical insecticides on the turf market. Dispersible Formulations for OB Mating Disruption in Turfgrass During 2005 on small scale plots and 2006 on large scale plots (~1 acre) we have tested different types of dispersible formulations of the OB sex pheromone produced by two companies and collaborators from USDA-ARS. Formulation consisted of small pellets that were uniformly applied like a granular fertilizer or of larger pellets that were applied in a grid pattern (~10 feet x 10 feet). No post-treatment irrigation was necessary. Our experiments suggest that both formulation types are sufficiently persistent for OB management with a single seasonal application of 0.35 oz or less pheromone per acre. Pheromone contamination of shoes also does not seem to be an issue with these formulations. Prospects of Mating Disruption in Turfgrass Before we can draw strong conclusion on the future of OB mating disruption using dispersible formulations, at least one more season of trials will be necessary to optimize this technology. Since white grub species other than OB are often present in NJ turfgrass areas, the efficacy of the mating disruption should be above 90%. Since food resources are unlikely to be a limiting factor for white grubs in turfgrass areas, selective suppression of the OB will not increase the densities of other white grub species. The cost of mating disruption, once the pheromone would be produced in large quantities should be considerably lower than that of Merit and similar insecticides. Mating disruption can be an effective, safe, environmentally and economically sound, easily implementable, durable, and highly IPM compatible option for OB management in turfgrass, and could also be developed for other white grubs species. Richard Krok - continued from page 8 and Rutgers University. After speaking to Chris Carson and Bob Dickison, it was great to know that I had an opportunity to give back to Rutgers University where I began my Turfgrass career. It was an honor to be asked by my collogues to serve on the NJTA Board. I will do my best to further the goals of NJTA and Rutgers University in the future. ■ James C. McCormick - continued from page 9 Engle (who later became not only a mentor but also a great friend). I attended the Fine Turfgrass Management course at Rutgers in 1983 & 1984 working at the golf course for almost 35 years where I still remain Superintendent. Whether it was the restoration of a 1914 Evans motorcycle, maintenance of an 18-hole golf course, or a bill fishing trip in the Keys, Jim always gave 150%. Jim died peacefully after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. He touched and impacted so many lives during his 85 years and is deeply missed by his family and friends. ■ NJTA Patrons... Clippings & Green World would like to thank our Patrons for their continued support. Please consider adding your name and/or business name to what we hope will be an extensive list of supporters so that this periodical can continue to grow! • John Barlok - Finch Services, Inc. • Shaun Barry - Bayer ES • Fred Blaicher - Finch Services, Inc. • Bryan Bolehala - Cleary Chemical • Steve Chirip - Grass Roots, Inc. • Kevin Collins - Aquatrols Corp. of America • Ken Kubik - Grass Roots, Inc. • Leon’s Sod Farm • Zenon Lis - Burlingham Seeds • Mike Oleykowski - Fisher & Son • Plant Food Company, Inc. • The Scotts Company • Barbara Vydro - Bloomfield Cemetery Call (215) 757-NJTA for more information. RATES: $100.00 per year - 4 issues GARDEN STATE GOLF Magazine & Divot Communication Proudly Support New Jersey Turfgrass Association Calendar of Events 2007 February 19-24 GCSAA EDUCATION CONFERENCE & GOLF INDUSTRY SHOW Anaheim, CA Visit www.gcsaa.org for more information February 28 NJLCA 30th ANNUAL LANDSCAPE TRADE SHOW & CONFERENCE Secaucus, NJ Visit www.njlca.org for more information March 5-8 NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL TURFGRASS CONFERENCE & SHOW Rhode Island Convention Center Providence, RI Visit www.nertf.org for more information May 7 July 31 August 1 12TH ANNUAL RUTGERS TURFGRASS RESEARCH GOLF CLASSIC Fiddler s Elbow Country Club Bedminster Township, NJ GOLF & FINE TURF FIELD DAY Hort. Farm II New Brunswick, NJ LAWN, LANDSCAPE & SPORTS TURF FIELD DAY Adelphia Farm Adelphia, NJ IT's NEVER TOO LATE TO START PLANNING... JOIN US FOR EXPO 2007 December NEW JERSEY TURF & LANDSCAPE CONFERENCE AND EXPO Trump Taj Mahal, Atlantic City, NJ www.njturfgrass.org New Jersey Turfgrass Association Official Magazine of New Jersey Turfgrass Association 2005 Expo For Advertising Information Contact Us - 800-639-1941 www.playnortheastgolf.com new jersey turfgrass association Green World clippings & njta New Jersey Turfgrass Association P.O. Box 340 • Milltown, NJ 08850-0340 (215) 757-NJTA Fax (215) 741 -NJTA www.njturfgrass.org First Class Mail U.S. Postage PAID Bellmawr, NJ Permit #58 Board of Directors Chris Carson, President & Expo Education Chairman Dr. Karen Plumley, Vice President Pedro Perdomo, Treasurer Jerry Schoonmaker, Secretary Marie Pompei, Immediate Past-President Robert A. Dickison, Expo General Chairman Shaun Barry, Director Jeff Cramer, Director Brian Feldman, Director Keith Kubik, Director Rick Krok, Director Thom Ritchie, Director Matt Sweatlock, Director Michelle Williams, Director Dr. Bruce Clarke, Advisor Dr. Jim Murphy, Advisor Michelle Rickard, Executive Director Plant Star PlantStar INC. CARBTROL corp. Advanced Washwater Recycle System Engineered System Provides: Designed To Integrate: • Zero Pollutant Discharge • Best Available Technology • High Reliability & Low Maintenance • Vehicle Wash • Fueling • Chemical Mixing • For Reuse of All Waters Let us show you how INTEGRATED CHEMICAL MANAGEMENT can work for you! PlantStar 706-769-9210