new jersey turfgrass association clippings & Green World njta Winter 2007 VOL 68 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Pictorial Review - Green Expo 2007 End of Year 2007 Awards 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 Dr. Karen Plumley, NJTA President Table of Contents Clippings If you don’t know where you are going, you ’ll end up someplace else. - Yogi Berra Four years ago, our long serving executive director stepped down. While there is always a tinge of sadness associated with the ‘end of an era’, there is also the promise of hope that each new beginning brings. That search for a new executive director proved to be fateful for NJTA as the board came to realize that the search was about more than just finding a new director. It also presented NJTA with the opportunity to develop a strategic plan so that the association would know ‘where it was going’, and wouldn’t wind up ‘someplace else’. As president of NJTA for the past three years, Chris Carson presided over the development of the original strategic plan and two subsequent revisions. While NJTA has benefited greatly from the strength of Chris's leadership, the creation and updating of the strategic plan stands chief among his many accomplishments which also include moving NJTA forward in size and stature to become a strong statewide association; increasing support to Rutgers, our state university; improving the financial health of NJTA; providing a voice to its members through an increased focus on legislative initiatives; forging closer ties with our sister organizations; and raising the profile of the organization as the public face of NJTA. Thank you seems inadequate to express what all of us who work with Chris feel about his commitment and leadership of the organization, but thank you it is, Mr. Carson, for all you have done and for all you will continue to do as the new president of the NJTA foundation and Green Expo chairman. As we have for the last three years, the NJTA board met recently for our annual strategic planning session. The board is currently shaping the notes from that meeting into a strategic planning document to be shared with the membership this spring. As we went through the process we realized not only that many of our goals from the first planning meeting had been met, but that we had also made significant progress toward many others. So as I look forward, I see many more places NJTA might go: 1. Grow Our Membership. Like the shark, NJTA must keep moving forward and a growing membership roster is the best indication of forward movement. From providing a voice for our members on legislative issues to supporting Rutgers as they train the next generation of turf professionals, NJTA is focused on the short and long term needs of our members. 2. Provide for Financial Security of NJTA/NJTF. Providing financial support to the Rutgers University turf program is a prominent component of our mission. Through the Rutgers Golf Turf Research Classic, our foundation has raised nearly three quarters of a million dollars since its inception and our foundation now stands close to our goal of one half million dollars in assets. Raising the bar for our foundation to one million dollars in assets and planning for NJTA’s long term financial security are ongoing commitments. 3. Communicate: With our membership. With our legislators. With the public. Technology offers us many new ways to quickly and efficiently get information to our members, our legislators and the public. Technology also benefits NJTA when we can use it to cut operating costs as we do when you to renew your membership on-line, saving time, paper and postage. NJTA will continue to adopt new technologies and communication strategies for the benefit of our members. 4. Build Stronger Ties to Allied Associations. NJTA has found many ways to work with our sister associations in the state to achieve common goals. Our partnership with NJLCA at Green Expo, our partnership with GCSA- N J to hire an executive director to serve each association and our joint efforts with SFMAN J at the Rutgers Lawn and Landscape Field Day are all examples of how we have formed relationships with allied associations. NJTA will continue to seek partnerships to benefit the associations, their members and the turfgrass industry at large. Increase Membership Participation. Committee membership allows you to volunteer your 5. special talents for the benefit of the turfgrass community in any number of ways. Our committees then serve as our ‘farm team’, providing NJTA with a deep bench of talent for the future. NJTA has certainly had a celebrated past and has come a long way since its inception in 1970. We have grown in numbers, in influence, in resources and in stature, but we are not ones to rest on our laurels. There is still much to do. Chris Carson joins an elite club of past presidents and other who have brought NJTA to where we now stand, at the threshold of our future. It is now up to us to determine what that future will be. President’s Message From the Executive Director New Jersey Green Expo a Big Success! Practical Fungicide Resistance in Turf Stands - Part 2 Who’s David Eric McGhee? 3 4 5 9 Bob Dickison Steps Down as Green Expo General Chairman 10 Recogition Award: Dr. Jim Murphy and Monmouth Park Racetrack 14 Hall of Fame Award: Marie Pompei 14 Member of Year: Shaun Barry Environmental Stewardship Award: Hyatt Hill Golf Complex 15 15 County Extension Office Contact List Membership Application NJTA Patron Listing New NJTA Officers Calendar of Events Green World 17 19 22 23 Organic Management of Turf: Do We Know What It Means? 20 New Jersey Turfgrass Association 25 US Highway 46 West Wayne, NJ 07470-6801 Phone: (973)812-6467 (973)812-6529 Fax: www.njturfgrass.org Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! Happy New Year! Is it too late to wish you a Happy New Year? I hope not, because time flew so quickly that 2008 began before I finished wishing everyone success in the new year. Wow.. what a super Green Expo in Atlantic City! From all the feedback we've heard, it was a huge success... with superlative seminars to a spectacular trade show. If you missed it this year, mark your calendars right now to be part of the 2008 Green Expo. It just keeps getting better and better. The New Jersey Turfgrass Association has so much to be thankful for and so many members, educators, and vendors who make the things we do happen and happen well. There are always important and timely happenings on the turfgrass horizon and we'll share them as the year unfolds. Thanks for being part of our association and this industry. Have a great 2008! by Cece Peabody, MAT, CMP, NJTA Executive Director Have you renewed your 2008 Membership yet? Many did so at Green Expo... but if you did not, use the application on page 19. 2008 Renewal Dues deadline is April 15,2008. We accept new memberships at any time. NJTA Membership Year is January 1,2008 through ■ December 31,2008. Don’t miss your opportunity to promote your business in Clippings. Call (973) 812-6467 to learn more. TRUCKS! AIRY 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 http://www.meadowlandford.com email: sales@meadowlandford.com 330 COUNTY AVENUE, AT SECAUCUS ROAD SECAUCUS NJ Opp. Motor Vehicle Inspector Station New Jersey Green Expo A Big Success! by Chris Carson The 32nd Annual New Jersey Green Expo was held December 4-6 at the Trump Taj Mahal Hotel in Atlantic City, and it was once again a big suc­ cess. Offering excellent speakers and wide-ranging education opportunities, a high quality trade show, and a variety of social opportunities, Expo con­ tinues to serve the green industry well... and this year’s version had near record attendance as well. The show had extensive education sessions for Golf, Landscape Contractors, Sports Field Managers, and Landscape Turf plus separate DEP credit bearing ses­ sions too; it truly was a show that encompassed all of the turf and landscape disciplines. Socially, attendees took advantage of the many free opportunities, in­ cluding the high quality food and drink on the trade show floor, the Grass Roots Golf Mix-and-Mingle, Storr Tractor’s free lunch on Wednesday, a number of after-show hospitality rooms and countless infor­ mal get-togethers with friends in the hallways, during meals, and at the Irish Pub. For many, these random meetings with old and new friends are the high points of the show. New Jersey GREEN EXPO Turf and Landscape Conference Thanks to the Education Committee for assembling a very strong program, and to Bob Dickison and his Green Expo Committee for their many hours of hard work. Thanks also to major sponsors Storr Tractor, Grass Roots, Tree Tech, Course Contractors Inc., and Syngenta for your significant support of our efforts. It is appreciated! Finally, the NJTA Board would like to express our warm appreciation and thanks to all of our trade show partners. Your continued participation and support help us serve the New Jersey turf and landscape industry. We couldn’t do it without you. Did you know, by the way, that newly installed NJTA President Dr. Karen Plumley was first introduced to her husband (golf course superintendent Ron Luepke) at Expo at the Irish Pub? Or that current NJTA Board member Shaun Barry did the introducing? NJTA’s partnership with the New Jersey Landscape Contractors Asso­ ciation is still in its infancy, but we have started to see a spike in atten­ dance from that end of the industry. NJLCA has brought several new trade show partners on board as well, which has meant that the arena floor displayed a wider array of products and services. We expect this partner­ ship to thrive in the future, helping us grow the preeminent New Jersey green industry conference and show. 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? 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 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 Practical Fungicide Resistance in Turf Stands - Part 2 by Richard Buckley, Director Soil Testing and Plant Diagnostic Services New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station In the last issue, fungicide resistance was defined as a stable, inheritable adjustment by a fungal population to the toxic effects of a fungicide. We also established that the adjustment by the fungal population to the toxic effects of the fungicide does not develop spontaneously. The ability of a local fungal population to tolerate the fungicide program generally occurs after the repeated use of materials in the same chemical class over a period of time. Resistant biotypes are found in all fungal populations and are subsequently selected by the fungicide program. When the resistant biotypes come to dominate in the turf stand satisfactory disease control will no longer be provided by the fungicide. This is known as practical resistance. Practical resistance in the field can be measured in the laboratory by comparing fungal growth rates on fungicide-amended and non- amended mycological media. Be aware that all fungicide failures are not due to practical resistance. Improper diagnosis, improper dilution rates, poor selection of materials, bad timing, tank incompatibilities, improper calibration and bad nozzle choices are just a few of the possibilities. That being said, if one experiences control failures in the field and the fungal population has been screened by a qualified laboratory and determined to be insensitive to the materials in the program, then adjustments to the fungicide program are in order. In some cases the suspect materials need to be eliminated entirely. For other materials, one could simply suspend their use for a period of time. The duration of resistance to any fungicide depends on the biological fitness of the resistant fungal biotype. The resistant strains of the fungus selected by a fungicide program must be able to compete with the other microbes in the soil and thatch. If their competitive ability is good and they can survive in high enough populations to incite a disease outbreak, then the resistance will persist on the site. Past research on Sclerotinia homoeocarpa, known presently as the cause of dollar spot, indicates that resistant biotypes selected ...continuedon page 8 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. management: Do not use the same fungicide or fungicides in 1. the same chemical class for more than three successive applications. 2. specified application rates. Tank mix materials whenever possible. Use 3. mixes proven to provide synergy in University trials. Make applications in the proper dilution 4. according to label specifications. 5. curative. 6. coverage. Make uniform applications and get good Do not use fungicides above or below label Make preventive applications rather than Fungicide Resistance... continued from page 7 by the use of benzimidazole fungicides are good competitors and those selected by the use of sterole demethylation inhibitors are not. In practice then, we would expect to see a nearly permanent insensitivity of Sclerotinia to thiophanate methyl in the field and would need to eliminate that product from the current a future dollar spot control program. If propiconazole was determined to be the cause of the resistance, one would see the resistant biotypes wane over time. In this case, we could eliminate the sterole inhibitors from the program temporarily and then reintroduce them back into the program after 12 months. Although practical resistance can be identified and remedied in any disease control program, we feel that the best approach is to manage and prevent resistance problems in the first place. An effective strategy to manage fungicide resistance involves the use of a broad range of materials in different chemical classes according to the manufacturers’ label specifications. The following is a list of suggestions for resistance LIQUID FERTILIZERS, MICRONUTRIENTS, AND NATURAL ORGANICS Available Through: grass roots (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! (GCSAA). He also serves on the Education Committee of the GCSANJ. McGhee and his wife Cindy were married in 1996 and have three children. The couple’s oldest daughter, Kelsey, was born in 2000, and twins Carter and Caroline were born in 2005. An avid golfer, McGhee also enjoys camping, fishing and barbequing in his spare time and is a fan of the New York Giants, New York Yankees, and Tennessee Volunteers. WHO'S DAVID ERIC MCGHEE? David Eric McGhee, Superintendent of Oak Hill Golf Course in Holland Township NJ, was born in Phillipsburg NJ in 1972. He lived in Holland Township until the age of nine, when he moved to Whitehouse NJ. His father was the original Superintendent of Oak Hill when it was founded in 1964. A 1990 graduate of Hunterdon Central Regional High School, McGhee attended Morris County College from 1991-1992. McGhee moved to South Carolina in August of 1992, where he attended Horry Georgetown Technical College. He graduated in 1994 with an Associates degree in Turf Grass Management. McGhee worked as an Assistant Superintendent at Legends in South Carolina from 1992 until 1994. He went on to serve as Superintendent with the Legends Group from 1994 until 2003, when he took over as Superintendent at Oak Hill. McGhee is a member of the Board of Directors of the New Jersey Turf Grass Association (NJTA) and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America 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 COOPERATIVE RESEARCH & EXTENSION STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW JERSEY THERUTGERS 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 WORKING TOGETHER Serving the New Jersey Green Industry New Jersey Turfgrass Association Bob Dickison Steps Down as Green Expo General Chairman by Chris Carson -His hometown of Verona, NJ also ben­ efits from his expertise as Bob has served on several community committees and has been a member of that town’s Shade Tree Commis­ sion since 1972 and its chairman since 1985. Bob has received every local award possible: GCSANJ Distinguished Service 1988, NJTA Hall of Fame 1993, Rutgers Turfgrass Alumni Achieve­ ment Award 1990, Rutgers Professional Golf Turf Management Award for Professional Excellence 2003... but most people who know him don’t have a clue of his service or awards: Bob is a quiet man who does not beat his breast with self-promotion. Because of that sense of humility, because I know that if he knew I was writing this article he would ob­ ject and identify another person to honor, it gives me particular joy say thank you to NJTA’s great friend, Bob Dickison. Thanks for all you’ve done, Bob! “Think globally... act locally” is a hackneyed expression used to encourage local participa­ tion in causes. In the turfgrass universe, this need for committed volunteers is great indeed, and all of us in NJTA have been fortunate to have an ex­ traordinary volunteer working on our behalf: Robert A. Dickison is the long standing superinten­ dent at the Upper Montclair Country Club in New Jersey, and has been a tireless worker in support of golf and turf management. His 47 year career at Up­ per Montclair is in itself remarkable... but add to that 20 successful PGA, LPGA, and Champions Tour Events -and many local tournaments- and the profes­ sional skills of the man may be better understood. Thirty years as a Certified Golf Course Superinten­ dent shows his early commitment to the profession, as does his publication in local and national golf magazines (e.g. twice in Golf Course Management). A speaker locally and nationally on course prepara­ tion, tournaments, trees and water usage, Bob has achieved a measure of esteem that, coupled with his many years of professional success, is extraordinary. But there is more to Bob than being a successful professional and having a committed career. What sets him apart is his long time volunteer service: -A two-term Presidency of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Jersey was fol- lowed by the Presidency of the NJ Turfgrass Association. -Since 1991, Bob has served as General Chairman of the NJ Turf and Landscape Expo, now named Green Expo. Green Expo is our 3 day con­ ference and trade show that provides education, camaraderie, and professional credits and certifica­ tions to the more than 1000 attendees. This volun­ teer effort adds up to more than 200 hours per year, helps facilitate an excellent education program and ultimately contributes to the financial bottom line- funds used to support NJTA’s mission of sup­ porting the NJ turf industry through support of the Center for Turfgrass Science at Rutgers University. -Bob has served several times as a com­ mittee member of GCSAA and is a long time member of the Rutgers Turf Advisory Com­ mittee, the NJ State Golf Association Advisory Board, and the USGA Green Section Committee. WORKING TOGETHER Serving the New Jersey Green Industry New Jersey Turfgrass Association NJTA’S RECOGNITION AWARD DR. JIM MURPHY AND MONMOUTH PARK RACETRACK Dr. Jim Murphy was the principal supporter from the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science who assisted with the complete rebuilding of the turf track at Monmouth ParkRacetrackinpreparationforthe2007BreedersCup. Dr. Murphy showed the progress of this project during his speech at the General Session of the New Jersey Green Expo, and the more than 300 audience mem­ bers were amazed at the extent of this work. They were even more impressed that the track held up to the extreme rain during the Breeders Cup Championship. Congratulations Dr. Murphy and the team from Mon­ mouth Park Racetrack... you elevated the stand­ ing of thoroughbred horseracing in New Jersey with your work, and made us all proud in the process! RECOGNITION AWARD Presented to Dennis O. Dowd, Sr. Vice President, Racing Robert J. Kulina, Vice President & General Manager Horace Smith, Assistant Vice President, Operations Robert Juliano, Director of Facilities Stephen P. Fischer, Turf Course Manager Dr. James Murphy, Turf Consultant, Rutgers Univer­ sity for their commitment and contributions to the turf track renovation at Monmouth Park Racetrack in preparation for The 2007 Breeders’ Cup Thorough­ bred Championships, the most prestigious event in thoroughbred racing. 32nd Annual New Jersey Green Expo Atlantic City, New Jersey December 5, 2007 HALL OF FAME AWARD MARIE POMPEI The New Jersey Turfgrass Association presented the first Hall of Fame Award back in 1974 to James Smith, Sr. (see article page 16). The award has been presented annually ever since to recognize a con­ tinuing lifetime commitment of dedication, ser­ vice, and achievements contributing to the ad­ vancement of the turfgrass industry of New Jersey. Rutgers alumna Marie Pompeii was presented with the 2007 Hall of Fame Award at the General Session of the NJ Green Expo by NJTA President, Dr. Kar­ en Plumley. Ms. Pompei began her career by earn­ ing a bachelor of science degree from Rutgers Uni­ versity in Plant Science. After graduation she was hired as a research technician with Lofts Seed where she came under the influence of three former Hall of Fame Winners, Peter S. Loft, John Morrissey and Dr. Richard Hurley. While at Lofts, she was encouraged to become an active member of the turfgrass com­ munity. She gained teaching experience at Rutgers University and was instilled with the philosophy of giving back to the industry. Ms. Pompeii served on the board of NJTA, eventually becoming its president in 2003. She led a national search for a new execu­ tive director and sheparded the association into the 21st century. For the past three years, Ms. Pompeii has served as president of the NJ Turfgrass Founda­ tion, helping the foundation to very nearly reach its goal of $500,000 in assets. Ms. Pompei currently holds a position with FM Brown Seed Co. and also continues to teach turfgrass identification to the stu­ dents in the Rutgers Professional Turfgrass Man­ agement School as she has for nearly twenty years. Marie Pompei, center, with her Mom (1) and sister. MEMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD SHAUN BARRY by Chris Carson ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AWARD HYATT HILLS GOLF COMPLEX It was my pleasure to present the Member of the Year Award to NJTA Board Member Shaun Barry at this year’s Turf and Landscape Expo. Shaun is a long-time supporter of NJTA, and as Board Member he’s taken the responsibilities of member­ ship chairman as well as Golf Classic chairman. Shaun is one of those people who never say “no”, and it is NJTA’s good fortune to have him looking out for our best interests. You need only witness his quiet leadership in preparation for -and the running of- the Rutgers Research Golf Clas­ sic to know of his dedication, and the smooth run­ ning and record setting fundraising achieved at Fid­ dlers Elbow has much to do with that leadership. Thanks, Shaun, for all you do for the mem­ bers of NJTA, for the Board, and for Rutgers University. We all appreciate your hard work! The Hyatt Hills Golf Complex received the New Jersey Turfgrass Association’s Environmen­ tal Stewardship Award at the 32nd Annual Green Expo in Atlantic City. Designed to honor signifi­ cant commitment to environmental preservation and conservation, the Award honors Hyatt Hills for its transformation of a brownfield remediation site into a vibrant community recreation facility. Hyatt Hills is a self-sufficient Whole golf course, driving range and miniature golf course lo­ cated in Cranford and Clark, run by a Commis­ sion made up of members from both communities. “We are delighted to be recognized for this proj­ ect” said Commission executive director Robert Hoef- fler. “To be in the company of the distinguished list of previous winners is a thrill... and being recognized for our positive environmental efforts is very satisfying.” Previous winners of the Award include con­ gressmen, senators, Audubon International, the United States Golf Association and television reporter John Stossell. The New Jersey Turfgrass Association is a professional organization that promotes the turfgrass industry through its support of the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science, generally acclaimed as the world leader in turfgrass research, breeding, and education. ...continued on page 22 Shaun Barry holding Member of Year plaque presented by Chris Carson, outgoing President NJTA NJTA’S HALL OF FAME AWARD by Keith Kubik an innovative machine for turfgrass renovation. He also distinguished himself while serving as Greens Chairman and later President of Colonia Country Club. In 1950, Mr. Smith was named President of the Rahway Savings Institution and served in that capacity until the ninetieth year of his life. The New Jersey Turfgrass Association’s Hall of Fame Award is “presented annually to a person in recognition of a continuing lifetime commitment of dedication, service, and achievements contributing to the advancement of the turfgrass industry of New Jersey.” This award was first given in 1974. As the NJTA nears our 40th anniversary in 2010, we felt it was appropriate to highlight the past winners of our highest award. The following is a reprint from the “New Jersey Turfgrass Association 10th Anniversary Commemorative Book (1980). 1974-James Smith, Sr. James Smith, Sr., founder and long time President of the Fertl-Soil Company, had the distinction of being the first student to graduate from Rutgers University - in that University’s first course in Turf Management. During the course of a long and distinguished career, Mr. Smith formulated and developed the first widely accepted greens top­ dressing; invented and manufactured the Aero-Thatch, Your Behind-the-Scenes Partner in Making Sports Turf Healthy and Safe Hunter Football, soccer, baseball... the field that you take care of may be different, but the best way to take care of it is always the same. That’s why the professionals maintain efficient irrigation practices and team up with the best name in the business for efficient irrigation products to ensure their turf is healthy and safe. No wonder sports turf managers choose Hunter as their partner for irrigation. www.Hunterlndustries.com Thank You TO ALL OUR ADVERTISERS! Without your support, this publication would not be possible. Rutgers Extension Offices RCE of Atlantic County (609) 625-0056 (201) 336-6780 RCE of Bergen County RCE of Burlington County (609) 265-2900 (856) 566-2900 RCE of Camden County (609) 465-5115 RCE of Cape May County RCE of Cumberland County (856) 451-2800 RCE of Essex County (973) 228-2210 (856) 307-6450 RCE of Gloucester County (908) 788-1339 RCE of Hunterdon County RCE of Mercer County (609) 989-6830 (732) 398-5262 RCE of Middlesex County RCE of Monmouth County (732) 431-7261 RCE of Morris County (973) 285-8307 RCE of Ocean County (732) 349-1246 RCE of Passaic County (973) 305-5742 RCE of Salem County (856) 769-0090 RCE of Somerset County (908) 526-6293 RCE of Sussex County (973) 948-3040 RCE of Union County (908) 654-9854 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 Randy Rider 302-242-6848 Bruce Cadenelli 732-245-2599 Jeff Borajkiewicz 609-532-4837 Grigg Brothers Earthworks TriCure Lebanon Fertilisers 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 • Chuck Reynolds • Keith Haines • Greg Mendina My First Expo Experience Behind the Scenes ...by Sabrina Tirpak, Soil Testing and Plant Diagnostic Services Rutgers, NJAES So, my boss [Rich Buckley] becomes a New Jersey Turfgrass Association board member, and I get my first opportunity to volunteer behind the registration desk at Expo. (Funny how that happens...) Or should I say, to hunker down and brace myself behind the marble countertop against the onslaught of green in­ dustry humanity. OK, so maybe it wasn’t nearly as dramatic, just a little hectic. It was actually a great op­ portunity to say hello to a lot of people I know. It was also a chance to meet and put faces to names of many of our clients that send samples to the Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Laboratory, my home away from home. After a brief registration training from NJTA Execu­ tive Director Cece Peabody and Barbara Vydro, it was time to open the gates. What started as a man- ageable-sized group of registrants quickly swelled into a large, intertwined mass of the pre- vs. on­ site registered folks. So here is my plug for pre­ registration; for next Expo, send in your registra­ tions and membership renewals early. You’ll save yourself some money and also some precious New Jersey standing-in-line minutes! I’m told that be­ fore the Taj’s lastest and greatest renovations (does anyone else remember that crazy purple and pink rug?), the area for registration was twice as big with separate areas for pre- vs. on-site registration. And wouldn’t you know it, just when it was busiest, technical difficulties decided to make an appearance. First, I think it was the name badge printers that didn’t want to work quite right, even though they were just fine the night before. Thank you Matt Sweatlock for running from one malfunctioning printer to the next, and in the end, managing to get them back up and run­ ning. And thank you Pedro Perdomo for setting up another printer that was added to the arsenal for day two of registration. Not to be outdone by the print­ ers, the credit card machine then decided to go on the That’s me above on the left... and that’s Joann Chirip (l) and Barbara Vydro (r) in the photo on the right. fritz. Have you ever seen that television commercial where everyone is running around shopping and pay­ ing by plastic and then someone throws a wrench into the works and tries to pay with cash - and then the rest of the world ceases to function as they have to wait for that person to get change? Well, that’s kind of what it felt like when the credit card machine went down. But instead of ceasing to function, I think everyone re­ mained fairly calm, cool and collected as the machine was replaced. All the while, Joanne Chirip did a great job of keeping track of the payments that had to wait for the new machine. Needless to say, by this point, off went the fashionably painful high-heels, and on went the sensibly comfortable flats. Too much information? We had some trials behind the registration desk, but I think all those who helped did a great job of multitask­ ing through it. And not that I should be surprised, but as far as I can tell, everyone who waited in that line was patient and pleasant when they finally reached the front. I don’t remember hearing any grumbles or com­ plaints. Later, I heard that the first educational session that morning was bursting at the seams with over 340 people and that additional chairs had to be brought in half-way through. Thank you all for your patience. Live and learn and make it better for next Expo is what will happen. I recall seeing the new Expo Chairman, Chris Carson, eagle-eyed and positioned in the back comer taking it all in during that morn­ ing’s hectic registration. So, I have no doubts that any wrinkles in the process surely will be ironed out by next Expo. See you all then! Unless, of course, you decide to kill your grass in the mean time and need to visit us at the lab this summer! ;) : l e v e L p i h s r e b m e M a t c e l e S e s a e l P r e b m e M ) r e b m e m 1 ( l a u d i v i d n I . 0 0 5 7 $ ) r e r b e m b m e m e M 1 ( t n e d u t S 0 0 . 0 2 $ 0 0 . 0 5 2 $ r e n t r a P s s e n i s u B ) s r e b m e m 4 o t p U ( ) . r e n t r a P s s e n i s u B a s a d e r e t s i g e r e b t s r . 0 0 0 6 $ ) s ( r e b m e M ) e r o m r o 5 ( r e n t r a P s s e n i s u B - l a n o i t i d d A h c a E I I i f t s u M ( l a w e n e R d n a w e N i n o i t a c o s s A , - 5 1 8 0 0 2 s s a r g f r u T y e s r e J w e N n o i t a c i l p p A l i r p A s i w e n e r o t e n i l d a e D i p h s r e b m e M 8 0 0 2 - I ) t n i r P r o e p y T e s a e l P ( : p i Z : e t a t S : x a F n o i t a m r o f n I r e b m e M l a n o i t i d d A r e n t r a P . s r e b m e m e r o m r o f t e e h s r e h t o n a s s e n i s u B e s U : e m a N 1. n o i t a m r o f n I l a u d i v i d n I / y n a p m o C : e m a N r e b m e M y r a m i r P : e m a N y n a p m o C : s s e r d d A : e l t i T : e n o h P : l i a M - E : y t i C y e s r e J w e N s s a r g f r u T n o i t a c o s s A i 9 2 5 6 - 2 1 8 ) 3 7 9 ( : x a F g r o . s s a r g f r u t j n w w w . 7 6 4 6 - 2 1 8 ) 3 7 9 ( : e n o h P : e t i S b e W g r o . s s a r g f r u t j n @ r o t c e r i d c e x e : l i a M - E r o t c e r i D e v i t u c e x E , y d o b a e P e c e C t s e W 6 4 y a w h g i H S U 5 2 1 0 8 6 - 0 7 4 7 0 J N e n y a W : o t l i a M t s e b h c i h w y r o g e t a c e n o k c e h C : n o i s s e f o r p r u o y s e b i r c s e d s e c i v r e S r o s t c u d o r P s s e n i s u B s e d i v o r P y n a p m o C r u o Y t s i L e c n a n e t n i a M n w a L / e p a c s d n a L □ y r e t e m e C □ n o i t a g i r r I □ r o t a c i l p p A e r a C n w a L □ e s r u o C f l o G □ s d l e i F n o i t a e r c e R & s k r a P □ c i t e l h t A & s l o o h c S □ r e c u d o r P d o S □ ) y t i s r e v i n U , t c e t i h c r A ( l a n o i s s e f o r P □ r e i l p p u S / r e r u t c a f u n a M □ : e t a D . p x E : e d o C t i g i D - 3 x E m A d r a C r e t s a M a s i V t n e d u t S □ r e h t O □ ) A T J N o t e l b a y a p ( k c e h C n o i t a m r o f n I t n e m y a P : s e u D A T J : N e r u t a n g i S d e z i r o h t u A . : r e b m u N t n u o c c A : t n u o c c A n o e m a N : n o i t u b i r t n o C n o i t a d n u o F s s a r g f r u T J N : * n o i t u b i r t n o C e v i t a i t i n I e v i t a l s i g e L ) . e l b i t c u d e d - n o n s i : d e s o l c n E n o i t r o p t n u o m A s i h T * ( l a t o T : x a F : x a F : x a F : p i Z , e t a t S , y t i C : l i a M - E : s s e r d d A : p i Z , e t a t S , y t i C : l i a M - E : s s e r d d A : e n o h P : e m a N . 2 : l i a M - E : s s e r d d A : e n o h P : e m a N . 3 : p i Z , e t a t S , y t i C : e n o h P njta Green World Organic Management of Turf: Do We Know What It Means? by James A Murphy, Ph.D. Extension Specialist in Turfgrass Management Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Applied Turfgrass Research from Rutgers, the State University, and the New Jersey Turfgrass Association Organic Philosophy The term organic is often misunderstood by those unfamiliar with the agro-ecological philosophy of organic production and management systems. Use of carbon- based fertilizers for management of plants is often consid­ ered organic management; however, this is an incomplete perspective much like the viewpoint that elimination of pesticides from agricultural production constitutes or­ ganic management. While both of these examples are components of the organic philosophy, proponents of the organic philosophy take a much broader approach to land and plant management and view the entire system as an “organic whole”. They consider the complex interrela­ tionships of the various components within a landscape as analogous to the parts of living things (organisms). Thus, concepts in organic agriculture typically center on inte­ grating a diversity of crops and livestock to cycle nutrients and re-use natural waste products within the landscape. Organic agriculture restricts the types of materi­ als that can be used to amend soil, enhance plant nutri­ tion, and suppress pests. Materials allowed for use in or­ ganic production are either essentially derived from living things or naturally occurring minerals; synthetic (man­ made) materials typically are not allowed. But the organic philosophy isn’t just a set of guidelines on the selection of input materials. Building a “living soil” is a central concept of organic agriculture and is sometimes referred to as the soil food web. Organic agriculture builds and manages soil structure and fertility over many years using compost, approved mineral amendments, livestock, and crop rotations. Management techniques are used to en­ courage soil organisms including fungi, bacteria and other soil dwellers to form “living bridges” between plant roots and soil humus. These interactions are relied on to trans­ form and release nutrients from the soil organic matter. Additionally, increased biological activity in the soil is thought to enhance beneficial organisms that sup press disease and insect pests. A reduction in the sever­ ity of drought, disease and insects are reputed benefits of improved soil quality or health. Organic agricul­ ture production greatly benefits from the fact that the soils on organic farms have not been degraded to the extent that occurs with land development in urban and suburban environments. Thus, organic production is more than simply switching to natural organic fertil­ izer products and eliminating use of synthetic pesticides. Organic production has become big business in North America with an increasing number of niche mar­ kets for organic agricultural products. In the United States of America (USA), National Organic Program Standards (NOPS) were implemented on 21 October 2002 and es­ tablished clear labeling regulations for organic products certification (see http://www.ams.usda.gov/nop/NOP/ NOPhome.html). The NOPS were created to protect pro­ ducers against marketing fraud and assure consumers that organic products meet uniform and consistent standards. Standards were developed by the National Organics Stan­ dards Board (NOSB) as mandated by the Organic Food Production Act of 1990. The NOSB is appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and consists of 15 members representing farmers, food processors, retailers, consum­ ers, environmentalists, scientists, and certifying agents. Interpretations of Organics in Turf Systems Organic production in agriculture is not new, however, the labeling laws, consumer confidence, indus­ try growth and marketability are new. (Note that organ­ ic agriculture was essentially the exclusive agricultural practice for thousands of years before the industrial age.) This popularity of organic agriculture is spilling over into other markets including lawns, sportfields and golf. To date, this increasing interest in organic turf management appears to be largely consumer driven; to lesser extent lawn and landscape businesses are developing programs to capture a share of this growing niche market. This has prompted debate over the feasibility of organic production in turf systems - will lawns, sportsfields and golf courses survive if only an organic production philosophy could be used? Organic Management of Turf: Do We Know What It Means? by James A Murphy, Ph.D. Extension Specialist in Turfgrass Management Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Green World njta Applied Turfgrass Research from Rutgers, the State University, and the New Jersey Turfgrass Association The answer is probably “yes” based on the fact that these land uses have existed for many centuries. On the other hand, the business of managing turf/land for these uses would change dramatically if organic standards were mandated, particularly if non-uniform regulations for managing turf systems continue to be developed across communities. Much of this interest in “organic management” stems from the desire to eliminate or reduce use of syn­ thetic fertilizers and pesticides in turf management as evidenced by the regulations developed in communities across North America including Seattle, San Francisco, Long Island, Ottawa and others. Currently, national stan­ dards for organic turf maintenance do not exist in the USA, yet individual communities are developing regulations that reduce or eliminate pesticides and often refer to these regu­ lations as “organic”. Typically these regulations do not fully address the principles of organic management and largely ignore the challenges of improving degraded soils for growing plants in urban and suburban environments. A greatly enhanced effort on the part of individual property owners and communities to improve the degraded urban and suburban soils used to grow plants (turf, shrubs, trees, etc) would probably be the single most effective practice that would enable a reduction or elimination of synthetic pesticides and other inputs used in landscapes. The loss of soil structure and organic matter as well as severe com­ paction of soil during the development of land creates extremely difficult growing conditions for plants. Typi­ cal turf and ornamental plant management practices (and related regulations) in urban and suburban landscapes do not focus on correcting these severe deficiencies in soil. Thus, plants grown on degraded soil routinely suffer from low fertility and inadequate supply of plant available water unless provided relatively intensive management inputs to compensate. A more complete and effective regulatory ap­ proach to change turf and landscape management practices would be to address the substantial problem of soil degra­ dation during land development. The focus on regulation of management practices/philosophies only addresses the “band-aid” techniques used to compensate for the long term plant management problems inherent with degraded soil. The casual and imprecise use of the term organic can create confusion in the turf marketplace, and it is evi­ dent that all parties are not talking about the same thing regarding pesticide elimination/reduction and organic maintenance. Numerous pests, environmental extremes (particularly soil), and traffic stress seriously compromise a turf manager’s ability to produce a competitive product (turf) regardless of the management philosophy. The abil­ ity to use certain management “tools” in one community but not another (due to non-uniform regulations) creates an unfair situation for turf managers and maintenance businesses. Turf management programs and companies in communities with more stringent restrictions are essential­ ly at a competitive disadvantage in the market compared to communities with more liberal definitions of “organic”. Moreover, research and practical experience indicates that the elimination of synthetic pesticides from turf manage­ ment systems will produce a product (turf) quality that is very different from what is commonly expected by many of today’s clientele (property owners). Consumers also need to be aware that the elimination of “synthetic” prac­ tices and the adoption of only a couple “organic” practices is unlikely to correct the underlying long term problems caused by degraded soil in landscapes. Thus, consider­ able education of the consumer is needed so that indi­ viduals and communities can make well-informed deci­ sions on landscape management philosophies related to purchase of services and products as well as regulations. For more information or additional research reports and abstracts, please visit the Rutgers Center for Turfgrass Science web site at: www.turf.rutgers.edu 2007 PATRONS... Clippings & Green World would like to THANK our Patrons for their continued support. Add your name and/or business name to a growing list of supporters: • 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 (973) 812-6467 to become a Patron. RATES: $100.00 per year - 4 issues The NJTA Annual Meeting was held at the New Jersey GREEN EXPO on December 5, 2007. Chris Carson, 2007 NJTA President, presented a new slate of officers to the membership for election. After a voice vote, the following individuals were elected to the executive board of NJTA for a one year term: Environmental Stewardship Award ...continued from page 15 Hyatt Hills is a property owned by General Mo­ tors and previously used as a bearing manufactur­ ing plant. When it was discovered that the site was severely contaminated from the manufacturing pro­ cesses, General Motors investigated ways to resolve the environmental issues. With the support of the Hyatt Hills Commission a golf course was designed that sealed off the troubled land and provided a widely used recreation resource for the communities. As further evidence of its commitment to the envi­ ronment, the facility has recently been honored as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Wildlife Sanctu­ ary by Audubon International, one of only a hand­ ful of courses with such designation in New Jersey. Did you know?? This is the last issue of Clippings for the year 2007. Prepare a new full color ad, and send us the 2008 Display Ad and Patron Listing when mailing arrives. elebrate With Us! Come C The New Jersey Turfgrass Foundation Presents... Monday, May 5,2008 * President, Dr. Karen Plumley (Mitchell Products) * Vice-President, Keith Kubik (Grass Roots, Inc.) * Secretary, Richard Buckley (Rutgers University) * Treasurer, Matt Sweatlock (Cedar Park Cemetery) Congratulations to All! FIDDLER’S ELBOW COUNTRY CLUB For More Information Visit www.njturfgrass.org Watch your mailbox for this postcard... And join us for a fantastic day for a great cause! Calendar of Events 2008 May 5, 2008 13th Annual Rutgers Turfgrass Research Golf Classic Magazine & GARDEN STATE GOLF Divot Communication Proudly Support New Jersey Turfgrass Association July 29 & 30, 2008 Rutgers Turfgrass Research Field Days December 9-11, 2008 33rd Annual Green Expo Atlantic City NJ 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 jersev turfarass association New Jersey Turfgrass Association 25 US Highway 46 W • Wayne, NJ 07470-6801 (973)812-6467 Fax (973) 812-6536 www.njturfgrass.org Board of Directors Dr. Karen Plumley, President Keith Kubik, Vice President Matt Sweatlock, Treasurer Pedro Perdomo, Director Shaun Barry, Director Jeff Cramer, Director Brian Feldman, Director Rick Krok, Director Fred Reidel, Director Thom Ritchie, Director Michelle Williams, Director Richard Buckley, Director Eric McGhee, Director Chris Carson, Immediate Past President & Expo Chairman Dr. Bruce Clarke, Advisor Dr. Jim Murphy, Advisor Cece Peabody, MAT, CMP, Executive Director CARBTROL introducing our economical "LoPro" Washwater Recycle System - Low Cost - EPA Best Available Technology - Reliable Operation - Low Maintenance For New Installations and Retrofits 800-242-1150 email: info@carbtrol.com www.carbtrol.com