December 2007 Green is Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association SEE YOU AT THE CONFERENCE Inside this Issue... OGSA End of Season Tournaments Turfgrass Diploma Program Update Superintendents Recognition Program CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT No. 40027105 Postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to The OGSA, 328 Victoria Rd. S., Guelph, ON N1H 6H8 Stop ants in their tracks. And keep them there with Scimitar CS, a new insecticide from Syngenta. With its unique proprietary formulation, Scimitar CS not only controls ants in minutes, it provides maximum long-term activity - giving turf managers a powerful new tool to hold down ant populations. Call 1-888-368-4211 x5525 to contact your local Syngenta Turf Specialist and learn more about Scimitar CS. www.syngenta.ca - www.engageagro.com Important: Always read and follow label instructions. ©2007 Syngenta Group Company. GreenPartners®, Scimitar™ CS and the Syngenta logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. Ants credit JinYoung Lee www.bigstockphoto.com President's message As the end of 2007 draws near, it is hard to believe that my tenure as the OGSA president is almost complete. It has been a great honour to serve as your president, and I have absolutely no doubt that your new president and board will serve with the best interest of the association in mind. My last eight years on the board has been a great learning experience and I have had ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS’ the opportunity to work with a lot of great people. The by Sean DeSilva, ASSOCIATION industry has also changed dramatically and the OGSA has Coppinwood Golf Club Guelph Turfgrass Institute 328 Victoria Road South done its part in keeping up with challenges and trends. Guelph, ON N1H6H8 We feel very fortunate that our membership has grown by 40% over the last eight Ph: 519-767-3341 years. On average we receive almost forty eight new applications for membership Toll Free: 877-824-6472 each year. The services and education we provide have also grown at an impressive Fax: 519-766-1704 rate. We continue to offer our membership affordable and diverse educational Email: ogsa@gti.uoguelph.ca opportunities through the Ontario Golf Course Management Conference and Trade Website: www.golfsupers.on.ca Show and our recently launched webcast seminars. Our award winning publication, BOARD OF DIRECTORS Green is Beautiful continues to remain strong. President: Sean DeSilva Since its inception, the Ontario Golf Course Management Conference and Trade Past President: Bob Burrows Show has become the largest regional association show in Canada. This year’s Vice-President: Jeff Stauffer education portion is very strong and we look forward to seeing you all in January. I Treasurer: Randy Booker would also like to take this opportunity to thank our members and suppliers for their Secretary: Jeff Alexander ongoing support in making our conference as successful as it has become. Directors: Chris Andrejicka The Ontario Golf Course Superintendents’ Association is financially sound due to Jarrod Barakett our increasing membership, conference, financial investment portfolio, and well Doug Breen attended golf events. We have made responsible, financial decisions with respect to Rob Gatto our operations, conferences, programs and services. Our investment portfolio will Scott Heron provide funding for programs such as research, environmental advocacy, Jennifer Pendrith scholarships, and opportunity/emergency funds. In the mean time, these long term Randy Twyman investments continue to gain interest. Based on our long term strategic plan, surplus funds are re-invested into these four designated accounts to ensure funding for these Executive Mgr Dorothy Hills initiatives and secure the financial future of our association. Office Staff Pat Thomas Our association has also been very involved and supports environmental initiatives Deborah Badger such as Integrated Pest Management, Source Water Protection, Nutrient Management, and Government Relations. It continues to play an integral role in environmental lobbying, ensuring that the superintendent’s point of view is represented, and keeping our membership up-to-date on their requirements and obligations. Our board strategic planning sessions have facilitated us in fulfilling the OGSA vision to be recognized as a leading authority in golf course management, professional development and environmental stewardship. Lastly, I would like to personally thank all of the OGSA directors and staff for the help during the last eight years. As you know being a director of our association is a GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL EDITORIAL volunteer position and it does take time away from both your professional and COMMITTEE personal life. These dedicated individuals do it for no reason other than the love of Chris Andrejicka, Co-Editor their profession. And, on behalf of all of our members, I would like to extend many John Bladon, Co-Editor thanks to Dorothy Hills, Deborah Badger, and Patricia Thomas. Dorothy Hills, Coordinating Manager I would like to thank you, the membership, for your support and as always welcome Greig Barker your feedback. I look forward to seeing you at our OGCM conference and trade show Tom Brain in the new year. Andy Sandilands Paul Grotier Brett Murray Direct Line 416-659-1020 Jason Hanna Manager Fax Line 519-941-0931 Scott Horsburgh “Green is Beautiful” Justin Parsons P.O. Box 218 is Printed on Orangeville, ON Recycled Paper Green is Beautiful 2007 L9W 2Z6 Although every effort is made to check material for publication, the association is not responsible for material published on behalf of its contributors. All rights are reserved by the publisher and any reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Although some trade names may be mentioned in articles contained in this publication, no endorsement is intended or brett.murray@sympatico.ca implied by the Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association. Contents SEE YOU AT THE CONFERENCE ................................................. 14 Green is Above the hole ................................................................................................ 23 Antique alley..................................................................................................... 7 Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association Assistants Tournament.................................................................................. 10 Editorial message........................................................................................... 5 From roots to shoots..................................................................................... 8 Golf course highlight - Watson's Glen .................................................... 13 Health & safety................................................................................................. 9 Looking back.................................................................................................... 24 Member profile - Jeff Stauffer .................................................................. 12 Off the fairway ................................................................................................ 22 Phosphorus & Potassium, Two Essential Turf Macronutrients....... 18 President's message...................................................................................... 3 62nd Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament....................................... 11 Superintendent Recognition Program..................................................... 16 Turf or consequences..................................................................................... 26 The way we were ........................................................................................... 17 COVER PICTURE Photo by Daryl Jantzen University of Guelph update ..................................................................... 20 at Lake Joseph Golf Club What's new........................................................................................................ 6 Advertisers Agrium Advanced Technologies - NuGro Golf ............................. 10, 27 Almack Agronomic Services Inc .............................................................. 17 Bartlett Tree Experts - Canada.................................................................. 7 Braemar Building Systems......................................................................... 13 Burnside Golf Services.................................................................................. 7 DCS Agronomic Services ............................................................................. 22 Douglas Wood Large Tree Services ........................................................ 22 Fast Forest......................................................................................................... 9 OGSA is committed to Green Horizons Group of Farms.............................................................. 17 serving its members, H & M Turf Ltd................................................................................................... 3 advancing their profession, Manderley Turf Products Inc....................................................................... 9 and Maple Turf Supply ................................................................................... 17, 22 enriching the quality Master's Turf Supply Ltd............................................................................... 22 of golf Syngenta - Scimitar........................................................................................ 2 and its environment. Turf Care Products Canada - Irrigation Div......................................... 5 Turf Care Products Canada......................................................................... 28 Layout, Design & Printing provided by G-R-A-P-H-I-C services printers & LITHOGRAPHERS United Agri Products Inc............................................................................... 17 Tel: 519.763.5745 • Fax: 519.763.9532 Vanden Bussche Irrigation......................................................................... 24 32-34 Essex Street • Guelph, Ontario • N1H 3K8 Zander Sod Co. Limited ............................................. 7 e-mail: info@graphicservices.ca • www.graphicservices.ca Editorial message the 2007 golf season comes to an As was a great year for growing turfgrass but a tough year for end , I would like to thank all those who gardens. For the future health of both she hopes for a wet contributed to making Green is Beautiful December and a cold winter, resulting in something more the great publication that it is. To the predictable to work with this coming spring. Eric Lyons, contributors of articles, advertisers and Katerina Jordan and Rob Witherspoon combine their by Chris Andrejicka the OGSA office staff who spend hours thoughts to bring us an update on the Turfgrass Diploma Co-Editor preparing and creating such a fine Program. You will also see a great collage of photos taken of magazine, your efforts are greatly appreciated. superintendents who received recognition for hosting I would like to remind everyone to make sure you provincially significant tournaments during the 2007 season. register soon for the upcoming Ontario Golf Course I would like to encourage as many superintendents to Management Conference and Trade Show from January 16th respond to the survey regarding the Economic Profile on - 18th at the Sheraton Centre, in Toronto. This year’s show the Ontario Turfgrass Industry, conducted by the OTRF and looks to build on past years success. the University of Guelph. Please refer to the advertisement This issue presents a course highlight on Watson’s Glen contained in this issue for details and the link to the on line Golf Course in Pickering, where Peter Lucas is the course survey. superintendent. The member profile features our incoming In closing I wish everyone a happy and safe holiday OGSA President, Jeff Stauffer from Credit Valley Golf & season. Let’s look forward to a good winter’s rest for both Country Club. our courses and for us as superintendents to be refreshed Regular contributor, Daisy Moore reflects on how 2007 and excited about the upcoming 2008 season. TURF CARE The Toro GDC System •Design without complicated calculations. One cable can have up to 800 stations and be up to 2.7miles long. •Lower installation costs. The Toro GDC System minimizes wire usage and reduces overall system costs. •Reduce maintenance and downtime. Reduce troubleshooting time; activate 50 stations simultaneously. •Count on the Toro NSN Support Network. The first dedicated support network in the irrigation industry. For more information, contact The Toro GDC System your local Turf Care sales representative. Imagination has never been so affordable. Introducing the Toro GDC System, the easiest, and most powerful decoder system available for golf course irrigation. The Toro GDC System uses proven technology from the aerospace and aviation industries to provide a reliable and affordable irrigation solution for the complex designs of today's golf courses. Turf Care Products Canada www.turfcare.ca 200 PONY DRIVE, NEWMARKET, ONTARIO L3Y 7B6 • PHONE (905) 836-0988 • FAX (905) 836-6442 London Mississauga Scarborough Gloucester Ph: (519) 668-7664 Ph: (905) 890-6290 Ph: (416) 298-2101 Ph: (613) 822-1881 Fax: (519) 668-3722 Fax: (905) 890-5598 Fax: (416) 298-8758 Fax: (613) 822-2099 What's new Complimentary Conference Registration for Special Circumstances Class A and Superintendent members of the Association, who are normally employed but not currently working, or have come upon unexpected difficult financial circumstances, have the opportunity to attend the OGSA Conference. Communicate, in writing, to the OGSA office your circumstances and interest to attend the conference. Any member indicating interest to attend the conference will be kept confidential. This is available for members as a benefit of the association. Complimentary registration to the conference will be Welcome! provided at the discretion of the OGSA board of directors. Take advantage of O.G.S.A. Welcomes our newest members this opportunity and you will be keeping yourself connected to your profession. Patrick Thomas Brennan Fox Golf Club Class A Brad Hutchinson Class A Warkworth Golf Club ONTARIO GOLF John Kilworth Class F SUPERINTENDENTS' ASSOCIATION Credit Valley Golf & CC 2006-2007 REPORTS Jeff Lockhart Class C Burlington Golf & CC Paul Marley Class S The following is a list of the OGSA reports, required for the Thornhill Country Club Annual General Meeting , which are now available on line. Dave Newey Class F Meeting to be held on January 17, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. Country Lane Golf Course Blair Snowden Class S • Director Election Notice University of Guelph • End of Year Audited Financial Statements for period Dan Stockdale Class C October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007. Frog's Breath Golf Club • End of Year Director Portfolio Reports Jeff Thow Class C • Minutes from AGM January 18, 2007 Cardinal Golf Club Aaron Weinberg Class S According to our bi-law these reports can be accessed, as University of Guelph soon as they are available, on our website www.golfsupers.on.ca. Log into the Members Only section Rob Williamson Class C and go to “Member News”. Remington Parkview G&CC Tyler Windfield Class F The package can also be viewed at our offices: Black Diamond Golf Club 328 Victoria Road South, RR 2 Guelph, Ontario N1H 6H8 Kyle Young Class S University of Guelph If you require a hard copy of these reports please notify the Welcome back to office and a package will be mailed to you. Toll Free (877) 824-6472 or (519) 767-3341 Sean Mclvor Class C Burlington Golf & CC WEBCAST SUCCESS STORY OGSA hosted their first webcast presentation on November 7th at three Burnside different locations throughout Ontario. This was a free education opportunity Serving the Needs of the Golf Industry for members and their staff to attend a pre-recorded webcast on Green Speed and the Law of Diminishing Returns by Tom Nikolai, Ph.D from Michigan State We can help with: University. • Approvals for Golf Course Development and Operations Approximately 70 people braved the nasty weather to take in the webcast, • Irrigation Water Supply network with their colleagues and participate in some lively discussion. This was • Sewage Treatment and Disposal • Environmental Management Plans also an opportunity to earn education points, for those working on certification. • Building and Clubhouse Design Services • Irrigation Design and Consulting Due to the success of this inaugural education experience, plans are afoot to • Environmental Impact Assessment present another webcast in the new year. • Drinking Water Assessment Toll Free: (877) 799-8499 E-mail: vcirone@rjburnside.com Website: www.rjburnside.com Antique alley Offices located throughout Ontario Members of OGSA, CGSA and Golfmax Suppliers to the NGCOA David Stevens, Superintendent and Owner, Beaverbrook Golf Course, Minden, Ontario Your Trees Deserve This 1941 Jeep Model MB was purchased in 1946 in Parry Sound by David’s The Best Of Care dad. It was used to cut fairways and later to spray greens. It is still operable. The tractor in the background is a 1950 Model 25 Massey Harris, which no Trees are valuable assests. Don't entrust their future to less than longer works. caring professionals. Bartlett leads the way in tree care with trained arborists, research facili­ ties, nationwide experience and specialized equipment. For a professional evaluation of your tree care needs, call today. There is no obligation. SUPPLIERS of TOP QUALITY TURF PRODUCTS Toronto • (416) 657-2059 No. 1 Kentucky Bluegrass Bracebridge • (705) 646-8733 Five varieties of Bentgrass Gravenhurst • (705) 687-0696 Extreme Fescue Huntsville • (705) 789-0929 (877) 727-2100 www.bartlett.com BACKED BY THE BARTLETT TREE RESEARCH (905) 727-2100 LABORATORIES AND EXPERIMENTAL www.zandersod.com GROUNDS, CHARLOTTE, NC From roots to shoots There are just a few problems to a soap flush, no caterpillars emerge. If you take a cup note that are occurring at the moment. cutter sample and start digging around, one or two cm European chafer and Japanese beetle down you find the medium sized leatherjackets. These grubs are widespread and causing lots leatherjackets will continue to feed through out the fall of turf damage at the moment. With and even throughout the winter, under the snow. They the very late onset of the fall rains - as will pupate in late April and beginning of May and the by Pam Charbonneau OMAF Turfgrass Specialist late as October - the dormant turf adults can be seen flying around during the month of May. didn’t have a good chance to come out We are not sure how big an infestation of common crane of dormancy, recover and establish good roots before the fly larvae there are in Ontario. If you do find some major flush of root feeding by the grubs began. The result leatherjacket damage now or first thing in the spring, I is turf loss and of course the secondary damage caused by would really appreciate hearing from you so that we can all the birds, skunks and raccoons feeding for grubs. As confirm where in Ontario this species is currently found. I you may guess, these predators do a good job of what I call can be reached by email at pamela.charbonneau@ontario.ca biological control because they can eat a lot of grubs. This time of year is when the various commodity Another problem that has been identified is Tipula research groups meet to determine which new pesticides oleracea or common crane fly larvae. This species of should be included in the OMAFRA publications. The leatherjackets starts developing in the summer and are 2007 Submissions to OMAFRA Pub. 384 Turfgrass feeding pretty heavily at the moment and causing turf Management Recommendations are summarized in damage on golf course putting greens. The damage looks Table 1 below. Please refer to the pesticide label for rate, very similar to black cutworm damage. However, if you do timing and precautions. Table 1. The 2007 Submissions to OMAFRAPub. 384 TurfgrassManagement Recommendations Trade Name/Chemical Name Registrant Crop Pest Sarritor Sarritor Commercial lawns, golf Dandelion suppression course, municipal parks AND TURF FARMS Fosetyl al/CHipco Aliette Bayer Turf Bentgrass dead spot Signature Fungicide Environmental Sciences Azoxystrobin/ Syngenta/ Turfgrass for golf Suppression of take-all patch Heritage and Engage Agro COURSES AND COMMERCIAL Heritage MAXX Fungicide TURF FARMS Deltamethrin/DEltaGard Bayer Turf (including Chinch bugs, sod webworm, Insecticide Environmental RESIDENTIAL LAWNS, GOLF CUTWORM, ANTS Sciences COURSES, SOD FARMS AND OTHER TURF AREAS Imidacloprid/MErit 0.5G Bayer Turfgrass including sod Suppression of European crane fly Insecticide Environmental FARMS LARVAE (LEATHERJACKETS) Sciences Health & safety our population ages we see more Heart problems are often hidden or masked as the senior seniors looking for part time work does not want to be seen as weak or incapable. This is a outside their past vocation. We see dangerous mix. If you are not aware of the limitations of more seniors working in the golf course your senior workforce you may inadvertently put a worker industry. These folks are working for a at risk by asking the workers to complete a task that is few reasons. Some for the joy of it. beyond his or her capabilities. We often think that this is by DougJohnson Others to enjoy a little golf! And others just an issue with young workers. Well it is a similar concern SAFETAID - Health and Safety Consulting to augment their income. with senior workers. Seniors want to prove they are still able Hiring seniors is a positive experience, as generally these to produce. The most vulnerable are those seniors who folks bring a world of experience to your club and are depend on the extra income to support their life style. reliable happy people. Having seniors around should They may not be able to afford to lose the job and as a facilitate the training and mentoring that you require for consequence will attempt to keep their limitations hidden your younger workers. This is a win-win arrangement. So from you and their coworkers. This is a recipe for a are there any issues with hiring seniors to work at your club? potential disaster. Well, possibly there are. No one wants to have a worker injured at the workplace As folks get older there are concerns that many people and no one wants to lose a worker because they have have addressed. They generally have to do with the health hidden an ailment that causes them injury or possibly and agility of the senior workers. Employers must be death. cognizant of the abilities and limitations of this So it is important that you have clear policies in place that demographic. encourage your workers, senior or otherwise to discus their It is important to be aware of their individual health potential limitations and assist you in making their issues; their ability to work at the same rate as their younger workplace as safe as possible. Watch for shortness of breath, counterparts. There reflex time and their ability to be undue perspiring, holding the chest or rubbing the left aware of their surroundings. As much as seniors like to arm! Make it a point to know your workers and their think that age does not affect their responses the opposite limitations and encourage your workers to discuss any is true. Their ability to react to situations may be restricted health issues with you to ensure that you are kept in the by their speed of response and their strength. It is know to the best of your ability. It really does make good important to ensure that your senior workers are sense! monitored to ensure that they are not working beyond their capabilities. Have a great holiday season! Some seniors believe that they can compete as they did in their younger years. This can put undue stress on their SAFETAID bodies and it is not unusual for seniors to hide this stress. Making safety your 1st priority! Physical stress can manifest itself in many ways. One of T. 519-837-0997 • F. 519-837-1996 these is with respect to heart problems. Consulting, Safety and First Aid Supplies QUALITY • ON TIME Supplying Canada’s top golf courses for over 45 years 1-800-461-5501 When only Phil Dickie- ISA Certified Arborist pdickie@gatemanmilloy.com the best 270 Shoemaker Street, Kitchener, ON N2E 3E1 will do. www.manderley.com/golf Phone (519) 748-6610-Fax (519) 748-6626 ASSISTANTS TOURNAMENT Photos & article by Colin Young, Assistant Superintendent Beacon Hall Golf Club On September 25th, The Briars Golf club hosted our 6th have taken place. The support this year was amazing, and Annual Assistant’s Tournament. The entire day was a we thank everyone who participated in this great event. success, and despite a few drops of rain, the day went It was a pleasure helping organize this great event with smoothly and was enjoyed by everyone. Graeme Calder, Assistant Superintendent at the Cutten Club The Briars staff did an excellent job hosting the event. and of course Dorothy Hills from the OGSA. Neil Tanden , It was a real pleasure working with the entire Briar’s staff, Assistant Superintendent at Weston Golf and Country Club, who did an excellent job of hosting the event. Both the who has helped organize this event since the inaugural lunch and dinner, prepared by Melinda Kowalek’s tournament in 2002, was also a great help. I would like to kitchen team was superb! thank Vanden Bussche Irrigation for supplying us with The pro shop staff led by Brad Johnson did an excellent bottled water as well as a prize donation, and Ontario Seed job with our scoring and helped us tremendously with the Co., Nu-Gro Golf, Engage Ago Corporation and Bayer prize table, facilitating our winners by keeping the pro Environmental Science for their prize donations. shop open after hours. Our sponsors were very generous, prizes were plentiful Undoubtedly, we give thanks to the greens department and we had a wonderful host. This tournament represents led by Superintendent, Paul White and Assistant how great our industry is and I am very proud to be a part of Superintendent, Ron Biggs. The golf course was in great it. I hope to see you all again next year. condition despite the tough season we endured. This year, we introduced the 4-person scramble using each player’s tee shot at least 3 times. We felt with assistants not being able to play often and their golfing skills neglected due to their busy schedules that a THANKS! scramble would relieve them from some of the pressure FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT involved in the competition of the tournament. This OF THE ASSISTANTS TOURNAMENT format proved to be successful and was appreciated by everyone. PLATINUM SPONSOR AGRIUM ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES GOLD SPONSORS ENGAGE AGRO CORPORATION TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA SILVER SPONSORS CLIFF'S TREE CARE LTD. G.C. DUKE EQUIPMENT LTD. BAYER ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE John Bladon represented our Platinum Sponsor, Agrium Advanced Tech-nologies Doug Hubble and presented the winning team with the Champions trophy. The winning team Sales and Marketing Manager with a stellar score of 60; 11 under par was (L - R) Andre Sabbagh from 519.770.3157 Lambton Golf & CC, Stafford Smith from Westview Golf Club, Mark Scenna dhubble@agriumat.com from Turf Care Products and Jeff Eichenberger from Raven Golf Club at Lora Bay. John Bladon The prize table was excellent, thanks to our sponsors, IPM Coordinator / Technical Sales suppliers and people in the industry who generously 519.574.2013 donated. All 104 participants walked away with jbladon@agriumat.com something. Without sponsorship this event could not www.nu-groturf.com 62nd ALEX McCLUMPHA MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT Article and Photos by Dorothy Hills, OGSA Those fortunate enough to play in the 62nd McClumpha Everyone was a winner that day, but the following individuals tournament, were treated to a glorious autumn day of golf and walked away with the prizes. camaraderie, under clear, sunny skies. As I arrived early to set up for registration I was treated to the sight of a coyote leisurely Flight A making its way across the fairway, just the beginning of a Low gross - Gary Stadnek - 79 wonderful day. (winner was decided by retrogression) Designed by Stanley Thompson , Canada’s most famous golf Low net - Jason Griffiths - 66 course architect, the Peterborough Golf & Country Club Longest drive - Gary Stadnek - course has always remained ahead of its time in both concept Leaf tickets donated NGF Golf, a division of Northgate Farms and design. In addition to his skill in course design, Stanley Closet to the pin- Phil Scully Thompson was an avid golfer and he holds the original course record at the club. As Peterborough’s only private golf course, Flight B its challenging layout has been host to numerous prestigious Low gross - Gord Sommerville - 78 amateur and professional events through the centuries. Set (winner was decided by retrogression) alongside the Trent Canal, the club’s continuous upgrading Low net - Corrie Almack - 68 adds to the already challenging play. We were truly privileged Longest drive - Darren Hancocks to have Peterborough Golf 8c Country Club host our event. Closest to the pin - Hal Schrader After a glorious day on the course, we gathered for a social time on the deck in the warmth of the afternoon sun to share Syngenta Longest drive winner - 304 yards - Gary Stadnek our glory stories, then proceeded to the dining room for a wonderful meal. Thanks to all the staff at the club, from the Winner of $500 future shop gift certificate - Gary Stadnek pro shop, kitchen administration and the grounds crew our final event of the year was a resounding success. What a way to wrap up the season! Mark Scenna from Turf Care Products presents Gary Stadnek congratulated by Jennifer Bill Gilkes with the George Darou Trophy. Super­ Pendrith. Flight A low gross winner with a 79 Greg O’Heron receives the Host Superintendent intendent over 50 with low gross (Bill had an 81) (decided by retrogression) Plaque Thanks! Syngenta NGF Golf Turf Care Canada AG Turf chemicals Maxium Golf Leasing Beaverbrook Golf Course Vanden Busche Irrigation Hutcheson Sand and Gravel Almack Agronomic Services To Our Prize Sponsors Member profile Interview with Jeff Stauffer, Superintendent Credit Valley Golf & Country Club by Jason Hanna, Assistant Superintendent Credit Valley Golf & Country Club It has been said that the most successful people tend to pursue opportunities. They set a goal and will do “whatever it takes” to achieve it. At 10 years old Jeff Stauffer began to work at a golf course and a few short years later, knew he wanted to be a golf course superintendent when he grew up. Working for his uncle at Ayren Links Golf Club outside of Oshawa, Jeff did practically every job on the golf course, from raking bunkers to mowing fairways with gang mowers. When Jeff entered high-school, he tailored his studies to help him gain enrollment into university to study turf science. He was accepted to the University of Guelph, where he studied the science of turf management and throughout his two-years continued to work on the golf course as the second assistant at the Oshawa Golf Club. Jeff gained the right mix of practical and educational experience to grow his love for the business and improve his resume for future success in the industry. After graduation, He accepted a full-time position at Oshawa Golf Club as the assistant superintendent working for Ian Bowen. It was during these years working with Ian that Jeff realized the involvement and role of professional associations like the OGSA and the benefits offered by being a member. In 1996, Jeffjumped at an opportunity to move to Credit Valley Golf Club as the assistant superintendent to work closely with John Gravett on a series of construction and course improvement projects and now states, “Learning from two great individuals and specifically their approaches to course management left impressions and ideas that are carried with me today.” Three years later, Jeffs childhood goal was realized when he was promoted to Golf Course Superintendent. As Jeffs career in turf evolved so too did his goals. He had set his sights on a new goal, to hold a position and actively participate on the OGSA board of directors and work his way towards the position of president. In January 2008Jeff will fulfill another goal. When asked about his time with the OGSA, Jeff noted, “During my time with the OGSA, I have had the privilege to sit on several committees and advisory boards ranging from the MOE to the GCSAA. I consider one of my greatest achievements to be part of the development of the IPM Accreditation Program, which continues to gain acceptance across the country in different areas where pesticide use is challenged.” As Jeff moves forward with enthusiasm into his tenth year as superintendent at Credit Valley and as the incoming OGSA president he hopes to achieve continued growth and representation of our great association. He believes it is a true honour to become the president of the OGSA and lead a superb group of individuals who have volunteered their time to participate on the board and address the many positive challenges facing the association. What I am most interested to see is whatJeff will set his sights on next. If history tells us anything, Jeff Stauffer will continue setting and achieving new goals for years to come. "In the Hot Seat" • Favourite major: Masters • Best piece of turf equipment ever: Irrigation system software • Favourite architect: Tom Fazio • Ultimate foursome: Tiger, Nicklaus, Player • Lowest round ever and where: -6 (65) Ayren Links G.C. • Favourite meal: Pork Tenderloin with spaghetti squash • What’s in your CD right now: INXS • What would you be if not a golf course superintendent: Insurance Broker Golf course highlight Watson’s Glen Golf Club 3430 7th Concession Road Pickering ON L1Y1C6 Website: www.watsonsglen.com Golf Course Superintendent: Peter Lucas Email: turf@watsonsglen.com COURSE PROFILE What county is your club located in? What is the size and length of driving range 2 Kubota tractors Durham Region and range tee? 1 Buffalo turbine blower 8 acres, 350 yards, 10,000 ft2 bent/rye tee Is your club private, semi private, public, resort or 1 Giant Vac municipal? How many bunkers? 12 midweight utility vehicles Public 93 1 Cushman Truckster 1 John Deere Pro Gator Size of membership? 1 John Deere tractor 50 members How many ponds, and/or how many times does water come into play? 1 John Deere Aercore 800 aerifier Number of rounds? 11 2 GA-60 aerifiers 23,000 1 John Deere D750 Dozer Who was the original architect? 1 Dresser Dozer Typical opening and closing date Kevin Holmes 1 Cat 29’ excavator April 15 to November 15 2 bush hogs What was the year of original construction? 1 Viking grader Name of Superintendent 2000 1 Land Pride box grader Peter Lucas 1 Land Pride multi seeder What type of irrigation system? How long have you been a superintendent? Rainbird Stratus 2 Numerous small engine equipment 11 years What is the size of your maintenance shop? List other accomplishments 14,000 ft2 COURSE PROJECTS Past President Eastern Ontario GSA, Past Vice-President Atlantic GSA, What is the size of the greens, tees & What projects have you recently completed? CGSA Panel for development and fairways? Expanded irrigation reservoir 33% ratification for Standards of CGSA Greens: 4 acres Tees: 5 acres LONG RANGE PLANS How long have you been an OGSA member? Fairways & Approaches: 40 acres 13 years Rough: 45 acres What long range plans for renovation do you Fescue: 55 acres have in the next five years? How many year round staff? Build clubhouse and all associated 3 What is your predominant grass? landscape Greens: Penncross Pave cart paths How many seasonal staff? Tees and Fairways: Penn Trio 20 Build bench area paddocks How many USGA greens and loam greens? Drainage How many mechanics and assistants? 19 California Sand Greens Equipment Manager: Richard Heffering CHALLENGES Assistant: Vanessa White What is the predominant soil type? Clay Loam, imported topsoil Are there any particular challenges you face with your property? How many gardening staff? What equipment do you have in inventory? 2 Almost entire site is open and windy. 2 Toro 5410 fwy units Finding unique ways to accomplish 1 Toro 5100 fwy unit cultivation practices necessary with a bent 1 Jacobsen 3400 fwy unit grass facility in and amongst public golf. COURSE STATISTICS 4 Toro 3150 triplexes How many holes? 2 Toro 3000 triplexes 2 Toro 1000 walkers SUCCESS STORIES 18 1 Toro Sidewinder Do you have any success stories? What is the yardage from back & forward tees? 1 Toro 5700D sprayer Bringing a young, immature course into an 5211 yards from Red tees 1 Toro MP 3700 sprayer award winning facility on a daily play basis. 5983 yards from White tees 1 Progressive rough unit Fortunate to win reader and panel awards in 6513 yards from Blue tees 1 John Deere 3215 rough unit value, design and playing conditions. 7172 yards from Gold tees ONTARIO GOLF COURSE MANAGEM Sheraton Centre Toro EDUCATION POINTS PRE-CONFERENCE SEMINAR SPONSORED BY SYNGENTA CROP Golf Course Superintendents Association of America Points PROTECTION CANADA, INC. Preconference Seminar - January 16.................... 0.7 Wednesday,January 16th 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Ontario Golf Course Management Conference & Trade Civic Ballroom Show - Thursday......................................................... 0.6 Shaded Growing Conditions Ontario Golf Course Management Conference & Trade Speaker - James H. Baird, Ph.D., Agronomist, NE Show - Friday............................................................... 0.4 region of the USGA Green Section Tree Inventories, Tree Maintenance And The Politics of Trees Speaker - Steven Mann, Bartlett Tree Experts Can. Ltd. Canadian Golf Superintendents Association Points Pre-conference Seminar - January 16th...................... 7.0 OPENING CEREMONIES and KEYNOTE Ontario Golf Course Management Conference & Trade SPEAKER Show - Thursday....................................................... 6.0 Thursday, January 17th 8:30 a.m. Ontario Golf Course Management Conference & Trade Grand Ballroom East Show - Friday.............................................................. 5.5 Stand Up to Your Challenges! , Speaker - Scott Burrows Scott brings a powerful message that will inspire us to maximize our potential, turn our setbacks into comebacks and rise above the competition. Integrated Pest Management Points Wednesday, January 16th - Pre-Conference Seminar EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM Shaded Growing Conditions’ (4 hrs)................. 4.8 SPONSORED BY NGF GOLF, A DIVISION OF Tree Inventories, Maintenance and the Politics of NORTHGATE FARMS Trees (4 hrs)............................................................ 4.8 Thursday, January 17th & Friday January 18th Thursday, January 17th Greens Reconstruction (1 hr)................................. 1.2 Putting Surface Management (1 hr)..................... 1.2 OGSA AWARDS LUNCHEON SPONSORED USGA Year in Review (1 hr) ................................... 1.2 BY AGRIUM ADVANCED TECHOLOGIES Moss on the Golf Course (1 hr) ........................... 1.2 Thursday, January 17th at 11:30 am Research Update from GTI (1 hr) ....................... 1.2 Grand Ballroom West Friday, January 18 th Let’s celebrate the achievements of many of our peers. Foliar Nutrition (1 hr)........................................... 1.2 Come out and congratulate those who have earned special Reduced Pesticide Use (1 hr) .................... . ......... 1.2 awards this year! TRADE SHOW SOCIAL HOUR EQUIPMENT TECHNICIAN PROGRAM SPONSORED BY BAYER ENVIRONMENTAL Friday, January 18th beginning at 8:00 a.m. science This is a one day program that includes education program Thursday, January 17th 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm sessions designed specifically for the golf course equipment On The Trade Show Floor technician. In addition, time is provided in the program for the participants to attend the trade show to see new OGSA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING equipment and equipment changes, and discuss issues and Thursday, January 17th, 5:30 PM ideas with our exhibitors. Grand Ballroom East Lunch is provided on the trade show floor. Wind up the day with Dr. Rossi’s closing talk on “Surface PRESIDENT’S RECEPTION Management for Optimum Ball Roll”. Thursday, January 17th, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Civic Ballroom Join us to meet your new Board of Directors and for a HORTICULTURE PROGRAMS social time with your colleagues. Friday, January 18th beginning at 8:00 a.m. This one day program will provide four hours of education JOB BOARD time in program sessions designed specifically for the golf Looking for a job? Looking to Hire? course horticulturist. In addition, there will be some A board will be set up with category headings. dedicated time during the lunch break for participation to Bring your Job Available postings to the visit the trade show exhibits. conference and leave them at registration for Lunch is provided on the trade show floor. posting on the board. CLOSING KEYNOTE SPEAKER Friday, January 18th 1:30 p.m. PUTTING SURFACE MANAGEMENT FOR OPTIMUM BALL ROLL SPEAKER - DR. FRANK ROSSI Go to www.golfsupers.on.ca for full conference details and registration page HE SEECONFERENCE YOU AT T SUPERINTENDENT RECOGNITION PROGRAM This program has been very well received by both competitors and the Golf Association of Ontario, and is crucial to promoting the profession of the golf course superintendent and their professionalism within the golf industry. If any member has any input they would like to contribute toward the continued success of this program please speak to any OGSA Director. Jennifer Pendrith and Trevor Clapperton Thom Charters and Sean DeSilva Bob McMenemy, GAO Director with Mark Jeremy Geer and Drew Rachar Dan McCaffrey and Chris Andrejicka Fenton and Scott Jamieson Brent Siekierzycki and Marc Brooks Scott Dyker and Rob Gatto Dave MacDonald and Doug Breen The following superintendents were plaque recipients in 2007 Investors Group Championship Tournament Host Supt Golf Course Presenter Ontario Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship Trevor Clapperton Dalewood Golf & Curling Club Jennifer Pendrith Ontario Women’s Amateur Championship Jeremy Geer Rocky Crest Golf Resort Drew Rachar Ontario Amateur Championship Dan McCaffrey Sutton Creek Golf &CC Chris Andrejicka Ontario Junior Girls’ Championship Mark Fenton The Links at Piper’s Glen GC ScottJamieson Ontario Junior Boys’ Championship Thom Charters Bayview Country Club Sean DeSilva Ontario Senior Women’s Amateur Championship Brent Siekierzycki Owen Sound Golf 8c CC Marc Brooks Ontario Senior Men’s Amateur Championship Scott Dyker Beverly Golf 8c Country Club Rob Gatto Ontario Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship Dave MacDonald Stratford Country Club Doug Breen The wav we were Can you identify the people in this picture? Answers on page 24 -Increases Water Penetration -Less standing water daring wet periods of late Fall and early Spring -Extend your playing season -Moves excess moisture through the root zone -Supports good drainage DISTRIBUTORS: ALLTURF Ltd. Master’s Turf Supply Ltd. Mountain View Turf Supply Always read and follow label directions Respond 3 is a registered trademarkof United Agri Products www.uap.ca You Call.. We Deliver Corrie Almack P.Ag. Almack Agronomic Services Inc. Tel: (905) 689-6174 Box 256, Carlisle, On Fax: (905) 689-8522 L0R 1H0 ail: c.almack@sympatico.ca Em Simon George COMPACT SOD HAMILTON SOD ONTARIO SOD Technical Sales Cambridge, ON Hamilton/Burliington, ON Oakville, ON (519) 653-7494 (905)389-1315 (905) 849-1764 Maple Turf Supply Business: (905) 857-2000 ONTARIO SOD NIAGARA SOD HALTON SOD 8112 King Rd. W. Fax: (905) 857-8215 Brampton, ON St. Catherines, ON Milton, ON (905) 450-5715 (905) 984-8448 (905) 878-1011 P.O. Box 370 Mobile: (519) 841-3378 Bolton, Ontario 1-800-268-4425 L7E 5T3 sgl42@hotmail.com www.JustSodIt.com PHOSPHORUS & POTASSIUM, TWO ESSENTIAL TURF MACRONUTRIENTS By Achille Correggia, B.Sc. (Agri.) Agronomy, A.PAg/CCA-ONT Nutrients that are required for both the growth and development of turf are considered essential nutrients. A nutrient is considered essential if (a) in its absence turf is unable to complete a normal lifecycle, or (b) that element is part of essential plant function (s). Essential nutrients can be separated into two categories: (a) macronutrients and (b) micronutrients (also called trace elements). The distinction between the two categories simply indicates the difference in nutrient concentration within the turf tissue, with macronutrients being required in larger amounts than micronutrients. This difference does not represent the importance of one nutrient category over another as both categories are equally vital for healthy turf. Two nutrients classified as macronutrients are phosphorus and Figure 1. Median Bray P-1 equivalent soil test levels in ppm. potassium, the function and availability of both these macronutrients will be discussed in more detail. Soils that are lacking adequate amounts of phosphorus could result in turf showing signs of deficiencies, these signs can include; Phosphorus reductions in turf density and root growth, reddening or yellowing of leaf margins, death of mature leaves and poor seed development. Phosphorus deficiencies in turf can also be described as a dark green colour that progresses to a purplish to reddish purple colour in the older leaves; visually turf stands will appear wilted which may be confused with the onset of drought stress. The availability of phosphorus to turf can be affected by numerous factors including soil moisture, soil temperature, fertilizer application, and soil clay content, but the primary factor in phosphorus availability is soil pH. Soil pH levels do not have a direct affect on phosphorus, but are an indicator on how certain minerals will interact with phosphorus in the soil; this interaction will affect the availability of soil phosphorus. Soils with a pH level less than 5.0 or higher than 7.0 will have reduced phosphorus availability. At pH In order to manage soil phosphorus levels for economical turf levels lower than 5.0, phosphorus will react with high levels of iron management and environmental land stewardship turf managers and aluminum, creating iron or aluminum phosphate minerals. Soil must understand the different forms of phosphorus with in the soil. with a pH level higher than 7.0 has a high concentration of calcium Soil phosphorus can exists in three completely separate and different which will react with phosphorus, producing unavailable calcium forms; soluble (1%), organic (40-50%) and inorganic (40-60%). phosphate. These three different forms are in constant equilibrium with each A possible solution to correcting low or high pH soils is the other, meaning phosphorus is constantly moving from either a soluble addition of lime to acidic soils with a pH lower than 5.0 and or insoluble form within the soil. It is important to know that elemental sulphur to basic soils that are well above a pH of 7.0. The phosphorus only in its soluble form is available to turf. amount of lime that needs to be applied to an acidic soil can be easily With sufficient phosphorus levels the overall quality of turf is calculated from the soil's buffer pH and the limestone's agricultural enhanced as phosphorus is involved in many fundamental processes index (A.I). The addition of sulphur on the other hand to basic soil including, photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation, protein and carbohydrate is somewhat more difficult to predict and correct. A typical soil can metabolism and most importantly root development. The table below contain anywhere from one to five percent lime. At the five percent provides ideal phosphorus levels for a proper fertilization program, level, the top three inches of soil can contain up to 25 tonnes of lime. this information can help determine if soils contain sufficient amounts These higher calcium levels may require an application of up to of available phosphorus for proper turf development eight tonnes of elemental sulphur to amend this pH problem, not a practical solution for established turf. These high sulphur rates Optimum Phosphorous Range would need to be applied prior to turf establishment, which make soil testing prior to turf establishment so vital in correcting any soil problems. On established turf no more than 5 pounds of elemental Soil 0-6Cation Exchange7-15 Capacity16-25 (CEC) 26+ sulphur per 1000 ft2 should be applied in one application. Parts Per Million 56-93 44-83 34-55 24-43 Potassium Soil 0-6Cation Exchange 7-15 Capacity16-25 (CEC) 26+ Parts Per Million 91-180 121-240 121-240 201-400 present within the soil. This tendency for excessive uptake is called luxury consumption because the excess potassium absorbed does not increase turf quality. This excessive uptake of potassium by turfgrass is stored in the blades of the plant; the removal of grass blades from the After nitrogen and phosphorus, potassium is the third most likely area through mowing will also remove this collected potassium. On essential nutrient to limit plant productivity. Many soils are rich in average 3 to 4 lbs of K/1000 ft2 are removed annually when clippings potassium although only one to two percent of soil potassium is readily are exported from a mown site. The combination of turf's tendency to available for turf uptake. The remaining potassium is stored in two over consume large quantities of potassium combined with the different forms known as slowly available and relatively unavailable. removal of grass clippings during mowing may potentially lead to Slowly available potassium typically constitutes one to ten percent of potassium deficiencies within the soil, eventually affecting the health of the potassium in a soil profile while the remaining ninety to ninety­ turfgrass. eight percent is relatively unavailable. Correct potassium levels are vital for chlorophyll, protein and starch What does this mean to a turf manager? production, turf movement (stomata opening & closing), as well as Turf managers need to consider several factors when reviewing test turf respiration. Potassium is especially important in helping turf adapt results for phosphorus levels. If results indicate low levels, they need to to environmental stresses. Good potassium nutrition is linked to ask themselves what are the causes for this deficiency. One common improved drought tolerance, enhanced winter hardiness, better cause for inadequate phosphorus levels is a high (above 7.0) or low resistance to certain fungal diseases, and greater tolerance to insect (below 5.0) soil pH, if this is the situation turf managers need to pests. correct this problem by either applying sulphur or limestone. If a soil pH problem is not addressed, any phosphorus addition through fertilizer applications can become bound up in forms (ex. iron phosphate or calcium phosphate) that are not available for turf grass uptake. With regards to potassium, turf managers need to be aware of turfs tendency of luxury consumption and soil's minute levels of available potassium. Disregarding these two vital factors along with other limiting factors that were mentioned above may quickly lead to deficient potassium concentrations in the soil and eventually within the turf. Without proper levels of available soil phosphorus and soil potassium the overall health of turf could be greatly compromised. Weakened unhealthy turf would become more prone to insect and disease invasion which would certainly increase operating costs. Finally Figure 2. Median ammonium acetate equivalent soil test K levels in ppm. and most importantly is the public's enjoyment that comes from a high A deficiency in potassium will typically begin in older leaves as quality recreational turf area, any decrease in turf's quality would be chlorosis, followed by necrotic lesions (spots of dead tissue) at the leaf greatly diminish an individual's pleasure. margins. The most common causes of potassium deficiencies are under fertilization, restricted root growth from soil compaction Reference (potassium uptake is through root interception) and low cation Ministry ofAgriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Publication 611 (1998). Soil Fertility exchange capacity on constructed sand soils. Sandy soils have minute Handbook. Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Queen’s Printerfor Ontario. amounts of clay and organic matter, resulting in very few exchange Brady, N.C., Weil, RR (1996). The Nature and Properties of Soils. (11th Edition). sites. Potassium, as all other cations are subjected to rapid leaching Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, USA: Prentice Hall. from sand based low organic matter soils. In these types of soils it is Hopkins, W.G., (1995). Introduction to Plant Physiology. Toronto, Ontario, Canada: better to maintain lower K values and apply K fertilizers with multiple John Wiley & Sons Inc. applications annually. The table below provides ideal potassium concentrations for environmentally and economically sound MDS Harris Laboratory Services. (no date). Potassium in Turf Grass. RetrievedJuly potassium fertilization programs. Based on the information below, turf 20 2006, from http://turf.mdsharris.com/edueation_train/pdfs/phosphorus_CG.pdf managers can determine if their soils contain adequate amounts of MDS Harris Laboratory Services. (no date). Phosphorus in Turf Grass. RetrievedJuly potassium for proper turf development. 20 2006, from http://turf.mdsharris.com/education_train/pdfs/Potassium_in_turf_ Grass.pdf Optimum Potassium Range A&L Canada Laboratories Inc.. (no date). RetrievedJuly 20 2006, from The uptake of potassium by turfgrass is often quite large. Turfgrass http://www.al-labs-can.com/techs/tech_SoilOptLevels.html will typically absorb far more potassium than is required for proper Fixen, P.E. “Soil Test Levels in North America. ” “Better Crops with Plant Food”. turf development if sufficiently large quantities of potassium are Volume 90, No. 1 (2006): 4-7. University of Guelph update Eric Lyons, Assistant Professor, Dept, of Plant Agriculture elyons@uoguelph.ca Katerina Jordan, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Plant Agriculture kjordan@uoguelph.ca Rob Witherspoon, Director, Diploma in Turfgrass Management, Dept. of Plant Agriculture robwith@uoguelph.ca he Diploma in Turfgrass Management program is now T in its 5th year on the Guelph Campus. Many readers of Green is Beautiful are graduates of the Associate Diploma in Horticulture and may be unfamiliar with the new program that focuses specifically on turfgrass management. The program was started in 2003 when the “old” associate diploma programs were transferred from the main University of Guelph campus to the Kemptville and Ridgetown College campuses. As many graduates of the previous Associate Diploma in Horticulture were turf focused, and the university’s turfgrass expertise resided in Guelph, a new Associate Diploma in Turfgrass Student intern rolling a green at Menon Golf Club, Ardmore, Management was created. It fills a need for specialized Pennsylvania (photo by Eric Lyons) training in this demanding and growing field. Required The program was designed for students who have courses continue to include soil science, plant biology and experience in turfgrass management and are looking for landscape design and management, but it is all done the next step to achieve their goals. The age of the within the context of educating future turfgrass managers. students varies greatly from recent high school graduates There are also courses in turfgrass diseases, turfgrass to established professionals looking to move ahead in weeds and insects, equipment management and their second careers. Many of the students entering the maintenance, and three courses in turfgrass management. program have in fact already earned a four-year degree. Courses are also offered in a number of other related The goal is to challenge everyone in the program and areas as well including environmental stewardship, human produce the highest quality graduates possible. Today’s resources and business and financial management. turfgrass managers face significant management challenges and having highly trained and qualified professionals in the field makes the job easier to handle. The program is taught by a variety of instructors, some of which are full-time faculty at the University of Guelph, and others who are sessional lecturers chosen because of their experience in the field of turfgrass science and management. We base a number of our courses on basic science rather than just applied turfgrass management, giving the students a broader and stronger knowledge base when they head out into the field. This arms our graduates with the ability to problem solve in previously unknown situations, making them more capable and adaptable turfgrass managers. During the program, students have the opportunity to gain a number of additional credentials including pesticide applicators, integrated pest management and chain saw safety Ron Schiedel, President of Greenhorizons Group ofFarms, showing the certification. latest in sod harvesting technology to students (photo by Rob Witherspoon) One essential part of the learning experience in the please let us know and perhaps you could be involved in program is the internship, or experiential learning that the program as a guest speaker. The student run Turf occurs in the summer between the first and second years Club is always looking for speakers as well to share their of the program. Classrooms and laboratories have experiences in the industry. If you are doing something limitations and nothing can replace the actual act of doing interesting on your course and are within reasonable and learning from current turfgrass managers. We driving distance of Guelph, let us know and perhaps we encourage students to venture out and try to find new can bring a busload of students to learn from you right on experiences and learn new methods during this time. Some of our students have elected to go abroad to the United States and Europe and others have elected to stay in Canada. We encourage any of you who are interested in becoming an internship supervisor to forward an internship posting. We encourage our students to have their internships lined up by the end of January although many make their internship plans during the Christmas break so early postings are strongly encouraged. There is significant competition for the limited number of student interns available so anything that differentiates your internship opportunity from others is encouraged. We do our best to instruct students to bring a positive, learning attitude to their internship and be prepared to distinguish Turfgrass Diploma students at Hamilton Country Club helping prepare themselves from the regular summer employee. for the 2006 Canadian Open (photo by Jonathan Hughes) Enrolment in the program is limited and initial applications are due in early January. Applicants are your property. required to provide details of their interests and Since the first graduating class of 2005, over seventy aspirations as professional turf managers as well as graduates from the program have headed out into the information about their previous experience along with work force. Although some have changed career paths references. If you have any staff that you think may be into other areas, the vast majority are employed in turf interested in pursuing a career in turf management, management. Graduates are working as golf course please encourage them to contact us. superintendents, assistants or lead hands, irrigation and spray technicians, equipment operators as well as sod growers and sports field managers, or have leadership roles in landscape management and construction companies. Although the majority of graduates work across Canada, graduates are also working in Australia, Germany and the United States. The rapid success of the program is built on the solid foundation created by the previous Associate Diploma in Horticulture program and the tremendous support we have received from alumni, industry suppliers and other turf management professionals. Your continued support in promoting the program to potential students working University of Guelph campus landmark "Old Jeremiah " was sodded in the fall of2005 courtesy of the 07A ADTM class (photo by Rob Witherspoon) within your organization, providing valuable internship opportunities to students or being a guest speaker is Reaching out to alumni and other experienced turf critical to the long term success of both the Guelph managers is important as well. If you have an interesting program and the industry in Ontario, Canada and professional experience to share with students such as a beyond. If you have any questions about the program, renovation project or other challenges you have faced, please contact us. Off the fairway ... Season Re-cap There are flurries when I look out and will our native plants succumb to some foreign pest? my window now and just over a week Those of us in the know feel just a bit uneasy about how ago it was in the high twenties. powerless we are against the big things that nature throws Weather extremes aside, the most at us. We have to watch and wait a little bit and in the worrying fact is that we have had a meantime do the best we can to bolster our resources and fraction (40%) of the yearly ‘norm’ of supply the best conditions we can for plants to grow. precipitation. As landscape managers Luckily native plants did well this year. This is rather a and gardeners, we must remember gross generalization but it did seem to me that native by Daisy Moore that it is tough on plants when they go plants both in their natural habitat and as plants in in to the winter dry. ornamental gardens, flourished this season. This bodes As a reminder, we started the year in short sleeves and well in the grand scheme of things. Prairie species in followed this with a white Easter. Hot weather arrived early particular were able to grow through the bizarre and my records show that our working season began, three conditions of the spring and flower as they usually do in weeks ahead of last year. Spring, as we distantly remember the heat of the summer. Despite the shortage of rainfall it, didn’t really happen. Rain was hard to come by but and extreme conditions, natural landscapes are showing came just enough in May to make spring gardening and remarkable resilience. planting jobs possible. Timing has been critical. The Other areas, like my lawn, did not fair so well. Billowing season was pushed ahead, flowers started early and masses of creeping Charlie consumed the dormant grass in vegetative growth was robust. We had a particularly a similar fashion that the grubs did 3 years ago. Common floriferous Mother’s Day. Since then the shortage of mallow did the same sort of thing to my neighbour. Mass rainfall has been the main story and controlling factor for execution can come in many forms. the season. 2007 was a great year for growing turfgrass but a tough Fall planting was delayed due to dry soil. Watering the year for gardens. For the health of both I hope we have a plants is one thing, but watering to re-saturate the soil is wet December, a cold winter and then we have something quite another. October brought rain and with it a re­ more predictable to work with in the spring. growth in the garden. Many plants went into dormancy during the extended drought and the addition of water Daisy is a horticulturist. She operates a garden design and brought them to life, late in the season. Time will tell consulting business from her home in Elora. which plants will flourish and which will suffer and which She is the host of the radio program, “Ask the Gardener” Saturdays plants will be favoured by our modernized natural 1 -2:00 on am5 70. Gardening Show ”. selection. Will southern weeds become more aggressive "We Sell & Transplant Large Trees" • Dedicated exclusively to Large Tree Transplanting Mark Schneider www.douglaswood.ca Technical Sales • 25 Years of Experience • Nursery Grown, Common & Rare Trees Maple Turf Supply Business: (905) 857-2000 8112 King Rd. W. Fax: (905) 857-8215 • Projects from 1 -1000 Trees P.O. Box 370 Mobile: (519) 372-5181 Bolton, Ontario 1-800-268-4425 1 800.353.3019 • T. 519.856.2771 • F. 519.856.1447 L7E 5T3 Email: m___schneider@sympatico.ca RO. Box 339 Rockwood ON Canada N0B 2K0 David C. Smith, a.ag., c.g.c.s. 185 Oriole Crescent Soil & Turfgrass Consultant Gravenhurst, Ontario P1P1C6 890 Fairground Rd. R.R. #4 Langton Ont. N0E 1G0 Office (705) 687-SOIL (7645) Phone (519) 875-4094 Fax (519) 875-4095 Fax (705) 687-3518 Toll Free 1 -888-607-TURF (8873) Website: mastersturfsupply.com Cell (905) 512-6004 Email dave@dcsturf.com email: mastersturf@uniserve.com Above the hole by Rafik Lang-Bismillah, Student & Intern Senjan Golf Club, Fergus I'm writing this article outside, on an unbelievably warm backdrop of bare trees and fallen dead leaves, the greens October afternoon, and not surprisingly I’m distracted. glow bright green. The course now sits like an oasis in the Worse still than attempting to write outside, was trying to midst of a world drying up and preparing for a long sleep. write sitting in the shop. Granted, it probably didn’t help An entirely new dimension is added to the joy of being on that I had my laptop precariously perched atop a pallet of the course in this weather. That familiar childhood sound sand, or that my “office” chair doubles as a topdresser - but of leaves crunching underfoot excites the senses. The crisp you work with what you have. My quest to find a suitable refreshing breath of cool autumn air as you stand on the place to work has brought me from the confines of the first tee, promises to relax. Afternoons such as this make library out onto the course. This new setting was you feel as though you’ve really discovered a hidden gem. rationalized under the pretense that being outdoors was Like some secret corner of the world where the sun shines more conducive to writing, as apposed to sitting in the just for you, and follows you around the course. Where no sterile, church like silence of a library. I thrive on ambient matter how you play the round, or what tedious clean-up noise, or perhaps the answer is simpler still; it was just a task you have, you can really feel rewarded. perfect autumn day. If inspiration was what I was searching for by coming out So after much back ache and near fatal drops to the to the course, then I certainly found it. So often in life computer I find myself here; on a bench by the sixth hole, people are forced to evaluate their lives and find some watching golfers scramble to get their final rounds of the sense of meaning in what they do. I’ve discovered mine season in. It is one of those days that you know you have to this morning, sitting on a bench overlooking the sixth enjoy, because they are few and far between and gone hole. It’s a picture perfect setting and if not for that golfer before you realize it. The initial explosion of autumn cursing his lost ball, it would be serene. If my laptop colours has passed to allow for the far less spectacular sight manages to survive a few more bumps I might be spared of bare trees. Everything else on the other hand stands out having to give up this ‘office’ until my fingers turn blue. and shines in the strong mid-afternoon sun. Against the Braemar Building Systems Custom Design Quality Buildings Competitive Prices • Maintenance Buildings • Storage Facilities • New Buildings • Wood & Steel Structures For your FREE ESTIMATES call us at 1-800-215-1996 www.braemarbuildings.com Looking back 15 YEARS AGO TO-DAY by Barry Endicott The Board of Directors in 1992 were : Rhod Trainor Michigan State University, meeting with GTI researchers to (pres), Hamilton Golf & C.C. , Dave Gourlay (vice), Eagle discuss how to meet turfgrass research needs. The OGSA Creek Golf Club, Mark Hagen (past), West Haven Golf & was busy making plans for our office to move into the GTI C.C., Simon George (editor), Oakville Golf Club, Bill Fach, in 1993. The OTRF Tournament was held at Mad River, on Rosedale Golf Club, Dennis Pellrene, Scarborough Golf August 10th. Club, Rick Serrao, Glendale Golf & C.C., John Taylor, The first Annual Ontario Turfgrass Symposium was held Twenty Valley Golf Club, Alex LaBelle, Carlton Golf and in early January at the University of Guelph. The OGSA Yacht Club, Bruce Burger, Lakeview Golf Club, Doug joined with the GTI and allied turf groups in forming a 3- Suter, Credit Valley Golf Club and Mark Schneider, Beach day education and trade show. The committee met at the Grove Golf & C.C. Cindi Charters was office secretary. University of Guelph and consisted of Annette Anderson, The membership of the OGSA has doubled over the Mira Stone, Paul Dermott, Thom Charters, Roger Garbutt, past 7 years to 386 members. Mark Malott of Woodslee, Bob Sheard, Glen Dowling and Mark Hagen. Ontario was the recipient of the 1992 Ontario Golf The Golf Equipment Technicians Association of Superintendents Association Award presented by David Ontario was formed on February 8th. A meeting was hosted Ward of the University of Guelph. In memoriam, Vincent by Fraser Barrett, President who is the mechanic at the Piccolo, long time member, passed away on November 21st National Golf Club. A curling meeting was held at North Construction of the Guelph Turfgrass Research and Halton G&CC on April 11th hosted by Allan Beeney, who Education Centre was started in the winter and was also had the winning team consisting of Paul Scenna, completed in the fall. OMAF donated $250,000 for the Simon George and Keith Rasmus. Thom Charters, from development of the research plots on the site. A site Weston Golf and CC, was chosen by the CGSA as development workshop was scheduled for mid-November “Superintendent of the Year”. The CGSA Canadian with Jim Snow, USGA Green Section and Paul Rieke of Conference was held in early December in Halifax. The way we were... answer from page 17th. In 1991, OGSA President, Mark Hagen (left) presents plaque to Rhod Trainer for hosting the Ontario Amateur Golf Championships at Hamilton Golf & Country Club. Milton 1.800.263.4112 King City 1.866.703.KING www.vandenbussche.com Rain Bird Decoders Trusted & Proven at Over Forty Ontario Courses Survey Now Available The Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation and the University of Guelph are conducting a study on - The Economic Profile of the Ontario Turfgrass Industry The University of Guelph and the Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation are conducting a research study on the economic profile of the Ontario turfgrass industry. This study is the first comprehensive economic review of the turfgrass industry in more than 20 years. The study will help us understand and raise awareness about the importance of the turfgrass industry to the province and the country. We would like to ask you for your participation in this study by filling out this survey. Survey can be accessed from www.golfsupers.on.ca Information on Homepage till Dec. 30th. Your participation is crucial to this research. If you have any questions or require a hard copy of the survey please contact either: Kate Tsiplova (519) 824-4120 x 58343, ktsiplov@uoguelph.ca or Katerina Jordan (519) 824-4120 x 56615, kjordan@uoguelph.ca May the quiet joys of this Holiday Season Surround you and yours with the promise of Peace. From the directors and staff at OGSA Turf or consequences by Doug Breen, Superintendent Golf North Properties Tonka Today I spent the day doing one of my favourite things universe, and everything. in the world. I watched a very large piece of yellow If I had a billion dollars, I’d buy the biggest excavator equipment dig a very big hole. There’s nothing like it in that I could find and put a big honking Tonka logo right the world. I don’t know whether it’s the massive amount on the side of it. Then I’d roam from town to town like of hydraulic power, the sound of a big diesel engine, or the The Littlest Hobo, helping random strangers with their hole fact that an entire day’s worth of hand labour can be digging problems. “Hello there friend, you look like you accomplished in ten seconds by flicking one’s wrist, but it could use someone to dig a basement and foundation for makes me as giddy as a schoolgirl. It always has. I think you. Would you like an unnecessarily large pond in your most guys feel the same. front yard while I’m here? Maybe a swimming pool for the It starts with Tonka trucks. They’re yellow, and steel, kids?” Then perhaps I could find other people in town and heavy, and nearly indestructible. You can fill them who needed holes filled up, and help two people at once. with dirt, play with them in the water, and leave them I could be a hero to the “Clean Fill Wanted” crowd. Maybe outside in the sandbox for years without any real damage. I’d even get a yellow super hero suit with a little black cape I once tied two of them to my feet and roller-skated down and call myself Tonkaman. I may do that anyway. a hill. You try that with a plastic truck, or the pink According to the internet, which we all know is never Corvette that Barbie drives! Big Jim’s Sport Camper can wrong, The Tonka Toy Corporation was founded in 1946 only be outside for a month before the UV radiation will as a sideline to a company in Mound, Minnesota that make the plastic disintegrate. Big Jim’s not man enough made metal tie racks and gardening equipment. They for a Tonka; he won’t even fit in the cab, although you can named the trucks tonka; a Dakota-Sioux word meaning get a Star Wars action figure in there. I never let Luke “big” or “great” (which explains that wrestler from the Skywalker drive my trucks though, he’s too much of a 80’s), and within ten years it was about all they were whiner. Han Solo wouldn’t let him fly the Millennium manufacturing. Although they still make barbeque grills, Falcon for the same reason. which seems strangely appropriate. I’d like to do a TV I had two brothers, no sisters, and a sandbox the size of show about me cooking various meats on a Tonka a small farm. In that sandbox was a fairly serious barbeque. collection of Tonka equipment. Backhoes, excavators, So tomorrow I go back to “supervise” the heavy bulldozers, dump trucks, earthmovers, you name it - we equipment operator, who thinks I’m a loser with nothing had it. As a farm kid, we also had a nice collection of Ertyl better to do but stand there all day watching him dig a tractors and other toy farm equipment; heck, by the time hole. And of course there are other things I could be I was eight I was driving real tractors, but there’s still doing, but nothing I’d rather do. nothing like big yellow construction equipment. I used to love watching Mighty Machines with my kids on TV. I won’t lie to you, I still watch it. Even with the narrator and the cartoony voices, there’s still something very manly about the moving of large quantities of material. And what a great idea for a show. This guy gets to run around with a Betamax camera, filming stuff I’d love to watch all day. I wish I could figure out how to make money filming other things I like to do. Any chance that I could develop a series called Great Meals I have Eaten, or Me Playing Really Nice Golf Courses? There really ought to be a Mighty Machines episode that followed the construction of a golf course. That would be the single greatest cinematic achievement in the history of life, the We consider it an Art. We’ve been in the turf fertilizer business for more than 15 years, and it shows! When you only have one thing on your mind, you tend to get really good at it. Nu-Gro uses proprietary nitrogen technologies such as Nutralene® Nitroform® and SCU® to give you the best greens, tees, and fairways. Turn to Nu-Gro Golf for maximum results on your high quality turf. The trusted technology behind every bag of Nu-Gro Golf. Nutralene* and Nitroform* are registered trademarks of Nu-Gro America Corp. SCU* is a registered trademark of Zeneca Corp. nu-groturf.com TURF CARE "Season Greetings and best wishes for the New year" from the Staff at Turf Care Reach the far corners of the earth. And the curves, the edges, the doglegs. Turf Care Products Canada 200 PONY DRIVE, NEWMARKET, ONTARIO L3Y 7B6 • PHONE (905) 836-0988 FAX (905) 836-6442 London Mississauga Scarborough Gloucester Ph: (519) 668-7664 Fax: (519)668-3722 Ph: (905) 890-6290 Fax: (905) 890-5598 Ph: (416) 298-2101 Fax: (416) 298-8758 Ph: (613) 822-1881 Fax: (613) 822-2099 The Toro Reelmaster 3100 and Groundsmaster 3500. Both have patented Sidewinder technology, allowing them to shift their reach 24" from one side to the other. 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