Green Summer 2013 is Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association Superintendents Doing More: Going the 'Extra' Mile ALSO INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Forget Snedeker and Mahan, Where is Luke List? Alternative Broadleaf Controls Combating Fierce Disease Pressure CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT No. 40027105 Postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to The OCSA, 328 Victoria Rd. S., Guelph, ON N1L 0H2 Spectacular Turf May Not Be Rocket Science .. But it's CLOSE Perhaps it’s not rocket science, but like you, our success depends on applying expert knowledge to a very complex system - a job far more complicated than it may first appear. We’ve spent millions and worked for almost 10 years defining the science behind INSIGNIA® Fungicide and the benefits unique to INTRINSIC™. We invite you to discover the INTRINSIC benefits of INSIGNIA on your course. Imagine; improved quality, better colour, higher stress tolerance, more vigorous root growth versus commonly used commercial fungicides. Perhaps it’s not rocket science, but after 140 years of high-tech discoveries aimed at making life easier... it’s very close. Discover more about some of the INTRINSIC™ benefits of using INSIGNIA® Fungicide at www.BetterTurf.ca BetterTurf ™ is a trade-mark of the BASF group of companies, INTRINSIC is a trademark of BASF SE and INSIGNIA is a registered trademark of BASF corporation, in each case used with permission by BASF Canada Inc. © 2013 BASF Canada Inc. All rights reserved. Always read and follow label directions before product use. PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE Green is W e are in the midst of yet another season of record­ breaking weather, not from heat this time, but from Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association rain. It seems every year Mother Nature provides yet another challenge. Editor Recently, many courses around Ontario, and, especially Justin Parsons the GTA, experienced some level of flooding and subsequent justinparsons@engageagro.com damage. Moreover, as I write this message, we are once again Publisher & Advertising Manager experiencing scorching temperatures with high humidity. Terry Davey by Rob Gatto Such is summer in Ontario, I suppose. Hopefully, when you terry@blenheim.ca OGSA President read this, course reconstruction will be complete and the Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 102 affected courses will all be playable once again. Administration Manager The torrential rains of earlyjuly caused the OGSA to cancel our Presidents’ Diane Davey Day Tournament, which was scheduled to be held at Weston Golf & Country diane@blenheim.ca Club onjuly 15th. It was unfortunate for all those registered, and, in particular, Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 103 for host Superintendent Rob Ackermann. Many clubs see the value in a day Production & Design of networking and camaraderie with the decision makers at their clubs, and Jeanette Thompson it is unfortunate that they were unable to enjoy the event in 2013. We look jeanettethompson@mac.com forward to next year’s tournament, which is scheduled for Westmount Golf 8c Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 101 Country Club in Kitchener, Ontario with host Superintendent Cory Janzen. Green is Beautiful is published four times a year (November / March / June / August) The OGSA has been working hard on Conference 2014 and our 90th by Blenheim INK for: Anniversary. We are delighted to announce that we will be inviting all our retired past presidents, honorary members, and 50 year members and their partners, to be our guests at the 90th dinner and show, to be held on Thursday, January 23, 2014 at the Westin Harbour Castle. Many of these folks have made strong contributions to the association throughout the years and have helped to build it into what it is today and we want them all to be there Ontario Golf Superintendents' to help us celebrate this milestone. Association Our conference pages on the OGSA website are comprehensive, and Sally Ross, Executive Manager online registration is now open. Your all inclusive registration package will Guelph Turfgrass Institute include everything listed on the conference schedule, including the 90th 328 Victoria Road South Guelph, ON N1L0H2 celebration; an evening with Colin Mochrie and Deb McGrath. Along with all the great food and entertainment, you can acquire all your IPM points Tel: 519-767-3341 required for the year! Toll Free: 877-824-6472 Fax:519-766-1704 The Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament, our season ending event, is Email: manager@ogsa.ca scheduled for October 7th, 2013 at Trafalgar Golf & Country Club with host www.ogsa.ca Superintendent Mark Prieur. I hope to see everyone there, and until then, best wishes for the balance of the season. ■ Published by Blenheim INK Administration Office: 4305 Fairview Street, Suite 232 Burlington, ON L7L6E8 Premium Products Production Office: for all Your Turf Needs 1727 King Street East, Cambridge, ON N3H 3R6 PO Box 7, Waterloo, ON N2J3Z6 Toll Free: 1-877-618-8696 Fax:519-340-0293 Tel: 519-886-0557 www.blenheim.ca Fax: 519-886-0605 1-800-465-5849 MIX Paper from responsible sources www.oscturf.com FSC® C008820 INSIDE THIS ISSUE INDEX OF ADVERTISERS ALLIANCE AGRI-TURF 21 www.allianceagri-turf.com ALMACK AGRONOMIC SERVICES INC. 29 AQUATROLS 28 www.aquatrols.com ARBORTURF SOLUTIONS 30 www.arborturfsolutions.com BASF TURF PRODUCTS 2 www.BetterTurf.ca BAYER 31 www.bayeres.ca BRAEMAR BUILDING SYSTEMS 7 www.braemarbuildings.com BURNSIDE 14 www.rjburnside.com DCS AGRONOMIC SERVICES 19 DIRECT SOLUTIONS 5 www.aatdirectsolutions.com DOUGLAS WOOD LARGE TREE SERVICE 25 www.douglaswood.ca 16 Feature: ENVIRO-SOL 11,13 Superintendents Doing More: www.envirosol.ca FAST FOREST 12 Going the 'Extra' Mile www.fastforest.ca GREEN HORIZONS GROUP OF FARMS 25 www.JustSodit.com In This Issue GREEN JACKET 29 www.GreenJacket.com/gib 10 Forget Snedeker and 11 At the Seniors Tournament HUSTLER GOLF 23 Mahan, Where is Luke List? www.hustlerturf.com 12 Pro Super Challenge Recap MANA QUALI-PRO 20 www.quali-pro.com/QPCanada/ In Every Issue MASTER'S TURF SUPPLY LTD. 19 www.mastersturfsupply.com 3 President's Message 21 Health & Safety NUTRITE 22 www.nutrite.com 5 Editorial Message 22 From Roots to Shoots ONTARIO SEED COMPANY www.oscturf.com 3 6 What's New 24 On the Road Again TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA www.turfcare.ca 28/32 TURF PROFESSIONALS CHOICE 12 8 U of G Update 27 Off the Fairway www.turfprofessionalschoice.com 13 Member Profile 29 Looking Back UNITED AGRI PRODUCTS INC. www.uap.ca 25 Nic Bell, Superintendent VANDEN BUSSCHE IRRIGATION 24 Muskoka Highlands Golf Links 30 Turf or Consequences www.vandenbussche.com 15 Golf Course Highlight ZANDER SOD CO. LIMITED 9 www.zandersod.com Wildfire Golf Club Green is GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL EDITORIAL COMMITTEE GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL 2013 Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association Justin Parsons Christian Kuhn Although every effort is made to check material for publication, the association is not Alan Dolick Reg Langen responsible for material published on behalf of Paul Grotier Cam Shaw its contributors. Jason Hanna Rod Speake All rights are reserved by the publisher and ON THE COVER Kevin Kobzan any reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Divot Filling Program, Although some trade names may be mentioned Donalda Golf & OGSA is committed to serving its members, in articles contained in this publication, no Country Club advancing their profession, and enriching endorsement is intended or implied by the Photo courtesy: Scott White the quality of golf and its environment. Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association. EDITORIAL MESSAGE y Grandpa always used to say that all likelihood, have barely enough time for family, yet here M it doesn’t cost anything to be they are trying to use whatever professional means they have at their disposal to give back to those in need. nice. It’s a very simple notion really, but one that often gets neglected. I’ve never been a PGA Tour professional either, but I Kindness towards others never hurts think we can all appreciate the kind of pressure these guys anyone. In fact, everybody wins. As are under. Especially the young gentlemen on tour who I read through the summer issue of need to make cuts at every event to put food on the table. Green is Beautiful, I am reminded of this Every tournament, every round, every shot could be the by Justin Parsons, concept and how sometimes it’s the difference between them moving forward in a career that Engage Agro Corp. smallest gestures at the unexpected they have devoted their lives to and going home broke and times that have the most impact. scrambling to find a new way to make a living. I’ve never been a golf course superintendent, but I’ve That’s why when you hear about a young PGA player been close enough to the position to know how demanding who lifts the ropes for two young kids during a practice a job it is. You are the “go to” guy for everything. Every round of the RBC Canadian Open, you can’t help but feel decision that is made for 150 to 200 acres of property touched by such a simple, yet extraordinary gesture. This comes down to your call. It all falls on your shoulders is a young man who devoted his entire afternoon to two and that’s a lot of responsibility when you think about it. kids and their enjoyment of the game at a time when he Especially when the environment that you are managing was preparing for another critical tour event. is in a constant state of change, yet the expectation is Lately in golf, there seems to be a lot of negativity. Between continual perfection. discounted rounds and budget cuts, legislation changes and That’s why when you hear stories of superintendents increased workloads, it’s sometimes tough to stay positive. who spearhead additional community initiatives above At a time when our game, and more appropriately, the and beyond the day-to-day golf course maintenance careers that are devoted to sustaining it are struggling, the operations, it is most impressive. These are guys who, in stories you are about to read mean all the more. ■ Contec Na Replace 0-0-17 with 10% Ca, 4% Mg, 14% S • Displaces sodium with gypsum (calcium sulphate) • Increases root mass and Na tolerance Canada's premier supplier of POLYON . with added Kelp (ascophyllum nodosum) controlled-release fertilizer technology, and Contec & Complete Course HOMOGENEOUS fertilizers • Contains essential nutrients for chlorophyll production • Quick dispersing 90 SGN HOMOGENOUS prill Contact Direct Solutions to learn how Contec- Na Replace can help your turf: West 800 663-2552 | East 855 228-2828 www.AATDirectSolutions.com WHAT'S NEW by Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Manager FROM THE OFFICE By the time this magazine arrives on your desk, our online registration for the Ontario Golf Course Management Conference and Trade Show will be open. Exhibitors have been reserving their booths over the past month, and before we know it, the conference will be upon us. The speaker line up is looking good for the upcoming conference and we are happy to have GCSAA President Patrick (Pat) R. Finlen speaking on the trade show floor on Friday, January 24th. Along with bringing greetings from the GCSAA, Pat will tell us about his year as GCSAA President and will also speak about being host to the US Open in 2012. In the office, we have recently Doug Breen, OGSA Immediate Past President, presented a plaque to Jeff Haynes, host superintendent of the Manulife Financial LPGA Classic held recently at Grey Silo Golf Club in Waterloo, Ontario. completed our own review of the IPMAP to see how our members are doing. We are delighted that almost 80 of all our members. We hope to set calendar. per cent of our OGSA members have up a display of old pictures on our Don’t forget to fill out our public reached Level 2 in the accreditation assigned tee deck, so if you are playing meeting survey for this year. The links program, and all courses where we in the tournament, don’t forget to have been sent out and are available have superintendent or assistant look us up! directly from our home page at members working, are registered in We will also be meeting with www.ogsa.ca the program. We wish to commend the CGSA to talk about their 50th Nominations for our distinguished the professionalism of our OGSA Anniversary in 2016, and will be service award are accepted at any time, members. attending the Paws in the Park but the deadline date is October 1st, We will once again be a sponsor at fundraiser for the Toronto Humane 2013. Scholarship applications are the upcoming OTRF golf tournament Society. Our attendance at this event due November 1st, 2013. Details are and presenting the OTRF with our is due to the monies received from available on our website under the annual donation of support on behalf Lebanon Turf for our “Ontario” dog SCHOLARSHIPS & AWARDS tab. of the year in the annual GCSAA dog Have a great balance of the season; MARK YOUR CALENDAR Welcome to Our New Members UPCOMING 2013 OGSA Tournament & Events Jeff Adams....................... Class F Colin Hindle...................... Class A Ballantrae G & CC Emerald Hills GC Perry Beausoleil.............. Class A Matthew Johns.................Class A Alex McClumpha Hylands Golf Club Baldoon GC Memorial Tournament Michael Keinan Gentry.... Class C Andrew Marsan................ Class C Silver Lakes G & CC Caledon Woods GC Trafalgar Golf & Country Club Susan Hill........................... Class F Vergeer Golf Inc...............Class E Milton, Ontario Lambton G & CC Andy Vergeer Monday, October 7,2013 Derrick Vergeer see you at the Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament on October 7th at Trafalgar Golf and Country Niagara on the Lake Golf Club Club! SUPERINTENDENT RECOGNITION Ranked Amongst Top Short Courses As part of the OGSA’s n the June 2013 issue of Golf Digest Superintendent Recognition Program, Doug Breen, OGSA Immediate Past Imagazine, Niagara on the Golf Club was ranked ninth in the Lake President, presented a plaque to Jeff publications Top Nine Short Courses Haynes, host superintendent of the Outside the United States list. Manulife Financial LPGA Classic held recently at Grey Silo Golf Club in The publication defines a "short Waterloo, Ontario. course" as one with fewer than 18 Once again, Jeff and his crew outdid holes and playable in two hours or themselves getting the course ready, less. The courses on this list were especially with the large amount of selected by Contributing Editor rain they received just prior to the John Barton and the magazine's tournament. Well done Jeff and the international affiliates. gals and guys at Grey Silo! Congratulations to Superintendent The OGSA also wishes to recognize Mike Magwood and his team the efforts of the grounds crew and for garnering such a prestigious Feature layout in GolfDigest Magazine. host Superintendent Andrew Gyba acknowledgement. Credit: Golf Digest Magazine of the RBC Canadian Open, held recently at Glen Abbey Golf Club. Well done! ■ 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 U of G UPDATE Alternative Broadleaf Controls ecent restrictions on the green industry in Ontario have R created a flurry of activity around developing selective broadleaf weed controls. While golf is exempt from the bans of traditional weed controls through IPM regulation, there still may exist interest in making the alternative weed controls work within your management program. Many golf superintendents are also in charge of the surrounding lawns of the course and it is important to remember that out of play areas such as lawns and clubhouse gardens are only allowed to receive Class 11 pesticides. Managing Expectations One of the biggest hurdles that turf managers using new alternative broadleaf weed controls have to overcome is the effectiveness of the traditional three-way broadleaf herbicide. The standard is set high by its ease of use combined with its safety and reliability. Traditional selective broadleaf controls in grasses have been in use since the 1940’s when 2,4-D was introduced and subsequently viewed as a miracle herbicide. Years later, in the 1960’s, dicamba and mecoprop were also introduced. This effectively meant that for 20 years the green industry was happy to have a broadleaf control that limited ability to reduce populations Figure 1. Weed control at 42 and 69 days after establishment of newly seeded of clover as well as a number of other weeds. Several years areas when using chelated iron product at different rates (blue bars) and applied many improvements have been made to these technologies at different weeks after germination (WAG) (green bars). including different adjuvants and special formulations to increase effectiveness and reduce phytotoxicity at different times throughout the year. These many years of pathogens, conditions must be right for infection to occur refinement have led to a product that is easy to use, safe and disease to develop and cause death to the host plant. For for the grass and very reliable under a number of different the homeowner or lawncare company where irrigation and conditions. To expect such a high level of performance timing of application are limited, this leads to a reduction from new technologies when they are first introduced is in the product’s usefulness as extended moisture is key unreasonable. Unfortunately, the pesticide restrictions in ensuring infection occurs. For golf course managers, were put into place immediately under the assumption that however, there is flexibility in application timing and water many viable options were waiting to be introduced into availability allowing this technology to potentially be more the market. This viewpoint was naive. Although there was effective. Recent research, performed at the University of not a flood of alternative products once the ban was put Guelph by Katerina Jordan and graduate student Cynthia into place, some products have been registered and others Siva, has shown under which conditions the pathogen are being developed that do show promise for controlling is most effective. The need for specific conditions for broadleaf weeds in turfgrass stands. infection to occur and the limitations in efficacy for non­ rosette style weeds limited the adoption of this bio-control Alternative Products herbicide. Their research will help with the refinement of The first product that was marketed in mass after the ban existing bio-control herbicides and with the development was a bio-control that contained Sclerotinia minor as the of new more effective alternative controls. active agent. Sclerotinia minor is a fungal pathogen of many Another new product that is widespread in the green broadleaf plants, but is not known to infect grasses. The industry is iron that has been chelated with EDHTA. pathogen is introduced in the turfgrass stand on grain Chelating agents are molecules that bind to charged particles and then has to grow and infect the undesirable metals such as iron and make them more easily absorbed plant in order to be effective. One of the limitations of this into plants. Chelated iron works based on the higher product was that the grains had to stay on the plant to allow toxicity of iron to broadleaves than to grasses. One the pathogen to infect, making it most effective on rosette limitation to the technology is, as is the case with many style plants. While effective on smaller broadleaf plants toxic elements, repeated exposure is often necessary like clover in trials, on an in-use stand, the inoculum would before death will occur. This creates a limitation since fall off the leaves into the soil, not allowing the fungus to repeated applications are necessary within a particular infect the plant. time frame and spot spraying becomes difficult because the Another limitation of this control was that like all previous weed sprayed may be smaller and harder to find due to the damage sustained from but have not come to market. Still the first application. Research at ,there are a number of new products the University of Guelph has shown awaiting registration to fill the void that chelated iron, when applied as left by the pesticide restrictions. a broadcast application 21-28 days These products will probably not be apart, is an effective broadleaf weed close to technology that has been control (Figure 1). Our research is optimized for over 60 years, but they performed under tight application will be a step closer to providing the standards where the product is green industry with alternatives. being applied at the proper rate These new technologies, while not with the proper spray volume. effective enough for in play areas, An important thing to remember may be ideal for your clubhouse lawns when working with new technologies Iron toxicity on plantain with the regrowth occurring and less important in play areas and is, while the products may not be as at the center of the rosette, requiring repeat applications will help you achieve some IPM goals optimized as they may be ten years forfull control. Photo credit: Pam Charbonneau by reducing traditional herbicide use from now, there is still more to a within your operations. herbicide than the active ingredient. The adjuvants and For more information on alternative weeds controls other materials within the product can change how well please visit the research section of the the GTI website at: the product works. One factor effecting plant uptake of www.guelphturfgrass.ca/research.html#reports metals is pH and using chelated iron that is not buffered properly for pH will not be as effective as one that is at the optimum pH for uptake. In addition, the material must Eric M. Lyons Ph.D., be applied at sufficient levels to cause toxicity, while not Associate Professor of Turfgrass Science, damaging the grass. The dark green colour iron gives University of Guelph grass is desirable in the golf industry at times, however, it Guelph, Ontario does result in a decrease in the health of the plant for a elyons@uoguelph.ca period of time (Figure 2). Our research on the safety to the grass of repeated applications of chelated iron have shown that the grass is less healthy, but it recovers. Also, despite the reduced health of the plant, visually the grass appears dark green, so rather than visual rating, we rate the health of the grass by the quality of light reflectance from the plant (NDVI). In the past few years we have tested a number of products for their effectiveness to control broadleaf weeds in turfgrasses and many of these products simply did not work. Others have shown potential applications in turfgrass TURF SERVICES • Drill & Fill Service • Aeration • Greens Venting • Interseeding • Deep Tine • Top Dressing • Vertical Mowing • Root Pruning • Sports Field Renovations Figure 2. The reduction of turfgrass light reflectance quality (NDVI) in response Sean Bradbury 905-505-5576 Email: sean@zandersod.com to repeated chelated iron applications throughout the season. No long lasting Dan Phillips 905-955-5047 Email: dan@zandersod.com Josh Tribble 647-522-4674 Email: josh@zandersod.com effects on visual turfgrass quality or growth were observed. L to R: CaddieJeff King, PGA Tour pro Luke List, Tyson and Kyle walk the 17thfairway together. PGA lour player Luke List answers many questions during his practice round. Photo credit: Mark Prieur RBC Canadian Open: Forget Snedeker and Mahan, Where is Luke List? by Mark Prieur, Superintendent Trafalgar Golf & Country Club omething pretty cool happened at The Glen Abbey S Golf Club a few weeks back during the RBC Canadian Open. In addition to the great conditions and fantastic golf, there was something else that occurred that never made it into the papers. After many visits to this storied course, it is interesting to see the club from an 11 and nine-year-old boy’s point of view. Despite the history of Open’s past, the smell of fresh cut grass and the sheer beauty of an impeccably maintained property, none of that seemed to even register with these boys, as they were about to be treated like golf royalty. After a few autographs from Allenby, Bubba and a stalwart caddie whose autograph only read “Fluff’, it was off to the valley holes. After all, no walk at the Abbey is complete without heading into the valley. L to R: Luke and Tyson, Jeff and Kyle pose for a post-round picture. This section of the golf course during the practice Photo credit: Mark Prieur round is not busy at all. The boys waited around for over Quietly both boys watched as Luke, a rookie on the half of an hour for a pro, any pro, to come through. And PGA Tour, hit a perfect shot into 12. “Wow Dad! Did you they weren’t disappointed as one player made his way see him drill that one?!” shouts Tyson, my nine-year-old, down to the 11th, then the par 3 12th to hit his shot. 36-handicapper. “Can we follow this pro,” asks Kyle, my Luke List. 11-year-old. As we head up to 12th and Tyson watched a pro talk to his Need some green, the pro generously hands a couple of his gloves to my wide-eyed caddie, discuss yardages and hit a very long ball - up close and personal. help recovering boys. No walk in the valley holes would from summer After watching Luke practice putt the 12th and crush a towering drive be complete without a personal escort with the tour pro up the steep stress? on the par 5 13th (Luke is ninth in 15th hill in a BMW SUV. Yes, the driving distance on tour and led all boys were treated as if they were truly pros at the RBC Canadian Open this a part of Luke’s team. year), Tyson asked to carry his driver After watching this whole thing back to the fairway. Not only did unfold, I was wondering who was Luke oblige the young boy, he asked enjoying the afternoon more, the if both Kyle and Tyson would like to pro and caddie or the boys. Indeed, go inside the ropes! Luke and Jeff’s generosity has Luke and his caddie, Jeff King, instilled in two young boys a love walked down the fairways with the for golf that will last the rest of their two boys while I took photos. Kyle lives. ■ At the Seniors Tournament The 8th annual Seniors Tournament was held August 6, 2013 at Mono Hills Country Club. Photo credit: Sally Ross by Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Manager draw was a veritable who’s who of OGSA history, and while eating my he temperate weather prevailed steak, one of fifty cooked by BBQ T once again, as the sun shone on the OGSA seniors for their chef extraordinaire, Pelino Scenna, 8thI enjoyed watching the camaraderie annual tournament on August 6, between this group. 2013 at Mono Hills Country Club. It was my pleasure to be able to Superintendent Nick Amsen had the announce that the association would course in wonderful condition for be inviting them to share our 90th the event. anniversary celebration, to be held at The low score of the day belonged the upcoming conference. Hopefully, to John Alpaugh from All turf, a we can entice some of our retirees newbie at this event. Upon my arrival away from the southern sunshine in the office the next day, I went this coming January, because our through my directory and checked younger members deserve to have off the folks I had met, most of whom the opportunity, like I did, to meet 1 877-785-1098 are listed in the past presidents, life, many of the builders of our great www.envirosol.ca and honorary member category. The association. ■ Hole #S, Qviinbyrd Golf Club Photo Credit: Sally Ross Pro Super Challenge Recap A great time was had by all participants at Oviinbyrd Golf Club on the 5th of June for the Pro Super Challenge. The rain held off with moderate temperatures and a mostly cloudy sky which made for comfortable playing conditions. Participants were all excited to play this exclusive layout and the course did not disappoint. In only one area of the Mark Prieur made presentations to Greg Aljoe, Host Superintendent, Oviinbyrd GC, Curtis Pitre, Host Golf property is another fairway visible and Professional, Oviinbyrd GC and Mike Powers, Superintendent, National Pines GC. while the McBroom designed course is only nine years young, it looks like it with a net score of 67 led the charge, The George Bowen Trophy was has existed for many years. followed by Jason Winter (Deer Ridge awarded to the team from National Mark Prieur, OGSA Director from GC) and Jason Crawford (Eagles Nest Pines, Superintendent Mike Powers Trafalgar G&CC acted as the emcee GC), who also snagged the longest and Golf Professional Kevin Bailie. and acknowledged the hard work and drive for the Supers. Skins winners who shared a $930.00 dedication of host Superintendent The Pro’s were well represented with prize pool were Jeremy Geer and Mike Greg Aljoe and host Golf Professional, their winners: David Miller (Hamilton Grierson from Rocky Crest GR, Marty Curtis Pitre as well as all the Oviinbyrd G&CC) came out on top with a gross Kopp and Emerson Mahoney from staff and GM Dave Gardiner. score of 73, followed by George Lacy, Brampton GCC, and John Taylor and Supers who had a great outing: Mary Pat Quilty and Colin Imrie Bob Culig from Grand Niagara GC. ■ Mike Powers (National Pines GC) (Westview GC). LARGE TREE SALES AND RELOCATION Phil Dickie - ISA Certified Arborist ON-0309A Compost Based Topdressing & Construction Mixes pdickie@fastforest.ca USGA Spec. Sand & Mixes 270 Shoemaker Street, Kitchener, ON N2E 3E1 WWW.TPCSAND.COM INFO@TPCSAND.COM 705.888.2689 P: (519) 748-6610 • F: (519) 748-6626 • www.fastforest.ca MEMBER PROFILE Look at Nic Bell these proven Superintendent at Muskoka Highlands Golf Links performers from Enviro-Sol by Reg Langen, Assistant Superintendent at Cardinal Golf Club in Newmarket. Richmond Hill Golf Club Fast forward a year later, and he took a position as a spray technician very summer thousands of working for Wayne Rath at Magna E Ontario cottage-goers make their way north to visit Muskoka. Known Golf Club in Aurora. The golf course was still being built at this point, and for its beauty, natural landscapes and this is where a new part of the industry 12-2-8 Sustane® fabulous golf courses, most people would trigger another one of Bell’s • SGN 100 think of Muskoka as a weekend passions. “I think everyone should • Homogeneous getaway. For Nic Bell, this is home. be involved in at least one grow- • 51% UFLEXX™ Bell started in the turf industry in of a golf course in their lifetime. • 30% Organic Matter working as a high school student at They were great experiences.” This the Bay of Quinte Golf and Country would not be his last chance to get • Ca, Mg, S, B, Fe, & Mo Club. After spending three seasons involved in the construction side working in the clubhouse, he of things. After leaving Magna Golf moved into the turf maintenance Club in 2003 to accept the position 0-0-35 Solu-K department. It was at Bay of Quinte of Assistant Superintendent at The • SGN 100 G&CC under both Jim Burlington Club at Bond Head, he got another • Formulated with Solu- and Peter Lucas, that Bell decided chance to get his hands dirty in the CalS® the turf industry was where he saw his construction aspect of the industry. future. His new found passion and Working under the tutelage of Ian • Contains CARBOXY® drive to become a superintendent McQueen, he stayed at Bond Head organic acid lead him to the Seneca College Golf until 2007, where he had a big hand • Ca, S, Cu, Fe, Mn & Zn Course Technician Program. It was in the construction and operation of after attending school that Bell’s both the North and South courses. career and life began to flourish. 30-2-6 In 1998, between his firstand second • SGN 200 year of school, Bell did his internship ...continued on page 14 • Four nitrogen sources including 40% Duration® and 35% UFLEXX™ • Phosphorous to promote new seedlings • S, B, Fe, Mn&Zn 1 877-785-1098 www.envirosol.ca Nic Bell, Superintendent, Muskoka Highlands GolfLinks Continued from page 13... only wish they could spend more time in. “Three grow-ins in eight years! It was a little exhausting I have to After just his first season as a superintendent, Bell was approached IN THE say, but an incredible experience. I wouldn’t have changed it for the by a friend who wanted him to take on a side project running a HOT SEAT world”, says Bell. company that installs synthetic turf. Q - Favourite major In 2008, a great opportunity arose; Their company, Real Golf West, A - The Open Championship the superintendent’s position at has done work for many golf clubs Muskoka Highlands Golf Links. around the Greater Toronto Area Q - Favourite piece of Muskoka was a long way from and has even serviced places like turf equipment Bradford where Bell, his wife and British Columbia, Massachusetts A - Toro 648 two children had just settled down, and Thailand. “We install everything but it was a decision that would from backyard putting greens, Q - Favourite golf course you give him his shot. Unlike some of driving range tees to lawn bowling haven't played? the other properties that Bell had facilities.” Bell somehow finds time in A - St. Andrews (Scotland) worked at, a smaller crew and smaller his already packed schedule to even budget meant a need to adjust his Q - Favourite golf designer? do some installations himself. Just management style and expectations. A - Stanley Thompson this past winter, Bell agreed to take The challenge was moving from golf on another set of responsibilities Q - Favourite course played clubs with so many staff to running by becoming the superintendent of outside of Canada? a very small crew and having to be a second golf club called Fairways A-The Black Pearl (Honduras) much more hands-on. at Kirrie Glen. Bell will oversee Nevertheless, it was time to pack operations at this club, as well as Q - Ultimate foursome and move to a place most people continue his responsibilities with A - Fred Couples, Jack Nicklaus, Muskoka Highlands and Real Golf Jose Maria Olazabal and West. “I was approached by The myself Burnside Fairways at Kirrie Glen to oversee the operations of their turf department. Q - Lowest round and where For the 2013 season, I will be splitting A - 63 at Muskoka Highlands Serving the Needs of the Golf Industry my time between the two properties Golf Links as the Golf Course Superintendent.” We can help with: If all of that weren’t enough, Q - Favourite movie he also sits on the board of A - Anchorman • Approvals for Golf Course Development and Operations directors of the Georgian Bay • Irrigation Water Supply Q - Favourite meal Golf Superintendent’s Association • Sewage Treatment and Disposal A - Masala Chops, Biryani Rice • Environmental Management Plans (GBGSA) and somehow finds time to and Chapati's • Building and Clubhouse Design Services help with the Muskoka’s Watershed • Irrigation Design and Consulting Council. Also, along the way he has • Environmental Impact Assessment Q - What's on your iPod? helped Muskoka Highlands achieve A - NWA and Snoop Dogg... • Drinking Water Assessment • Project and Construction Management Audubon certification. Two golf they are actually on CD's. courses, an artificial turf installation I'm not allowed to borrow Toll Free: (877) 799-8499 E-mail: vcirone@rjburnside.com company, two boards, a wife and two my kids' iPods! Website: www.rjburnside.com kids; these things would easily leave a lesser individual wondering where Q - Rate your home lawn on a the time has gone, but somehow scale of one to ten (1 worst, Bell makes it work. Certainly his 10 best) time management skills must be well A-2.5 developed and his impressive resume more than shows his extraordinary Q - What would you envision work ethic. Perhaps the best part yourself doing if you weren't is, he gets to do it all in beautiful working in the turf business Offices located throughout Ontario Muskoka. ■ A - Chef Members of OGSA, CGSA and Golfmax Suppliers to the NGCOA GOLF COURSE HIGHLIGHT Wildfire Golf Club 2349 Armstrong Lane, Lakefield, Ontario KOL 2H0 Tel: 705-877-9006 Email: bjulie@golfwildfire.com www.golfwildfire.com Golf Course Superintendent: Bill Julie Assistant Superintendent: Alan Dolick Hole #2 Photo courtesy: Wildfire Golf Club COURSE PROFILE Biggest Maintenance Challenge About the Course Managing thatch levels due to reduced play, which results in localized dry spots on fairways. Beautiful layout with two distinct areas of the course. The first 7 holes are much more wide open, consisting of penal bunkers A CLOSER LOOK and in play fescue areas. The remaining 13 holes are tight and treelined, accented by granite outcroppings. Host of the 2013 to What You Need to Know 2015 Canadian PGA TOUR's Wildfire Invitational. Predominant Grass Type: Established: 2003 Bentgrass greens, tees and fairways Original Architect: Tom McBroom Predominant Soil Type: Sand Type of Club: Private Type of Greens: Dominant Extreme Number of Holes: 18 Course Length: 5,188-6,745 yards Number of Rounds Annually: 11,500 Size of Property: 185 Acres Practice Facility: Driving range and short game Size of Greens: 3.5 acres Size of Tees: 3.5 acres Size of Fairways: 26 acres SuperintendentsDoing More: Going the Mile 'Extra' By Reg Langen, Assistant Superintendent and resources to help? Amazing things! Richmond Hill Golf Club) After reaching out to members across the province and listening to some great stories of truly Good Samaritans, t is pretty obvious at this point that golf course budgets these are a few great stories of people who found the time I are shrinking, time is limited, and finishing the tasks and resources to develop and implement community necessary on tight deadlines with less staff is a challenge programs that benefit everyone involved. in itself. What’s even harder, is finding any resources to do One of the most time consuming and tedious tasks on the little “extras” on the golf course, never mind devoting any golf course will forever be filling those pesky divots some of those resources to help other people. Most that are often left behind after a ball is struck. Back in the superintendents’ to-do lists are usually quite large, and often 1990’s, several golf clubs in the GTA found a way to limit include staff that need to be trained, turf that needs to be their club’s resources that they devote to this irksome duty, maintained, meetings to attend, piles of paperwork to deal all the while being able to offer employment opportunities with, and this doesn’t even take into account all the personal to handicapable adults. obligations that demand attention. With this in mind, it is Community Living Toronto participants (cltoronto.ca) completely understandable when someone says they would fill divots on tees and fairways all season long at golf clubs like to do more for their community, but just don’t have in the GTA area. The club pays this organization a small fee the time, not to mention the spare resources these gestures for this service, but it is significantly smaller in comparison often require. So what happens when somehow, despite the to what it would cost to have staff complete the job. It’s busy schedules and commitments, someone finds the time a great way to have an important, yet time consuming job • done by individuals who may not find other employment opportunities very easily. The best part is participants in the program really seem to enjoy and embrace the opportunity to work. Once the season is over, Community Living employees often stick around doing some indoor work throughout the winter. Although this is still great, most of them, like the rest of us, prefer to be out on the course. Superintendent Scott White of Donalda Golf and Country Club, says, “Honestly, we don’t hype this program enough, but I can tell you that our staff, as a whole, really embrace the program and they are all known and loved by the members.” Since the program started, more than a dozen courses in the GTA are on board and it has grown into a mutually beneficial and rewarding experience for everyone involved. Great work guys! Above: Vino is a participant in the divot filling program at Donalda Golf and ...continued on page 18 Country Club. Inset (hr): Staff members Kevin, Kyle, Vino and David. Photo courtesy: Scott White Zumba, named by the membership at Muskoka Highlands Golf Links, is a service dog in training Photo courtesy: Nie Bell Continued from page 17... the membership takes a vote to determine the new pups name, the most recent being Zumba. After each pup’s first Training Support Dogs birthday, they begin the intense aid dog training program There is no doubt that for many superintendent’s there and then the cycle starts all over. is one member of their team that they would never want It is not just all fun and games with the pup though, to be without; their loyal dog. One of the great benefits the “fosters” need to implement some basic training and of a superintendents position is they have the opportunity the pups are given a green cape, which they are required to bring their dog to work with them. Indeed, many to wear during “work time”. Most of the time the pups superintendents would never dream of giving up their just run around and cause Bell headaches by digging up loyal work companion, but what if you had to turn over this greens and gardens, but they quickly learn that when the employee every year? That’s exactly what Superintendent green cape comes out, it is all business. Nic Bell and the team from Muskoka Highlands Golf Links “They will walk right beside you and when you stop, they does every season. stop and sit. When sitting in a meeting, they lie down and Bell and the team at Muskoka Highlands assume the don’t bother anyone. They quickly realize that when the responsibility of guardianship and training a two month green cape is on it’s work time”, says Bell. old puppy every year. Now, these are not your every day To this point, the club has fostered a total of 13 dogs, 10 run-of-the-mill puppies; they are future support dogs for of which have gone on to pass the rigorous program and people with disabilities. become support dogs. This is an amazing statistic to say “Most people don’t understand how we can just borrow the least. Once Zumba has completed his first two months a dog for 10 months and then just give it back. Trust me of the intensive training program, Dog Guides Canada it’s hard sometimes because of how attached you get to (www.dogguides.com) will contact the club to pick up the dogs, but knowing you are helping someone in greater another puppy and begin the process all over again. Truly need far outweighs the disappointment of having to give a bittersweet labour of love! the dog back,” says Bell. The program began back in 1993 when Don and Joyce Fundraising for Educational Opportunities MacKay of Bracebridge, Ontario, decided to build a golf As we all know, golf course superintendents must conduct course on a vacant piece of land on the edge of town. their operations in an environmentally sensitive manner. During their first year of construction, their 15-year-old Most, if not all, golf courses currently do all they can to yellow lab Ramsey passed away, leaving a void with their help the environments they manage. Superintendent Neil family and no dog presence at their new facility. Acton and the team at Deer Creek Golf Club have taken Fast forward to later that same year and while travelling this one step further. to a conference in Vancouver, the MacKay’s stayed with Back in 2009, Deer Creek Golf Club teamed up with some friends who were training aid dogs and giving them the Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) a home for a period of a year. This sparked a great idea and initiated the Sunny Days for Conservation fundraiser and the beginning of an annual tradition. (www.sunnydaysforconservation.ca). The purpose is to The pups don’t come with a name, but with a “batch help the TRCA improve children’s outdoor education letter”. This allows the foster caregivers to name the dog, opportunities and create accessible outdoor recreation so long as the name begins with the batch letter. Every year in Durham region. The driving force behind this event Murray McLauchlan and the Canadian band, Lighthouse Photos courtesy: Neil Acton, Deer Creek Golf Club is a benefit concert, which provides the funding for include Ian Thomas, Cindy Church, Mark Jordan and elementary students from underprivileged areas in the Murray McLauchlan, who just returned for a second time Toronto and Durham regions to attend programs at the at this year’s event. Thanks to Neil Acton and the Sunny Claremont Outdoor Education Centre. This facility is Days committee for all your hard work. You guys rock! located just north of Pickering. It is a 160 hectare property A major skill that all superintendents employ is the ability along Duffins Creek, a cold water stream which offers a to manage the resources that they are provided with. Stories great place for kids to explore. To date, the show has raised like these ones show us that even with all the mounting upwards of $80,000, and this does not include the monies restraints, the industry finds ways to do more with less. The raised at this year’s event. The funds help maintain overlooked truth of these stories is, perhaps, that although and assess four kilometers of trails on the grounds at these programs are designed to help others in need, those Claremont, in addition to helping evaluate infrastructure who initiate them benefit as well. Many clubs obviously no improvements needed to support accessibility for guests. longer need to be as focused on finding time to fill divots, The money raised also goes toward promoting healthy someone gets to play with a puppy all the time, and a bunch living for Durham residents, supporting private land of people get to rock out while saving the environment. stewardship programs for rural and urban residents, and This seems like a win-win situation for sure. the restoration of the Atlantic salmon habitat in Duffins Certainly these are only a few of the many stories that Creek. For this year’s event, the proceeds were specifically could be told around golf courses in Ontario, which directed to building support infrastructure to aid in the exemplifies the type of great people we have in this industry. accessibility for all guests. If these stories are any indication, the superintendents The name Sunny Days for Conservation came from in Ontario are extraordinary people, who often use the the inaugural event which Canadian band Lighthouse resources they have to better the lives of those around headlined. Lighthouse allowed the concert to utilize them. Kudos to these clubs and to any of the other clubs their song Sunny Days as the theme. Some other notable that may be doing something similar to aid people in need Canadian artists that have since performed at the event in their own communities. ■ David C. Smith, C.G.C.S. 185 Oriole Crescent www.mastersturfsupply.com Soil & Turfgrass Consultant Gravenhurst, Ontario P1P1C6 P.O. Box 629 Office: 519-510-TURF (8873) Office (705) 687-SOIL (7645) 80 William St. W. Fax:519-510-8875 Fax (705) 687-3518 Toll Free 1 -888-607-TURF (8873) Harriston, ON, NOG 1Z0 Email: mastersturf@wightman.ca Cell (905) 512-6004 dave@dcsturf.com Some hazards are obvious Others are not Protect your turf against a full range of insect and disease pests with Quali-Pro®. Keep your course looking its best with time tested premium Quali-Pro turf protection products. Support choice and fair pricing: ask for Quali-Pro products by name. A superior formulation Same a.i. as Same a.i. as Same a.i. as A unique Same a.i. as with the same a.i. as Banner® MAXX Merit® 75 WSP Merit® 0.5G pigment spray Primo MAXX® Rovral® Green GT pattern indicator For further information please contact Don Surgeoner, Canadian Quali-Pro Manager at (519) 535-2409 email dsurgeoner@manainc.com or visit www.quali-pro.com/qualipro-canada/ ™ Know the Sign is a trademark and ® Quali-Pro is a registered trademark of FarmSaver.com, LLC. All others are registered trademarks of their respective companies. 12038.07.13 HEALTH & SAFETY WHMIS Update - Globally Harmonized System ince 1988 employers in Canada have phrases used for product A will be the same S been required to train all workers likely to be exposed or who work in close as the risk phrases on similar products. While there are still a number of details 8112 KING RD.WEST proximity to hazardous materials or any to be worked out, Canada is committed to BOLTON, ONTARIO L7E5T3 materials regulated by the Workplace implementing the GHS. Hazardous Materials Information System We expect new training requirements 1-905-857-2000 (WHMIS). that will most likely rely, to a greater Over the intervening years there has extent, on pictograms, which will be used www.allianceagri-turf.com been an ongoing effort to harmonize in an effort to address language literacy See Us for Cost Effective our WHMIS program with other WHMIS challenges. It is expected that there Custom Blends & programs around the world. This effort to will be new requirements for posting harmonize WHMIS with other countries information to ensure that it is readily All Your Dormant Fertilizer is now coming to fruition. available to all workplace participants. & Chemical Needs This means that all employers in For example, information about the Canada will soon be required to update pictograms will need to be posted in Water Soluble, Granular, their WHMIS programs to meet the places where the use of the controlled Liquid & Organic Fertilizers requirements of the new Globally substances is taking place and workers Harmonized System (GHS). Across- must know who to contact for more Bulk Spreader Service the-board retraining in WHMIS may be information. It is likely that training and needed in Canadian workplaces within updating of WHMIS information will be Full Line of Turf Chemicals the next few years upon the introduction much stricter in the future. of the GHS. The GHS is designed for The GHS puts greater reliance on Fall Booking Program in classifying and labelling chemicals and pictograms to communicate warnings. will introduce a universal template for It will take time and repeated exposure Effect for Significant Savings conveying product information in safety to the images before users associate a data sheets and a consistent labelling message with a symbol. Simon George format using updated pictograms. Current regulations require WHMIS Central Ontario, GTA & Niagara Manufacturers and suppliers will training for all workers who handle or 1-519-841-3378 also be required to follow new rules may be exposed to hazardous products. for identifying health, physical and WHMIS training should be reviewed by Mark Schneider environmental hazards that will give the Joint Health and Safety Committee Georgian Bay, Muskoka, users a more comprehensive disclosure and training updates are required if Western Ontario & Quebec of a product’s potential harmful effects. new controlled products have been 1-519-372-5181 These include additional categories of introduced into the workplace or if disclosure, such as risk to the ozone layer product information or workplace and aquatic environment, which will conditions change. There is a good North East GTA & Eastern Ontario Rae Murray broaden the scope of the material safety chance that everyone will need to be 1-416-819-3404 data sheets (MSDS) currently mandated retrained as Labels and the MSDS’s will through our WHMIS legislation be different. Dave Magee Currently, labels and MSDS differ To follow the GHS implementation, Ottawa Valley from one supplier to another. The visit: www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/ and 1-613-286-5199 MSDS may also differ in format from watch for Government of Ontario updates. one product to another. This makes Have a great autumn! ■ Mark Obee finding important information on various Lake Simcoe & Central Ontario controlled substances somewhat difficult. 1-705-623-8873 The GHS system will standardize the DougJohnson, format and content of the MSDS. So if Consulting, something is flammable in the old system, Safety and First it is still going to be flammable in the Aid Supplies, new system. However, the risk phrases WHMIS Training, will be standardized and this will assist SAFETAID workers and managers in their efforts Tel: 519-837-0997 to understand the risks associated with Fax: 519-837-1996 various controlled substances. The risk doug@safetaid.ca FROM ROOTS TO SHOOTS Combating Fierce Disease Pressure t all started out so well this spring. It much brown patch pressure. There was I was cool and wet, which are perfect conditions for growing turf. In fact, I 'If you are in a Japanese beetle infested area, you will now a confirmed Pythium outbreak as well, but it was short lived thank goodness. heard a few superintendents utter, “If you There have been reports from the field can’t grow grass in a spring like this, you be seeing many adults. They of anthracnose basal rot, summer patch shouldn’t be in this business.” All that and a confirmed report of bacterial love flying around on warm, changed with the coming of summer. I wilt (Acidovorax) from the GTI think now that summer is here, they sunny days. If you have them, Turf Diagnostics lab. Some would probably like to retract that people are complaining you can bet golfers are statement. Where to begin? There have about fungicide been biblical like floods, trees uprooted, complaining. failure, but quite extreme heat, waterlogged soils, diseases, frankly, fungicides algae, crabgrass and insects, just to can only do so much mention a few things. when the pressure As I am writing this (July 21, 2013), we are in the aftermath is as intense as it has of a massive storm front that brought flooding and downed been. The bulk of this trees again. This is the third major event like this so far this disease pressure will subside summer. It is not yet clear how much damage has been caused now because, as mentioned above, the nighttime temperatures to golf courses in the area, but you can bet it has been extensive. are going to be much cooler. One nice thing about this latest storm is that the temperatures Another looming threat now is damage from turf insects. have dropped to a manageable level and are now much more in The annual bluegrass weevil damage has peaked, but the black the range for optimum growth of cool season golf course turf. turfgrass ataenius are mostly in the second instar, so there is Even though temperatures are ramping up, there is nothing still more damage to come. This situation will be exacerbated in the 14-day forecast to suggest that we will have another one by the low humidity that has blown in in the wake of the huge of these heat waves soon. The real blessing is that night time storms. If turf is wilting or off colour in the next couple of temperatures are going to be hovering around 10-15°C. weeks, it could be because all the heat over the last three weeks The searing temperatures, high humidity and high nighttime has shortened up the turf roots or it could be because of the temperatures have produced fierce disease pressure on golf black turfgrass ataenius grub damage, or both. Based on our courses. The brown patch pressure has been intense. Here monitoring here at GTI, we are expecting a bumper crop. If at the GTI, where we don’t spray the pathology green (for you are in ajapanese beetle infested area, you will now be seeing obvious reasons), roughly one third of the turf has brown patch many adults. They love flying around on warm, sunny days. If symptoms. In my entire 23-year career, 1 have never seen this you have them, you can bet the golfers are complaining. My Prepare Your Turf for Winter with... Nutrite 33-0-0 Late Fall Fertilizer 40% UMAXX® & 35% Ammonium Sulphate, Premium Grade Ideal for fairway and rough applications. Nutrite 33-0-0 granular fertilizer provides enhanced carbohydrate storage within the plant, increased shoot density and colour with earlier spring green up. Nutrite Best Management Practices... For responsible and effective turf management 1.800.265.8865 | www.nutrite.com Brown patch symptoms on a golfgreen Photo credit: Pam Charbonneau summer student and I were trying to do some point quadrats at a soccer field last week in Oakville and we were constantly being dive-bombed by Japanese beetle adults. European chafer adult grubs flights are pretty much finished for the season and now is the last window in which to apply a preventative application of insecticide to control these grub species for the upcoming fall and next spring. So, how can you make the most of the rest of the season? Keep • Easy to maintain and operate your fingers crossed and hope for the best? Probably not. From • Reliable Briggs& Stratton Vanguard engine now on in, pay particular attention to your irrigation regime. High evapotranspiration rates and/or black turfgrass ataenius • Easy to adjust cutting units grub damage can result in rapid turf loss if you don’t stay on • Lightweight and versatile all in one package top of irrigation. Remember there has been tremendous root • Superior cut quality every time loss over the past three weeks, so less water more often might be necessary. Consider raising the height of cut and reducing the mowing frequency. If the long term forecast holds and we have Starting from $23,999 more moderate day and night temperatures, attempts to aerate and overseed badly damaged areas can probably begin by the time this article goes to print. I know that this probably isn’t at the forefront of your thoughts at the moment, but the number of CEC’s awarded to an IPM related education session for the mandatory Golf IPM Accreditation program has changed to 1 CEC for 60 minutes of educational contact (instead of 45 minutes) and a total of 6 CEC’s are needed for the year (instead of 8 CEC’s), beginning HUSTLERTURF.COM June 1, 2013. For more information visit the IPM Council of Canada’s website at www.ipmcouncilcanada.org FULL EQUIPMENT LINE UP AVAILABLE There is always an open invitation to either follow my blog or follow me on twitter. The blog can be found at www.onturf. wordpress.com and my twitter account is @onturf. ■ Pamela Charbonneau 0MAFRA Turfgrass Specialist, The Guelph Turfgrass Institute 1-519-644-1000 Guelph, Ontario Email: pamela.charbonneau@ontario.ca NEW \\ 4009 Westchester Bourne, Belmont, Ontario NOL1 BO Retail Location Located near London, Ontario - HWY 401 Exit #195,1 km south ON THE ROAD AGAIN The Golfing Salesman WELCOME few weeks ago, as I was delivering 2. You Must Play Lots of Golf TO THE A product to a customer, I got caught Unfortunately, this is not true - unless fitting the description of a stereotype thatthere is some secret that I am not privy NEW AGE is sometimes used to describe what some might think the job of a salesman entails. As I opened the cargo area to my vehicle to. This job is like any other, to be successful, you have to work hard at it and that cuts into play time. With a repressed to access product, my customer, who was economy, golf courses cutting budgets kind enough to offer a hand offloading and increasing competition amongst the order, saw my golf bag inside my a multitude of vendors, one can’t risk vehicle. Jokes ensued: “Typical salesman”, resting on his laurels. More so than ever, “working hard?” and “I wish I had your it is important to be seen in the field, be job!” It was actually a very humorous educated on product offering and be situation because for those who know me able to provide second to none customer well or have had the unfortunate luck of service before and after a sale. Similar to playing a round of golf with me, know a superintendent or an assistant, it’s hard that I don’t often play. I happened to to find the time to get away from the job have played my first round of the year in and play golf. Most days, you’re too tired a corporate tournament the day prior and and just want to get home. had forgotten to take my clubs out of my truck. Which, by the way, is a huge pain as 3. At Least You Have it takes up precious space that should be Weekends Off devoted to product. I’m not going to lie and say that we work After a few more laughs and my failure as many weekends as golf maintenance in trying to convince my customer that I staff. That being said, there definitely are don’t keep my golf bag in my truck 24/7 in times of the year where weekend work is a hopes that I can get a daily round in, I was must. The seasonal nature of the business on my way. As I drove off, I realized that can place such demands on an industry much like the vocation of a golf course rep that in order to stay ahead, one superintendent, there exist uncertainties must get caught up on weekends. There as to what exactly a salesman duties are in sure are periods of the year where there our industry. doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day to get everything accomplished. It’s 1. What Exactly Do You Do also not uncommon to work after dinner in the Winter? into the night as administrative duties Ah... the most frequently asked question! can’t be accomplished while on the road. While a superintendent/assistant job is I hope this has shed a little bit of light becoming increasingly busy in the winter on what exactly it is that we do. A job in months, winter is also a busy time of year sales can be very rewarding, especially for an industry representative. For one, when you can help out a customer in conferences and trade shows can take up need or when you receive a call from a the bulk of time throughout the winter customer soliciting advice. See you on months with all the preparation involved the road! ■ for each event. All said and done, a sales http://www.rainbird.com/golf/products/field/ICsystem.htm rep might be asked to work a booth at half a dozen ‘shows’ (utmost respect to the equipment representatives who have Paul Grotier to float in and stage all that equipment!). Direct Solutions 7856 Fifth Line South, Once you factor in all of the internal A Division ofAAT Milton ON, L9T 2X8 sales meetings, time spent organizing Tel: (416) 508-6115 (905)875-4545 or 1 800-263-4112 and preparing for the coming season and Fax(905)878-4501 pgrotier@agriumat.com finally taking vacation, it’s not long and www.turfpro.ca another season is in full swing. PASSION. 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OF NORTHGATE FARMS) WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2014 SPONSOR - SYNGENTA James Duthie Dr Michael Agnew "ENTERTAINING SPORTS STORIES" "THE INFLUENCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL One of the most talented and funniest stars CONDITIONS ON FUNGICIDE PERFORMANCE" in Canadian media today, James Duthie is the Larry Spain host of TSN's extensive NHL coverage, including Centre of Advanced Turf Technology the award-winning NHL on TSN. He was also the daytime host of CTV's highly acclaimed "PRECISION SENSE 6000" 2010 Olympic coverage, and the host for CTV's coverage of Team Canada's historic gold medal THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014 hockey run. In his time at TSN, he has also hosted NBA, CFL, NFL, PGA Dr. Luke Baker, Dr. Larry Stowell golf, and Sportscentre. & David C. Smith P.Ag "PRODUCT INPUTS: HOW MUCH IS NEEDED, HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH AND HOW CAN 90th Anniversary WE MEASURE IT?" FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2014 Dinner & Show Patrick R. Finlen, CGCS THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014 CGSAA President, Director of Golf, PLATINUM SPONSOR - TURF CARE The Olympic Club, San Francisco Colin Mochrie & Deb McGrath Frank S. Rossi, Ph.D. Enjoy a side splitting performance by "PROGRESSIVE ANNUAL BLUEGRASS & CREEPING this pair of Canadian comedy icons. BENTGRASS, POPULATION MANAGEMENT" Registration Now Open! www.ogsa.ca SPECIAL ROOM RATE: $169 - INCLUDES FREE WIFI OFF THE FAIRWAY Spring is in the Air... Huh? t’s the middle of August, right? But Fritillaria imperialis and yellow markings. Due to its light I alas, although watering and weeding are usually the most important jobs on It has taken many years for me to learn to appreciate this upside down flower as colour and intricate detail, it needs to be seen up close to have an impact. a gardeners’ mind right now, spring it is a bit unusual. However, it has now The first time I tried them I made the bulb orders will be arriving in just a few become a must plant at our first tee mistake of planting them too far away short weeks. Our bodies are working every year. One year I thought I would from where they would be seen so early like it’s August, but our minds are often try it and the response was so positive in the spring and I never got around to thinking about April. So as we start to that I thought I had better keep planting cutting away the dead perennial foliage think about the coming of spring in our them. Members ask about them even that was covering them until it was too gardens, I thought I’d share some of my after they’ve long finished blooming. late. Last fall I planted several clumps favourite spring flowering bulbs. And when the General Manager notices in high traffic areas, such as entrance something, and likes it, keep doing it! walkways, where they were assured to be Daffodils I Narcissus At about ten times the price per bulb as seen and appreciated up close. I was not If you are like me, you are tired of an average tulip, the cost might make disappointed! fighting with the squirrels and seeing all you cringe, but it takes a lot fewer bulbs the holes left in your gardens where you to make an impact and in the right place Tulip worked painstakingly planting hundreds they are definitely worth it. Even though I promise myself every year of bulbs. So I consistently rely much not to buy another tulip, they seem to more heavily on bulbs that squirrels Puschkinia and Chionodoxa have some kind of magical power that won’t touch such as daffodils. One of As much as I do not enjoy fighting with I can’t escape, because a few always my favourites is ‘Barrett Browning’, a the squirrels, I also do not like replanting seem to find their way onto my order small-cupped cultivar with white petals bulbs that are only guaranteed to flower form. In spite of the challenges, they and an orange cup, which I consistently well for one season. I tend to favour do provide a great deal of pleasure with plant at the front of our clubhouse. I planting bulbs in areas where they their success. One combination of single like to change things up so I’ve tried do not need to be removed to make late tulips that was recommended to me several other cultivars, but always room for annuals, and choose species and has been very successful on our come back to this one. It’s bright and and cultivars that are more likely to patio is ‘Menton’, ‘Renown’, ‘Queen of cheery and something different from naturalize. These two bulb species add the Night’ and ‘Maureen’. They bloom standard yellow. Although the flower is some variety to a traditional palette of about the middle of May, when it’s a a little smaller than traditional trumpet daffodils, alliums and muscari, and thus little early for annuals, but everyone’s narcissus, it still stands out and makes a far they seem to be growing quite well antsy to see some flowers blooming, and statement. I also really like the botanical for me. it’s often warm enough to sit outside narcissus, which are smaller and often for lunch and a drink. Species tulips have several blooms on one Iris are another option as they are great for stem. They are good for For very early spring colour, I like to naturalizing and there are many options naturalizing in areas plant ‘Joyce’ or ‘Harmony’ in high traffic to choose from. A few that I’ve tried are that aren’t too dry areas. One of the first places to warm up the yellow Tarda, the orange and blue and many cultivars in the spring is a large area at our back ‘Little Princess’, and the pink and blue bloom later than entrance, where I keep adding more of ‘Little Beauty’. I also like the soft yellow traditional them mixed with snowdrops. Although of species tulip ‘Honky Tonk’ (pictured ones. sometimes they get a little confused by left) mixed with the light blue Muscari early snow melts and sudden frosts, they ‘Valerie Finnis’. ■ bring a smile to the faces of members who are anxious to get out of the winter doldrums. Another cultivar, ‘Katharine Brenda Forder, Hodgkin’, is a much lighter blue with Head Gardener delicate blue Donalda Club, Toronto, ON Phone: (416) 447- 5575 x 273 Email: bnoble© donaldaclub.ca www.donaldaclub.ca Greens • The #1 surfactant worldwide for highly managed turf areas • Produces drier, firmer putting surfaces • Strengthens plant's natural ability to withstand stress and disease pressure Coursewid e Confidence. Fairways • The perfect water management solution for fairways and other large turf areas • Enhances penetration and distribution of water and nutrients • Reduces water use on cool-season grasses by 25% or more www.aquatrols.com The most advanced, most durable and most flexible irrigation products. Built for today’s golf courses. The right choice. Turf Care Products Canada 200 Pony Drive, Newmarket, ON L3Y7B6 • PH: 905-836-0988 • FAX: 905-836-6442 LONDON Ph: 519-668-7664 • Fax:519-668-3722 EDWARDS Ph: 613-821-1880 • Fax:613-821-2919 TURF CARE www.turfcare.ca Helping your business grow. LOOKING BACK Ten Years Ago Today he Ontario Golf Superintendents Association executive EVENTS: The IPM Accreditation Program for golf courses T for 2003 was Mark Piccolo (pres), Galt, Jim Flett (past), was officially launched in December headed by Jeff Stauffer, Muskoka Lakes, Rob Ackermann (vice), Weston, Paul Scenna, Credit Valley. Donalda, Bob Burrows, Rosedale, Jeff Alexander, Parry The 10th Anniversary celebrations were held at the Guelph Sound, Chris Andrejicka, Essex, John Bladon, Guelph Lakes, Turfgrass Institute. Randy Booker, Dundas Valley, Sean DeSilva, Taboo, Greg O’Heron, Peterborough and Jeff Stauffer, Credit Valley. IN MEMORANDUM: Jeff DeCook, superintendent at Fox The office staff consisted of Dorothy Hills, administrator, Pat Golf Club, passed away. Thomas and Deborah Badger. ACHIEVEMENTS: Art Dodson and Keith Nisbet received ON THE MOVE: Bill Fach left York Downs to start a new their 50 year OGSA membership plaques at the President’s golf course in the Belleville area called Black Bear Ridge Reception at the Ontario Turf Symposium. Golf Club. Paul Dermott took the job at York Downs after Art Dodson started working for his uncle, Bill Bluett, at 27 years at Oakdale. Mike Dermott, Paul’s brother and Mississaugua G&CC and went on to Summit and then to assistant, took over Oakdale. Martin Kopp left Lionhead Maple Downs from where he eventually retired. Art was the and moved to Brampton GC and Dave Caldwell left Carrying president of the OGSA in 1964 and has three sons, Paul, Place and went to Vespra Hills. Gary Sutherland was the Scott and Bruce and a nephew Matthew in the business. new Superintendent at Carrying Place. Gary Gravett left Keith Nisbet, with his brother Doug, sold the family golf Saugeen in Port Elgin and purchased his own golf course course, Aurora Highlands, and started the Westview Golf called Goderich Sunset Golf Club. Mark Schneider took over Club. Keith was the president of the OGSA in 1966 and in at Saugeen and Mark’s assistant, Brent Siekierzycki, took over that same year was a founding member of the CGSA. He was at Owen Sound. the winner of the John B. Steel Distinguished Service Award TOURNAMENTS: The Pro/Super Challenge was held in 2001. Keith was on the GAO’s greens committee and later at Grey Silo Golf Course hosted by Tom Margetts. First became president. Keith was the Mayor of Aurora in 1963. place went to Essex Golf Club, Chris Andrejicka, second to Keith’s son, Colin Nisbet, presently runs Westview Golf Club. Diamond Back, Blair Rennie and third to Fox Glen, Kelly This year’s 25-year membership plaques went to Peter Barnett. Barnett, Richmond Hill, Bruce Dodson, Heritage Hills, Craig The Spring Field Day was held at Springfield Golf Club, Evans, Pheasant Run, Bill Fach, Black Bear Ridge, Cecil hosted by Ray Dlugokecki. First low net was Bruce Burger, Hoekstra, Cherry Hill and Mike Mayne, OTEC. Lakeview (75), Dave Svab, Savannah Golf Links (76) and Paul White, superintendent at the Briars, was recognized by Kevin Brohman, Merryhill (77). the CGSA as the Superintendent of the Year. ■ The Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament was held at the Taboo Golf Club hosted by Sean DeSilva. The George Darou Barry Endicott Trophy went to low gross senior Bruce Burger, Lakeview, Retired Golf Course Superintendent with a 79. Brampton, Ontario The OTRF fundraising tournament was held at Copper Tel: 905-846-1440 Creek and was hosted by Robert Bell. Dave Schmelfske, Email: barry.endicott@gmail.com Ontario Seed Co., was low gross with a 73. Winter Problems? Get the IMPERMEABLE barrier! Featuring the NEW Corrie Almack P.Ag. Air Flow System Almack Agronomic Services Inc. Tel: (905) 689-6174 Box 256, Carlisle, On Fax: (905) 689-8522 Minimizes temperature fluctuations • Protects from ice damage, crown hydration and desiccation LOR 1H0 Email: c.almack@sympatico.ca Lightweight and durable for years of easy installation & storage www.GreenJacket.com/gib 888-786-2683 TURF OR CONSEQUENCES Guidance Councillor by Doug Breen, Superintendent be making it with his eyes wide open. He’s been exposed GolfNorth Properties to the seamy underbelly of golf, literally since the day he was born. For years, I kept a daily Journal. Not some girly watched my son cut greens for the first time yesterday. Journal where I wrote my feelings - I don’t have any of those. I It doesn’t seem like all that long ago that someone was showing me how to cut greens for the first time; but in reality, Rather, I kept a daily Journal of course conditions, fertilizer applications, weather, staff duties, equipment maintenance - it was nearly thirty years ago. A lot has transpired since then. anything that I thought I might find handy later on. I still have There’s a lot less hair, them all in a box in my and a whole lot more office, and on June 30, Doug for example. In 1997 it says, “Boy, Walker the 1980’s golf was Hamilton Breen, 7 lbs flying high, and our only even, 20 inches, 9:15am”. concern was where we That note is sandwiched were going to put all the between one about a retiring Baby Boomers sticky valve on #8 fairway, that we assumed would and a part number for a clog our tee sheets. They faulty voltage regulator either didn’t retire, or on a National. He was didn’t take up golf, or helping me change holes both. We’ve spent a lot of on weekends when he time making the industry could barely walk. He more “professional” - was on the cover of less “Mom and Pop”, for Green is Beautiful, on a better or for worse. It’s golf course, at four. He a very different business once got his hand stuck now, and with Walker in in the pop machine at exactly the same place the GTI. So he knows that I was three decades what he’s getting in to. ago, I’m not sure what to But the question is, advise him. If I had it all to do again, would I? Should he? do I recommend this as a great summer job, or as a career? First of all, I’m keenly aware that he (like I did) will do It’s certainly been great for me. I’ve met terrific people, had whatever he wants to do, and any advice that I have for him will many experiences that I wouldn’t have had otherwise, paid surely fall on deaf ears. My family had (still have) a successful off a mortgage, and it’s waaaaaay better than milking cows. dairy farm that my father would have been tickled pink to On the other hand, I’ll never have a summer vacation, and see me show any interest in whatsoever - but I didn’t. Very I’m never home. It’s still a fun business to be involved with; little advice from him about the relative merits of farming as a nowhere near as fun as it used to be, but what business is career option was getting through; but enough of it did, that I having a good time right now? feel obligated to do the same for the fruit of my loins. His high school Guidance Councillors can’t help. All they Whatever decision he makes, there’s no question that he’ll ever do is recommend that kids become teachers like them, go into academia, or take up a trade. They’d never be able to figure out which category to put Superintendent into - because it’s a bit of all three. So it’s up to me to be his Guidance Councillor and honestly lay out the pros and cons Darryl James for him, (some would say that Pros are one of the cons, but Certified Golf Irrigation Designer that’s too easy, so I won’t say it). It’s entirely possible, that Certified Golf Irrigation Auditor ISA Certified Arborist ON-1152A after one summer of hauling his arse out of bed at 5:00am OIA Technical Agrologist T. Ag while all his friends are sleeping until noon, that he’ll find the phone: (416) 873-9648 whole idea as abhorrent as I found dairy farming, and this will 23 Hocken Ave. all be moot. But after giving it some serious contemplation, Toronto, Ontario, M6G 2K1 I can honestly say that if I had it all to do again, I would. So arborturf@gmail.com we’ll see what he thinks after a season of it - and if he wants my www.arborturfsolutions.com Love Your Turf! opinion (which he likely won’t) - I’ll tell him that it’s the best choice that I ever made. ■ Expanding the possibilities - now registered for: > dollar spot > basal rot anthracnose EXPECT MORE FROM YOUR SNOW MOULD PRODUCT TRILOGY SC Trilogy SC™, the three way fungicide offering flexible rates, superior spring turf quality while achieving total active ingredient reduction. www.bayeres.ca For more information on Trilogy SC and the complete line of Bayer products, contact Bayer Environmental Science. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTION. Trilogy SC is a 1-888-283-6847 registered trademarks of Bayer. SILENCE IS A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY... “The lack of noise is unbelievable." 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