---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- , The Frustration Factor Do you feel frustrated when you request new is much more going on at our places of work than we equipment, increases in your operating budget, etc., and realize. your boss tells you “sorry?” Those guys have all kinds of We tend to get caught up in our own little areas of money to spend, don’t they? So why can’t I have my new concern and lose sight of the bigger picture. I would mower this year? While attending a board meeting earlier highly recommend that we all take advantage of any and this year, a discussion raised some interesting questions as all opportunities to become involved with financial or to how well we as Superintendents or Managers decision making processes. When it comes time to deal understand the inner workings and financial with owners, general managers, or greens committees, we considerations of our own businesses. Only about 30 will be better prepared to explain our reasons and rationale percent of those present had any idea of how their owners, for our requests. Ask to see Profit/Loss Statements to general managers, or greens committees made their understand how your business operates. Try and make all decisions concerning funds allocated for operating budgets requests using a business format and have plenty of or capital expenditures. information to support your arguments. Use a word It was evident from this discussion that those of us with processor or type all reports and requests. Call other access to financial information had a much better operations similar to yours to compare information on understanding of the different concerns that our equipment, budgets, or wages. Volunteer for committees businesses have to deal with. Those who worked at that discuss or control financial matters if possible. If properties with ski hills found that if the weather was bad upper management understands that we are interested and and ski revenues were down, this could and probably wish to participate in these processes, the easier it may would affect funds available for their golf course become to sell ideas, increases in operating budgets, etc. operations the following summer. This could mean that Being exposed to this type of knowledge also makes it projects which were planned might have to be postponed, easier for us to understand why our bosses make those as could equipment purchases, etc. In my situation even if decisions to deny new purchases, wage increases, etc. golf is doing well this is no insurance that my budget will So, make an effort to become involved with how the not be effected. If room sales are down then the whole whole business is run, not just your department. It may resort has to make adjustments. More than once I had not happen overnight but it can potentially reap great planned an equipment purchases, only to have it rewards. Not only may you increase your own awareness, postponed until the “Financial Picture” looked more but you may find it easier to sell your ideas and to promising. Other things such as rising health insurance participate in the decision making process which directly costs, changes in payroll taxes, costs of services or effects you. The more we understand about these matters, supplies increasing, complying with government mandates the easier it will be to adjust to changes when they are (such as chemical mixing/rinsing pads), interest payments, sometimes forced upon us. and mortgage payments, they all add up! Many times there - By David Pretznow NMTMA Board Happenings At the 1994 Annual Meeting at Mistwood Golf Course Congratulations to all newly elected and retiring offi­ three Board members were elected. Jon Maddem, CGCS, cials, and thank you for your time and effort. was elected for his second term. Dave Foucher and Rick Warren were also elected as Class A Directors. Kim Olson was elected as the Class G Director for a second term. Re­ ----------- 1994 Chapter Champions------------ tiring from the Board were David Little, CGCS, and Brian At the 1994 Chapter Championship at Mistwood Golf Holmes. Course two new champions were crowned. Tom Heid At the November Board of Directors meeting in Gray­ won with low net, and Rodger Jabara won the low gross. ling, Mark Wildeman was elected President of NMTMA. Congratulaions to you both. Dave Pretznow was elected Vice President, and Dave Also, a hearty thanks goes to Dan Lucas and the Mist­ Foucher, Secretary/Treasurer. wood staff for an excellent outing. Ml Watch For Invitations ... A Commitment to And Respond: Quality Turf Care Products 1994 NMTMA Christmas Party This year's party will be held on Saturday, December 3rd at Sylvan Resort in Gay­ lord. There will also be a sep­ P.O.IioxT 1-800-521-8873 or arate party for children earli­ ' 28064 Pontiac Trail S. Lyon, MI 48178 - 313-437-1427 (call collect) er in the day, including the professional’s Santa, and pictures. partner» We hope to see many of ThcCCCS* Call Toll Free: Customer Service: 1-800-251-LAWN (Ohio) Andersons you there! Lawn Fertilizer Division 1-800-253-LAWN (Outside Ohio) P O. Box 119 Sales Office: 1-800-225-ANDY Maumee, Ohio 43537 (2639) Par Ex® WHY MID-SIZE GRADES FOR SEED introduces CLOSELY- COMPANY a family of MOWED TURF? mid-sized BECAUSE fairway-sized par­ fertilizer ticles are too large to apply to closely mowed turf Lawn Seed Field/Grass Seed grades BECAUSE Greens - sized Clovers designed products can be difficult to spread to meet BECAUSE IBDU is the most Wholesale Conditioning the needs reliable, most consistent source of slow release nitro­ Export of today’s gen. closely- For more information 110 S Washington St mowed contact: Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 J. Mollema & Son, Inc. 5400 36th Street SE Grand Rapids, Ml 49512 (616) 940-1441 1 (800) 344-2482 (517) 773-5391 FAX: (517) 773-1216 »sir ex ■ THE EX STANDS FOR EXCELLENCE Sam Stimmet Specialty Products Territory Manager Par Ex® and IBDU® are registered trademarks of Vigero Industries, Inc. (212)562-8775 2 NMTMA Mechanics Corner Leaf Mulching Frame for Precision Rotary Deck Laser Measurement We all have to deal with leaves on our courses in the fall. One way we have devised to address the clean-up problem is to mulch as many of the leaves as possible. I’m sure to most Increases Play of you this doesn’t sound very revolutionary. However, rather than spending hundreds of dollars on mulching decks (if you don’t already have mulching decks on your rotary Laser your course properly with the mowers), you can turn your rotaries into mulching mowers complete laser measurement fairway at a minimal cost. The trick is to keep as many of the leaves in, under the marking system from deck as possible. To accomplish this, remove the grass deflector and measure the size and dimensions of the discharge opening. Construct a frame out of round iron which will seal off the discharge opening. Cut the FAST PLAY TECHNOLOGY appropriate amount of expanded steel mesh to fit the frame you have made (plus 1 inch size openings in the mesh seems Fairway Management at its’ finest to work well), and weld the steel mesh to your frame. Now attach your frame to the mower deck so that it blocks the discharge opening. Your mower is now ready to mulch leaves. This arrangement should be an inexpensive way in • Incremental 25 yard markers which to turn those rotaries into productive mulching mowers during the fall. Ron Greentnan -Head Mechanic • Color-coded posts every 50 yards McGuire Resort GCSAA education program • Par 3 tee boxes hits historic mark • 100 -150 - 200 yard markers For the first time in history, the number of currently ac­ tive superintendents certified by the Golf Course Superin­ • Sprinkler heads tendents Association of America (GCSAA) has reached 1,400 individuals. This represents approximately twenty percent of the association’s class A membership. • Cart paths labeled The title, Certified Gold Course Superintendent (CGCS), recognizes outstanding and progressive superintendents. GCSAA instituted the certification program in 1971. • No maintenance interference GCSAA President Joseph G. Baidy, CGCS, said: “This is a proud accomplishment in our history. From its incep­ tion, GCSAA has placed continuing education and the dis­ • Professionally installed semination of information foremost on its list of objectives. Reaching this milestone is truly indicative of our members’ • Endorsed by Michigan PGA (Continued on page 4) Professional Rodger Jabara Change oTAddress, Membership Application info available Stop complaints about slow play Any member with a change of address Call or write today for more info: should immediately contact Thomas |. Reed 3733 Apollo Drive FAST PLA Y TECHNOLOGY Traverse City, Ml 49684. 1849 Larchwood ph: (810) 740-3505 He should also be contacted if any person would Troy, Ml 48083 fax:(810)689-8644 like to apply for membership in the NMTMA. _____________________________ ______________________________/ 3 Paul Harvey: Enough Already Just before Briefing went to press, we learned that Paul Harvey had picked up yet another wire service item about the golf industry and, predictably, twisted it beyond recognition. The original story dealt with the proposed “Golf ROADBUILDINGPLUS Tax” in Florida. The state fish and game commission is touting the idea of a 25 cent per round tax on golf to CONSTRUCTION SERVICES: help make up for budget deficits. The idea is to tax the CLEARING, GRADING, SHAPING, BUNKERS, CART presumably rich golf industry rather than raising hunt­ PATHS ing and fishing license fees. Although fish and game officials have attempted to gain the support of Florida superintendents by suggesting that the additional CREATING SPECIALTY SANDS: funds would be used to help promote the environmen­ TOP DRESSING & BUNKER SAND tal benefits of golf courses, many are skeptical. However, according to members who heard Mr. Golf Course Construction Since 1977 Harvey’s remarks, he stated that the fee was actually a penalty or fine that would be used to help pay for the Request for References Encouraged massive environmental damage caused by courses in the state. We were unable to obtain a transcript on such short notice, so the rest of his remarks are un­ ROADBUILDINGPLUS Asphalt Paving • Concrete known. Paving • Excavation • Airports • Golf Courses • Site Devel­ But, once again, it is clear that Mr. Harvey has opment • Tennis Courts • Sand & Gravels • Underground twisted facts and stretched truth to satisfy his desire to Utilities • Plus, Plus, bash the golf course industry and our profession. If H&D INC., 2081 W. CHARLEVOIX AVE., PETOSKEY, Ml 49770 he’s doing this on purpose, we have every right to be angry. If he’s doing it unknowingly, we have every (616) 347-2547 right to be terrified. Superintendents we talk with are frustrated, angry and most of all, confused. They scratch their heads and ask, “What is his problem? Why won’t he listen to science and reason? Doesn’t he understand that we are professionals who care about the Earth?” We wish we had answers to those questions. Many have ap­ proached him on our behalf (including some very im­ VALLEY TURF I N C O R P O RATED portant and very famous people within golf) and he will not listen. We have sent him reams of data and in­ 3721 28th Street SW 1-800-688-3605 formation and he will not listen. Hundreds of letters Grandville, MI 49418 parts orders only have been sent and he will not listen. So, as we’ve said previously, the realty is that Mr. The all-new Harvey is on what he believes to be a holy crusade. Jacobsen SV Series- He has become a zealot in the true sense of the word. loaded with everything, His position won’t be changed. He has already writ­ ready for anything. ten “the rest of the story” in his mind. The Professional’s Choice On Turf. -From CCSAA Government Relations Briefing JACOBSEN GCSAA education program TEXTRON Jacobsen Division of Textron Inc. (Continued from rage 3) commitment to advancing their profession and enriching the game of golf.” KALKASKA 1 GRANDVILLE 11 WALLED LAKE To become certified, a candidate must have five years’ (616) 258-9091 (616) 532-2885 (810) 960-1054 experience as a golf course superintendent, be employed in that capacity and meet specific educational requirements of college credit or continuing education units. The candidate must then pass a rigorous six-hour examination covering knowledge of GCSAA and its certification program; the Both full and part circle EAGLE Rotors are available rules of golf; turfgrass management; pest management; safe­ in electric, hydraulic and Stopamatic® models, each ty and compliance; and financial and organizational manage­ designed to meet the specific demands of golf course ment. irrigation systems. As part of the certification process, an on-site inspection The EAGLE 700/750. Performance Plus. Case closed! of the candidate’s course operation is conducted by two cer­ tified golf course superintendents. Certification must also be renewed every five years. MediaWatch If you’re like most superintendents, chances are good that you’re fielding an increasing number of calls from the me­ 7. Find opportunities to answer a potentially negative dia. Many of these calls might be friendly, but some aren’t. question with a positive statement. For example, if As medical scrutiny of environmental issues continues, we asked, “How can golf courses justify using so thought it might be helpful to give you some quick tips for many pesticides just for aesthetic reasons!” you dealing with the media. could answer, “Actually, we never use pesticides just for aestheic reasons. Our job is to protect and 1. Be honest and cooperative. You’ve got nothing to preserve a very valuable piece of property that has hide. Tell the truth even if it hurts. many environmental and community benefits.” Then you can go on to cite the benefits. 2. Never say “no comment” when confronted with a difficult question. If you don’t feel that you are au­ 8. If you feel it’s necessary to tell the reporter some­ thorized to answer a question, tell the reporter- but thing “off the record” in order to clarify a point or offer to have the appropriate person (usually your to explain the reasons behind another answer, make GM or president) call back. Or, tell them you don’t sure you state specifically that your words are not know the answer, but you’ll try to find out. for publication or attribution. In general, it’s not a good idea to go off the record. Never, ever, as­ 3. When the reporter calls initially to set up an appoint­ sume that you’re off the record just because a re­ ment or interview, find out as much as possible porter has approached you casually or just seems to about what he/she wants to know. Prepare key be conversing normally. points in writing before the interview. These will be your “talking points” to refer to during the meeting 9. Relax. Chances are good that you’ll never get a call or call. It may even by appropriate simply to hand from “60 Minutes.” Most interviews can be posi­ your key points summary to the reporter. He/she tive, if you know what you’re doing and think may appreciate it. about what you say. 4. Always remember that the reporter has called you 10. Call GCSAA. We can help you prepare for inter­ because you possess information he/she wants. views, intercede with difficult media or provide You are the expert on a subject, or are a key partici­ factual data that will wow most reporters. We can pant in a newsworthy situation. Reporters rarely, if usually fax you helpful information within an hour ever, know as much about the subject as you do. of your call. You own the information. Finally, remember the following: 5. When talking to a reporter, never forget you’re also Never pick a fight with a man who buys his ink by talking to hundreds,thousands or millions of peo­ the barrel. ” ple. Despite the trust or camaraderie you may feel, - Mark Twain you shouldn’t tell a reporter anything you wouldn’t announce over the public address system at the Su­ (Special thanks to Jane Mobley, Ph.D., of Jane Mobley & per Bowl. Associates and Brenda Horn and Bridget Dolan Little of Littlehorn Communications for their contributions to these 6. When asked a question, don’t “over-answer.” In other words, say only as much as you need to an­ tips.) swer the question. Don’t ramble. Don’t feel like you need to fill the silence. Don’t use a lot of jargon - From GCSAA Government Relations Meeting or technical terms. Using wildflowers to improve your golf course The use of color through flowering plants can undoubted­ tain them. Here in Michigan my membership was constantly ly improve your golf course. Both from the aspect of esthet­ asking about or trying to initiate flower plantings, often of­ ics and member relations. In the past I have gotten more fering to buy and plant the materials. Such a situation reflect­ mileage out of several small color plantings than any other ed badly when I refused, but I knew that I didn’t have the la­ single improvement I’ve ever done. When I first started at a bor to maintain them. I continually steered them toward course in Nevada, I used a sloping hillside near the entrance flowering shrubs and trees for the low maintenance, but that to create an image of the corporate logo with annuals. I am didn’t fulfill their desires. more proud of how hard we worked to improve the turf con­ Then I discovered wildflowers. ditions, but every time I talk with associates/golfers from What occurred was we selected several large out-of-play that course they speak of that logo. More importantly it areas on the golf course and planted a wildflower mix. The created a positive image that carried my respectability grandeur of the display created astounded me and put the through some poor turf times. membership in rapture. Actually a problem created is keep­ The problems with many flower plantings is the cost and ing the clubhouse, ladies club, etc., from picking too many labor consumption necessary to purchase, plant, and main­ (Continued on page 6) Using wildflowers to improve your golf course & (Continued from Page 5) • The many different colored blooms are very striking for decorations at their functions. I’ll live with it. up close, but wash to a unimpressive pale pink from For us, once these flowers are up they have required no a distance. maintenance, but we quickly learned that just tossing down It was hoped that the planting procedure would be a one the seed was not enough for planting. time thing. With perennials returning and several years of Over winter I selected a coated seed mix recommended for overseeding the annuals we would get a self maintaining northern areas. It consisted of some 36 different varieties planting. both annual and perennial. The coating allows for better dis­ Though it is possible we gave up too soon we now replant tribution from a broadcast spreader and is a kaleidoscope of every year, flowers returned the second year, but nothing colors. like the first. The grandeur of that first year bloom is worth The first season we selected three areas and tried a high, the small cost of seed and planting. medium and no maintenance regime. The high maintenance Grasses seem to crowd out that second year bloom. Pos­ area was a site of an old nursery and had automatic irriga­ sibly a herbicide application to keep grass populations down tion. Using round-up we removed the present plants and would be an answer if you could keep it from effecting the then tilled the soil. Areas within the site were seeded at half, flowers. full, and twice the recommended rate, fertilized, and pressed in with the tires of a bunker rake. This area was kept irrigat­ We are continuing to experiment with diffemt aspects of ed until blooms started to show. site selection and planting, this coming year we plan to create Another site was selected with access to a quick-coupler. several sites near tee boxes. Using the irrigation overspray Preparation and seeding were the same as the high mainte­ from the tee sprinklers to promote germination and giving nance except the soil was tilled in after being scalped with a that up close viewing which is best. mower, no round-up. This area was watered on a when pos­ Even though this project hasn’t created “no maintenance- sible program. color” the enthusiastic reception of the membership and A third site was scratched with a tine harrow, seed broad­ goodwill developed about the maintenance operations far cast, and watered by mother nature. (And it was a wet outweigh the cost. For approximately $300 in seed and 20 spring). hours of labor we receive some 60,000 square feet of color. Good deal. The high maintenance site was a sight to behold, both the -By Jeffrey T. Dorrell “medium”, and “no” sites were a bust. We have continued planting for three years now and several observations/ suggestions can be made. • Competing plant material must be removed from the Wien It Comes to Turf Management... site and soil prepared before planting. Germinating wildflowers seem easily crowded out by grasses. • Adequate irrigation must be provided during germi­ Nobody Knows nation. We tried several times with the quick- coupler plot, no luck ,and then installed automatic ir­ Like Your rigation. But, after plants are up, water has been turned off and never run again. WilbuR'Elus Pro • Germination is slow, plant early for all summer col­ or. • High amounts of nitrogen in the beginning brought earlier color. • Seeds can be flooded out. No luck planting in swampy areas. • Higher the seeding rates the more grand the effect. I found 1-1/2 to 2 x suited my needs. • Many of these plants flower for only a short time. Having many varities blooming at different times gives long-term color. Your one-stop shop for all turf management needs. Ask about our complete line of cRemicals, fertilizers and seed. • Much higher rates of germination on seed well rolled in. Wilbur-Ellis. . .dedicated to quality, customer service and environmental stewardship. ____________ • Leave a border of tall grasses around a planting to limit golf balls rolling in and golfers trampling plants during the search. Brian Anderson 1 (800) 873-5599 6 ber 1, 1994. Her job will be to create and oversee associa­ Jon Maddern goes to tion programs designed to effectively secure employment and pursue career goals for members. Career development GCSAA headquarters is one of GCSAA’s three newly created service depart­ ments. Jon D. Maddern, CGCS was one of more than 70 vol­ Prior to joining GCSAA, Heck was director of corpo­ unteer leaders from across North America who attended the rate marketing at Bucher, Willis & Ratliff Consulting En­ Chapter Relations Meeting held September 25-26, 1994 at gineers, Planners & Architects in Kansas City, Mo. Previ­ the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America ously, she worked at Professional Service Industries/Hall- (GCSAA) national office in Lawrence, Kansas. Kimbrell Environmental Services. Heck has a bachelor’s This year’s meeting focused on continued improvement degree in journalism from the University of Kansas. in ties between affiliated chapters and GCSAA, a key com­ Burke Beeler has been hired as Development Manager. ponent of the association’s strategic plan for 1994-95. He will oversee the association’s charitable foundation ac­ Maddern participated in an open-forum discussion with tivities and GCSAA’s scholarship programs, and secure members of GCSAA’s Board of Directors and a special funding for GCSAA’s various research initiatives. Chapter Relations Planning Resource Group making Beeler was a financial planner at Reinhardt Financial known the views and concerns of Northern Michigan Services, Inc., in Lawrence, Kan. Prior to that, he spent TMA. more than five years with the Kansas University Endow­ “Chapters are an integral part of our association. We ment Association as a development officer and as the di­ want to expand the communication and promote real in­ rector of constituent development. Beeler has a bachelor’s volvement,” said GCSAA President Joseph G. Baidy, degree in business administration and a master’s degree in CGCS. education, both from the University of Kansas. Gary Grigg, CGCS, GCSAA’s vice president and chair­ In addition, a current GCSAA staff member has been man of the Chapter Relations Planning Resource Group, appointed to a new managerial position. Jennifer added: “The board has set chapter relations as a priority. McCaughey, formerly Membership Manager, has been This meeting furnished proof of this commitment. The named Systems Manager for GCSAA’s Central Services chapter representatives were very responsive to the department. She will work on the association’s manage­ GCSAA-chapter initiative and we now have some momen­ ment information systems, focusing on database manage­ tum.” ment and training GCSAA team members. The agenda also included a “State of the Association” ad­ dress by Baidy, discussions on how to foster communica­ tions among chapters and a “Meet the Candidates” session that gave Maddern a chance to hear from nominees on the official slate of candidates for the 1995 GCSAA election. The TORO Members attending GCSAA’s 66th annual International Conference and Show in San Francisco will have the op­ portunity to hear the candidates speak on the issues after ¿v of Competition education sessions end on Friday, Feb. 24, 1995. Since 1926, GCSAA has been the leading professional --- ----------- 2_______ - association for the men and women who manage and main­ YOUR COMPLETE LINE OF IRRIGATION tain golf facilities in the United States and worldwide. PRODUCTS AND SERVICES From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kansas the association provides education, information and representation to near­ ly 14,000 individual members from more than 50 coun­ “UPGRADING” tries. GCSAA’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession, and enrich the quality of golf and its envi­ Let us show ronment. you how the Network 8000 Network LTC GCSSA adds to or OSMAC managerial staff Can meet your demands The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSSA) has announced the hiring of two new managers Spartan Distributors, Inc. and the appointment of a current team member to a new 487 W. DIVISION ST. • P.0. BOX 246 • SPARTA, Ml • 616-887-7301 managerial post. 1050 OPDYKE RD. • AUBURN HILLS, Ml • 810-373-8800 30650 WEST 8 MILE RD. • FARMINGTON HILLS, Ml • 810-476-3664 Kim Heck has been hired as GCSAA’s first Career Devel­ opment Manager, and is assuming her duties as of Novem­ 7 Make the Most of a Great Resource- USGA Green Section Visits Our profession could be described in knowing that they are there, or does helping you sell your supervisors on the following manner: “Providing the their presence give you “willies?” Do the need for physical resources such as best possible playing conditions for the you have annual visits so they can gain equipment, labor, a new irrigation sys­ game of golf by carefully managing the a better understanding of your course tem or a larger budget. Plan some time resources made available for this pur­ and its problems, or do you call on alone with the agronomist to discuss pose.” What resources? The irrigation them only at the behest of the boss? technical matters or other concerns. system, equipment, supplies, and labor It has been my experience that super­ Fourth, have the necessary informa­ are some of the physical resources intendents have a black-and-white ap­ tion available to answer questions needed to produce good playing condi­ proach to the USGA Green /Section about your current maintenance pro­ tions. But perhaps the most important services. They either look forward to grams. How much fertilizer have you asset we have at our disposal is knowl­ the annual visit or they have no use for applied? What chemical applications edge. them. For some reason, many of us have been made and at what rates? We might think of knowledge in feel that we don’t need someone pok­ What size are your greens and tees? terms of how much we know. For the ing a core sampler into our greens. These are all questions you need to sake of this discussion, though, let’s “What do they know about my prob­ know for yourself. Recent soil test re­ define it as the information to which lems anyway.” ports should also be available. we have access before we make a deci­ How do you get the most out of this Finally, what should be your course sion. source of information? Is it possible of action after the visit? After receiving Why do I make this distinction? that by proper management of this re­ the Turf Advisory Service (TAS) re­ Well, let me explain. There may be source, your job performance could port, use the information for club plenty of information stored away in improve? newsletters and green committee meet­ your brain, but if it can’t be remem­ To make the most of a Green Section ings. Make copies of the report for the bered, it is of no use in making a deci­ visit, you have to look on it as an op­ entire green committee, the board of di­ sion. On the other hand, if you have no portunity. You are the customer; rectors and, in some cases, the entire experience in solving a particular prob­ they’re there to help you. An “inspec­ membership. Above all, carefully con­ lem but have access to someone who tion” is the last thing you want. It is an sider those portions of the report that does, you can make use of information inspection only if you abdicate your re­ may improve your program and fall necessary to make the proper decision. sponsibility to manage the visit. within your budgetary guidelines. Re­ The point is, your informational re­ How do you do this? view past reports to see how much sources are vitally important to your First of all, know your needs. What progress you’ve made. success in this profession. These re­ are your problems- on the course, with USGA Green Section visits can be sources include your peers, seminars, your physical resources, with the man­ one of your most important resources. professional journals, educators, re­ agement above you, or the member­ If you take the initiative and use the searchers, suppliers, and the USGA ship? Be sure to take full advantage of service properly, you will be more suc­ Green Section agronomists. the service. cessful in obtaining the resources you We all have had experiences in this Secondly, you must manage the time need from your club as well as receiv­ business we would rather forget, like so that all areas you need addressed are ing timely tips or problem diagnosis. days when the grass wants to die and given attention. You are abdicating The agronomist is best able to serve we can’t for the life of us figure out your responsibility if you allow others your needs if you take the time to man­ why. We try everything that worked to decide what is to be evaluated and age the visit. before, but without positive results. discussed without leaving time for the Remember: (1) Know what you Whom do we call for help? We may subjects you feel are most important. want to accomplish with the visit, (2) call on our neighboring superinten­ Take control! A Green Section visit Organize your time so that attention is dents, who usually make themselves should not be simply a social call. The paid to all problem areas, (3) Involve available on short notice to visit and potential for accessing knowledge and your supervisors, (4) Have the neces­ share their knowledge concerning the information that can benefit you is too sary technical information regarding problem. great. your course and your maintenance pro­ If the problem is not resolved with Third, involve your supervisors, gram ready, and afterward follow up their assistance, we may be in some green chairman, or other interested by using the TAS report to educate the pretty tough circumstances with our members in most of the Green Section entire membership. golfers. They want answers and im­ visits. These people have a vested in­ Make the most of a wonderful re­ provements now! Often this is the time terest in the success of the golf course source. we call on the USGA Green Section maintenance program. They will be - By Ray Davies agronomists. more sympathetic to your problems Golf Course Superintendent How do you feel about the Green when they hear them discussed with Virginia Country Club Section agronomists? Are they the the agronomists. The support you re­ Long Beach, California guys you call only after you have seri­ ceive for your programs from the ous problems? Do you feel comfortable agronomist will add weight to them, (Note: Service Features are on page 10) 8 The 2653 Professional Utility Mower The 2653 features the unique combination of hydraulic reel drive and John Deere 26-inch cutting units. NOTHING RUNS LIKE KLOOSTER ADEERE® EQUIPMENT, INC. WORK ‘N PLAY SHOP 9821 U.S. 31 ELLSWORTH, Ml 49729 (616) 599-2822 9 USGA Green Section Service Features Turf Advisory Service (TSA) USGA Green Section Regional Conferences More than a dozen conferences are held annually through­ One Site Course Visit out the country dealing with turfgrass management and This is the focal point of the Green Section activities. Our general golf-oriented topics. goal is to help the golf course superintendent and Green Committee by providing the most practical turfgrass and USGA Green Section Annual Conference golf course management information at the level of expendi­ This half-day meeting is held annually in conjunction with ture available at each facility. Each agronomist on the staff the GCSAA International Conference and Show. It features visits more than 130 courses annually, a service unmatched the leaders in all phases of golf who discuss topics of cur­ by any other organization. rent interest. Written Report This provides a permanent record of observations made dur­ ing the on-site TAS visit and the recommendations for con­ tinued course development, both short and long term. FOR SALE: 1987 Greensking Diesel with groomers. 2300 hrs. Year-Round Consultation $6500. Call Mike Morris: 616/352-4241. If questions or problems arise, calls are welcome any time. NORTHERN MICHIGAN RESORT seeks Golf Course Particularly vexing problems will be discussed with other Equipment Technician. Extensive experience with maintenance, staff agronomists who face similar situations in their region. troubleshooting and repair of golf course equipment a must. This is a full time position with benefits. If interested please respond Turfgrass Information File (TGIF) at MSU Library by November 23, 1994 to: The library’s purpose is to provide access to published ma­ Mike Meindertsma terials on turfgrass research and maintenance. Service is Director of Golf and Grounds available by telephone or computer hook-up. More than Grand Traverse Resort 25,000 abstracts are available now! The complete article or P.O. Box 404 research report also can be obtained by calling or writing to Acme, Michigan 49610 the TGIF librarian at 1-800-446-8443. Agronomic Reprints and Publications Information is available on a wide range of topics through your local Green Section office or Golf House. Recent addi­ SAN FRANCISCO tions include the new Recommendations for a Method of Green Construction and a video tape of the procedures in­ GCSAA volved. 66th International USGA Green Section Record Golf Course Published bi-monthly, this is a favorite magazine of golf course superintendents, Green Committee members and Conference and Show golfers interested in turfgrass and golf course management. USGA Research Program February 20-27, 1995 The USGA supports the largest private turfgrass research effort in the world. Our goal is to develop new grasses and Moscone Center techniques designed to provide excellent golf turf, at reason­ able costs, with significantly reduced water and pesticide use. We are proud to be working jointly with the GCSAA on this exciting undertaking. A new series of environmental research projects, initiated in Letters to the Editor 1991, will determine the effects of golf course maintenance practices on the environment, develop environmentally safe You can communicate directly with the NMTMA management programs, and evaluate the effects of golf and your fellow members by writing to: courses on wildlife and people. Physical Soil Testing Turf Times c/o Mike Morris The Green Section maintains contact with laboratories which P.O. Box 1575 evaluate the physical properties of soil mixtures for special Frankfort, Ml 49635 golf course applications such as construction sands for bun­ ker use. Staff members aid in the interpretation and applica­ Share your thoughts and feelings about our tion of their findings. organization or the industry in general. _______________________________ ___________________ / 10 Green Industry Legend to receive superintendent’s highest honor A giant figure in the history of the golf course and turf of turfgrass management. Later, as the company’s agrono­ industries, Dr. James Watson, has been chosen to receive mist and vice president of customer relations, he led Toro’s the Old Tom Morris Award from the Golf Course Superin­ efforts in equipment development and evaluation, and tendents Association of America (GCSAA). served as the liaison to professional groups such as the “Dr. Jim has been a great friend to GCSAA and its mem­ GCSAA. bers for half a century,” said GCSAA President Joseph G. Watson has received nearly every major accolade the in­ Baidy, CGCS. “His career provides a perfect example of- dustry has to offer, including the USGA Green Section how one person can make a tremendous impact on an entire Award (1976), the American Society of Agronomy’s Agro­ profession. We are delighted to be able to pay tribute to the nomic Service Award (1977), GCSAA’s Distinguished contributions he has made.” Service Award (1983) and the American Society of Golf GCSAA established the Old Tom Morris Award in 1982 Course Architects’ Don Rossi Award (1994). to recognize individuals who have made outstanding life­ Watson is a fellow of the American Society of Agrono­ time contributions to the game. The award is named in my and the Crop Science Society. He has served on the memory of Old Tom Morris (1821-1908), greenkeeper and boards of the Sports Turf Managers Association, the Fresh golf professional at the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. water Foundation and the National Golf Foundation. Andrews, Scotland. Semi-retired now after 40 years with Toro, he currently Watson’s influence has been felt throughout the entire serves on the planning council for the Irrigation Associa­ turfgrass profession. Following military service in World tion and is agronomic coordinator for the seven 1994 War II, he earned a bachelor’s degree in agronomy from- World Cup soccer venues. Texas A&M in 1947. Watson obtained his doctorate in Watson joins Arnold Palmer, Bob Hope, Gerald Ford, agronomy from the Pennsylvania State University in 1950. Patty Berg, Robert Trent Jones, Gene Sarazen, Juan “Chi- As a graduate student at Penn State, Watson was the re­ Chi” Rodriguez, Sherwood Moore, CGCS, William Cam- cipient of the United States Golf Association (USGA) pell, Tom Watson, Dinah Shore, and Byron Nelson as re­ Green Section Fellowship and studies under the famed Dr. cipients of the Old Tom Morris Award. The GCSAA board Burton Musser. He returned to A&M to serve as an assist­ of directors selects the Old Tom winner. ant agronomy professor and conduct turfgrass research. Watson will be honored during the closing banquet of In 1952, Watson left A&M to begin his career with the GCSAA’s 66th International Golf Course Conference and Toro Company as director of agronomy. For over four dec­ Show on Feb. 27, 1995, in San Francisco. ades with Toro, his research touched on nearly every aspect Cruise control Tire Wholesalers Co., Inc. for your_____ As our name implies, we are a wholesaler of tires. pump station We are an established business, having been in business for over 19 years. We deliver. We have UPS service daily. Commercial Pump We guarantee what we sell. We want your business. VFD System We have a huge inventory of Just as cruise control adjusts engine speed to Passenger, High Performance meet driving demand, Commercial Pump’s Truck, Trailer, Motorcycle, Variable Frequency Drive adjusts pump speed Carlisle Lawn & Garden, for maximum efficiency and economy. Industrial Tires & Tubes, Shocks, Struts, Custom Mag • No pressure-wasting control valve. 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Complete Construction/Specialty Sands Bob Hope (616) 347-2547 The Scotts Company Tom Heid, Technical Representative (616) 375-3535 (616) 275-7700 • (616) 620-1442 TIRES, TUBES & WHEELS IRRIGATION SERVICES Sweeney Seed Company Tire Wholesalers Co. North, Inc. ‘7/ Pays To Plant The Best” C.J. Colein & Associates, Inc. Dan Cross (800) 344-2482 • (517) 773-5391 Irrigation Design & Consulting Services (616) 775-6666 • Fax (616) 775-8810 (810) 656-6805 Tri Turf D.G. Irrigation Co. “ A Warehouse on Wheels ” “Where Service Comes First - Buckner” ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN (616) 943-8343 (800) 334-7011 • (517) 772-5621 & CONSULTING J. John Gorney, Inc. AUTOMATED PUMPING Golf Course Design FULLSERVICE: EQUIPMENT SYSTEMS (616) 235-1323 & IRRIGATION Commercial Pump Service, Inc. Matthews & Associates, P.C. Valley Turf, Inc. Mike Wilczynski “ Elevating Golf to a New Plateau” (616) 532-2885 (800) 426-0370 • (419) 825-2353 (517) 485-0480 • Fax (517) 485-0334 (800) 688-3605 - Parts Only . and we encourage you to support them. BULK RATE / M. \ Northern Michigan Turf Managers Association US POSTAGE C/O Tom Reed 3733 Apollo Drive PAID Traverse City, Ml 49684 FRANKFORT, Ml 49635 PERMIT #25 NMTMA Past Presidents Ed Karcheski EXECUTIVE C.E. "Tuck” Tate, CGCS COMMITTEE David Longfield, CGCS President Jonathon Scott, CGCS Mark Wildeman Tom Brogger Jeffrey Holmes, CGCS Vice-President Michael Meindertsma Michael DeVce Morris David Pretznow Crystal Downs Country Club Secretary/T reasurer MTF Liaison P.O.Box 1575 Dave Foucher Jon Maddern Frankfort Ml 49635 Executive Secretary Thomas J. Reed 3733 Apollo Dr. Traverse City, Ml 49684 Phone 616-943-8343 GCSAA Liaison Jon Maddern Directors Jeff Dorrell Michael Meindertsma Tom Heid Newsletter Editor Kimberly Olson Michael Morris Jon Maddern, CGCS P.O. Box 1575 Pat Mertz Frankfort, Ml 49635 BEARD RECYCLED PAPER COLLECTION