NMTMA Summer Time/Summer Help EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE As the temperatures rise and the work load increases, we all ask ourselves, "Where are we going to find our summer help?" This is a simple question but does President not end with a simple or complete answer. It is a proven fact that the more dedica­ Jeffrey Holmes tion you put into something the better it will turn out. That is exactly what needs to Vice-President be done when you begin the interview process. Paul Holmes Usually, you start with running an ad in the paper or X passing the information by word of mouth, depending on Executive Secretary the number of people needed and what method you feel Thomas J. Reed 3733 Apollo Dr. comfortable with. Traverse City, Ml 49684 Phone 616-943-8343 Directors Having a job application for the candidates to fill out Tom Brogger would be in order. This would then allow you to screen Brian Holmes applications instead of each applicant. Several applica- Jim Inman President Jeffrey Holmes dons can be reviewed quickly once you know what quali­ David Little, CCCS Michael Meindertsma fications you are looking for in an applicant. Charles Menefee, CGCS A few things to look for when reviewing applications are; past experience, lon­ Michael Morris gevity at past jobs, qualifications leading into your job opening, wage expecta­ Kimberly Olson Robert Steinhurst Jr., CGCS tions and sometimes even a reference call to past employers before the interview. During the initial interview this is your brief time to decide if you see the poten­ tial in this person to fill the job requirements. A second interview is always a Past Presidents good idea, if time permits, to discuss in greater detail specific qualifications/ Ed Karcheski experience and contact their references listed. C.E. "Tuck" Tate, CGCS A couple of things to look for in the interview are: let them express what they David Longfield, CGCS Jonathon Scott, CGCS are looking for out of the summer job, explain to them what they are applying for Tom Brogger and what will be expected of them. Also, make some reference checks to past employers. Several of them will tell you they cannot give out information. If so, just ask if they would rehire this person, at least this will give you an idea if you MTF Liaison are headed in the right direction or not. David Longfield, CGCS If you get a past employer to speak with you, be courteous to them by having your questions ready to ask. Don't be thinking them up as you are asking them. We all know that when summer hits, you don't have a lot of time to be inter­ CCSAA Liaison Jon Maddern viewing. This is why it is very important to plan ahead and interview before the work load overwhelms you. Good luck with your search for quality employees. There are some helpful ma­ Newsletter Editor Michael Morris P.O. Box 1575 GCSAA Bound For Dallas in '94 terials in our N.M.T.M.A. Library for hiring employees. Frankfort, Ml 49635 Dallas will be the site of the 1994 International Golf Course Conference and Show. GCSAA's board of directors confirmed the selection during the board's spring meeting. This will be the first time the GCSAA Conference and Show will be held in "The Big 'D". "Dallas was able to make us a very attractive offer," said RECYCLED PAPER Colleen Smalter Pederson, GCSAA senior director of education and marketing. The 1994 event was originally scheduled to be held in Houston. However, the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston would not have had enough continuous floor space to house GCSAA's ever-growing trade show, and no convention center hotel was available to serve as a headquarters hotel by 1994. V. • Editorial • Motivation and Stress: My Perspective by Gregory A. Reinbold, G.C. Superintendent; Shelbyville Elks C.C. As golf course activities are in full swing and we become engrossed in daily schedules that never seem to end, take a moment to think about your own motivation and stress levels. During the past few years, I have become more aware about myself regarding mental attitudes and outlooks to help keep the proper perspectives with my job and personal life. Keep in mind that I’m no expert when it in­ volves psychology, and no two people are affected the same by these influences. However, I have learned to recognize some of my own 'shortcomings' through articles I have read or by talking with a few friends who have had adversity somewhere in their lives. Throughout my own 'ups' and 'downs' in life, I, like many of us do, have done some 'soul searching' to help me know 'me' better. In addition, with our profession as demanding as it is at times, I have let my job control me more than I should. This has caused me to look for ways to help keep the proper perspective about my job and personal life. It seems to be a constant struggle and sometimes may appear to border insanity! Why? Since I was raised to be fairly independent, and to have a lot of pride and self-esteem, I learned to set goals and be self-motivated toward achieving them. Realizing I loved my job despite the long, hard hours, I soon became aware of my somewhat 'perfectionist habits.' Although nobody is perfect, perfectionism can be a burden. For me, it results in being obsessively organized, neat and clean so that everything appears well planned. Perfectionists may accomplish a lot but they can never do enough. Combine this with high expecta­ tions and a little procrastination and it can add up to long days which are sometimes very frustrating. The need to be involved in all aspects of detail through 'control' is characteristic as well. This can occur un­ knowingly, and becomes evident when a lack of control occurs. I tend to feel somewhat inadequate and very frustrated when this happens. These qualities tend to add up to self-imposed stress, which isn't all bad. However, when I allow myself to take it home, it can affect my personal life as well. Luckily, I’m a single man! The golfers may demand perfec­ tion, but your family usually doesn't. During the past year, I experienced significant external stresses through the club politics that are familiar to many of you, I'm sure. Fortunately, this resulted in some positive ways at work and at home in the long run.. I learned to let go once in a while by trusting my own confidence and by a belief in God. I allowed humility in by swallowing my pride when I was wrong and learned to be humble. Communication and achievement be­ came easier and it made me feel good, thus reducing stress. The perspectives we develop of ourselves as we mature and grow older will help us understand the impor­ tance of self-control; and how to provide some balance to our lives and thus reduce stress. Fifty percent of the battle is realization, the other fifty percent is the remedy. This is the part I have to work on! For me, stress reduction starts with knowing I did the best I could do: laughter with friends, country music, reading and exercise (sports). Yes, it even includes playing golf. Please take a moment to read this poem I found recently, and have a great summer! Sometime when you're feeling important, You may splash all you please when you enter, Sometime when your ego's in bloom. You may stir up the water galore. Sometime when you take it for granted, But stop and you'll find in a minute, You're the best qualified in the room. That it looks quite the same as before. Sometime when you feel that your going, The moral of this quaint example, Would leave an unfillable hole. Is to do the best that you can. Just follow this simple instruction. Be proud of yourself, but remember, And see how it humbles your soul. There is no indispensable man. Take a bucket and fill it with water, Put your hand in it up to your wrist. • AUTHOR UNKNOWN • Pull it out and the hole that's remaining, is a measure of how much you'll be missed. Credit: Ind. GCSA 2 Managing for Success By Michael Morris, Golf Superintendent, Crystal Downs C.C. A friend of mine from the and randomly fertilizes the greens, creating a layering prob­ USGA once told me, "Nothing lem which, in turn, sets up the conditions for a prolonged se­ happens quickly in agriculture, ries of crop failures. except crop failure." These are Think about long term friendships, successful marriages, or disquieting words for any turf perhaps a maintenance crew that works harmoniously to­ manager heading into the heat gether and accomplishes its goals. In all of these instances, and stress of July and August. success is a matter of long term commitment, thoughtful fore­ However, this little quotation sight, careful preparation and the ability to face and conquer doesn't merely foreshadow catas- challenges as they arise. A first rate and efficient mainte­ \X trophe. My friend's words sug- nance crew does not materialize out of dust: careful hiring, Michael Morris gest that a healthy and produc­ detailed training and follow up; attention to the human, as tive crop is a long and involved well as the mechanical elements of the maintenance opera­ process of building and creating a healthy environment in tion; and many other factors contribute to the success of the which to grow. For example, Dr. Paul Reike continually crew. Failure will arise quickly if the crew is handled with a stresses the fact that topdressing programs for greens are lack of commitment to the goals, poor planning, no follow long term commitments to building a healthy growing medi­ up, snap judgements, inflexibility and the like. Remember, um for the grass plant: building the soil for the future. A "Nothing happens quickly in agriculture. . . " and yet we can good turf manager understands this. not avoid the conclusion of my friends quotation, ". . . ex­ In our day-to-day lives, the same is true. A person's own cept crop failure." Nothing in life can escape failure and health and sense of well being can be attributed to a series eventually demise. Despite preventative fungicide treat­ of successful decisions and actions which cumulatively ments, a resistant strain of disease may develop and begin to make that person who he or she is to this day. A successful destroy your crop. As old friends grow and change, much of person puts great effort into building an orderly life; and this the amicable nature of the friendship may fade away. Such includes everything from learning to eat well and exercise, failures and challenges can come quickly and unexpectedly. to practicing a wholesome family and spiritual life. The But the individual who has managed for success will be able people who always seem to confront a barrage of challenges to cope with or even overcome challenges and failures, or suffer a series of failures are continually searching for an­ whether they occur on the golf course or in one's personal swers and jumping from one 'quick fix' to another with little life. The successful individual, over time, builds a healthy or no consideration for the long term nature of their endeav­ environment in which to grow, and manages the path to suc­ ors - like a turf managers who sporadically sand topdresses cess all life long. Lebanon Introduces Homogeneous Fertilizer/Control Product with TEAM Lebanon Turf Products has introduced Country Club 7-3- The Country Club fertilizer base will help improve turf's re­ 22 with TEAM for use on fairways, tees and other profession­ sistance to disease and drought without causing flush spring ally maintained turf areas. This premium homogeneous ferti­ growth. This product is available in 50 lb. bags that provide lizer with 100% Sulfate potash is impregnated with 1.155% 12,500 square feet of treatment. Recommended application TEAM herbicide - a unique combonation of Benefin (Balan) is 175 lbs. per acre yielding 2 lbs. TEAM per acre. and Trifluralin (Treflan) - and is designed to save golf course TEAM® is the registered trademark of Dow-Elanco's com­ superintendents and grounds maintenance personnel both bination of benefin and triflurin time and money. Letters to the Editor < -\ You can communicate directly with the NMTMA and your fel­ low members by writing to: Mechanic's Corner <__________________________________ ___________________________________7 Turf Times By Greg Riley • Ass't Supt./Mechanic, Huron Breeze Golf & Country Club c/o Mike Morris PO Box 1575 Frankfort, Ml 49635 Here at Huron Breeze, we use our irrigation system as our water source for spraying. During the summer months, we have a problem with small debris in the water that Share your thoughts and feelings can clog screens and nozzles on the spray rig. To alleviate this problem, we have in­ about our organization or the industry in general stalled a small water filtration system to our quick coupler that removes the debris be­ <_______________________J fore it has a chance to enter the spray tank. 3 Know What's in Your Sand By Gary Farrant (LAKE PERRY CC) This is a letter I am sure all superintendents hope they will age. never have to write, but the following is the article I had to Five years ago, when we started LPCC, we started the put in the September newsletter. greens on a light topdressing program, along with aera­ tion in the spring and fall, and we have used the same Everyone has been wondering all summer, "What's sand source the entire time. This is one of the biggest wrong with the greens?" and we finally have the an­ reasons it took us awhile to identify the problem. swer. The problem has been a small amount of Atra- After we lost 12 & 13 greens, we took several sam­ zine in our topdressing sand. This has been a very try­ ples from several greens to the Kansas State University ing summer and we at the Lake Perry CC would first Plant Pathology Labs and had in-depth discussions with like to thank all our members for helping us through it. the heads of the Turfgrass Department and the Plant Pa­ We will be the first to admit that our greens haven't thology Department. At the same time, we had samples been up to par all summer. Without going through a tested for nematodes, pythium blight and insect dam­ lot of detail, here is a brief history of what we went age. Once again, everything came back negative, ex­ through this summer: First, in early June, we started to cept for some slight insect damage. notice that the greens were not quite 'right'. At this .By this time, it was already early August and the point we did several things, including having the soil greens were not any better. After talking to several tested. All the results came back very good; next, we agronomists, we decided to aerate the greens, this be­ had the water tested and once again there was no sign ing the industry standard to rejuvenate greens. In order of any problem. Then we tried several different varie­ to get a good response, we hired an outside contractor ties of fertilizers, iron and micro nutrients to get some with a special aerator to do the greens at a depth of response from the greens. At this point, it seemed eight inches. At this point, we were also considering a nothing was having any effect on the greens and, in possible layering problem, or 'Black Layer', which is an fact, they seemed to be getting weaker and starting to algae growth in the top inch of the soil. After the aera­ lay over a bit. We also implemented an increased pre­ tion was done, we topdressed with more sand than we ventive spraying program for fungus and insect dam- ever had, in order to fill the extra deep holes. Several days later, #4 and #5 greens were in real trouble and the rest of the greens were barely hanging on. In retro­ spect, this turned out to be a mixed blessing, as it final­ ly pinpointed that something was wrong with the sand. We called in several local experts and superintendents who had had trouble with greens before, and, as a group, we determined by the way the grass was dying that it greatly resembled Atrazine poisoning. This was CREATING SPECIALTY SANDS: on a Tuesday and six days after we had applied the TOP DRESSING & BUNKER SAND sand. That night, we received a two-inch rain and an- CURRENTLY USED AT (Continued on next Page) Arnold Palmer Course - Shanty Creek, Bellaire Jack Nicklaus Course - Atwood Trent Jones Course - Sylvan Resort, Gaylord Don Ross Memorial Course - Boyne Highlands Nominations being taken CONSTRUCTION SERVICES: for Board Positions CLEARING, EXCAVATION, SHAPING, This year's nominating Committee consists of BUNKERS, CART PATHS EXPERIENCE INCLUDES WORK AT: Kim Olson, Tom Reed and Bob Steinhurst Jr.. If Arnold Palmer Course - Shanty Creek, Bellaire you are interested in becoming a board member, Antrim Dells - Atwood or know anyone else who is interested, please Birchwood Farms - Harbor Springs Boyne Highlands - Harbor Springs submit the name(s) to one of the members of the Mackinac Island - Mackinac Island nominating committee. Michaywe Golf Course - Gaylord Trent Jones Course - Sylvan Resort, Gaylord A list of nominees will be published prior to the annual meeting. Election of new officers will ROADBUILDINGPLUS Asphalt Paving • Concrete Paving • Excavation • Airports • Golf Courses • Site Development • Tennis be held during the annual meeting. Elected offi­ Courts • Sand & Gravels • Underground Utilities • Plus, Plus, cers will begin their terms on November first, H&D INC., 2081 W. CHARLEVOIX AVE., PETOSKEY, Ml 49770 1991. k_____________________________________________ y 4 Know What's in Your Sand .. • (Continued from previous page) other two and a half inches in the next two days, and zone was always moist. the temperature never went over the 80's. This was a 2. The greens took on a pale yellow cast; and no real God-send, and if it had been dry and in the 100's, iron, fertilizer or watering pattern seemed to snap I hate to even think what might have happened. them out of it. The plant leaves grew increasingly slim On the day the agronomists and the other superin­ and started to curl at the top. On the worst days, you tendents were here, we took several pictures and soil could stand on the greens and see soil. tests and sent them to a soil lab in Nebraska, along 3. Weak areas and low greens were hard hit; the with a soil sample. The test came back positive. As clean up laps and low greens with little air movement bad as things were, it was a relief to finally know for were by far the hardest hit. The higher greens showed sure what was wrong with the greens. very little damage. There is some Atrazine in the water in Lake Perry, 4. Once injured, the grass never, in any instance, and a much higher level of it in the Kansas River, we recovered. found out after talking to the Corp of Engineers, the To­ 5. The worst damage seemed to come from the peka Water Treatment Plant and the Kansas Dep't of dragging process, as the clean up laps were hurt the Health and Environment. There are obviously a lot of worst. variables involved in the process until the grass actual­ 6. The two greens that died during the summer ly dies, as evidenced by the fact that all the greens went very slowly. These two greens were the only didn't die at once. The lower greens with less air ones we verti-drained in the spring, then after we first movement were hit the hardest, as these plants weren't topdressed them, about three days later, they had a as hardy as these plants were not quite as vigorous as purple hue to them that we attributed to dragging inju­ the ones in the higher areas. ry. The next day, these greens were dead, and I mean The moral to the story is that we were slowly poison­ completely dead! We're not talking about wilting or ing the greens all summer and didn't know it. The purple grass, these greens were already straw-colored good news is that we have identified the problem and (Continued on next page ) the greens are already doing a lot better. The outlook for this fall and next year is very good, as we are in the process of finishing automating the fairways and we will be overseeding them soon. All the tees are now KLOOSTER sodded to zoysia and most of them have grown in real­ EQUIPMENT, INC. ly well. Last but not least, the Atrazine is leaching from the greens and they are getting better every day. We have always prided ourselves on our greens and can assure you that we would rather have 18 dead fair­ J ways than one bad green, and that we will have the o greens back in championship form just as soon as pos­ sible. H Yes 1990 is a year I wish to forget, but I never will. N Since I came to LPCC in 1985, we have been on a heavy sand topdressing program to help build up the DEERE sand base in our greens. We inherited penncross bent- grass greens that had been established in the late Turf Equipment 1970's. All 18 greens are soil based. The previous su­ perintendent had already started a program and after 7 years, we had established a three inch sand base by spring and fall aeration, and light topdressing every three weeks during the growing season. I should note that we had been extremely pleased with our greens up to this point as they were the course's biggest asset. SOME OBSERVATIONS Nothing Runs Like a Deere® 1. In the early stages, we had definite spots that re­ sembled fungus damage. These usually started as small RON HAGELSTON ELLSWORTH circular areas that seemed to simply stop growing; they SALES REPRESENTATIVE (616) 599-2541 looked like localized dry spots, but the area in the root 5 Know What's in Your Sand.. • (Continued from previous page) dead. I had never, ever seen any­ ly believe that the only thing that came from the Kansas River. I thing like it! We have had dome saved them was unusually cool talked to the Topeka Water Treat­ pythium damage before and other weather and five inches of rain ment Plant and 'normal' problems, but nothing during the next five days. they said the water in the river test­ like this. ed as high as 15 parts in late 7. The problem spots seemed I would like to add that several spring. Also, their chemist said to start as purplish circles and area superintendents were a great their treatment plant couldn't filter they would seem to come in and help in determining the problem out any of the Atrazine, so at times out of this, but once they turned and helping us out with sod. A the drinking water in Topeka was straw-colored, they were dead. BIG THANKS to Bob Hadwick, as high as 15 ppm. 8. We thought for some time Mike Hulteen, Cary Tegtmeyer 4. The water in Lake Perry, that it was some sort of black and everyone who attended our which we irrigate with, ranged layer, but this turned out to be the August meeting and the KSU staff. from .06 ppm to .02 ppm last year. effect rather than the cause, as the No one seemed to know exact­ Any water source that is used for dead areas developed a definite ly what levels of Atrazine would drinking water has this information black layer in the top inch of the cause damage to bentgrass, but readily available. dead areas. after talking to Jeff Nuss, who was 5. Atrazine is a grassy herbicide 9. We had a terrible problem working on a study with Atrazine used world-wide in agriculture. with algae all summer, as it al­ applied through irrigation, he Farmers apply it in early spring. ways moved right into the weak thought that about .06 ppm 6. On the test we had done, .02 areas as soon as they started hav­ would kill seedlings and .09 ppm ppm was the lowest level testable. ing problems. would kill mature bent. These So, if the sample has a trace of .02 10. After we aerated in August findings are documented in his ar­ ppm, the test will simply read .02 with a vertidrain and topdressed ticle in the February issue of or less, which means it could be an heavier than we ever had before, GCM. amount down to .001 ppb (billion). almost all the greens died. I firm- SOME OF THE FACTS I DID 7. The sand company tested LEARN ARE: their stockpiles in Topeka, Law­ 1. The 35 tons rence and Kansas City and found Tire Wholesalers Co., Inc. of sand I had de­ Topeka the highest and Kansas City livered last year with just a trace. As our name implies, we are a wholesaler tested from .02 8. The sand company is going to of tires. ppm to .09 ppm. test a sample in early spring, before We are an established business, having (The highest lev­ the farmers start applying the Atra­ been in business for over 19 years el was from a zine. If it is low enough, they are We deliver. We have UPS service daily. sample that the going to stockpile sand just for golf We guarantee what we sell. sand company greens for the season. We want your business. had done on So, in closing, I would strongly We have a huge inventory of their own from suggest that you check with your Passenger, High Performance what was left of sand company and see where they Truck, Trailer, Motorcycle, our August deliv- get their sand and have it tested. Carlisle Lawn & Garden, : ery.) Industrial Tires & Tubes, 2. All the Credit - HEART OF AMERICA Shocks, Struts, Custom Mag sand we had Wheels, and Accessories, — all in stock for immediate tested and that delivery. the sand compa­ ^RMSTROftT7* ny had done, all JOIN THE tested positive. A pile from a To­ NORTHERN peka course test­ MICHIGAN ed the same as CARUSI ours, tested .03 TURF MANAGERS ppm and the 19240 West 8 Mile Road 303 1/2 Hawthorne St. lowest tested .02 ASSOCIATION Southfield, Ml 48075 Cadillac, Ml 49601 or less. TODAY! Phone:(313)354-5644 Phone: (616) 775-6666 All the sand ____________________________ / 6 What makes Lyme Disease Tick? By Brian Bret, Ph.D. Lyme disease is rapidly becoming an important pub­ One of the first signs of Lyme disease is a reddish, lic health concern. This potentially debilitating illness purplish or brownish rash around the site of the tick is now the most common tick borne disease in the bite. The rash expands from the center out and may United States, and a likely place to get it is right in look like a bulls eye with red rings inside other red your backyard. rings. However, not everyone who contracts Lyme dis­ Reports of the disease are likely to increase as more ease will experience a rash. In some cases, the rash people become aware of its causes and symptoms and can go away without the infected person knowing seek medical help for proper diagnosis and treatment. what it is. Other early symptoms, which can occur At the same time, the bacteria responsible for the within 32 days of the tick bite, include swollen lymph disease is certain to increase for two reasons: First, the nodes near the bite, flulike symptoms, headache, fever, deer tick that transmits the disease from one host to an­ chills, stiff neck, nausea and fatigue. other appears to be exploding in population. Second, Other symptoms that can occur later include overall the deer tick, the bacteria and the disease are spread­ body weakness, severe headaches, Bell's palsy, carpal ing throughout most of the continental United States by tunnel syndrome, dizziness, seizures, disorientation, mammals and birds that act as hosts for the ticks. muscle and joint pain, neurological and cardiac prob­ A recent article in USA Today stated that scientists lems and arthritic symptoms. Late symptoms can oc­ now believe the bacteria causing Lyme disease was cur months to years after the person is infected. present in this country long before it became officially If you think you might have been exposed to Lyme recognized in 1975. Therefore, instances of Lyme dis­ disease, contact your doctor immediately. It can be ease that occurred decades before were probably mis­ detected with a blood test and treated with antibiotics diagnosed because the disease was not known. in the early stages. Recognizing the Symptoms Life Stages Lyme disease has a variety of symptoms, which The deer tick has a two year life cycle, but goes makes it difficult to diagnose. It can also mimic other through four life stages - egg, larvae, nymph and adult. diseases such as Alzheimers disease and certain neuro­ In late spring or early summer, female adult deer ticks logical disorders. (Continued on page 11) PRESENTING..........A WAREHOUSE ON WHEELS (616) 943-8343 URF 3751 Blair Town Hall Rd. Traverse City, Ml 49684 Suppliers of Quality Products A Total Turf Care Distributor To The Turfgrass Industry « Consulting • Chemicals • Technical Information • Fertilizers • Fungicide Programs • Grass Seed • Fertilizer Programs • Golf Supplies « Soil Management Programs • Parts & Accessories • Soil Testing Call • Soil Management Materials Tom Reed Sr * Tom Reed Jr. • Eric Denoyer (616) 943-8343 7 The Sun and You. • • From "THE SUN AND YOUR SKIN," American Academy of Dermatology ALLERGIES WHO IS AFFECTED? Some people develop allergic reactions to sun expo­ Whether individuals burn or tan depends on a num­ sure. These reactions occur after only short periods of ber of factors, including their skin type, the time of exposure. Bumps, hives, blisters or red blotchy areas year, and the amount of sun exposure they have re­ may occur repeatedly in the same place after each sun ceived recently. The skin's susceptibility to burning exposure. Researchers say these reactions are due to a has been classified on a five-point scale as follows: persons previous sensitization to sunlight or to contact TYPE I -(Extremely Sensitive)- Always burns, never tans with certain cosmetics, perfumes, plants, topical medi­ TYPE II -(Very Sensitive)- Burns easily, tans minimally cations or sun preparations. Some drugs, including TYPE III -(Sensitive)- Burns moderately, tans gradually birth control pills, antibiotics, antibacterial ingredients to a light brown. in medicated soaps and creams, even tranquilizers can TYPE IV -(Minimally Sensitive)- Burns rarely, tans well make some individuals more sensitive to the sun, caus­ to a dark brown. ing a skin eruption. The allergic reaction is called a TYPE V -(Not Sensitive)- Never burns. photosensitivity reaction. If this occurs, see a dermotol- ogist and avoid the offending product in the future. Individuals should select a sunscreen to provide pro­ tection according to their particular skin type, the time DISEASES of year, their location, and the activities they plan to Some diseases become worse or begin upon expo­ do, but always should use a product with an SPF value sure to the sun. These include herpes simplex (cold of 15 or greater. sores), chicken pox, a number of less common disor­ ders, serious skin diseases, conditions that affect the People who are out in the sun a lot, like lifeguards, body's metabolism, and genetic problems. In Lupus Er­ and people with extreme sun sensitivity should apply ythematosus, overexposure to the sun may lead to a an opaque sunscreen - such as zinc oxide, a thick very serious attack or even death if unrecognized or in­ white ointment - to completely cover vulnerable spots appropriately treated. like noses and lips. HUGGETT SOD FARM, INC. mu • Top Quality Sod • CARTER Nugget + II (bluegrass blend) EXCAVATING & LANDSCAPING Grade A or Commercial on Peat or Top Soil Base • Experienced Shapers and Finishers • • Remodeling Specialists • Shade Mix (Bluegrass, Fescua, Rye Blend) Good on Sandy Soils or in Shade Some of our jobs include: Penn Cross Bent Grown on USGA Soil Mix 9-Hole Remodel. . . Grand Hotel 18 Hole Construction. . . Timber Ridge Delivery Michigan • Ohio • Indiana 1 Green Remodel. . . Saginaw C.C. 1 Green Remodel. . . Charlotte C.C. • BULK SPAGNUM PEAT • 9 Hole Construction. . . Walloon Lake C.C. • SHADE & ORNAMENTAL TREES • 18 Hole Construction.. . Michaywe Hills 3 Hole Construction. . . Swan Valley C.C. 9 Hole Construction. . . Heart-O-Lakes Ph: 517-635-7482 Repair and Remodel.. . Bay View C.C. <________________________________________ > For Service & Estimates 4114 East Marlette Rd. • Marlette, Ml 48453 Call Dick or George 616-539-8586 616-539-8210 8 Controlling Borers on White Birch Trees Roscoe Randall, Extension Entomologist, University of Illinois Borers have destroyed many beautiful white birch trees. Another technique which has been tried and evaluated The bronze birch borer is a common insect pest across the since 1977 is the use of Cygon 2E applied as a band or collar midwest. Early symptoms of borer activity include yellowing on the trunks of white birch in late May or early June. The of leaves at the top of the tree, then die back at the top and results for the past seven years have been favorable. The eventually the entire tree may die. Eggs are layed in bark method is to simply apply Cygon 2E as a concentrate out of crevices by a slender, 3/8" long, bronze beetle in May of the original container in a 5 or 6 inch band around the trunk each year. Eggs hatch and the legless, white, flattened grub below the lower limbs. Apply it with a paint brush or, if tunnels beneath the thin bark. The tunneling about under there are many trees to treat, with a small, low pressure the bark loosens it and also girdles the limb or trunk being sprayer. As with spraying a dilute spray, apply on a drying fed upon. day when the concentrate will dry rapidly. It will be translo­ Control alternatives include planting birch species not cated into the tree and will kill hatching borers. commonly attacked by the bronze birch borer. These in­ Cygon will leave a slight yellow stain on the trunk but will clude river birch, a bronze bark birch, or a white bark spe­ dissapear before fall. Do not come in contact with the Cy­ cies called Whitespire, which appears to be resistant to bor­ gon concentrate while applying it. Do not apply a band ers. Fertilizing and watering to prevent drought stress appear wider than six inches. Banding is not an improved method to reduce borer activity, but birches grown in the open are over spraying the birch tree but is easier and can be used under stress in mid summer. where spraying would be difficult. Neither spraying nor Insecticide application is another alternative. Since 1970, banding will save a severely borer damaged birch tree. Also, entomologists at the University of Illinois have suggested the do not band non-birch trees suspected of being infested with use of Cygon 2E as a spray applied in late May or early June borers as Cygon may injure or kill other trees and repeated three weeks later. This year we also suggest Dursban as an alternative insecticide spray. Credit: THE BULL SHEET. Change of Address, Membership Application info available Any member with a change of address should immediately contact Thomas J. Reed at 3733 Apollo Drive, Traverse City, Ml 49684. He should also be contacted if any person would like to apply for membership in NMTMA. TURFGRASS INC. Serving you better with. • • Technical information Fungicide Programs Free timely delivery ... Quality products Fertilizers The Andersons, Lebanon, Sustane, Country Club, Nitroform, Turfgrass Chemicals Dupont, Ampel, Ciba-Geigy, W.A. Cleary, Chipco, Daconil, Mobay, Elanco, NIAD, Dow, Monsanto, Expedite, Bio Groundskeeper, Agri Diagnostics, Reveal, Sierra Chemical, Nor-Am, Riverdale, PaneSea', Miller, Agri-Plex for X, Roots, BiosFe Seeds Northrup King, Medalist Turf Products Spreaders & Sprayers Cyclone, Spyker, Back Pack, Wheely, Spray Hawk Golf Supplies Lewisline, Par Aide, Standardm Fore Par, Yankee, United Stockmen, Chix, Fox Valley Safety Equipment Mine Safety Equipment Soil Management Grid System, TerraFlow, Terrabond, TerraCover Markers Richway, Blazon 1 -313-437-1427 - Kimberly Olson, Turfgrass Agronomy 1-800-521-8873 - Gene Johnanningsmeir, Turgfrass Agronomy 9 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- - NMTMA: MOVING AHEAD The MB I do not think anyone will TORO disagree when it is said golf in Michigan is big business. In Northern Michigan, where of Competition resorts make up a large part of the golf courses available to the public, this is especially YOUR COMPLETE LINE OF IRRIGATION true. During the golf boom, Bob Steinhurst PRODUCTS AND SERVICES N.M.T.M.A. was a modest but active and growing organization, lacking only respect • Consulting - System Evaluation from the other more established associations. The growth in golf spurred growth in the association. Turf • System Design - Computer Aided managers and vendors, along with the founders of the • Certified Irrigation Designers association, have created a very important tool for turf • Pump Station Design and Installation and related industries in the north. In order to continue to move the N.M.T.M.A. • Toro Irrigation Products ahead, new people with different ideas and talents are • PVC Pipe, Fittings, Wire, Etc. needed. If anyone has something to contribute or • Irrigation Service Department would like to serve on the board, please contact a current board member. Nominations for directors are taken up to thirty days before the annual business Spartan Distributors, Inc. meeting in October. Input from the membership is 487 W. DIVISION ST. • P.O.BOX 246 • SPARTA, MICHIGAN 49345 also helpful, so don't hesitate to share your ideas. Having served two years on the board, I have 616-887-7301 worked with many hard working and talented individ­ uals. Both past and present board members have J made many improvements which has made the N.M.T.M.A. a plus for members and the industry. I have enjoyed the two terms and look forward to serv­ ing the association somehow in the future. A Commitment to Quality Turf Care GCSAA Presents $50,000 Turf Products Research Grant.. »GCSAA News Release Research into new environmentally beneficial types < ; f ■: IJ$ gy£ f | Z ‘ 11" of turfgrass received a financial boost during the 1991 U.S. Open when the Golf Course Superintendents As­ Tee Time® sociation of America (GCSAA) presented grants totaling Fertilizer/Pesticides $50,000 to the United States Golf Association (USGA). and Specialty Products The grants will go to help fund the work of the USGA/ GCSAA Turfgrass Research Committee in the coming for the year. Golf Course Professional "We're extremely pleased to once again offer our fi­ nancial support to the committee," said Stephen G Cadenelli, president of GCSAA. "More important than Distributed by: the monrey, however, is our pledge to take the knowl­ TURFGRASS, INC. Call Toll Free: : P.O. BoxT 1-800-521-8873 or edge gained from this research and disseminate it to 28064 Pontiac Trait ' ; v 513-437-1427 those responsible for America's golf courses." 1 S. Lyon, MI 48178 (call collect) The Grants were presented during the Golf Writers Association of America dinner just prior to the start of the professional's the Open. USGA and GCSAA have worked in partner­ partner* ship on turfgrass research since 1983. The goal of the IlicCCCC* Call Toll Free: Customer Service: research program is to find improved types of turfgrass Andersons 1-800-251-LAWN (Ohio) that are suitable for golf courses but which require less 1-800-253-LAWN Lawn Fertilizer Division (Outside Ohio) water and fewer pesticides to maintain. A number of P O.Box 119 Sales Office: 1-800-225-ANDY Maumee, Ohio 43537 (2639) new grasses have already been developed and are in 7 use on golf courses today. 10 Lyme Disease... Developing andproducing (Continued from page 7) the highest quality seed drop off their hosts and lay eggs on the ground. After about a month, the eggs hatch into seed ticks, which possible has been a are six-legged larvae. Scotts, tradition Soon after hatching, the larvae begin searching for hosts from which to feed. The larvae do most of their for more than questing for hosts in leaf litter and the forest floor and do not climb 100 years. high. For this reason, the primary host is the white­ No one in footed mouse, and it is at this stage that the tick ac­ quires the Lyme disease bacteria (called a spirochete in the seed in­ the scientific community) from infected mice. Tick dustry can hosts can also include other small ground dwelling ani­ mals such as voles and some ground nesting birds. match our Newly hatched larvae are not infected with the Lyme disease bacteria. They usually pick it up from the in­ standards fected host as they feed. for seed After feeding two to three days on the host, the lar­ vae drop off on the ground and winter over in leaf lit­ purity. ter, thatch or soil. The next spring, they molt into Ask your ProTurf, Tech Rep for details the next eight-legged nymphs and still carry the infection. time you need to order seed. Nymphs occur in late spring or early summer of the second year. Their populations peak in midsummer. Tom Heid Soon after molting, nymphs begin searching for hosts to 217 West 16th Scotts feed on. Unlike the newly hatched larvae, nymphs are Traverse City, Ml 49684 ProTurf PH: 616-922-0502 not restricted to ground level when searching for suita­ ble hosts. They climb grasses and weeds. It is at this _____________________________________________ / stage that humans are most susceptible to ticks. Other common nymph hosts include medium size mammals and birds. If the nymph is infected, it will pass it on to the next host it feeds on. The average infection rate of nymphs is about 25 percent. This means that if you are bitten by a nymph, you have a one in four chance of being bitten by an in­ fected tick. In some areas of the country, this rate can be significantly higher. A Project Evaluation After a few days of feeding on their hosts, engorged nymphs drop to the ground and remain there until their A Full Scope Irrigation Plans with final molt. By late summer or early fall, nymphs are Bid & Contract Documents molting into adults. Adult populations peak in midfall. A Cost Estimates If a nymph has been infected with the disease, it will carry it into adulthood as well. A Competitive Bidding for Adult ticks climb shrubs and tall grasses in search of Contractors & Suppliers hosts. The most common host is the white-tailed deer. Other large hosts include dogs and humans. After A Field Staking & Observation feeding for a few days, the adults drop off and winter over. Adults can also be found the following spring. The infection rate of adult ticks can range from 40 to 50 percent. c. J. COLEin <3 ASSOCIATES. INC. Making your property less hospitable to ticks. IRRIGATION DESIGN CONSULTANTS The control of Lyme disease provides an ideal oppor­ 817 Main Street tunity for an integrated pest management approach. Rochester, Ml 48307 Control methods must include mechanical, physical (313)656-6805 A and chemical methods aimed at the ticks and their (Continued on next page) M.T.F. , ____________________ ___ ____________________ / 11 Lyme Disease... (Continued from previous page) PICTURE YOUR hosts. However, no control program can guarantee that CLUBHOUSE ON a person will never get Lyme disease. If a tick does not find a host soon after it hatches or molts, it will die. Therefore, making your property less THE WATERFRONT! hospitable to tick hosts such as deer, white-footed mice, birds, squirrels, chipmunks and other mammals is If your pumping system hasn’t kept up.. .if your helpful in controlling the spread of Lyme Disease. clubhouse is like an oasis in the desert.. .Com­ However, controlling hosts is not always possible or mercial Pump can help. Whether it’s a complete desirable over large areas. For instance, getting rid of high-tech pumping system, a retrofit on existing deer populations would affect only adult ticks, and get­ equipment or on-the-spot repairs on any equip­ ting rid of white-footed mice would only affect larvae ment, we have the experience, the parts and the and nymphs. Likewise, controlling the dozens of spe­ people you’ll learn to love. cies of birds and mammals that are supplemental hosts would probably be impossible. After all, waterfront property is easily more valu­ able than desert property. Call (800) 426-0370 Yet, homeowners can take steps to limit host popula­ tions - especially rodents - around their property. The and let’s talk about it! following are some suggestions for making property less desirable as a habitat for tick hosts. Commercial Pump • Keep lawns mowed. Service Incorporated • Keep weeds cleared and shrubs trimmed. 401 Broadway, Swanton OH 43558 • Clean up leaf piles and organic debris and do not Serving the Americas and the Caribbean allow it to accumulate. • Move wood piles away from the house and play areas. • Inspect your home for possible entry sites for Michigan State University rodents. Announces Turfgrass Field Day • Move bird feeders away from living or play areas. The 1991 Michigan State University Turfgrass Dress the part when outdoors Field Day, Trade Show and Equipment Auction The threat of getting Lyme disease shouldn't keep will be held on Thursday, August 22, 1991 at the anyone from enjoying the outdoors. If you plan on be­ Hancock Turfgrass Research Center on the Michi­ ing in a tick prone area, dressing properly is one way of gan State University Campus. The Field Day be­ reducing your chances of coming into contact with gins with registration at 8:30 am and the field tour ticks. at 9:15 am. At 11:00 am, the Trade Show opens, and lunch is served at noon. • Wear light-colored clothing so ticks will be easier to Following the trade show, an auction of new spot. and used equipment will be held at 2:00 pm. This year we are instituting a new pricing policy. Ad­ • Wear long-sleeve shirts with collars. vance registration for the tour will be $10.00 and • Wear long pants. includes lunch. Registering at the Field Day will • Tuck your pants into the top of your boots or inside cost $15.00. If you are not on our regular mailing your socks. list, please contact: • Wear your hair tucked up in a cap away from your neck. Dr. Bruce Branham Michigan State University • Use an effective insect repellent. Dept. of Crop and Soil Sciences • After being outside, check yourself for ticks , and E. Lansing, Ml 48824 shower or bathe thoroughly before going to bed. for a copy of the field day brochure._____________ > Credit: THE BALLMARK 12 13 1992 Conference & Show Plans Shaping Up The 1992 GCSAA Conference and Show in New mental advocacy group and a nationally known me­ Orleans promises unparalleled educational and pro­ dia representative. fessional opportunities for those in the golf course The distributor preview of the GCSAA Trade Show management industry. Watch for your Early Bird Bro­ will be from 1-6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 14. The exposi­ chure to arrive in late July, and take advantage of the tion will be open to attendees from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. valuable member-only discounts for early registration. on Saturday, Feb. 15, and Sunday, Feb. 16, and from The industries biggest event will begin with the 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 17. Spouse Pro­ 1992 GCSAA Golf Championship, which will be held gram activities will be scheduled Friday, Feb. 14 at top golf courses in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. through Sunday, Feb. 16. Conference week kicks off with a record setting 53 Allied association programs will include the Golf one-and-two day seminars scheduled for Monday, Course Builders of America session on Saturday, Feb. February 10 through Thursday, February 13. The 15; the American Society of Golf Course Architects Opening Session and Reception will be held Thursday session on Sunday, Feb. 16; and the USGA Green evening. Six educational sessions are planned for Fri­ Section program on Monday, Feb. 17. day, February 14, along with an Environmental Gen­ GCSAA's annual membership meeting and election eral Session. Speakers for the environmental session will be held Monday, Feb. 17. That evening, the ban­ are expected to include a high-ranking official in the quet and show will provide a festive closing for the regulatory community, a spokesperson for an environ- week's events. <-------------------------------------------------------------------------- \ Some Thoughts on '91 BUNTING SAND & GRAVEL PRODUCTS, INC. N.M.T.M.A. Outings PRODUCERS by DAVID LITTLE C.G.C.S., Huron Breeze Golf & Country Club Summer is upon us here on the sunrise side. But for Bunker sand the ninth time out of the last ten years we have missed Drainage sand spring. We either stay cold with Northeast winds off Lake Huron or heat up with Southwest winds across Drainage stone the state. This year was a mix of both with 40's and Washed decorative stone 50's with 20° wind chills or mid and upper 80's to 90 Field stone degrees. I miss the 60's and 70's and the smell of spring. Boulders What a great start to our N.M.T.M.A. meeting sched­ ule, playing Crystal Downs C.C. and the Monarch at Garland. I would like to thank both clubs for the op­ 3247 Cook Road portunity to play and commend both Mike and David P.O. Box 217 West Branch, Michigan on the great condition their courses were in when we 48661 met. Playing them made me realize something I have been trying to convey to my board of directors. Just (517) 345-2373 like apples and oranges, not all golf courses are the same. Each course is unique in its challenges and re­ sources. We can only manage them to the best of our abilities with the resources at hand., but with the dedi­ • State wide delivery available • cation as professionals and members of N.M.T.M.A., we can produce the best possible facilities. I look forward to hosting the October meeting when you all are invited to enjoy the challenges of the _____________________________________ J 'Breeze'. 14 Z------------------------------------------------------------------------------- \ GCSAA's 65th Anniversary Celebration To Include Formal Dedication Of New 51000 (Bnmir ¿Midftgan 48090 Headquarters Building (313)349-7779 (800-888-7779) GCSAA will celebrate the association's 65th anniver­ sary with the official dedication of its new headquarters Midwest's Largest Stocking Dealer building in Lawrence, Kansas, on September 6 & 7, For 1991. All GCSAA members are invited. R&R PRODUCTS The celebration kicks off with a golf event and barbe­ cue on Friday, September 6. Formal dedication ceremo­ nies will take place on Saturday, September 7. Several QUALITY REPLACEMENT PARTS hundred visiting superintendents, political and industry TORO JACOBSEN HAHN-WESTPOINT CUSHMAN VIPs, local Chamber of Commerce dignitaries, the me­ RYAN ROSEMAN RANSOMES MOTT dia and other guests are expected to attend. Orientation presentations and building tours will be part of the dedi­ NATIONAL YAZOO FORD EXCEL cation ceremony. REEL SHARPENING COMPOUND Complete information on the dedication weekend and a registration form for the weekend's activities were FLYMO - POWER PRUNER - AaB-S0RB0IL EMULSIFIER included in the Feb./March issue of Newsline. The breakfast, barbecue and dedication ceremonies require CALL US TOLL FREE 800-888-7779 an RSVP by August 9, 1991. The headquarters building is located one mile west of GCSAA's old headquarters. The address is 1421 Re­ ONE STOP SHOP FOR YOUR SUPPLY ITEMS search Park Drive, Lawrence, Kansas, 66049-3859. FLAGS•POLES•RAKES•CUPS For further information, contact the GCSAA commu­ nications department at (913) 841 -2240. V____________________ _________________________) COUNI'R'^CLUB 18-4-10 w/ naiad 46 years experience growing Bent Grass Great new combination product for more effi­ Sod. cient use of Irrigation water for healthier turf and We add new modified turf growth. Special small homogeneous granu­ soil after each lar sizing for even distribution at lower Nitrogen cropping, ensuring a rates. Assures you even-balanced dispersion of better sod. nutrients and Naiad. Our Bent Grass sod is IDEAL N-P-K RATIO WITH PREDICTABLE c=== managed just as you SLOW RELEASE THAT PUTS DOWN 1#N AND 1 oz. NAIAD/1000; OR 1/2#N & 1/2 oz. ALEX manage your golf greens. NAIAD/1000 - FAST, EASY AND EFFICIENT. ROHOSA * For faster play on your greens call us for your Contact your Distributor sod installations. or call * We specialize in green installations, tees and 1-800-233-0628 problem patchwork. WATER/SOIL PENETRANT- * Call to place your sod order or to arrange for in­ WETTING stallation of your greens. One green or your en­ AGENT tire golf course. Leßarnon ROHOZA TOTAL TURF CARE TURF PROFESSIONALS A division of Lebanon Chemical Corporation SEWICKLEY, PA 15143 P.0. Box 180 • Lebanon, Pennsylvania 17042 412/266-4138 - 412/266-1140 15 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ . 1991-92 CALENDAR OF EVENTS AUG. 5-6 Yamaha Classic, Garland Resort, Lewiston 8-11 PGA Championship, Crooked Stick, Indianapolis, IN 12 NMTMA, Thunder Bay, Hillman 12-13 Michigan Senior Open, Michaywe GC, Gaylord 19-21 First of America Michigan PGA Championship, Indianwood Golf and Country Club, Lake Orion 23-25 Michigan Bell Showdown, Grand Traverse Resort, Bear, Traverse City SEPT. TBA Mid-Michigan, MTF Benefit Day 4 West Michigan, MTF Benefit Day, Gull Lake View, Gull Lake 9 NMTMA, Shanty Creek Resort, Mancelona 16-21 US Senior Amateur, Crystal Downs CC, Frankfort 22 MSU Field Day 26-29 Ryder Cup, Ocean Course, Kiawah Island, SC OCT. 3 NMTMA, Huron Breeze, AuGres 7 Michigan Border Cities G.S.A., MTF Benefit Day, Four Sites 1 V -J Genetic Work Wins $12,000 Callahan in nominating Bond for the scholarship. "This technology is essential for genetic engineering Musser Scholarship for of plants and the related improvements of crop spe­ cies," echoed Dr. Peter M. Gresshof, who holds the Tennessee Turf Student Racheff Chair of Excellence in plant molecular genet­ MITF News Release ics at the University of Tennessee. "(Bonds) progress has been excellent despite the intellectual and scien­ Developing techniques to transfer desirable traits tific challenge of the research." from one plant to another has earned a $12,000 The Musser International Turfgrass Foundation was scholarship for a 26-year-old doctoral candidate at the formed by graduates of the turfgrass programs at Penn­ University of Tennessee in Knoxville. sylvania State University to fund basic turfgrass re­ James E. Bond, a native of England, was awarded search through fellowships to outstanding graduate the 1991 Musser International Turfgrass Foundation's students completing their doctoral work in turfgrass graduate scholarship to complete studies that are "of science. It honors the late Burton Musser, turfgrass re­ tremendous benefit to turfgrasses," according to Dr. searcher and educator who developed Penncross Lloyd M. Callahan, a University of Tennessee profes­ creeping bentgrass during his four decades at Pennsyl­ sor in charge of a DNA research program in the De­ vania State. partment of Ornamental Horticulture and Landscape The organization is funded primarily by contribu­ Design. tions from Penn State alumni and grants from compa­ As a direct result of Bonds work, "highly desirable nies in the turfgrass industry. This year, the associa­ traits such as hardiness, herbicide resistance, disease tion sought donations from golf course superintendent resistance, among others, can be introduced into de­ associations and three responded: Midwest, West Vir­ sired turfgrasses that do not possess this trait," wrote ginia and Florida. 16