Officers and Directors
Elected

$28,470 in Research Grant
Funds Awarded by NTA

Randy H. White, CGCS, golf course superintendent
at Everett Golf and Country Club in Everett, Washington
was elected president of the Northwest Turfgrass
Association during the organization's 48th annual
conference held recently at the Salishan Resort in
Gleneden Beach, Oregon. White, will preside as president
of the 450+ member
professional association of
representatives of various segments of the turfgrass
management industry in the Pacific Northwest October
1994 to October of 1995.
White, a certified golf course superintendent (CGCS),
recently completed a term as a director on the
association's board of directors, is a past president of the
Western Washington Golf Course Superintendents
Association and has been active in the Golf Course
Superintendents Association of America.
Elected vice president was Tom A. Christy, CGCS,
golf course superintendent at Riverside Golf and Country
Club in Portland, Oregon. Elected to serve as secretary
was James W, Dusin, Golf Course Greenkeeper at Apple
Tree Gotf Course in Yakima, Washington and treasurer
was Donald A. Clemans, CGCS & CPAg, Senior
Technical Representative for O.M. Scott & Sons based in
Sisters, Oregon. Tom A. Christy will wear the two hats
on the board one as vice president and one as
immediate past president.
Board directors elected to three year terms during the
annual membership meeting were James E. Connolly,
Senior Technical Agronomist with JacklinGolf of Post
Falls, Idaho; Chris P. Gaughan, Golf Course
Greenkeeper at Eugene Country Club in Eugene,
Oregon; Kay B. Kinyon, Parks Superintendent for the
City of Lake Oswego, Oregon. Other board directors for
the year, whose terms are unexpired, are Mike W. Erb,
Sales Representative with Wilbur Ellis Company based in
Auburn, Washington and John W. Monson, CGCS,
Facilities Manager for the Seattle Seahawks, Inc. in
Kirkland, Washington.
In addition to the elected members of the board, Roy
L. Goss is an honorary nonvoting "Director Emeritus"
and Blair Patrick serves as the nonvoting Executive
Director.

Research grant funds totaling $28,470 have been
awarded to two universities for six research projects by
the Northwest Turfgrass Association. Oregon State
University (Corvallis), Washington State University
Research and Extension Center (Puyallup), Washington
State University (Pullman), are recipients of funds.
Grant requests this year totaled over $47,470. NTA
Research and Scholarship Fund limitations precluded the
NTA from granting any more than the $28,470. Below is a
summary of the funding requested and approved for the
1994-95 academic year:
Instit. & Researchers)

OSU

Cook

0SU Cook
WSU Brauen
(Puyallup)
WSU Brauen
(Puyallup)
WSU Stahnke
(Puyallup)
WSU Johnston
(Pullman)
WSU Johnston
(Pullman)
WSU Brauen/Stahnke
(Puyallup)
WSU Johnston
(Pullman)

Project

Requested

On-line Subscription Hook-up
$166
-MSU "Turfgrass Information File"
On-going Programs
$0
Quantification and Fate of Nitrogen $8195
from Amended and Trafficked Sand
Putting Green/Tee Profiles
Identification of Water- use
$10750
Requirements and Stress Tolerance
on Turf grasses
Screening Antagonistic
$5024
Microorganisms for Suppression
of Microdochium nivale and Gaemannomyces
graminis var. avenae
Improving Turfgrass Establishment $10500
& Quality Utilizing Solid Matrix Seed
Priming
On-going Programs
$12500
On-line Subscription Hook-up
-MSU "Turfgrass Information File"
On-line Subscription Hook-up
-MSU "Turfgrass Information File"

Approved
$166

$0

$6470
$7000
$4500

$3000
$7000

$166

$166

$166

$166

All the research grants deal with issues relevant to
today's problems and environmental concerns and have
the potential of being beneficial to today's grounds
manager.
Promoting turfgrass research is a major purpose of
the NTA. Funds for grants are obtained through a direct
voluntary solicitation campaign and various other events
and activities designed to generate donations to the NTA
Research and Scholarship Fund (R & S Fund) and the
NTA Turfgrass Universities Research Fund (T.U.R.F.).
Over the last eight years, NTA has donated over
$205,230 to research here in the Pacific Northwest,
thanks to the on-going commitment and contributions of
NTA members.

President's
Message

NTA Awards $5,000 in
Scholarships

In this age of fast-paced
changes in regulations and
environmental
awareness,
support is available from the
NTA through education and
research pertinent to the
Northwest. The NTA is a
collection
of
turfgrass
Randy White
professionals led by a core of
volunteers and administrated by an executive director.
This year I look forward to helping continue the tradition of
assisting turfgrass research and providing scholarships for
students pursuing a degree related to turfgrass culture.
The 48th conference at Salishan Lodge was an
example of what an outstanding group of individuals we
have as members. Mark Snyder, superintendent at
Salishan, provided participants with a great golf
tournament. John Monson and Don Clemans put together
a very informative and balanced educational program,
from the opening session with Tom Cook to the closing
bell with Larry Gilhuly and James Moore.
Others who participated in planning the conference
included Jim Dusin (tours), Becky Michels (spouse
program) and Tim Haldeman (sponsors). A long list of
sponsors contributed $18,000 making our conference a
financial success. This money goes directly to research
and scholarships. Of course the conference would not
have been possible without months of work and detail
coordination by Executive Director Blair Patrick, along with
the help of Jerry Crabill. Thank you gentlemen.
As a keystone of our association, the annual
conference has a tradition reaching back before most of
our careers began. The opportunity to get timely and
pertinent reports on research projects should be a very
high priority for all turfgrass professionals. These along
with professional relations presentations, made the
conference a value. We hope to see you all at Skamania
Lodge next October.
I would also like to acknowledge the years of
volunteerism by outgoing board members Becky Michels,
Tim Werner, Tim Haldeman and Mark Snyder. Thanks for
the countless hours of time and effort, rewarded only by
the knowledge of a good job done! Very special
congratulations to Tom Christy on a great year as
President. He has begun a program, Turf Universities
Research Fund, that will be the cornerstone of fundraising
efforts for the future. His abilities are well known to most
of us and we all appreciate the work he has put into this
and other projects.
And finally, I wish to welcome the new board
members Kay Kinyon, Parks Superintendent for City of
Lake Oswego; Chris Gaughan, Superintendent of Eugene
Country Club; and Jim Connolly, Senior Technical
Agronomist for Jacklin Seed. Continuing to serve for the
final year of Tim Haldedman's term will be Don Clemans
of Scott's Pro Turf. I hope they enjoy the coming year as
much as I know I will.
Randy White, CGCS
President

Five outstanding students have been selected to
receive $5,000 in NTA Scholarships for the 1994-95
academic year. Scholarships have been awarded to two
Oregon State University (OSU) and three Washington
State University (WSU) students.
OSU students receiving $1,000 scholarships each
were William V. Dierdoriff and Eric W. Johnson, both
juniors with majors of "Horticulture Turf & Lands
Management." WSU students receiving scholarships of
$1,000 each, were Matt Fagerness, a senior majoring in
"Crop & Soil Sciences," Ryan Kreizenbeck, a senior
majoring in 'Turf Management" and Samuel S. Sprague,
a junior majoring in "Agronomy."

2

Scholarship Recipients
Thank NTA Members
I am writing to thank you for the $1000 scholarship I
received for the 1994-95 academic year. The scholarship
you've given me will definitely help in relieving the
financial burden of college and allow me to focus on my
school work. Again, I really appreciate the assistance and
admire the NTA for their willingness to support academic
achievement in the field of turf management.
-Ryan KreizenbeckI would like to extend my deepest gratitude and
appreciation for your donation of financial aid to my
college degree program in the field of agronomy. This
scholarship will go a long way in helping me through my
final year at WSU. Gifts such as yours mean more than
just money. It really makes one feel special to be
recognized for their achievements academically. Once
again, thanks.
-Samuel S. Sprague-

Northwest Turfgrass Conference
Applauded by Participants
This year's 48th Northwest Turfgrass Conference,
held at the Salishan Lodge in Gleneden Beach, Oregon
in September, was rated a grand success by the
participants. Everything-the preconference botanical tour
and golf tournament, the professional development
program, the get acquainted reception, the annual
banquet, and the companion events-all received
outstandingly high marks from conference participants.
Everyone commented on how much they got out of the
conference and how much they enjoyed it.
The professional development program, with over 25
presentations, covered a wide range of timely turf
management related topics. Presenters from throughout
the nation served up a banquet of information. A
conference Proceedings, to be published this winter,
incorporating all of the presentations made at the
conference, will be provided to all NTA members as a
member service.
Turf grass Topics/Fall 1994

Wrapping up the 1994 conference, out-going NTA
President Tom Christy urged everyone to make plans now
to attend next year's 49th Northwest Turf grass
Conference scheduled for the new Skamania Lodge in
Stevenson, Washington October 9-12, 1995.

Sponsorship Program
Continues to Grow
Turf grounds maintenance and irrigation suppliers
have been invited for two years now to be financial
Sponsors during the Northwest Turfgrass Conference.
The goal of the "Sponsor Program" is to provide suppliers
with an opportunity for tax deductible advertising and, at
the same time, through the reduction in conference costs,
free-up conference receipts for research and
scholarships.
During the first year of the program, only golf tees
were available for sponsors. For the last two years golf
tees, presenter honoraria and food/beverage events were
available for sponsorship.
In exchange for a tax
deductible donation, sponsors are recognized with a very
professionally done multi-colored reproduction of the their
company logo displayed at the sponsored event and
during the general sessions throughout the conference.
The sponsors of this year's conference, listed below,
will be recognized in each quarterly issue of the
Northwest Turfgrass Topics this year in hopes that it will
encourage you to consider them when in need of products
or services.

1994
Northwest Turfgrass Conference
Sponsors
The companies listed below deserve our special
thanks and appreciation for being "Sponsors" of the
1994 Northwest Turfgrass Conference.
Sponsors' donations go for research funds and
scholarships.
Aquatrols Corp. of America, Inc.
Country Club Sales, Inc.
Evergro Sales, Inc.
Farwest Equipment & Supply
JR Simplot/Best Fertilizer
Landa, Inc.
Norm Whitworth, Ltd.
Northwest Outdoor Equipment, Inc.
O.M. Scott & Sons
Oregon Golf Course Superintendents Assn.
Pac-West Distributing
Pacific Calcium, Inc.
Rainbird Sales, Inc.
Tee-2-Green Corp.
The Chas. H. Lilly Co.
United Horticultural Supply
United Pipe and Supply Company, Inc.
Western Equipment Distributors, Inc.
West. Wa. Golf Course Supers. Assn.
Wilbur Ellis Co.
3 Turf grass Topics/Fall 1994

Cherry Hill, NJ
Kent, WA
Kirkland, WA
Portland, OR
Bothell, WA
Portland, OR
Oak Grove, OR
Clackamas, OR
Citrus Heights, CA
Vancouver, WA
Wilsonville, OR
Beaverton, OR
Gresham, OR
Hubbard, OR
Portland, OR
Salem, OR
Portland, OR
Kent, WA
Tacoma, WA
Auburn, WA

CONFERENCE GOLF
TOURNAMENT WINNERS
80+ golfers participated in the R.L. Goss Golf
Tournament for Research at Salishan Golf Links during
the conference. The tournament format was four man
scramble with half of the field (10 teams) receiving gift
certificates. Special prize winners were as follows:
Winning Team
Score-60
Michael Hilsenkopf
Pete O'Brien
Mike Troutman
Roger Vandehey
Closest to Hole
4th Hole
Hank Gordon
6th Hole
John Cronan (Hole in One)
11th Hole
Bill Johnston
15th Hole
George Smith
Long Drive
5th Hole
Mike Barber
10th Hole
Jeff Coad

1994-95 Membership
Directory Distributed
The
Directory of the Northwest Turfgrass
Association for 1994/1995 is at the printers and will be
mailed to Northwest Turfgrass Association members
within the next few weeks. The directory is provided as
a membership service for members annually. It includes
a variety of resource information including the names,
addresses and telephone numbers of members: turfgrass,
plant management and soils information and a technical

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(503) 549-3933
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or 1-800-543-0006 today.

Directory (continued)
listing of industry publications and associations; and, other
valuable information. Any member not receiving a copy
within the next few weeks should contact the NTA office.
The directory will reflect the change in area code from
(206) to (360) that become effective January 15,1995 for
parts of western Washington.

1995 Membership Dues
Statements Out
Annual dues statements for 1995 have been mailed
and should be in members hands. The dues are $75.00
for active members (individuals engaged in the turfgrass
industry or in the development or application of turfgrass
industry technology); $25.00 for subscribers (any person
employed and sponsored by an active member), and
$15.00 for student members (any person enrolled in a
university, college, community college or vocational school
turfgrass or related industry program of studies).
The Northwest Turfgrass Association (NTA) is a
nonprofit corporation founded in 1948 to help all people
interest in turf grass culture. The association membership
has nearly doubled over the past six years increasing
from around 230 members to over 450. Members
represent a variety of interests in the turf and grounds
management
industry
including:
golf
course
superintendents; parks, school, university and college,

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and other public grounds management personnel; sports
field management personnel; cemetery grounds
management; commercial and residential grounds and
lawn care management personnel; et al. In addition, lawn
spray services, landscape designer services, landscape
contractors, irrigation services and equipment and
chemical suppliers, et al. all participate as members in
the organization. Through its many activities, the NTA has
benefited all of these people by helping them learn more
about their industry and professions. The NTA's annual
conference and publications provide timely and pertinent
information specifically aimed at turf culture needs in the
Pacific Northwest.
The NTA organization is directed by its membership
through a board of directors. Board representation takes
into account
industry interest groups and the
geographical make-up of the organization.
Board
members, elected by the general membership during the
annual meeting, serve 3 year terms. The officers of the
association are elected by and from the board for 1 year
terms.
The NTA offers an opportunity to participate shoulder
to shoulder with leading turf management professionals
and the suppliers supporting the industry in the Pacific
Northwest.

Research Grant Proposals
and Scholarship Applications
Research proposal grant application information and
scholarship application information for the 1995-96
academic year will be included in the Winter issue of the
Northwest Turfgrass Topics. Individuals interested in
submitting a research proposal and students interested in
applying for a scholarship should watch for detailed
information in the next issue of the topics.

Conferences, Shows and Seminars
OGCSA Mechanics Seminar
The Oregon Golf Course Superintendents Association
is sponsoring a Mechanics Seminar to be held December
5, 1994 at the Oregon Golf Club. The registration fee,
which includes lunch, is $20.00. For further information,
contact the OGCSA office (206) 573-6969.
Pacific Coast Turf & Landscape
Conference
December 7 & 8, 1994 are the dates for the sixth
annual Pacific Coast Turf & Landscape Conference
cosponsored by the Western Washington Golf Course
Superintendents Association and the Washington State
Nursery & Landscape Association. The show, "Growing
Crazy VI," will be held at the Washington State
Convention & Visitors Center and will feature three tracts
of educational sessions and a trade show. For further
information, call 1 (800) 275-9198.

4

Turf grass Topics/Fall 1994

Washington State Nursery and
Landscape Association Convention

and the annual golf tournament. For information contact
1 (800) 472-7878.

The site of the January 5-7, 1995 WSNLA convention
will be Semi-Ah-Moo in Blaine, Washington.
The
convention committee promises an all-new program with
just the right mix of business, education, social events and
free-time to enjoy the facilities.
For more information, contact WSNLA at
(206) 863-4482.

Digging Deeper for Better Solutions
Seminar

Inland Northwest Turf & Landscape
Trade Show
January 26, 1995 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. is the
date and time for the Inland Northwest Turf & Landscape
Trade Show and the Interstate Fairgrounds in Spokane is
the location. Vendors will be showing equipment,
products, and supplies for the turfgrass
industry and there will be door prizes awarded
throughout the day. For more information, contact the
IEGSA office at (509) 535-8305.
GCSAA 66th International Golf Course
Conference and Show
The San Francisco Moscone Center will be the site of
66th annual conference and show for GCSAA scheduled
for February 20-27, 1995. The conference includes
educational seminars, sessions and forums; 600+ exhibits

One of the most recognized names in tree biology, Dr.
Alex Shigo will present a two-day seminar on the basic
science of trees and their treatments on March 9 and 10,
1995 at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver,
B.C. For further information, contact (503) 254-0482.

"CGCS" Designations
Granted
NTA members
Mark
Cupit, golf
course
superintendent at Canterwood Golf & Country Club in Gig
Harbor, Washington; James Howes, golf course
superintendent at Lake Padden Golf Course, Bellingham,
Washington; Jerry Mathews, golf course superintendent
at Port Ludlow Golf Course in Port Ludlow, Washington;
and, Randy Shults, golf course superintendent at
Tualatin Country Club in Tualatin, Oregon, have each
been designated a Certified Golf Course Superintendent
(CGCS) by the Golf Course Superintendents Association
of America (GCSAA) this past year.
GCSAA instituted the certification program in 1971 to
recognize outstanding and progressive superintendents
and more than 1400 superintendents currently hold the
"CGCS" certification. To become certified, a candidate

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CGCS (continued)
must have five years of 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 turfgrass and
pest management practices; safety compliance practices;
financial and organizational management practices; and,
rules of golf. An additional element of the certification
process is an on-site inspection of the candidate's golf
course operation.

Names In
The News
Pacific Northwest Golfer, a new official magazine of
the Pacific Northwest Golf Association, Oregon Golf
Association, Washington State Golf Association and
British Columbia Golf Association, was recently
distributed. Editorial, advertising or circulation information
is available through the PNGA/WSGA office at (206) 5261238.
"ASPA" Becomes "TPI"
The members of the
American Sod Producers Association (ASPA) have
approved a change of their association name to Turfgrass
Producers International (TPI).
Dr. Olaf K. Ribiero, renowned Certified Professional
Plant Pathologist, has announced his association with the
new ASTEC division of Prescription Turf Services, Inc. Dr.
Ribiero will serve as the director of research and
pathology.
Tony Jacklin, four-time European Ryder Cup captain,
has been signed on to be spokesperson for JacklinGolf.
His winning experience on the golf course, not to mention
his last name, make him a natural for this job.
GCSAA headquarters in Lawrence, Kansas has
established new office hours from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
(central time) or 5:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (pacific standard
time).
Steve Eisele, a manufacturers representative for
Spraying Systems Co. has relocated operations from
Portland, Oregon to Boise, Idaho under the new name
TeeJet West.

The Role of Turfgrass in
Environmental Protection
The following is an abstract of an article by James B.
Beard and Robert L. Green that appeared in the Journal
of Environmental Quality, Vol 23, No. 3, May-June 1994.
(for reprints of entire article write to: Journal of
Environmental quality, 677 South Sogoe Road, Madison,
Wisconsin 54711)

functional, (ii) recreational, and (iii) aesthetic components.
Specific functional benefits include: excellent soil erosion
control and dust stabilization thereby protecting a vital soil
resource; improved recharge and quality protection of
groundwater, plus flood control; enhanced entrapment
and biodégradation of synthetic organic compounds; soil
improvement that includes C02 conversion; accelerated
restoration of disturbed soils; substantial urban heat
dissipation-temperature moderation; reduced noise, glare,
and visual pollution problems; decreased noxious pests
and allergy-related pollens; safety in vehicle operation on
roadsides and engine longevity on airfields; lowered fire
hazard via open, green turfed firebreaks; and improved
security of sensitive installations provided by high visibility
zones. The recreational benefits include a low-cost
surface for outdoor sport and leisure activities, enhanced
physical health of participants, and a unique low-cost
cushion against personal impact injuries. The aesthetic
benefits include enhanced beauty and attractiveness; a
complimentary relationship to the total landscape
ecosystem of flowers, shrubs and trees; improved mental
health with a positive therapeutic impact, social harmony
and stability; improved work productivity; and an overall
better quality of life, especially in densely populated urban
areas.

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Turfgrasses have been utilized by humans to
enhance their environment for more than 10 centuries.
The complexity and comprehensiveness of these
environmental benefits that improve our quality-of-life are
just now being quantitatively documented through
research. Turfgrass benefits may be divided into (i)
6

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For m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , c o n t a c t y o u r
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Turf grass Topics/Fall 1994

It's time for golfers
to pay their fair share
Over the years, the entire golf industry has borne the
cost of turfgrass research. The United States Golf
Association, private industry, the Golf Course
Superintendents Association of America and state and
regional chapters have all gone to great lengths to raise
money, then given it away to scientists investigating
everything from pesticide fate to low-input turfgrasses.
Now it's time for the end-user - the golfer - to pitch
in. Golfers are, after all, the beneficiaries of the lifetime of
hard work superintendents and their crews devote to
creating perfect playing conditions.
The Arizona green industry took a severe blow this
spring when two legislators killed legislation that would
have assessed 10 cents per round of golf, with the funds
bankrolling research. The entire gold industry reeled,
stunned by that debacle. Similar legislation is in effect in
various states supporting research in citrus, agriculture
and other industries. Superintendents and scientists
around the country expected to push for this type of law.
That may still happen.
But in the meantime, others are undeterred in their
own innovative efforts to raise funds.
Dick Stunz of Alovamar County Club in Lawrence,
Kan., may have pioneered another way to skin this cat using mailings to GIN Handicap users to ask for donations
for research. Stunz and his green industry colleagues in
Kansas should be lauded. They and others must have
unique ideas to pass on. We welcome the chance to be
the clearing house for these ideas, tried or untried.
Multiply a $2 donation by the number of golfers applying
for handicaps in America and the potential is truly
enormous for the Kansas-type fund-raising abne.
The industry could take the lead from organizers of
the Herman Sani Fund in Iowa, which provides
scholarships to graduating high school seniors. For 30
years they have raised funds at the state tournaments.
Sometimes it's voluntary. Other times, a donation is simply
added to tournament charges.
There must be myriad solutions to the money
problem. One thing is certain: "A worker is worthy of his
wages." And scientists from the University of
Massachusetts to the University of Arizona continue to
solve problems affecting golf courses.
They should get the support they need. And golfers
should be among the supporters.
Source: Golf Course News

Over $12.5 Billion Spent on
Professional Landscape Services
Seventeen million U.S. households spent $12.5 billion
on professional landscaping and lawn care services in
1993, according to a recent Gallup survey. The study
revealed that the number of homeowners using landscape
professionals was up 29 percent over 1992, and expected
7 Turf grass Topics/Fall 1994

to grow by an additional six percent in 1994.
Results were based on personal interviews with a
representative sample of 1,665 U.S. households about
their 1993 spending on these services:
• Lawn/Landscape maintenance - lawn fertilization,
mowing, renovation, insect/weed control, pruning and
mulching.
• Landscape installation/construction - plants,
walkways, fences, decks, pools and other water features.
• Landscape design - professional landscape
design/landscape architecture services.
Average 1993 household spending on landscape
services was $721. Lawn/landscape maintenance
received the largest share of total homeowner
landscaping dollars at $6.4 billion, followed by landscape
installation/construction at $5.6 billion, landscape design
at $381 million. The largest average household
expenditures were on landscape installation/constructbn
at $2,971, followed by lawn/landscape maintenance at
$445 and landscape design at $424.
Other highlights:
• Americans 50 and older accounted for nearly half of
all expenditures on lawn/landscape maintenance services.
• The Western U.S. had the highest average
expenditures on lawn/landscape maintenance services at
$536.
• Americans 30-49 years old accounted for 83 percent
of landscape installation/constructions ales; they also had
the highest average spending in this category, $3,482.
• Homeowners in the South had the highest average
spending on landscape installation/construction, $6,147.
• women accounted for 70 percent of spending on
landscape design services; their average expenditures in
this category were twice that of men.
• The Mid-Atlantic region accounted for nearly half of
all landscape design spending.
The improved national economy, the upturn in homebuilding, and the growing awareness of landscaping's
environmental and economic benefits are believed to be
key factors contributing to the growth in homeowner
spending on professional landscape services.
This first-of-its kind survey was sponsored by the
American Association of Nurserymen, the American
Society of Landscape Architects, the Associated
Landscape Contractors of America, the International
Society of Arboriculture, the National Arborist Association,
and the Professional Lawn Care Association of America. It
was conducted in cooperation with the National
Gardening Association.

A Grape A Day Keeps
The Geese Away
Geese hate grape. And golfers hate geese.
Enter Marvin S. Preiser of Middletown, a chemist and
consultant who has figured out a way to use grape
flavoring to chase geese off of golf courses, away from
airports and anyplace else the birds are a nuisance. The
chemical, methyl anthranilate, will not harm the birds or
the environment, Preiser said.
"All the birds have to do is taste it," Preiser said, "It's
like you or I biting into a chili pepper. It hurts, but it does
no damage."
Preiser said birds quickly learn that they need to go
somewhere else for food. Preiser said the grape
substance will chase away not only geese, but other
waterfowl such as swans and gulls.
Preiser explained that chemists have known for years
about the repellent value of the grape flavoring. The
problem, he said, was the texture. The substance would
glop up on ponds and was too thick to use on grass.
So Preiser was hired by PMC Specialties Group in
Cincinnati to convert the chemical - now with the trade
name ReJex-lt - into a powder to use on airport runways,
a Tighter-than-water" liquid to float on ponds and a Tiny,
tiny bead" substance to sprinkle on grass.
It took Preiser, 70, six months in his laboratory to get
the job done. Now Preiser, a retired vice president at

T H E M C G R E G O R COMPANY

Hercules-PFW and an independent consultant for the past
eight years, is working on a formula to keep wood peckers
off telephone poles.
Meanwhile, ReJex-lt, which is biodegradable, has
already been approved by the Federal Environmental
Protection Agency. Now, it must be approved for use in
each state.
"I consider it a miracle. It is so hard to resolve a
conflict between man and animal," and biologist Leslie
Gerstenfeld - Press of People for the Ethical Treatment of
Animals. "We think it's a wonderful thing."
Estimates on how much ReJex-lt will cost are still
unavailable, but customers are likely to include
greenkeepers, who hate geese because the birds' feces
kills grass, and airport officials, who fear geese (and sea
gulls) because the birds can get caught in airplay engines,
causing damage and even crashes.
Source: Time Herald Record/Middletown, NY

Spikeless Spike
An August news release reads "Campaign against
metal spikes gains momentum". Golf Digest reports that at
least two of America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses have
issued either full or partial bans on metal spikes, and
many other prominent courses are experimenting with a
new "spikeless spike".
Prairie Dunes County Club in Kansas (ranked No. 25
in America's 100 Greatest Courses) and Wynstone in
Illinois (No. 85) have both instituted bans of metal spikes.
Others considering the benefits of spikeless spikes include
Pine Valley Golf Club, No. 1 on the 100 Greatest list.
Golf Digest reminds purists ready to protest this break
from tradition that Old Tom Morris won four British Opens
without a single spike on his shoes and Bemhard Langer
missed a six-foot putt for the Ryder Cup largely because
of two spike marks.
Reprinted from September issue of Golf Digest.

Wash Rack Should Be
Environmental Focus
by Larry Gilhuly

McGregor Turf APS Sprayersslip in the back of nearly
any service vehicle. As rugged as they are versatile.
Available with tanks from 50-gal. to 150-gal. and the
new, 115-gal. low profile elliptical tank. Featuring: 3section 20-ft self centering wet boom, roller, centrifugal
or diaphragm pump, Briggs and Stratton or Honda
engine, electric boom fold up, sonar system, foam
marker, monitor system, manual or electric hose reel.
Integrity

•

Innovation

•

1V1LILLYTMILLER.
Distributing

^ ^

Expertise

Dealer Inquiries Welcome
509-397-4360

The issue of clean groundwater has become an
environmental agenda item that is receiving far more
scrutiny than in the past. It is becoming a common
practice to monitor groundwater on golf courses due to the
possible threat of fertilizers and pesticides.
Is it possible that a greater threat of groundwater
pollution does not exist in turf areas, but where equipment
is washed following mowing operations and chemical
applications.
There are those who may believe this approach is
being somewhat reactionary. However,, the following was
recently enacted in the state of Illinois that offers us a
glimpse of the future. An amendment to the Illinois lawn
care act now requires turf care professional to use wash
water and rinsate collections devices. The amendment

Fertilizer & Turf Products

8

Turf grass Topics/Fall 1994

also gives the Illinois Department of Agriculture the
authority to permit such devices.
The rules were developed by the ag department, the
Illinois EPA and several concerned and interested persons
from the turf care industry and related fields.
All licensed applicators in the state of Illinois received
the rules, a permit application and instructions for meeting
the terms of compliance of the rules. The permitting
process has been simplified to help reduce the possible
increased cost that can result from an extensive
engineering plan.
To simplify the permitting process, a general permit
class system has been approved. The permit will require
the applicant to provide a location map of the facility, a
detailed description of the wash pad location, selection of
either a Class A, B or C device and the inclusion of a
water supply protection device such as a reduced
pressure backflow device and any other information
required by the department. The permit would be
renewable every five years.
This is just one example of how states are beginning
to clamp down on wash areas and the potential problems.
If a golf course superintendent or other turfgrass
professional has a situation that requires improvement,
there are three methods we have viewed during the past
several years that address this issue.
• A sewer connection. A series of drop boxes can
capture nearly all of the clippings following cleaning
operations if the wash area is tied into a sewer system. An
oil/water separator is also necessary with the remaining
material entering the sewer system. With this type of
operation, it would still be advisable to clean residues from
pesticides sprayers or spreaders on areas covered with
turf in the roughs.
• A combination sewer and pesticide containment
area. This unique combination is at Eugene (Ore.)
Country Club where the superintendent has combined a
wash area for equipment connected to the sewer and a
separate pesticide building/wash area for all herbicide,
fungicide and insecticide applications. The innovative
approach totally controls all pesticide rinsates by
separating residues into individual tanks. The next time
the pesticide operator is slated for an application, the
residue accumulated from the previous spraying is used in
filling the tank.
• Complete self-containment. Although this is more
expensive and minimal maintenance is necessary, it does
provide the ultimate answer in containing all wash material
from the maintenance area.
Water runs downstream or into the ground and the
watchdogs of the environmental movement can't wait to
nail golf courses with environmental pollution claims. Do
yourself, your golf course and the industry a big favor by
updating this portion of the maintenance operation.

Fertilization Fall and Late Fall Style
By Paul E. Rieke
Crop and Soil Sciences
Michigan State University

One of the very important turf management practices
during the fall is fertilization. This time of year there are
many other activities which require time and attention, but
fertilization must also be given priority. For many reasons,
turf management practices done in the fall will have a
major effect on the quality of turf the following spring.
Fertilization is one of the most important.
Phosphorous and potassium in the fall
The key nutrient in fall fertilization is nitrogen. Some
have suggested phosphorous and potassium are the key
nutrients in fall fertilization. Certainly, these nutrients
should be available to turf in adequate quantities. For
example, when potassium is limiting, there is a reduction
in stress tolerance. Considering the potential for low
temperature injury to turf during winter, if potassium could
have an impact on reducing low temperature injury, turf
managers should be sure adequate potassium is available
to the turf. There is also some evidence to suggest there
is an increase in susceptibility to snowmold when
potassium is limiting.
To be sure there is adequate potash in the soil, use a
soil test for medium and fine-textured soils. If tests
suggest potash is needed, appropriate rates should be
applied based on recommendation and common sense.
For turfs on sands, soil tests for potassium are usually low
in spite of a potash fertilization program. Regular, light
applications of potash at frequent intervals (spoon
feeding) should be made on sandy soils, particularly on
sand greens.
When late fall fertilization is practiced, some potash
should also be applied along with the nitrogen. On finertextured soils, apply potash at about half the rate of
nitrogen. On sands, use equal quantities of nitrogen and
potash.
If needed based on soil test recommendations,
phosphorus can be applied in the fall fertility program as
well, normally in a complete fertilizer. Seldom is
phosphorous limiting on turf. An exception is when no
phosphorous has been applied and clippings are routinely
removed. Another potential exception is on sand greens.
Sands have little capacity to hold phosphate. We have
seen several cases of phosphorous deficiency on sand
greens, more commonly on new greens, but also on older
greens where no phosphorous has been applied for some
time. Soil tests must be used to determine need for
phosphorous.
Fall Nitrogen
For cool season grasses, both fall and late fall
fertilization should be considered. Fall fertilization is best
done during September, preferable early in the month.
With the weather changes in late summer, the shorter

9 Turf grass Topics/Fall 1994

Fertilization (continued)
days, cooler nights and more regular rainfall cause the turf
plant to grow less rapid vertically than occurs in the
spring. More lateral growth results in improvement in turf
density after the rigors of the summer. So fertilization in
the fall deserves top priority. Carbohydrates manufactured
at this time of year will be more likely to be stored, building
up the plant for next year.
Appropriate rates of nitrogen applied during the fall
period depend on a number of variables, ranging from 1/2
to 1 lb. N per 1000 sq. ft. On occasion a higher rate may
be justified; examples include newly established turf which
needs pushing for rapid establishment or a turf which has
suffered serious thinning over the summer due to injury
from disease, insects, traffic or moisture stress or where
an extensive weed population has been controlled,
leaving open areas. On general turfs (lawns, grounds,
etc.) all the nitrogen can be applied in one application. For
greens and other high maintenance turfs, one can split
this into two applications if the higher rate of nitrogen is
needed. An alternative is to use a fertilizer which contains
more slow release nitrogen. Or a spoon feeding program
with weekly applications of soluble sources can be used,
particularly on greens.
Normally, it is best to withhold nitrogen applications
during October to permit the turf to "harden off." This
permits the turf to accumulate carbohydrates and reduces
the potential for frost-injury should the turf become very
succulent before a major freeze. Avoiding nitrogen during
October may reduce susceptibility to snow mold as we
well.
Late Fall Nitrogen
There are a number of opinions as to how and when
to use late fall nitrogen applications. In part, this occurs
because of differences in climactic zones and variations
from one season to the next. Perhaps the more important
reason for variation in late fall fertilization is the objective
for this practice.
From my perspective, the objective is to supply
nitrogen to the turf after growth has ceased. The root
system is still active since the soil is warmer than the air.
Nitrate nitrogen can still be taken up and utilized by the
plant. If proper nitrogen fertilization has been practiced
during the fall (September) period, the turf should still be
green and physiologically active. This permits the plant to
continue photosynthesis whenever modest temperatures
and some sunlight conditions occur. Carbohydrates
manufactured during this time are not "burned off" with
growth and clippings, but are stored. This builds up the
plant for next spring.
Rate of application of nitrogen will again vary with turf
conditions and philosophy of the turf manager. For
greens, 1/2 lb. N per 1000 sq. ft. may be sufficient. If tees
are still thin from traffic, especially on par 3 tees, 3/4 to 1
lb. may be needed. Fairways, could receive 1/2 to 3/4 lb.
Lawns and general grounds can receive 3/4 to 1 lb. N.
Some turfs may perform better without the late fall
nitrogen. Some lawn care companies cannot justify the
10

cost of late fall nitrogen for customers who may not
continue with their services the next year. However, the
quality of the turf the next spring should be excellent about
the time spring sales begin.
Snowmold was severe on many turfs over the winter
of 1992-93. Late fall nitrogen applications contributed to
greater snowmold in some cases. If turfs are hard hit by
snowmold nearly every year and no snowmold
preventative program is followed, it may be best to avoid
late fall nitrogen.
However, based on plot research done by Dr. Joe
Vargas and on observations in the field, it is clear that
while in most years the late fall nitrogen may increase the
amount of snowmold, there is much quicker recovery from
any injury caused. The snowmold damage may be more
superficial with the late fall nitrogen and/or the recovery is
quicker. Either way the next spring the turf returns to a
better quality condition sooner with late fall nitrogen.
For the Great Lakes region, we suggest applying the
nitrogen after growth has ceased for all practical
purposes. This does not mean there will be no need to
further mowing, but regular mowing will not be needed. An
additional mowing or two may be required before growth
ceased entirely. This occurs anywhere from the last week
of October to the second week of November.
Potential problems with late fall nitrogen fertilization
include the potential for leaching of applied nitrogen, late
fall growth which would require more mowing, affecting
snowmold and other winter injury, increase to thatch and
earlier spring growth. In a study here at Michigan State
being conducted by Eric Miltner and Bruce Branham,
which compares late fall nitrogen treatments with those
emphasizing spring applications, there is no significant
leaching of nitrates from either treatment thus far. If the
nitrogen is applied while the plant is still physiologically
active, most of the nitrogen should be used and will not be
available for leaching over the winter. There is evidence
from Ohio State that late fall nitrogen may increase
susceptibility to thatch formation to some degree.
While there may be a small increase in growth during
the fall or spring, most turf managers are satisfied the
benefits are far greater than the potential negative effects.
There is no evidence for increased susceptibility to low
temperatures or crown hydration injury which is caused by
late fall nitrogen.
Benefits of late fall nitrogen include good
carbohydrate levels in the turf the next spring, good early
spring root growth, good fall and spring color and good
turf density so there is less potential for establishment of
spring weeds. Since root growth of cool season grasses
begins before top growth, it is essential that a high level of
carbohydrates exist in the plant to initiate that root growth.
The next spring the turf will have a good color. There
will likely be a small increase in mowing needed in the
spring compared to a turf which receives no nitrogen
either in late fall or spring. But the growth will be very
limited compared to a turf which receives an early spring
fertilization. Avoiding early spring nitrogen has the
advantages of reduced carbohydrate loss caused by the
Turf grass Topics/Fall 1994

excessive growth, less mowing, potential reduction in
several diseases and greater moisture stress tolerance
during the summer. If we can provide a turf which has
good density and fewer weeds, requiring less herbicide as
well as greater stress tolerance, why should we not adopt
the practice?
With many advantages apparent for late fall nitrogen
and few disadvantages, it is clear why so many turf
managers have adopted this practice. I have not talked to
anyone who has tried late fall nitrogen fertilization who
has not continued to utilize the practice for agronomic
reasons. This is the best testimonial for late fall
fertilization.
Source: Hole Notes

Winter Storage of Engines and
Equipment
When you do not plan to use your vehicle or
equipment for some time, it should be stored in a dry and
protected place. Unnecessary exposure to the elements
may deteriorate its appearance and shorten the usual
service life.
1. Operate the engine until the fuel is completely
consumer.
2. Drain the fuel from the fuel tank. After draining the
fuel, back flush the inline fuel filter.
3. While the engine is still warm, drain the oil from the
crankcase and refill with fresh oil.
4. Clean exterior of engine. Paint the exposed metal
or coat with a light coating of rust preventive oil. Use oil
that complies with SEA #30 MIL-L-21260 Standards.
5. Wash, clean and completely lubricate the tractor.
Refer to the charts in the "Lubrication" section. Paint the
exposed metal or brush a light coat of rust preventive oil
over unpainted metal.
Battery
Refer to manufacturer's manual for specific
instructions. Remove battery and clean it; store in upright
position. Maintenance-free batteries greatly increases
self-discharge. If wet batteries are discharged, the
electrolyte will freeze when stored below 20 degrees.
IMPORTANT - The battery should be checked every 60
to 90 days while in storage, and should be recharged if
necessary.
Tires
Before storing the vehicle, clean the tires thoroughly.
Jack up the vehicle so the load is off the tires.
1. If it is not jacked up, check the tires at regular
intervals and reinflate as necessary to keep them at the
recommended pressure.
2. Store the vehicle so tires are protected from
sunlight.

11 Turf grass Topics/Fall 1994

Starting after Storage
1. Check and recharge the battery according to
recommendations given in the battery booklet. Reinstall
the battery.
2. Clean the fuel filter and drain water from fuel tank.
3. Service the air cleaner and check the radiator water
level.
4. Check level of oil in the engine crankcase and
hydraulic system.
5. Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel.
6. Before driving the vehicle, make certain the tires
are inflated to the proper pressure.
7. Either move the vehicle outside before starting
engine or keep doors and/or windows wide hope to
provide sufficient ventilation to prevent danger from
carbon monoxide gas in the exhaust.
Start the engine but do not operate at high speed
immediately after starting. Allow time for it to become
properly warmed and lubricated.
Long Storage
Before storing the engine for more than a few months,
remove any dirt on the machine and:
1. Drain the coolant in the radiator. Open the cock at
the bottom of the radiator, and remove the pressure caps
to drain water completely. Leave the cock open. Hang a
note ("No water") on the pressure camps. Since water
may freeze when the temperature drops below 32
degrees, it is very important no water is left in the
machine.
2. Always set the accelerator lever on "Stop." Should
the decompression lever be pushed, and compression
reduced while the engine is stopped, starting the next time
may be not only difficult but impossible.
3. Remove dirty engine oil, fill with new oil and run the
engine for about 5 minutes to let the oil penetrate to all the
parts.
4. Check all the nuts and bolts, and tighten if
necessary.
5. Remove the battery from the engine, recharge it
and adjust the electrolyte level. Store the battery in a dry
and dark place.
Storing Tractors with Mowers
The outrigger and wing units should be stored in the
raised position. Tie mowers in this position to relieve strain
on hydraulic system. The front and center units are stored
in the lower position on blocks so weight is not on tires.
Store where tires will be protected from sunlight.

1994-95
Board of Directors
PRESIDENT
DIRECTOR B-1
Randy H. White, CGCS
Golf Course Superintendent
EVERETT GOLF & COUNTRY
CLUB
P.O. Box 2300
Everett, WA 98203
Phone: 206-353-7028
SECRETARY
DIRECTOR B-2
James W. Dusin
Greenkeeper
APPLE TREE GOLF COURSE
8804 Occidental Ave.
Yakima, WA 98903
Phone: 509-965-9844
DIRECTOR C-1
James E. Connolly
Senior Technical Agronomist
JACKLIN GOLF
5300 W. Riverbend Ave.
Post Falls, ID 83854-9499
Phone: 208-773-7581
DIRECTOR C-2
Chris P. Gaughan
Golf Course Greenkeeper
EUGENE COUNTRY CLUB
255 Country Club Rd.
Eugene, OR 97401
Phone: 503-344-9772
DIRECTOR A-3
John W. Monson, CGCS
Facilities Manager
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
11220 NE 53rd. St.
Kirkland, WA 98033
Phone: 206-827-9777
STAFF
Blair Patrick, CAE
Executive Director
NORTHWEST TURFGRASS
ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 1367
Olympia, WA 98507-1367
Phone: 206-754-0825

Calendar of Events

VICE PRESIDENT & PAST
PRESIDENT
DIRECTOR A-1
Thomas A. Christy, CGCS
Golf Course Superintendent
RIVERSIDE GOLF & COUNTRY
CLUB
8105 NE 33rd Drive
Portland, OR 97211
Phone: 503-288-3471
TREASURER
DIRECTOR A-2
Donald A. Clemans, CGCS, CPAg
Sales Representative
O.M. SCOTT & SONS
14437 Pole Court
Sisters, OR 97759
Work: 503-549-3933
DIRECTOR B-3
Michael W. Erb
Sales Representative
WILBUR ELLIS COMPANY
1521 15th St. NW#5
Auburn, WA 98001-3504
Phone: 206-448-1869

December 6, 1994
December 7-8, 1994

December 5, 1994
January 5 - 7 , 1 9 9 5

January 10, 1995
January 26, 1995

February 12-15, 1995
February 20-27, 1995

DIRECTOR C-3
Kay B. Kinyon
Parks Superintendent
CITY OF LAKE OSWEGO
P.O. Box 369
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Phone: 503-635-0280

March 11-14, 1995

STAFF
Jerry Crabill
Administrative Assistant
NORTHWEST TURFGRASS
ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 1367
Olympia, WA 98507-1367
Phone: 206-754-0825

September 27, 1994

NORTHWEST
TURFGRASS
ASSOCIATION

May 23, 1995
October 9 - 1 2 , 1 9 9 5

NTA Board Orientation & Meeting
Contact: (206) 754-0825
Pacific Coast Turf & L a n d s c a p e
Conference ( W W G C S A & W S N L A )
Contact: 1-800-275-9198
M e c h a n i c s Seminar ( O G C S A )
Contact: (206) 5 7 3 - 6 9 6 9
W a s h i n g t o n State N u r s e r y & Landscape
Association Convention ( W S N L A )
Contact: (206) 863-4482
NTA Board Meeting
Contact: (206) 754-0825
Inland N.W. Turf & Landscape S h o w
(IEGCSA)
Contact: (509) 534-4161
A n n u a l Conference & S h o w (WCTA)
Contact: (604) 4 6 7 - 2 5 6 4
International Golf Course Conference and
Show (GCSAA)
Contact: (913) 832-4430
A n n u a l Conference and S h o w ( C G S A )
Contact: (905) 602-8873
Field Day ( O S U )
Contact: (503) 737-5449
Northwest Turfgrass Conference (NTA)
Contact: (206) 754-0825
NTA Annual Meeting of the M e m b e r s
Contact: (206) 754-0825

-Pesticide Recertification P r o g r a m s InformationIn Oregon, contact O S U Department of Agricultural Chemistry at
(503) 737-1811 and, in Washington, contact W S U Conferences & Institutes
(509) 335-2946.
ADVERTISING/EDITORIAL
DEADLINE
15th O F D E C E M B E R , M A R C H ,
JUNE AND SEPTEMBER

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OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
HORTICULTURE DEPT. #4017 ALS
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Address Corrections: If address is wrong in any respect, please
correct the above label and return it to the NTA office.

NONPROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
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OLYMPIA, WA