3 U 975 „Ai P 3 M A R C H / A P R IL 1988 T 63rd Year A PATCH of GREEN SERlA^RIODlCMi OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MICHIGAN & BORDER CITIES GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION WE WOULD LIKE TO INTRODUCE: @ ® N C E P T S Inc. GOLF COURSE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTORS COURSE CONCEPTS HAS BEEN FORMED TO MEET THE INCREAS­ ING DEMANDS FOR QUALITY WORK IN THE FIELD OF GOLF COURSE CONSTRUCTION. WE WOULD LIKE TO BID ON ANY PROJECTS YOU MIGHT HAVE INVOLVING: • GREENS AND TEE CONSTRUCTION • FAIRWAY AND ROUGH CONSTRUCTION AND/OR RENOVATION • HYDROSEEDING • BUNKER CONSTRUCTION • DRAINAGE OUR SISTER COMPANY, GLEN ARBOR LANDSCAPES, HAS AN ESTABLISHED BASE PROVIDING HYDROSEEDING AND GRADING SERVICES IN SOUTHEASTERN MICHIGAN. Please Contact Us At Brochures or to Arrange a Personal Meeting. (313) 358-5883 For Further Information, We Wish You All a Prosperous and Low Handicap Summer! • Members MBCGCSA, GCSAA P.O.Box 56 Birmingham, Michigan 48012-0056 [313]358-5883 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Have you noticed the difference in the air lately? Are your mowers sharp and the benches painted? I do believe that spring is almost here! I hope that during the months of January and February you had a chance to attend the Michigan Turfgrass Conference in Lansing and/or the GCSAA National Conference and Show in Houston. These two organizations do such a great job and the programs get better every year. Michigan was well represented at the GCSAA Golf Tournament with 26 men participating in the tour­ nament that precedes the conference. Although the men’s team did not do too well, there were some individual efforts in the senior division. Clem Wol- from was a silver plate winner. Congratulations Clem! We were also well represented by the women golfers of Michigan. Mary Jane DelCamp was the overall winner with a fine 76. Dorinda McMullen, Betsie Scott, Becky Tate, Ginny Forier and Carrie Long- field all were prize winners. Congratulations Ladies! There are some important dates coming up and the Board of Directors would like to see all of you there: April 27 - Joint Meeting with our friends in Canada, Beechgrove Country Club May - Special Olympics will be held at Indianwood Country Club Below is a list of the committees and the chairman for each. I encourage all of you to show your support and get involved. Commi ttee Education Membership By-Laws Golf Special Olympics Golf Day Christmas Party Publicity & Awards Ethics Finace Editorial Welfare Historian Policy Book GAM Seminar Picnic Scholarships Shirts Cha irm an Roger Gill Jim Timmerman Ed Heineman Jay DelCamp, Ken DeBusscher Gary Thommes Ken DeBusscher, Gary Thommes Ed Heineman Jay DelCamp Kevin Dushane Jon Maddern, Tom Mason Kevin Dushane Jon Maddern Jay DelCamp Jon Maddern Tom Mason Ken DeBusscher Jim Timmerman, Ed Heineman Gary Thommes, Jay DelCamp "A PATCH OF GREEN” Published Bi-Monthly by the MICHIGAN AND BORDER CITIES GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION President CHARLES GAIGE Vice-President TOM MASON Secretary/Treasurer JON MADDERN Directors KEN DeBUSSCHER ROGER GILL JIM TIMMERMAN ED HEINE MAN JAY DelCAMP GARY THOMMES President Emeritus KEVIN DUSHANE Editor TED WOEHRLE Printed at BLAKEMAN PRINTING CO., Fraser, Michigan (313) 293-3540 Tire Wholesalers Company, Inc. i Phone: (313) 354-5644 19240 West Eight Mile Southfield, Ml 48075 (Vi Mile West of Southfield Road) TRUCK - CAR, MOTORCYCLE, FARM, TRAILER, INDUSTRIAL TIRES &TUBES Pirelli LAWN 8t GARDEN EQUIPMENT TIRES "For Land's Sake-'Use Peat" OXFORD PEAT CO. 1430 E. Drahner Rd. Oxford, Michigan 48051 C O M P A N Y PROCESSED PEAT C u s t o m M i x e s FRED LATTA • 313/628-5991 ANOTHER WORD ON “BLACK LAYER” by Jon Scott, CGCS, Valhalla Golf Club, and Jeff Holmes, Grand Traverse Resort An article appeared in the December, 1987 issue of this newsletter concerning one superintendent’s ob­ servations on the black layer that is, in our view, inaccurate. While everyone has the right to an opinion concerning the problem or its causes, we feel it is unfair to characterize or single out any operation and pass judgement on the conditions which may or may not have been evident in one visit to the site. While we were not mentioned by name, we feel it is fairly evident to the reader who the author was referring to in his statements, and we take issue with his conclusions. We would like to offer the following for your information. First, the statement that our case history “. . . is perhaps a combination of both poor construction and poor management”, is strong words from someone we have never spoken to personally about our construc­ tion methods, our programs, or our efforts to deal with the black layer. We might add at this point, that we were always glad to do so with anyone who inquired. Poor management is a phrase that is used all to often in our profession to excuse what we don’t understand. The next paragraph concerning a “. . . recent visit to this golf course. . finding “. . . a few cups on the greens were full of water. . .” probably refers to the putting green. If this is the case, the author is absolutely right in saying that this is the result of poor construction . . . for a putting green. The fact is that this green is not a green at all. It is a converted driving range tee with no drainage and no gravel bed. Just greensmix poured over a clay base, unfor­ tunately the method used to construct many tees. Tile was installed in this “green” late this fall. If water in cups of other greens existed at the time of the visit, we have not often observed this problem. In fact, the greens on the “The Bear” have been very porous and frequently perk too fast. Two years ago during the 1985 Michigan Open, the final round was played after a rainfall of 4.5 inches in 24 hours. There was no water in the cups. The only occasion the greens held water, they were severely hit with a black layer just one inch below the surface, not at cup depth. In fact, when holes were punched through the one inch layer, water drained through the remaining greens­ mix without problem. As far as the author’s observa­ tion of a dense layer of soil at the surface covering “the coarse sandy soil of the green”, we take strong exception. This layer has been sent to both K.W. Brown Labs and Agrisystems for analysis, and in no report we have received has there been any evidence layer”, in the context presented. of soil at the surface. What is there is a layer of decomposing thatch from our aggressive grow-in program which is now mixed with sand topdressing. Here, we can agree that we may have located the source of our problem. The sand used for topdressing is of a slightly finer grade than the coarser greens mix. This topdressing was evaluated by Brown Labs of Texas and passed as suitable for use. We have written reports to back this up. However, that doesn’t mean that it is not causing a problem. We have spoken with Dr. Brown about this, and he admits that their standards may have been too loose. That is not suprising considering all the “loose” interpretation that has gone on over the years concerning the USGA specs. We are continuing to use this grade to prevent a “sandwich” effect, but are aerifying and removing cores prior to topdressing at least twice per season. We agree with the article’s recommendations on aerifying and topdressing, and have followed this same regimen since grow-in. We do not agree with the statement that, “Sulfur and iron do not cause black In our observations, it is just not that simple. Dr. Joe Vargas’ work with Lee Berndt has shown that sulfur and iron when combined with a condition preventing water movement will chemically react and further plug up the pore spaces. At that point, anaerobics takes over and the toxic sulfides are produced. To say that this will not cause black layer is misleading. If one doesn't have a condition that impedes water movement in the profile, there will not be a problem with sulfur and iron. If, as in the case of many golf greens, there is a zone of impediment, our observations and Lee’s work have proven that sulfur and iron will collect in this zone and further aggravate an already poor situation, ultimately resulting in anaerobic conditions and possibly black layer. Needless to say, in our case, the near elimination of free sulfur and reduction of iron applications in our program, we feel, helped “The Bear” fight the black layer and live with the zone of impediment until, hopefully, aerification eliminates the problem. The article’s final recommendations on curing black layer are accurate. However, as we all found out two years ago, it is impossible to control mother nature and the resulting wetness. If it were as simple as shutting off the faucetts, we’d all have been heroes from the start. Improving aerification is the only way to eliminate the layer once it has formed, but deeper aerifiers must be used, and these are only now CONTINUED PAGE 25 Golfs Premier Irrigation Control fystem Repeatedly the choice of the world’s leading architects and super­ intendents, MAXI® III from Rain Bird is recognized as golf course irrigation’s most exciting and versatile computerized control system. Sophisticated. Reliable. Powerful. MAXI® III offers state-of-the-art irrigation tech­ nology. An IBM computer, too. Not to mention the ability to handle a wide range of important functions. Lighting—securi­ ty—and a host of other necessary operations. Legends in the making—the great golf courses of tomorrow are being built today. And MAXI® III is there! Controllers. Rotors. 50 years of golf course irrigation experience. Rain Bird — the choice from coast to coast ¡Century Rain Aid I ................. 313- 588-2992 31691 Dequindre, Madison Hts., Ml 48071 22159 Telegraph, Southfield, Ml 48034........................ 313- 358-2994 Michigan TOLL FREE 800/544-9219 R a in ^ B ir d ■ • New store front of Lawn Equipment Service and Sales. (L to R) Don Fields, Mark Hartsough, John Kirtland, Larry Reed, Tom Calverly, Debbie Whitney, Kimberly Olson. DR. KENYON PAYNE HONORED BY GCSAA The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) honored Dr. Kenyon T. Payne with its Distinguished Service Award (DSA) at their annual meeting on February 4, 1988. Payne was one of four DSA honorees at the 59th International Golf Course Conference and Trade Show at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston. Kenyon T. Payne has been a teacher, researcher and administrator at Michigan State University for 35 years. His retirement this semester will mark the end of an era for the university and for the turfgrass management program he spent two decades es­ tablishing there. The program, which has graduated more than 800 students, has earned quite a reputa­ tion, along with its founder. After earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Agronomy, Payne served five years as an Air Force officer during World War II. Upon his return, he enrolled at the University of Minnesota and in 1948 received a doctorate in genetics and plant breeding. After spending four years as an assistant and later associate professor at Purdue University, he joined the faculty at Michigan State as a full professor. As chairman of the crop sciences department from 1952 to 1968, his interest in turfgrasses brought him into contact with golf course superintendents. It was through these experiences that Payne began to formulate his concept of professional education for superintendents. In 1968, that framework was put into action with the establishment of Michigan State’s two-year turf management program. His emphasis was not only imparting the technical skills needed by modern superintendents but also on preparing young people to become professionals. His involvement and concern with students has resulted in what one campus group has called “a highly professional quality that reflects positively on both (Payne) and Michigan State University.” His personal interest in placing graduates in turf manage­ ment positions has kept the program’s placement rate hovering over near 100 percent for many years. Finally, Payne’s work outside of the university as a writer, lecturer and consultatn has taken his consid­ erable skills to superintendents all over the nation. Here is what some of them had to say about his contributions: “His love for the game of golf and dedication to the breeding of superior turfgrasses have been contribu­ ting factors for many of the advances golf course maintenance has realized in the past 20 years.” “Lost among all his other accomplishments is the fine leaf fescue breeding program Dr. Payne has conducted for many years . . also, through his leadership, an antique golf turf equipment restora­ tion program was initiated at MSU.” . The other recipients of the DSA were Dr. Jack Butler, William B. Davis and Eberhard Steinger, CGCS. (L to R) Dr. Ken Payne, R.T. Jones, Gerry Faubel and Ted Woehrle looking over their shoulders. Gerry Faubel and Dr. Payne congratulating the “Squire” Gene Sarazen - this years recipient of the “Old Tom Morris Award”. “Having just graduated From Michigan State, I can testify to his influence on young superintendents. Dr. Payne’s insistance on continuing education, as well as participation in the national and local organizations is indicative of his professionalism.” “Dr. Payne is dedicated to the profession . . . he’s a goodwill ambassador for golf course superintendents everywhere.” Ed Steiniger being congratulated by “Doc” Payne. They both won the Distinguished Service Award of GCSAA. MORE HOUSTON PHOTOS PAGE 14 & 15 EMBARK TIMING EMBARK Annual bluegrass goes through a period of prolific seed head production in mid May to early June. During this time of prolific seed production, root growth ceases and more than 70 percent of the root system dies. This usually lasts for 3 to 4 weeks. Then root growth begins again as the plant returns to a vegetative stage. The problem is that annual bluegrass plants have only 2 to 3 weeks in which to establish a good root system before the warm weather of summer arrives and all cool season grasses begin to undergo high temperature growth stopage. When this occurs, root growth slows and roots become shorter. The cool season species that do not go through seed head production continue to develop deep, well-developed root systems during this period and are better able to survive the summer stress period. The plant growth regulator (PGR) Embark inhibits seed head formation in addition to vegetative growth. By inhibiting annual bluegrass seed head formation, the roots remain active and continue to develop during the spring, producing a stronger, healthier plant that is better able to withstand the summer stress period. Timing is critical for maximum seed head reduction. Apply Embark when 50 degree-days have accumula­ ted using a 50 defree F base. This figure is arrived at by taking the sum of the high and low temperature of the day and dividing by two. For example- High temperature Low temperature Total Divided by 2 Degree days accumulated In the example 52° F is two degrees above the 50 degree F. base, therefore, 2 degree-days have been accumulated. This calculation is done every day after the average base temperature of 50° F or above is first reached. No degree-days are subtracted for days when the average of the high and the low tempera­ ture is less than 50° F. An accumulation of 50 degree-days is the optimum time to apply Embark for maximum seed head suppression. is not always possible to apply Embark on the exact day 50 degree-days are accumu- CONTINUED PAGE 25 64°F 40°F 104°F 52°F 2 It fungicide Chipco Aliette for the control of Pythium in turf • true systemic • unique mode-of- action • no watering-in required longer spray interval cost effective BOB D U G A N - Sales R epresentative 36709 Romulus Road, Romulus, Ml 48174 (313) 941-1972 QËKïjDj®' RHONE POULENC INC AGROCHEMKAl OlVISKJN RHÔNE-POULENC INC. AGROCHEMICAL DIVISION Greensmaster 300 NEWi SINGLE POINT ADJUSTMENT CUTTING UNITS, AVAILABLE IN 5-BLADE, 8-BLADE AND 11-BLADE CONFIGURATIONS. WILKIE Turf Equipment Division, Inc, TORO k________________ A 1050 OPDYKE RD. • P.O. BOX 749 • PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48056 • (313) 373-8800 UNDER THE GUN WITH TURF PROBLEMS? d D \ Great Lak^es Minerals Co. Trap& Topdressing Sands CONTROLLED TO USGA SPECIFICATIONS GREAT LAKES' TOPDRESSING SAND IS AVAILABLE IN TRUCKLOAD QUANTITIES. ALSO AVAILABLE - TRAP AND SPECIALTY SANDS. 2855 COOLIDGE HWY. • TROY, MICHIGAN 48084 TELEPHONE: (313) 649-3700 Ernie Hodas (center) of Century Rain-Aid in Madison Heights and Hunter Industries founders Ed and Frances. MADISON HEIGHTS, MI - Ernie Hodas, president of Century Rain Aid, received awards as a “Top 20” regional distributor of Hunter Industries irrigation products and as one of the top five distributors by Richdel Turf Division of Garden America. Awards were made at national sales meetings in San Diego Reno, NV. Hunter founders Ed and Frances Hunter presented Hodas a plaque recognizing Century’s outstanding sales and marketing achievements. Richdel President James Featherstone presented Hodas a cup recognizing Century Rain Aid of Florida for outstanding sales performance and market share growth. OTTERBINE DECORATIVE FOUNTAINS OTTERBINE Aerators can helpyou keep unsightly algae growth and objectionable odors under control naturally. The fact that OTTERBINES also create beauty - is just one of the many benefits of using our Spray Sculpture Floating Fountains. We create beauty while solving problems. LIG HTING A V A ILA B LE FO R DRAM ATIC N IG H TIM E B E A U TIFIC A TIO N CALL TOLL FREE 1 - 800 - 544 - 9219 /Century Rain Aid j 31691 Dequindre Madison Hts., Ml 48071 313/588-2992 22159 Telegraph Southfield, Ml 48034 313/358-2994 3400 Jefferson S.E. Grand Rapids, Ml 4950i 616/452-3373 “Salvation” Jones AN AID TO HIRING Here is a short comprehensive test you may consider giving your job applicants. Question 1 Twice a day on a digital clock all four numerals are the same. What are these times? Answer 1 A.M. P.M. : - : - - - XI : n ^ msuv Question 2 Once a year on a digital calendar all four numerals are the same. What is this date? Answer 2 Date — - — 11 -11 joAvsuy Evaluation: Honesty. If both questions are answered correctly and the applicant didn’t cheat by turning the test upside down, honesty is evident. Vision. If the answers were obtained by reading upside down and backwards, they must have good vision. Intelligence. To read that well requires a fair degree of intelli­ gence. If they scored 100% and did not read the answers or resort to the computer they are above average. Character. If a little smile developed on the applicants face a sense of humor is present. This might be a nice person to have around. On Apologizing I know a young man whose father taught him to never apologize. He also taught him to never do anything that called for an apology. “Salvation” Jones Nothing Runs Like a Deere JOHN DEERE COMMÎT DIESELS 52 INCH - 2 YEAR WARRANTY 17 TO 67 HORSEPOWER 2 OR 4 WHEEL DRIVE John Deere compact diesels come in eight models, so you can match horsepower to your needs. All are packed with performance fea­ tures that make them small giants on any big JOHN DEERE FRONT MOWERS The most versatile equipment a groundskeeper can own □ Mowers 50 to 76 inches □ Snow Blowers □ Front Blades & Brooms □ Vacuum Attachments & Cabs Available □ Gas or Diesel Engines Panther (K | Sales l JO HN O C E N f i 2274 TELEGRAPH, BLOOMFIELD HILLS Phone 335-5149 SUMMER HOURS - MAY 1 MONDAY-FRIDAY 8-7 SATURDAY 8-12 job. More than 50 capacity-matched attachments are available to keep the tractor you buy busy the year round. See us for a test drive soon. New John Deere AMT 600. It’s almost a truck. There’s nothing else like it! Our new I Materials Transport gives _ ............... □□ you true hauling ability. Not just travel. Takes loads up to 600 pounds on flat land, up to 400 in hills. Dumps them, too. Goes places a truck can’t. Unique 5-wheel stability and 4-wheel differential lock traction. 341 cc engine and 62:1 torque ratio transmission for pulling power. With no gears to shift. Spring-loaded front fork cushioning. Low compaction. Anti-skid features. GIVE US A CALL AND WE'LL DROP ONE OFF FOR YOU TO USE FOR A DAY! HOUSTON - February 1-8, 1988 Kathy Copley, Editor, Grounds Maintenance, presenting Dr. Jim Beard of Texas A & M with the “Turf Master Award”. Jim’s wife, Harriet looks on. Gerry Faubel, GCSAA Director, right, interview­ ing Robert Trent Jones. “Doc Payne with former students - (L to R) Mike Garvele, Supt. Palo Alto Hills C .C ., Palo Alto, CA; Dr. Ken Payne, retiring Turfgrass Coordina­ tor, MSU; Clint Overn, CGCS Royal Scot G .C ., Lansing, MI; and Paul Dushane, Supt. Wolverine G .C., Mt. Clemens, MI. Tom Mascaro “Inventor” in his new go-cart surrounded by friends, Gordy Witteveen, Supt. Board of Trade/Metro Toronto, unidentified friend; and Dr. Paul Rieke, MSU. Gene Sarazen at Press Conference before accept ing “Old Tom Morris Award”. X Kevin Dushane, Supt. Bloomfield C .C ., Bloom­ field, M I; Dr. Joe Vargas, MSU; and Karl Danneberger, OSU. John A. Segui, CGCS, Berwyn, Pennsylvania, was elected president of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) during the associa­ tion’s 59th International Golf Course Conference and Show held in Houston, Texas, on February 1-8. Segui succeeds Donald E. Hearn, CGCS, Weston GC, Massachusetts, who as immediate past president will continue to serve for a year as a director. Dennis D. Lyon, City of Aurora Parks Department in Colorado, was elected vice president. Re-elected as a director and appointed secretary/treasurer was Gerald L. Faubel, CGCS, Saginaw CC in Michigan. Also re-elected as a director was William R. Roberts, CGCS, golf course/grounds manager for Sentry- World (Sentry Insurance), Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Elected as director for the first time was Joseph G. Baidy, CGCS, Acacia CC, Lyndhurst, Ohio. Kenneth A. Sakai, CGCS, Sunnyvale GC in California, was appointed to serve Lyon’s one year unexpired term as director. Stephen G. Cadenelli, CGCS, Metedeconk GC, Manasquan, New Jersey, and Randy Nichols, CGCS, Cherokee Town & CC, Dunwoody, Georgia, continue serving terms as directors. Officers serve one-year terms, and directors are elected to two-year terms. THE MAN IN THE GLASS When you get what you want In your struggle for self And the world crowns you King for a day, Go to a mirror Take alook at yourself . . . see what that man has to say. You can walk through the world Down the pathway of years, And get pats on your back as you pass. But your final reward will be heartaches and tears . . . . if you cheat the man in the glass. For it isn’t your father or mother, or brother, or wife Whose judgement on you must pass The fellow whose verdict counts the most in your life Is the one staring back in the glass. You can take Jack Horner and chisel a plum, And think “What a great guy am I!” But the man in the glass says you’re only a bum . . . If you can’t look him straight in the eye. He’s the fellow to please Never mind the rest, He’s with you clear up to the end. And you’ve passed your dangerous, difficult test If the man in the glass is your friend. -Anonymous BIRMINGHAM PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM is look­ ing for a Supervisor for its Grounds and Athletic Fields. Contact: Jim Hoorn Buildings and Grounds Birmingham Public Schools (313) 258-3315 The No. I name in golf course irrigation. It’s no coincidence that the country’s top golf courses use TORO irrigation systems. Because there are more TORO systems installed on golf courses than any other kind. For a number of very good reasons. WILKIE Turf Equipment Division, Inc. TORO IRRIGATION DIVISION 1050 OPDYKE RD. • P.O. BOX 749 • PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48056 (313) 373-8800 IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING BUYNG A SPRAYER CONTACT W EINGARTZ FIRST JOIN THE PROFESSIONALS WHOUSESDI— * TANK SIZES 50 TO 1,000 GALLONS * PUMPS 9.5 GPM TO 51 GPM AND UP TO 850 PSI * ALL SPRAYERS CAN BE SKID MOUNTED ON YOUR TRUCK, OR SEVERAL TRAILER OPTIONS * WE CUSTOMIZE TO MEET YOUR NEEDS For Information or Demonstration Call TOM BRADSHAW WEINGARTZ Since 1945 "We Service Whet We Sell" 46061 VAN DYKE (V> MILE NORTH OF M-59) UTICA 731-7240 Michigan’s Largest Lawn & Outdoor Power Equipment Dealer MON 8 JO to 8 tU E S -F R I B 30 5 30 SAI 8 30 5 TREE TRANSPLANTING LARGE TREES UP TO 11” DIAMETER ARMSTRONG LAWN AND TREE, INC. “YOUR EVERGREENS SHOULD BE MOVED NOW.” 44275 Whithorn Sterling Heights, Michigan 48078 731-5550 264-8803 OSBURN m NEW! PORTABLE BLENDING&CONVEYOR ON-THE-JOB-MACHINE! for greens constructions and top­ Custom Precision Blending dressing at Very affordable prices. High quality golf course material available. Lake Michigan dune sand, Canadian Spaghnum peat, Michigan reeds sedge peat, 5-30 Cleveland trap sand, pea pebbles, gravel, slag, sand, etc. MEETS U.S. AND MICHIGAN SPECIFICATIONS. Let’s BLEND together for better growth. PHONE 1-313-292-4140 New home of W .F. Miller. Hal and Mark Vogler. (L to R) Don Tino, Don Alexander, Jerry Penner, Dave Taylor, George Carson, Mark Vogler, Bob Bailey. W .F. Miller’s receptionist, Gay Baldwin - a loyal employee and friend to all. 1 ■ | i MOWER SALES, INC R A N SO M E S TRADE UP TRACTOR SALE HUGE SAVINGS on Current Models T18B With 61” Deck $6,499 ■ °° W/TRADE • Briggs & Stratton, twin cylinder, 18 horsepower engine. • Simple twist of spring latches gives fast, easy underhood access. • New lug nuts on rear steering wheels makes tire removal fast and easy. • Instrument panel has choke, throttle, electric key starter, ammeter and hourmeter. • Safety seat interlock shuts off engine whenever operator leaves seat. Regular Retail $7,895.00 T-1861 With 61” Deck $3,999.°° W/TRADE • Briggs & Stratton, twin cylinder 18 hp • Optional Kohler • 5 Speed transaxle w/reverse • Electric key start has ammeter, hourmeter and fuses on easily viewed panel • About 0” inside wheel turning radius • Disc brakes and electromagnetic PTO drive clutch Ideal Mower Sales, Inc. 811 Woodward Heights Ferndale, Michigan 48220 Regular Retail $4,999.00 For information or demonstration, call Rich Ffetrick or Ed Stesny, Turf Manager at: (313) 541-4660 WELL, ALMOST THE LAST WORD By Ted Woehrle, Editor No matter how hard we try to close the debate on “Black Layer”, someone reopens the discussion with more remarks and findings. At our recent GCSAA Conference, just concluded in Houston, Texas, we heard the latest hypotheses from a distinguished panel of experts that included: Judith Ferguson Gockel, Agri-Systems of Texas, the soils expert. Dr. Boy Goss, Washington State University, the Sulfur expert. Dr. Clinton Hodges, Iowa State University, Dept, of Horticulture, the sand layer expert. Dr. Robert Shearman, University of Nebraska, the water movement expert. Dr. Tim Tiedje, Michigan State University, microbiology expert. Dr. Joe Vargas, Michigan State University, the plant pathology expert. the Judith Gockel impressed on the audience that good porous soil is the key to building a sound green; one that will support healthy turf. Techniques are available in the Laboratory to insure fail-proof soils. We should take advantage of these services. She felt that a properly constructed green should never produ anaerobic conditions because it would provide the proper water and air mixtures under even the most severe conditions of compaction. Obstructions to normal water movement in any soil will result in waterlogging of that soil, regardless of its nature. Dr. Goss expressed his beliefs about the use of Sulfur in good turfgrass management. Sulfur is vital to plants and through many years of study he has found the element most helpful in supressing several diseases and to some extent it often times will suppress Poa Annua. Very seldom has he observed the connection of Sulfur and anaerobic conditions. Through ques­ tioning by the audience at the end of the presenta­ tion, it was agreed that Sulfur by-products are found in the black layer, but he didn’t feel that Sulfur causes black layer. CONTINUED PAGE 23 Free Country Club Greens Grade Sample Offer Great on fairways too. 18-4-10,8-4-24,18-0-18 □ Yes! I’d like to receive a free sample of Country Club Greens Grade fertilizer products. (If specific product sample desired, please indicate:__________________________________ ) □ Please put me in touch with my nearest Lebanon Total Turf Care Distributor. NAME_____________ GOLF COURSE_____ ADDRESS_________ CITY______________ TELEPHONE_______ BEST TIME TO CALL TITLE STATE TOTAL T U R F C A R E A division of Lebanon Chemical Corporation P.O. Box 180 • Lebanon, PA 17042 MICHIGAN TURFGRASS FOUNDATION Tuesday, January 19, at the Michigan Turf grass Conference, M.T.F. held their annual meeting with the election of new Directors. Four Directors were elected to three year terms: Kurt Thuemmel was elected representing Western Michigan G.C.S.A. Jim Bogart was elected as representative of Com­ mercial Turf grass Suppliers. Jeff Gorney was elected as an “At Large” candidate. Tom Mason was also elected as an “At Large” candidate. At the Board Meeting following the Conference, Kurt Thuemmel was elected President, Tom Mason Vice-President and Jeff Gorney was elected Treasurer for one year. Others on the M .T.F. Board are: Gordon LaFontaine, Executive Secretary, Lawn Equipment, Novi. Hank DeVries, DeVries Beautiful Lawns, Hudson- ville. Tim Doppel, Atwood Lawn Spray, Sterling Heights Charles Gaige, Lakelands Golf & Country Club, Brighton Ron Julip, Brown City Sod & Produce, Brown City Kurt Kraly, Wilkie Turf Equipment, Davisburg David Longfield, Garland Golf Course, WestBranch Jon Maddern, City of Farmington Hills Fritz McMullen, Forest Lake Country Club, Bloom­ field Hills Jim Bogart, Turfgrass, Inc., Rockfort Michigan Turfgrass Foundation funds almost all research being done in the state of Michigan therefore anyone interested in the green industry should be a member. If you or your employer is not a member, we suggest that you procure an application and become a member. The No. I name in golf course irrigation, The right amount of water TORO - i p — ~ I * WÎÊÊ: In the right place At the right time WILKIE Turf Equipment Division, Inc. 1050 OPDYKE RD. • P.O. BOX 749 • PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48056 • (313) 373-8800 TURFGRASS INC. Serving you better with .. Technical information Fungicide programs Free timely delivery ... Quality products Fertilizers Chemicals Seeds Spreaders & Sprayers Golf Supplies The Andersons, Lebanon Country Club, Nitroform, Turfgrass Dupont, Ampel, Ciba-Geigy, W.A. Cleary, Chipco, Daconil, Mobay, Elanco, NAIAD, Dow, Monsanto, Bio Greenskeeper, Agri Diagnostics, Mallinckrodt, Nor-Am, Riverdale, Pana Sea, Miller, Agri-Plex 4X Northrup King Medalist Turf Products Cyclone, Spyker, Back Pack, Wheely, Spray-Hawk Lewisline, Par Aide, Standard, Fore- Par, Yankee, United Stockmen, Chix, Fox Valley Safety Equipment Mine Safety Equipment Soil Management Grid System, TerraFlow, TerraBond, TerraCover Markers Richway, Blazon 1 -3 1 3 - 4 3 7 - 1 4 2 7 Office 1 - 8 0 0 -5 2 1 -8 8 7 3 (Michigan Only) Rich Locke Douglas Johanningsmeier Keith Richards Gene Johanningsmeier WELL, ALMOST, COIMT. Dr. Clint Hodges of Iowa State felt that algae and their muscilagenous by-products cause poor water infiltration as the layer filters down through the porous sandy soils that are being used in todays turfgrass management on many greens. In the case of the sand topdressing on the older dense soils of established greens, the algae layer will usually form at the interface between the sand and the soil. This formed layer would then cause the anaerobic condi­ tion and eventually the black layer; the by-product of the anaerobic condition. Dr. Robert Shearman of Nebraska noted that any interruption in water movement, whether caused by layering, thatch, poor drainage (subsurface), will likely cause anaerobic conditions followed by the black layer. Dr. Tim Tiedge of Michigan State perhaps shed the most light on the subject. He has found that there are four criteria necessary for the formation of a black layer: 1. There must be an anaerobic condition present. 2. There must be an Electron Donor (food supply). 3. Sulfur compounds must be present. They are to some degree in all soils. 4. There must be Sulfur Reducing Bacteria present. If any one of these criterion are absent you cannot have a black layer. Dr. Vargas of Michigan State feels very strongly that Sulfur applications can cause anaerobic conditions because Oxygen is utilized when Sulfur is converted or reduced to Sulfates. This can deplete the Oxygen is the soil thus becoming responsible for the black layer. Taking all of the information available today we can summarize the black layer problem as one that is interconnected with all of the above observations made by the panel of experts. Of all the items that we can control the easiest and quickest, locating and correcting the water drainage problem would appear to be it. Improve the aerifica­ tion with deep aerification and fill the holes with sand to insure good water and air penetration. Once Oxygen is reintroduced into the system many of the reactions will be reversed and the black layer will disappear. Any high moisture and low Oxygen condition should be avoided. When Oxygen is limited, Iron, Sulfur and Manganese are converted to their reduced states and are more soluable and more available to the plants - some of these products can be harmful to the plant - ferrous oxide, Hydrogen Sulfide and Mangan­ ous oxide. Anaerobic soils promote bacteria which can produce organic toxins and methane gas from the breakdown of organic matter. A wet soil, whether caused by nature or the water applied artificially by man, causes reduced Oxygen and in turn cause the black layer. If you are still confused, I would suggest reading a CONTINUED NEXT PAGE WELL, ALMOST, CONT. It good book on soils. is entitled, “SOILS, an Introduction to Soils and Plant Growth”, by Roy L. Donahue, John C. Shickluna and Lynn S. Robertson, Professors of Soil Science at Michigan State University East Lansing, Michigan. It is available through the University Book Store at MSU. In reading this book it becomes very clear that the black layer problem is a soils problem, not a chemical problem. You have to control the water, locate and eliminate the drainage barrier and provide additional aerification. Drainge problems are usually caused by poor initial construction or poor soil mixes (the word SOIL, as I use it, means any material and combina­ tions of materials used to construct greens). Sandy soils as we now use them (often called USGA greens even when they aren’t) are just as guilty of producing black layer as regular soils because they aren’t built and maintained properly. Quite often the sand topdressing materials used are too dense and they restrict water and air movement at the suface. This, coupled with poor subsurface drainage, is usually enough to restrict Oxygen. When Oxygen is already limited, it doesn’t take much to cause the ideal conditions for the surplus elements that might be present such as Iron, Sulfur and Manganese to use up the remaining low level of Oxygen and cause the black layer. Remember, the primary problem is excess of water and the secondary problem is a chemical one caused by the shortage of Oxygen. Avoid any barriers to water movement. Any layer of courser or finer texture can cause a layer where water movement is curtailed. Sometimes a barrier of excess root growth, caused during a stimulated grow-in-period, is enough to cause a barrier. Use that aerifier! DUTCH FIND TREATMENT FOR DUTCH ELM DISEASE Scientists at the Institute of Applied Chemistry in Zeist, Holland, have found a way to treat Dutch elm disease. They have found that injecting a tree with fenpropimorph, a fungicide also used to treat mildew on cereal crops, will block the spread of the fungus that causes the disease. Fenpropimorph has been proven harmless to Dutch elms, but prevents the fungus from giving off spores that spread the disease. It can be used either preventatively or curatively. Used preventatively, it has been 100 percent ef­ fective. Treatments of this kind are labor-intensive and, thus, expensive. But researchers at the Institute say a Dutch elm “vaccine” could be on the market as early as next year. ------------------------------------------------------------------- \ LESCO Greensmower designed by and for today’s turf professionals • 18 H.P. twin-cylinder Kohler Magnum engine for added power and long life. • Hydraulic power steering for easy maneuverability • Independent reel controls for multiple mowing patterns • Reversible hydraulics to allow backlapping of individual cutting units while on machine • Center post steering for added safety and ease in climbing on and off either side of machine • Rocker foot pedal for raising and lowering cutting units • Automatic starting and stopping of reels O ïdeï (800) 321-5325 NATIONWIDE (800) 362-7413 IN OHIO LESCO, Inc. • 20005 Lake Road, Rocky River, Ohio 44116 • (216) 333-9250 uim.F.seii & Son.Inc. SINCE 1923 RENTAL SALES - SERVICE ★ LOADERS ★ SWEEPERS ★ TRENCHERS ★ MOWERS ★ ROTARY CUTTERS ★ BACK HOE DIGGERS ★ BACK FILL BLADES ★ POST HOLE DIGGERS Tractor; Equipment ir JOB TAILORED EQUIPMENT COMPLETE LINE OF MATERIAL HANDLING & FARM EQUIPMENT 282-5100 16555 TELEGRAPH RD. - TAYLOR CALL 1 Mile South of Eureka Country Club Greens Grade Fertilizers Gold Cup quality for great-looking greens, tees & fairways. • Small Homogeneous Granulation • Less Mower Pick-up • High Methylene Ureas (W.I.N.) •Four Unique Formulations 18-4-10 90% Org. 8-4-24 30% Org. 18-3-12 70% Org. 18-0-18 80% Org. 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The best way to stop the layers from being formed in the first place is to insist on strict adherence to USGA specs, and possibly a tightening of those. The problem is, we don’t know exatly what constitutes a layer in the sense of creating conditions conducive to filtering out sulfur, iron, algae, and everything else we put on the surface as water moves these elements through the profile. Judith Gockel says it don’t take much! Good drainage is only as good as the medium that passes the water down to it. We disagree that all of the written material presented and educational sessions concerning black layer give no answers. Just the opposite for us. When our article appeared in GCM in November, 1986, we really had no answers. Since that time, each piece of information we saw or heard helped us better understand what was happening and how to deal with it more effectively. The greens on “The Bear” were in excellent condition all season this past year and, we were told, continued thus through closing in November. These are the same greens that were severely hurting just one year before. We certainly do not agree that “Enough is Enough” or that now is the time for “The Last Word on “Black Layer’”. On the contrary, continued interest in this problem, the causes and solutions, is evidenced by the support given by the various turf association, GCSAA, various universities, and the trade media. In a recent session at the Illinois Turf Conference, there were over 75 interested managers listening to three presen­ tations on the subject for almost three hours. No one said they were more confused at the end of the talks. As with all professional turf managers, we take great pride in the job we have done at Grand Traverse Resort, and feel we have proven ourselves capable managers over the years by providing playing condi­ tions equal to or exceeding the expectations of our guests. Certainly, we have many testimonials to that effect. We have a great deal of respect for our fellow professionals, especially those considered the leaders of our industry. We believe that this article meant no harm to our reputation, but was based on inaccurate observations and misinformation. We respect the right of the author to express his opinion on this controversial subject, and welcome the opportunity to do the same. Black layers, or any other serious problem facing the industry, can generate healthy, spirited debates among turf professionals. That is how solutions are found. May they continue una­ bated. EMBARK TIMING, CONT. lated. If this can't be done, it is better to apply Embark on the 40-degree-day side of 50 degree-days rather than on the 60-degree-day side. Embark also supresses the growth of annual bluegrass for about 6 weeks. This reduces the number of mowings during the spring, when the superinten­ dent usually has a smaller crew and when heavy rains often make fairways so soggy that it is impossible to drive mowing equipment on them. Shemin Nurseries, Inc. Everything Cinder One Roof O CHEMICALS O NÜRSERY 0 TOOLS 0 FERTILIZERS Ó GRASS SEED 6 IRRIGATION Ó POWER EQUIPMENT 0 TERRA COTTA Prompt, Efficient Delivery Our Standard is Excellence Check Our Prices Shemin Nurseries, Inc. 6900 Pardee Rd. Taylor, MI 48180 313-291-1200 1-800-544-5127 MICHIGAN TOLL FREE WATERWAYS IRRIGATION 973-2123 9522 LUCERNE REDFORD, Ml 48239 There is an Aerifying Alternative CoreMaster. Your new aeration answer. Move forward (not backwards!) with CoreMaster. Great news for golf course superinten­ dents in charge of greens, tees and fairways, and turf managers for athletic fields (football, baseball, soccer), and sport turf grass. It’s CoreMaster 12, the world’s finest hollow core aeration sys­ tem, backed by five years of technology, engineering and experience by the pro­ fessionals at GreenCare International. For the first time ever, CoreMaster en­ ables your turf grass staff to improve aeration methods, speed compaction relief and thatch control with a built-in variable depth and pattern control sys­ tem, and the strongest power source. CoreMaster is the most innovative and advanced hollow core aeration system on the market today. Hard working, fast and versatile on all natural turf grass surfaces, CoreMaster aerates easily and efficiently. The result stimulates natural turf growth, insuring a healthier, safer, and more beautiful grass surface. Put these CoreMaster advantages to work on your field and enjoy the benefits of features like these: □ fastest capacity ever and safest □ patented mechanical simplicity— fewer moving parts more about CoreMaster, the best answer to­ day to meet your turf grass aeration needs. □ low mainten­ ance and great reliability— built to last! □ touch control for coring depths and patterns with several tine sizes □ new state of the art “quadra-tine” system, never before available □ highest efficien­ cies by rapid change, a totally flexible system □ additional attach­ ments, verti- cutting, seeding, core pick up systems and more Be the first, find out The Worlds Most Advanced Turf Aeration System I want to go forwaid today: ...... Mall to: .............................. 18691 Plumosa Street, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 Phone: (714) 968-8085 □ Please have a GreenCare distributor contact me about Coremaster □ I'd like to arrange a test here at my location. Mail to authorized Greencare distributor: Haton (¡Equipment &erbice & &aleg 151 N. PERRY PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48058 (313) 858-7700 When you need p golfs top pro puts you With Jacobsen support behind you, you can spend more time on the course and less time wait­ ing for parts. As part of the strongest support network in the industry, your Jacobsen distributor stocks most commonly requested gen­ uine Jacobsen parts. So you can pick up your top-quality, high- performance replacement parts, immediately. And have your equipment up and running at peak efficiency in almost no time. If by some chance your distribu­ tor doesn’t have the part you need in stock, or, for those emer­ gency orders that absolutely can’t wait, he can order same-day, air­ freight drop-shipment from the factory. This TimeSaver program of ours provides you with a parts fill rate that’s second to none. Plus, ongoing training programs and field service clinics arm your Jacobsen distributor with the lat­ est technical information, assur­ ing you of the highest quality after- market service in the industry. After all, there’s more to being golf's top pro than building the industry’s finest equipment. So contact your local Jacobsen distributor, today. Put the indus­ try’s strongest support network to work for you. And spend more time on course, less time wait­ ing for parts. JACOBSEN TEXTRON J-24-6 Jacobsen Division of Textron Inc. c Jacobsen Division of Textron Inc. 1987 W.F. MILLER COMPANY GARDEN AND LAWN EQUIPMENT 25125 TRAIMS-X IMOVI, MICHIGAN 48050 (313) 349-4100 MA Patch of Green” 3 1 8 2 3 U T I C A R O A D F R A S E R , M I C H I G A N 4 8 0 2 6 vtl.CHIGÄM STATE UNIVERSITY X*IBRÄRY~SERI ALS MST tÄNSING, m 4882Ä [ -------- /% A i f \ -------- P A in ^ A ] y V__ J J z n m rM IL J - -------- \ * f i c * > / P E R M IT N O 3 7 U S P O S TA S E