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have  made  them  the  best-selling  tractors  in  their  class.  And  now,  as  Turf  Special 
models,  they  come  with  Galaxy  21.5  LL  or  22.5  LL-16.1  PR  tires.  You  get  tough, 
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SERIALS
APR  1  2  1999

-------nB'H/VRTES-----------

The Official  Publication of the Greater Detroit 
Golf Course Superintendents Asociation

Contents

5 ........................On  Par With  The  President
7 & 8 ........................The  View  From  M.S.U.
9 ......................  CAN-AM  Joint April  Meeting
10-12..................................  Special  Olympics
1 3 & 1 4 ............................... Irrigation  Corner
15  &  16  . . .   Establishing  An  Intern  Program 
17  .  .  .  Team  Michigan  Wins  Challenge  Cup
19  &  2 0 ...................   Heritage Award  Essay
21 
............................... March  Board  Meeting
2 3 .................................  May  Board  Meeting
25  &  2 6 ........................New  Member  Roster
2 7  .................................  Changes To  Roster
2 8  .................................  Financial  Statement
2 9  ..................................................Classifieds
3 0  .................................Calendars  of  Events

Periodical Reading Room 

DO NOT CIRCULATE

Information

GDGCSA
P.O.  Box  173, Troy,  Ml  48099 
(248)  362-1108 
Fax:  (248)  362-1736 
E-Mail:  gdgcsa@aol.com

Printed by: Schaltenbrand  Printing  Company 

16315  Harper Avenue 
Detroit,  Ml  48224 
(313) 882-4343

A  Patch  of Green  - 3  -  Summer  Issue,  1998

Greater Detroit Golf Course 
Superintendents Association

Officers  President
Paul  Kolbe
Vice  President
Roy Szyndlar,  CGCS 
Committees:  GAM  Seminar, 
Historian,  Co-Policy Book
President  Emeritus
Paul  Dushane 
Committees:  Ethics,
By-Laws,  Nominating
Sec ret a ry/T reas u re r
Mark McKinley 
Committees:  Co-Golf Day, 
Co-Awards,  Finance,
Welfare

Directors  Ron Abbott,  CGCS

Committees:  Co-Hospitality, 
Co-Social

Tim  Dorner,  CGCS 
Committees:  POG Editor,  Publicity, 
Co-Golf  Day

Mike Jones
Committees:  Co-Education, 
Co-Hospitality Room

Rick Murphy,  CGCS 
Committees:  Co-Awards, 
Co-Education,  Finance 
Industrial  Relations

Tom  Schall,  CGCS
Committees:  Co-Special Olympics
Co-Social

Gary Thommes,  CGCS 
Committees:  Membership, 
Co-Special  Olympics,
Co-Policy Book

Contact for  Kate  Mason 

GDGCSA  Executive  Secretary 

TURFGRASS SPECIALISTS

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BRIGHTON (800| 482-3130  FAX: (810) 632-5840 
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A  Patch  of  Green  - 4 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

o n  p a r  'tie ' p r e s id e n t

The  last two  meetings,  at  Country Club  of  Detroit  and 

Special  Olympics,  made  me  reminisce  on  my childhood  and 
how fortunate  I  was  growing  up  around  golf.  Seeing  caddies 
at the  Country Club  brought  back  memories  of  my caddying 
days  at  Franklin  Hills  Country  Club.  Mondays  were  always the  best day 
of the  week,  playing  golf  ’til  the  sun  went down  and  going  home to  watch 
Monday  Night  Baseball  while  eating  some  hot dogs.  Also,  the  ability to 
see  such  great club  pros  - Tom  Deaton,  Ron  Fox,  and  during  my  last 
year,  current  senior tour player  Buddy Whitten  was  an  assistant.

Playing  golf with  Special  Olympics  athlete  Chris  and  his  father, 

Bernard,  made  me  appreciate the  hard  work  my  parents did  during  my 
upbringing.  They were  always  supportive:  even  when  I  changed  my 
college  major from  Pre-Dentistry to Turfgrass  Management!

As  our  busy  season  is  upon  us,  don’t forget  about your family  and 

your  parents.  Give them  some  quality time.  The  best  place  is  on  the  golf 
course,  when  the  sun  is setting.  The  game  of golf has  been  good  to  me 
and  the  memories will  last  a  lifetime.

A  Patch  of Green

5

Summer  Issue,  1998

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A  Patch  of  Green  - 6 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

The View From  M.S.U.

Golf Spike Alternative  Survey

by Thomas A.  Nikolai &  Paul E.  Rieke

The  number  of  golf  courses  that  have  banned  metal 
spikes continues to grow.  In January of 1995 there were 55 
golf  coures  that  had  banned  metal  spikes.  By  January  of 
1998  over  3,000  golf  courses  had  banned  metal  spikes. 
However,  there  was  growing  concern  that  some  of  the 
alternative  spikes  might  be  more  damaging  to  the  putting 
surface  than  metal  spikes.  In  response  to  this  concern  it 
was decided to conduct a golf spike/sole survey at the 1997 
Michigan  Turfgrass  Foundation/MSU  Turfgrass  Field  Day.
The  survey  was  conducted  at  the  Hancock  Turfgrass 
Research  Center  on  a  two-year-old  Penncross  creeping 
bentgrass  putting  green.  The  site  was  divided  into  20 
greens, each measuring 6’x15’.  Beginning in May they were 
mowed  five  times  per  week  at  5/32"  with  a  walk  behind 
mower.  The  greens  were  also  put  on  a  light-frequent 
sand-topdressing  program  at that time.

On  August  27,  the  day  before  Field  Day,  cups  were  set 
in  the  middle  of  each  green.  Early  the  next  morning  the 
greens were  mowed.  Nineteen  of the twenty greens  had  a 
pair  of  golf  shoes  designated  for  play  on  that  particular 
green.  The  remaining  green was a check plot that received 
no  play.

All golf shoes were size 11. Sixteen pairs were  Foot-Joy® 
DryJoys®.  Each  pair  had  a  different  type  of  golf  spike 
inserted  into them.  The  remaining three  pairs were  Etonic® 
Stabilites™,  Etonic®  Difference® with  DSS-1™  Spikes,  and 
NIKE® Zoom  Air™ with  the  Nike® waffle  spike.

Eight  individuals trafficked  each  green.  120  rounds were 

simulated  by the time the  survey began.

The Survey

The  rating  scale  used  was:

5  =  No  visible foot traffic.
4  =  Indistinct foot traffic  (very  hard to see  the foot traffic).
3 = Visible foot traffic,  but acceptable wear.
2  = Apparent foot traffic that  appears  damaging.
1  = Would  recommend banning these from the golf course.

Participants in the survey were asked to rate the effect of 
the different types of spikes or soles on the greens. Among 
the  evaluators  were  36  golf  course  superintendents,  43 
assistant  golf course  superintendents,  34  golf course crew 
members,  and  52  other  (turf  supply  distributors,  greens 
committee  chairman,  etc.)  for  a  total  of  187  participants. 
The overall  means are  reported  in Table  1.  Product names 
are  presented  in  descending  order of their  ranking  in  "The 
Green  Survey"  column.

TABLE  1

Average Rating  From  Average Rating  From
The Board Survey

The Green Survey

Etonic® Stabilities™
GreeuKEEPERS™
Turfmates™
Gripper™
FLATS PIKES™
NIKE® Zoom Air™
Waffle  Spike

FLEXI-GRIP™
So/rSpikes® XP™
TRED-LITE™SP
Turfmates™  Plus
SOFTWALK™
Greenspike®
So/rSpikes® XT™
TRED-LITE™  MT
Etonic®  Difference®
DSS-1™  Spike

So/rSpikes®
SmartspikeS™
6  mm  metal
8  mm  metal

3.8
3.7
3.6
3.5
3.4
3.3

3.2
3.2
3.2
3.2
3.1
3.1
3.0
3.0
2.9

2.7
2.4
2.0
1.2

4.8
2.7
3.4
2.2
4.5
3.8

2.3
2.5
3.2
1.7
2.1
4.7
2.9
3.7
4.7

4.1
3.1
1.0
1.0

Results

The  only  treatment  averaging  a  number  suggesting 
banishment from the golf course,  conforming to the survey 
scale,  was  the  8  mm  spike.  The  Etonic®,  Stabilities™  had 
the  lowest  damage  rating  among  the  trafficked  greens. 
Alternative  spikes  in  the  survey  with  a  metal  component 
include  Turfmates  Plus™  and  SOFTWALK™.  Both  had 
averages greater than 3 and even the all-metal 6 mm spike 
earned  an  overall  average  of  2.  Many  golf  clubs  currently 
policy.  This 
have  a 
impacted 
SOFTWALK™’s 
its  metal 
to 
retractable spike with  a ceramic  one.

recent  decision 

policy 
replace 

non-metal 

In  the  capitalistic  war  for  market  share  the  alternative 
spike companies are continually attempting to improve their 
product.  This  is  reflected  in  a  positive  manner  for  the 
superintendent with the three So/rspike® and two Tred-Lite™ 
products included in the survey. The newer version of each 
product  received  a  more  green-friendly  rating  than  its 
predecessor.

As  mentioned,  the  research  greens  were  Penncross 
creeping  bentgrass  on  a  light-frequent  sand-topdressing 
program.  There  have  been  reports  that  some  turfgrass 
species  do  not  spike  up  with  the  8  mm  spike.  It  is  also 
assumed 
light-frequent

lacking 

greens 

that 

a 

A  Patch  of Green  - 7 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

program  would 

sand-topdressing 
deeper 
indentations  from  some  of  the  alternative  spikes  because 
the greens have a greater thatch thickness.  In  1998 we will 
conduct  similar surveys  as the  one  in  1997  but  on  greens 
seeded  with  different  types  of  grass  with  varying  amounts 
of thatch.

produce 

Damage to  infrastructure  is another reason  metal spikes 
have  earned  disfavor.  In  a  survey  developed  for the  68th 
Annual  Michigan  Turfgrass  Foundation  Conference  golf 
course  superintendents  and  other  turfgrass  professionals 
were  asked  to  rate  boards  that  had  been  trafficked  with 
different  golf spikes/soles.  In  preparation for the survey fur 
planking  was cut  into 20 separate  18"  length  boards.  Each 
board  had  a  pair  of  golf  shoes  with  different  spikes/soles 
assigned  to  it.  Afterwards,  an  individual  put  on  a  pair  of 
shoes,  traversed  the  assigned  board  250  times,  removed 
his shoes  put  on  another  pair of shoes,  traversed the  next 
board  250  times,  etc.  until  each  board  was  trafficked  250 
times  each  with  a  different  soft  spike/sole.  One  190  lb. 
person  did  all  of the  trafficking  over a two  day  period.

During the conference nearly one hundred persons rated 
the  boards  for  damage.  The  survey  simply  asked  the 
participant  to  "Please  rate  the  boards  for  wear"  given  the 
following  scale:

5  =  Excellent  (No visible wear)
4  =  Very  Good  (some  visible wear  but  I  am  being  picky)
3  =  Good  (Visible  damage  but  acceptable)
2  =  Fair  (Visible  damage,  definite  impact)
1  =  Poor  (Wish  I  owned  a  lumber mill).

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The  results  are  given  in  the  right  hand  column  of  Table 

1.  The  8  and  6mm  spikes  received  the  lowest  ratings.

An ongoing traction/comfort survey is being performed by 
the  male  and  female  MSU  golf  teams.  Results  will  be 
submitted  at the  conclusion  of the  survey.

Conclusion

All alternative spikes/soles outperformed the 8 mm spike 
in  both  surveys.  The  results  imply  there  can  only  be  an 
improvement on the putting surface and  infrastructure after 
a  golf  course  bans  metal  spikes;  therefore,  alleviating  the 
headache of  having  to  police  alternative  spikes.

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A  Patch  of Green  - 8 -  Summer  issue,  1998

Canadian-American Joint Meeting

April 27,  1998 

Country Club of Detroit

It was one of those few joint meetings with the Canadians 
where we  had  nice  weather to  play  golf.  Golf  is what we 
did  and  we  did  it well!

Low  Net winners  were:

Bob  Heron  -  Canadian  -  72 
Brian  Schweihofer -  American  -  73

This  year’s  team  winner  of  the  Can-Am  trophy,  with  a
total  of 325  gross,  included:

They defeated  the  Canadian  team  consisting  of: 

Aaron  McMaster 
Lowell  Weaver 
Mike  Fagan 
Trey  Rogers 

Ray  Manion 
Bob  Heron 
Robbie  Robinson 
Thomas  Charters 

79
80
83
83

81
83
83
81

The golf course at the  Country Club of  Detroit,  managed 
by Superintendent Mark Jackson, CGCS, was in excellent 
condition. The new greens rolled so true! A special thanks 
needs  to  go  to  Mark,  his  staff,  and  his  club  for  their 
generous hospitality and fine work with such short notice. 
Thanks,  Mark!

For the education portion of the meeting, the topic of skin 
cancer  was  discussed.  Dr.  Blank  had  some  great 
information on  how we should protect ourselves from the 
sun,  as  well  as  what  to  look  for  in  a  preventative 
diagnosis of  skin cancer.

A  Patch  of  Green  - 9 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

IT  DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER THAN  THIS!

The  Greater  Detroit  Golf  Course  Superintendents 
Association  held  it’s  17th  Annual  Special  Olympics  Golf 
Outing  on  May  15th  at  Bald  Mountain  Golf  Course  in 
Lake Orion.

Mother  Nature  provided  us  with  a  "picture-perfect"  day. 
Bald  Mountain  provided  us with  an  excellent  golf course 
and  dinner,  and  with  the  help  of  the  vendors,  fellow 
Superintendents, Club Officials and other businesses, our 
association  was able to  provide  Special  Olympics  with  a 
donation  of $18,000.

Included in that amount were funds raised from the 50/50 
drawing,  raffle for prizes, and the verbal auction. The pool 
of  items  included  everything  from  golf  packages  from 
golfing  facilities  throughout  Michigan  to  autographed 
sports  memorabilia.  Thanks  to  you  who  donated  items 
and  prizes  and  to  you  who  bought  chances  and  bid  on 
those  items  offered.  This  year  we  added  a  new  event. 
Our thanks to Tom  Muir of the  Goalie’s  Den,  in Troy,  for 
his  help  in  running  the  Silent Auction.

There  were  two  flights  that  won  in  the  5-man  scramble. 
Congratulations  to  the  Red  Flight  Tom  Penzien,  Dan 
White,  Al  Trainor,  Harry  Burleson  and  Dan  Paszek,  who 
scored  56. The winning  Blue  Flight team with  60 was Bill 
Zanetti,  Ron  Demers,  Don  Fields,  Jeff  Carson  and  Dale 
Bauer.

If  you  haven’t  heard  yet  (or  didn’t  pay  attention  to  the 
cover  this  month),  YOU  MUST  HAVE  BEEN  OUT  OF 
TOWN!!!  Howard Altman, Superintendent at Stony Creek 
G.C.,  made  a  hole-in-one  on  #8  and  won  a  brand  new 
1998  Dodge Truck!  Also,  thanks to  Howard  for donating 
$375  to  the  Michigan  Special  Olympics-  the  money  he 
won  FROM  the  one  and  only  skin.  Thank  you,  Howard, 
and  congratulations!  And  thanks  to  LaFontaine  Bros. 
Arbor Dodge for sponsoring the four Hole-in-One events.

An  extra  Special  thank  you  goes  to  our  guests  from  the 
Group  Living  Facility  in  Flint,  for  reminding  us  what  this 
event  is  all  about.  Thank  you  to  Rex  Bailey,  Todd 
Carriere,  Patty  Davis,  Matt  Heidel,  Richard  Levely  and 
Andy  McCay  for  raising  almost  $1,000  on  the  Hit-the 
Green  and  Putting  Challenge  events.  Thanks  to  Julie 
Murray  and  Aaron  Klein  for  your  dedication  to  Special 
Athletes,  Special  Olympics  and  this  event.  More  thanks 
go  to  Chris  Audretsch  and  his  dad,  Bernard,  for  playing 
in  the fivesome  with  our  Executive  Board.  Over the  past 
few  years,  Chris,  with  his  smiling  face  and  big  hugs  for 
everyone, has brought extra special memories to this day.

Sincere thanks to all who attended, those who sponsored

tees,  who  worked  contests,  who  donated  prizes  and 
funds,  and the Special Olympics Fundraising Committee: 
Co-Chairs Gary Thommes and Tom  Schall,  Kate  Mason, 
Tom  Bradshaw,  Don  Fields,  Tom  Gill,  Doug 
Johanningsmeier,  Jim  Koziatek,  Carey  Mitchelson,  Tim 
Osburn,  Mark  Powers, 
Jim
Vandenberghe. Your diligence and dedication have made 
this event a  success!

Joe  Singles 

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A  Patch  of Green  - 10 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

SPECIAL OLYMPICS  OUTING WAS TERRIFIC!

A  Patch  of  Green  - 11  -  Summer  Issue,  1998

DAVEY  KEEPS 
THE  GIANTS 

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STANDING 

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Many Thanks  To  Our 1998  Special 
Olympics  Prize Donors And  Tee  Sponsors

Prize Donors

Prize  Donors

Allingham Corp.
Altman, Howard 
Amturf Seeds 
Bald Mountain GC 
Bogie Lake GC 
Burning Tree G & CC 
Cattails GC 
Century Rain Aid
Captains Club of Woodfield G & CC 
Cherry Creek CC 
Club Car Inc.
Coyote GC 
Cracklewood GC 
D&C Distributors 
Devil’s Ridge GC 
Dunham Hills GC 
Emerald Isle 
Fortress (The)
GDGCSA
Gill Tom
Glen Oaks GC
Greystone GC
Grosse lie G & CC
Craig Julieff, Photographer
Katke-Cousins GC
LaFontaine, Pat NY Rangers
Links of Novi
Lions
London Industries
Mason, Tom
Milne, Bill
Murphy,  Rick
National Coney Island
Oak Pointe CC
Oak Ridge GC
Oakland County Parks
Osburn Industries
PC Systems & Solutions
Palace of Auburn Hills / Pistons
Pine Knob GC
Pine View GC
Radrick Farms
Riverview Highlands GC
Southgate GC
Special Olympics
St. Clair Shores CC
St. Ives GC
Stan’s Dugout
Stonycroft Hills Club
Sycamore Hills GC
Sylvan Glen GC
Tam O’Shanter CC

A  Patch of Green  -1 2  -  Summer issue,  1998

Taylor Meadows 
Timber Ridge GC 
Tower Automotive 
Twin Lakes GC 
Union Lake GC 
University of Michigan 
Wiseman  Distributing 
Woodlands of VanBuren

Tee  Sponsors

A. Larson Company 
Amturf Seeds 
Art Hills & Associates 
Benham Chemical Corporation 
Century Rain Aid 
Club Car Inc.
Commercial/Environmental Turf 

Services

D&C  Distributors 
Detroit Club Managers 
Emerald Isle Ltd.
Entech Personnel Services 
Great Greens of America 
Green & Grow Inc.
Lamplighter Lions Club of Livonia 
Lesco
Marc Dutton Irrigation
Michigan PGA-Southern Chapter
NJK Associates
Osburn Industries
Palace Equipment Rental
Pulte Homes of Michigan
Spartan Distributors
Special Touch  Engraving / D'Signs
Terra International
The Davey Tree Expert Co.
Tire Wholesalers Co. Inc.
Tower Automotive 
Turf Drain 
Turfgrass Inc.
United Horticultural Supply 
U.S. Sand & Stone Co.
Valley Turf
Weingartz Equipment 
Wm. F. Sell & Son 
Zep Manufacturing

IRRIGATION CORNER

EVAPOTRANSPIRATION

By:  David B.  Beck,  P.E. 

David  B.  Beck &  Associates,  Inc. 

Ann Arbor,  Michigan

To quantify water used out of a soil profile a combination of water evaporation from the soil surface and water consumed 
by the living plant material are measured and combined in evapotranspiration or ET.  It is difficult to distinguish between the 
amount of water which  is  used  by the  plant and that which  is  lost to the environment from  evaporation.  From an  irrigation 
standpoint, it makes no difference. Any moisture lost from the soil to the environment must be replaced naturally with rainfall 
or artificially with  irrigation.  ET,  like many other factors influencing irrigation scheduling is highly variable based on the type 
of turf cultivar,  climate,  local  geography,  and  other characteristics found  on  a  particular site.  (1)

Variations on turfgrass ET occur on a seasonal basis since they are based on climatic factors such as temperature and 
hours  of  daylight.  Table 1  provides  historic average  daily  ET  information  for the  months  during  the  irrigation  season  and 
provides  a  reference  base  for  ET  rates  during  specific  times  of  the  year.  Note  that  during  the  months  of  March,  April, 
October,  and  November, the average daily  rainfall exceeds the average daily  ET  rate.  In  all  but the driest seasons  little or 
no  irrigation  is  required  in these  months due to  natural  rainfall.

Historic Average  Daily ET Data for Southeast  Michigan.  (Inches/Day)

Table #1

Month_________________ Average Daily  ET (in)  Av».  Daily  Rain(in|)
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November

0.07
0.10
0.11
0.09
0.09
0.10
0.09
0.08
0.07

0.02
0.06
0.12
0.18
0.21
0.19
0.12
0.06
0.02

Reference 2): Toro  Rainfall  -  Evapotranspiration  Data.  1966.

ET rates shown in Table 1  represent average historic values. These average ET rates do not account for daily variations 
in  weather  patterns  which  drive  ET.  As  an  example,  an  entire  month’s  rainfall  may fall  on  a  single  day during  that  month 
requiring  irrigation  every  day  of  the  month  except  during  and  right  after  the  rainfall  event.  Conversely,  we  may  have  a 
particularly wet season as we had in  1992 where rainfall occurred frequently and in enough quantity to nearly eliminate any 
need  for irrigation.  Actual  daily  ET will very dramatically,  even  during  peak  irrigation  in July.  Stormy days  during the peak 
irrigation  season  will  result  in  no  cumulative  loss  in  soil  moisture  or even  an  increase  in  the  soil  moisture  level.  Although 
defining  all  elements  which  influence  evapotranspiration  on  a  daily  basis  is  beyond  the  scope  of  this  discussion,  it  is

A  Patch of Green  -1 3   -  Summer  Issue,  1998

imperative that a reliable daily measurement of ET be found to insure optimum  irrigation efficiency.  Simply guessing on  ET 
and  irrigation  applications  will  result  in  ovenwatering.  There  are  many  sources  of  measured  and  published  daily 
évapotranspiration  such  as from  onsite weather stations,  weather stations from  nearby courses,  other onsite  ET  devices, 
computer  software,  or  agricultural  extension  services.  Once  a  reliable  source  of  daily  ET  is  located,  the  irrigator  using 
experience can  learn  how to apply the  ET information to a specific site or golf course. Over time the  irrigator will  learn that 
their site  uses  generally  more  water  than  the  reference  ET  or  generally  less  water  than  the  reference  ET.  The  relative 
difference  will  typically  remain  unchanged  and  adjustments  to  irrigation  depth  can  be  applied  accordingly.  Remember, 
irrigation  is a science,  not an art..  By monitoring  ET on a daily basis and adjusting water applications accordingly,  irrigation 
will  be  more efficient  and  reduce operating  costs and  improve the turf  growing  environment.

REFERENCES:

1) Schwab,  G.O.;  Frevert,  R.K.;  Edminster, T.W.;  Barns,  K.K.,  1981. Chapter 3-Infiltration,  Evaporation,  and Transpiration, 
Soil  and Water Conservation  Engineering,  John  Wiley and  Sons,  Inc.

2) Toro  Rainfall  -  Evapotranspiration  Data.  1966.

People who want to help, wit' 

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Kimberly Olson 
James Bogart

Dan Johaningsmeier 
Doug Johanningsmeier

Keith  Richards 
Dar Howard 
Steve Syrett 
Richard  Locke 
Bruce Wotring

Todd Griebe-Mgr.

1

A  Patch  of Green  -1 4  -  Summer  Issue,  1998

Featuring:
The Anderson's 

Emerald  Isle

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Reprint from  USGA  Green  Section  Record,  Nov/Dec,  1997

Establishing An  Intern  Program

A valuable  activity that  can  benefit the  student and  your course

by George Hamilton

The role of the golf course superintendent has changed 
dramatically  over  the  past  30  years.  Not  only  has 
turfgrass  management  evolved  into  a  very  technical 
discipline,  but the superintendent’s  role  has expanded to 
include many responsiblities far removed from turf related 
topics. These changes have created  a seasonal demand 
for experienced  workers  within  the  golf course  industry.

Turfgrass  management  students  are  helping  to  meet 
this  demand.  Many  colleges  and  universities  offering  a 
turfgrass  science  curriculum  make 
internships  a 
requirement or elective for their programs. Internships can 
vary from  being  project-specific  to  an  on-the-job  training 
or  apprenticeship.  For  project-specific  internships,  the 
students  develop  a  plan  of  action  for a  particular project 
with  the  help  of  their  academic  advisor  and  the  golf 
course superintendent for whom they will be working. The 
student completes a report upon  returning to campus and 
is  given  academic credit for the  experience.

The  on-the-job training  internships  may or may  not be 
for  credit.  Although  their  is  no  particular  project  to 
complete, the students usually have general guidelines to 
follow  and  certain  goals to  achieve.

Internships  in  either  form  can  be  of  great  benefit  to 
both  the  student  and  the  internship  provider.  Some 
graduates  return  to  their  internship  golf  course  to  gain 
additional  experience  or 
fill  vacant  supervisory 
positions.  This  hiring  practice 
is  usually  successful 
because the  graduate  is familiar with the  people and the 
operation,  and  vice  versa.

to 

Important Accomodations and  Considerations 
for an  Internship  Program

The  most  important  accomodation  of  an  internship 
program  is  housing.  The  housing  can  be  on-  or off-site, 
although  on-site  housing  is  much  more  convenient  and 
efficient.  If housing  is not provided, the intern  must locate 
and  secure  housing  before  the  employment  begins  and 
then  must  consider  a 
furniture,  and  other 
necessities.  Most  students  don’t  have  the  time  during 
school 
these  arrangements, 
especially  if  the  golf  course  is  a  great  distance  from 
school.  It’s  much  easier  for  students  to  show  up  at  the 
internship  site  with  a trunk  load  of dirty  laundry.

to  take  care  of  all  of 

lease, 

Other  accomodations  that  courses  can  provide  are 
meals, golfing privileges, limited or unlimited overtime and 
a  competitive  wage.  The  hourly  wage  is  always  an  item 
for  consideration,  but  most  interns  do  not  make  it  the 
most  important  factor  of  their  decision.  They  do,  and 
rightfully  so,  contemplate 
type  and  quality  of 
experience that they are  going  to  receive.

the 

It 

is  very 

important 

The  superintendent  can  attract  potential  students  by 
defining  and  developing  an  intern  position  within  the 
management  hierarchy. 
that 
management characterizes the intern position as one very 
different  from  a  regular  crew  position.  If  management 
does  not  utilize  students  differently  from  other 
seasonal employees, the turf students are really  just 
seasonal employees. Superintendents need to structure 
internships  so  that  the  students  not  only  gain  new 
knowledge  and  experience,  but  also  contribute  to  the 
operation  with  their  knowledge  and  experience.
Internship  positions  should  have  some 

level  of 
responsibility associated with them. After all, most interns 
should  only  be  a  year  or  so  from  being  in  a  position  of 
responsibility.  They  should  be  put  in  a  position  that 
requires  long  hours  and  an  on-call  status.  The  interns 
should  realize they will be the ones who will  be expected 
to come  in early,  stay  late,  or work weekends  in order to 
get tasks completed. Too  many students  have gravitated 
into assistant  and  superintendent  positions  believing  the 
work  week  consists  of  40  hours  during  the  week  and 
three  hours  on  Saturday  morning!  When 
interns 
experience true-to-life working conditions, they have fewer 
surprises early  in  their careers.

involved 

Interns  should  also  be 

in  chemical  and 
fertilizer appications to  some  extent.  They  should  be  far 
enough  along  in  their  education  that  they  have  a  good 
understanding  of  equipment  calibration  and  pesticide 
handling.  Students  should  also  be  exposed  to  irrigation 
system  operation  and  repair  and  water  management 
philosophies and techniques.  Interns also could  spend  a 
couple  of  days with  a  mechanic  and  in  the  shop  to  gain 
mechanical  experience.  All  of 
the  golf  course 
management  staff can  provide  educational  opportunities 
for interns.

interested 

interns  are 

One  thing  that  most 

is 
spending time  with  the  golf course  superintendent.  They 
like  to  have  the  opportunity  to  discuss  why things  are 
being  done  or  how  things  are  being  done.  Students 
appreciate 
lines  of 
communication  between themselves and the  upper-level 
management.  It  allows  them  to  learn  more  and  makes 
them feel  like the  are  part of the  team.

the  opportunity 

to  have  good 

Interns can learn and benefit by being a part of another 
team as well.  Many times golf courses  rely on volunteers 
or  crew  members 
for 
tournament preparation.  Allowing  interns to work at local, 
regional  or  national 
their 
experience  and  gives  them  an  opportunity  to  meet  and 
work with  other people  in  the  industry.

from  surrounding  courses 

tournaments  broadens 

in 

A  Patch of Green  -15  -  Summer Issue,  1998

Put Science 
Yoür Side

Biostimulants

PanaSeá Plus

Liquefied Sea Plant Extract Biostimulant

BioGate

Landscape. Ornamental and 

Lawn Biostimulant

Soil Conditioners

Sand-Aid

The Optimal Organic Amendment

The Optimal Organic Fertilizer 

Soil Conditioner

Biologicals

A Breakthrough in  Bioremediation 

Thatch-X
for Thatch Control
BacMan
Excess Nutrients

Bacterial Management to Reduce 

Tips  on  Recruiting  Interns

First,  management  should  develop a true  internship  program  with  some  of the 
aforementioned components.  Students have more  interest in  internship programs 
that are well developed and organized.  Some schools have abundant requests for 
interns.  For example,  at  Penn  State  University,  we  had  more  than  150  requests 
last  year.  Our students  were  seeking  internships  that  were  well-established  and 
had  a  reputation for providing  good  experience.

Students have different internship objectives and  requirements.  However,  most 
interns are seeking  a  mentor.  Interns want someone  who will  take  interest  in the 
needs  of a  developing  professional.  They  want to  work for someone  who  will  go 
out of their way to teach and train them. This point sounds good  and seems easy 
enough to do,  but it is very difficult to implement in the  hectic world of golf course 
maintenance. The company line can quickly become  "we don’t have time for that 
now;  we’ll  do  it  later on  in  the  season."  But the  season  is  never  long  enough  to 
have those learning opportunities happen,  and the intern ends up dissatified. The 
golf course may have difficulty getting interns in the future if it establishes that type 
of  reputation.

Golf courses can seek interns by communicating with academic institutions that 
offer a  turfgrass  management curriculum.  Some  schools  place  their  interns,  and 
others  provide their students with  internship  opportunities  and  allow the students 
to  select  for themselves.  Also,  some  schools  have  active  student  turf  clubs that 
have booths at state and national trade shows.  Many times the turf clubs will have 
a  binder of  student  resumes of those who  are  looking  for employment.

The  Golf  Course  Superintendents  Association  of  America  is  offering  an 
internship  referral service for members who are seeking  interns.  The World Wide 
Web is another resource that can be used to locate students looking for internship 
opportunités.  TurfNet  (www.turfnet.com)  is  one  of the  turfgrass-related  sites  that 
posts employment  opportunities.

Developing  a  quality  internship  program  takes  time  and  dedication.  It  doesn’t 
happen in a year or two.  It takes planning and aggressive  recruiting to get started. 
Once  your  program  has  been  viewed  as  successful,  word-of-mouth  will  send 
students to you.  However,  the competition for interns  is  on  the  rise and  even the 
best  programs  will  not  get  all  of the  interns  they  need  every  year.  An  internship 
program  is  a valuable  activity that  benefits  both the  student  and  the  golf course.

Fertilizers & Micronutrients

SeaQuential

A New Generation of Fully-Chelated  Iron 

and Micronutrient Supplements

GEORGE  HAMILTON  is a  Senior Lecturer of Turfgrass Science and a  Technical 
Advisor  to  the  Golf  Course  Turfgrass  Management  Program  at  Penn  State 
University.  In  his  capacity  at  Penn  State,  George  also  administers  the  Intern 
Program.

The Leaders in  Probiotic Fertilizers

BioBloom

Complete Organic Fertilizer 

for Flowering Plants
Bio Turf Gro

Emerald 

Isle, Ltd.
1-800-628-GROW

Safe,  effective products for tu rf 

g ro w th  and maintenance.

© 1997 Emerald Isle, Ltd.

Bio Turf Gro is a trademark of Grigg Bros.

RHONE-POULENC AG  COMPANY 

BOB  DUGAN
P.O. Box 74398 

Romulus,  Ml 481744)398 

Tel.(313) 782-0323  Fax (313) 782-6344

A  Patch  of Green  -1 6  -  Summer  Issue,  1998

Team  Michigan Wins Challenge Cup

By Paul Richter,  Spring Lake G.C.

for  the 

first  trip 

After  a  disappointing  zero 
to  the 
International Golf Course Challenge Hockey Tournament, 
cunning  Captain  Ken  DeBusscher  (Wabeek  C.C.)  said 
"Fool  me once,  shame on you.  Fool  me twice,  shame on 
me,"  and  vowed  to  assemble  a  stronger  team  for  the 
1998  edition  of  golf  course  superintendents  on  ice.  And 
assemble it he did. The 1998 model of the Michigan team 
was  tougher  than  any  Chevy  truck.  Disembarking  from 
various 
team  of  mostly  golf  course 
superintendents and a few well chosen purveyors headed 
across the 402,  401,403 and  QEW to Niagra  Falls,  New 
York to show the world hockey wasn’t just for Canadians, 
Russians,  Finns  and  Swedes  anymore.  The  Americans 
have arrived. Last summer’s World Cup, and now a quest 
for the  prestigious  Challenge  Cup.

locations, 

the 

No time for an  easy warmup  game.  Toronto,  the  runner- 
up  in  1997,  was  the  first  draw  in  the  round  robin  for 
Michigan.  The  pace  was fast from  the  drop  of the  puck, 
with Toronto holding a 3-1  lead after two periods.  Furious 
forechecking  by Tim  DeBone  (Monroe  G.C.),  Pete  Hahn 
(Bruce  Hills)  and  John  Nowakowski  (Great  Oaks  C.C.), 
and  steady  defensive  play  by  Rick  Hayes  (Pine  River 
C.C.)  and Joe Costello  (AIS  Rental), wore the opposition 
down,  and  a  comeback was  mounted.  Four  minutes  left 
and the  score was  knotted  at three each.  Three  minutes 
remaining  found  Toronto  on  top  4-3.  One  minute  to  go, 
and the goalie is pulled for the sixth attacker.  Five ticks of 
the  clock  remaining  and  Eddie  Heineman  (Waters  Edge 
C.C.)  buries  a  rebound  to  salvage  a  hard  fought 4-4 tie.

Due  to  the  relentless  rushes  of  Rick  Osburn  (Osburn 
Trucking),  deft  stick  handling  by  Tim  Osburn  (Osburn 
Trucking),  the  yeoman  work  of  centerman  Jim  Eccleton 
(Arbor Hills C.C.), winger Chris Allard (Sugar Bush G.C.), 
not  to  mention  rock  solid  defense  from  Gary  Johnson 
(Pheasant  Run  G.C.),  Michigan  racked  up  wins  over  its 
last two opponents, squelching the comeback attempts by 
North  Toronto  (prevailing  by a  score  of 5-3)  and  London 
(by  rolling  over  them  5-1)  on  a  solid  performance 
between the pipes by netminder Jack Asher.  However, in 
all  it was the depth of the  Michigan  icers that wore down 
the tenacious  Canadian  opposition.

With  the  cup  one  victory  away,  the  championship  game 
would find formidible opposition in the twice-scored-upon- 
in-three-games  Kitchner  team.  Midway  through  the  first 
period found the boys from the Wolverine state down 2-1, 
when Paul  Richter (Spring Lake C.C.)  lit the lamp with an 
off-speed  snap  shot  from  the  point  to  set  into  motion  a 
rally  with  unanswered  scores  by  DeBusscher,  Matt 
Costello, Jim VanAntwerp (Waterway Irrigation) and  Rick 
Osburn,  after  which  Kitchner  never  recovered.  An  8-4 
victory  gave  the  Michiganders  the  privilege  to  sip  suds 
from the  cup as champions.

Not  to  be  fooled  with  anymore,  the  crafty  Captain  Ken 
DeBusscher  did  gather a team  capable  of turning  a few 
heads  in  the  superintendent  hockey world,  by  becoming 
the  first  American  team  to  win  the  International  Golf 
Course  Challenge  Hockey Tournament.

Local  Toro Turf  Experts  Recognized

MINNEAPOLIS  (May  7,  1998)  -  Spartan  Distributors, 
Inc.  was  recognized  recently  as  a 
preeminent distributor of Toro products.  Spartan was the  recipient of the  Partners in  Excellence, 
Gold  Level  of  Excellence  award  for  outstanding  service  in  all  business  categories:  Overall, 
Commercial,  Consumer,  Irrigations  and  Parts.

"Spartan  Distributors’ commitment and investment in the customer has consistently earned them 
high  customer  satisfaction  ratings  and  makes  them  a  standard  bearer  for  quality,"  said  Ken 
Melrose,  chief  executive  officer and  office of the  president,  The Toro  Company.  "We  are  proud 
to  recognize their achievements  and to  be their partner in  excellence."

Toro  is  the  leading  provider  of  outdoor  beautification  products  for  residential,  recreational  and 
commercial turf applications.  Spartan Distributors has been a Toro distributor partner since  1947.

A  Patch  of  Green  -  17 -  Summer fssue,  1998^

Condolences to:

Craig  Roggeman,  Superintendent 
member,  Sycamore  Hills  Golf Club,  and 
his wife,  Beverly,  upon the  death  of 
their son,  Gary  Beauchamp.  Gary was 
killed  in  a car accident  on  March  27th.
Get Well  Wishes:

Cy  Davis,  Affiliate  member with  Club 
Car,  Inc.  was  hospitalized  with cancer 
of the  esophagus.  The surgery was 
successful  and  Cy  is  doing  well.

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A  Patch  of  Green  -18 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

Heritage Award  Essay

In  1996  GDGCSA  initiated  the  Heritage  Award  to  recognize  individuals  in  non-turf  related  post  graduate  secondary 
education, whose parents are members of our association. The recipients are selected on the basis of an essay. This year’s 
participants’  essays  were  based  on  their  response  to  the following  question: 
impact of golf on  the  environment has
received much press during the past couple years.  Please describe your views,  positive or negative,  on how the sport of 
golf and its playing field effects our environment.  Award  winners for 1997 were:  Kelly  Renee Ashworth,  daughter of Craig 
Ashworth  and  Megan  Lynn  Kirtland,  daughter of  John  Kirtland.  If you  have  questions  about the  Heritage  Award,  contact 
Awards  Chairman  Rick  Murphy,  CGCS.

Essay by Kelly Renee Ashworth

Five years ago,  if you  had asked  me about the positive 
or negative effects golf courses  had on the environment; 
you would  have been  met with a blank look.  I truly had no 
idea  that  the  golf  course  industry  had  been  met  with  so 
much  criticism  and  controversy.  However,  after  working 
as  a  groundskeeper  at  Meadowbrook  Country  Club  for 
the  past five  summers,  I  feel  that  I  can  now  answer the 
question  of  environmental 
in  a  clear  and 
well-educated  manner.

impacts 

In  my opinion, the  positive aspects of a golf course far 
outweigh  those  of  a  negative  nature.  There  are  many 
things  that  today’s  superintendents  practice  to  maintain 
earth  friendly  courses.  Some  of  these  practices  include 
green  waste 
recycling,  water  conservation,  wildlife 
preservation,  and  integrated  pest  management.  Besides 
these  practices,  golf courses  have also  proven to benefit 
economies.

Green  waste  recycling  is  presently  a  very  commonly 
used  practice  among  superintendents.  This  form  of 
recycling  entails  returning  grass  clippings  to  the  earth, 
mulching  leaves  during  the  autumn  season,  chipping 
brush,  and composting  regularly.  Making  use of clippings 
and  mulching  dead  leaves  have  proven  to  return  vital 
nutrients  and  organic  matter  back  to  the  soil.  Chipping 
brush found on the course is beneficial because it makes 
for  excellent  landscape  mulch  that  can  be  used  around 
walkways  and  flowerbeds.  And  besides  adding  organic 
matter to the soil, this mulch conserves soil  moisture and 
prevents  unsightly weeds.Composting  serves as another 
earth  friendly  practice,  as  it  promotes  quick  germination 
and  can  reduce  excessive fertilizer use.

Water conservation  is  another  practice  found  on  many 
golf  courses  around  the  world.  Because  of  the  constant 
threat  of  population  growth  and 
long-term  drought, 
superintendents  are  encouraged,  and 
sometimes 
required, to act wisely and to water only when necessary. 
With  today’s  technology,  many  superintendents  have 
switched from manual to computerized  irrigation systems 
and  are  able  to  monitor  the  weather  through  on-site 
weather stations. With these advances they are then able 
to 'avoid  watering  if  they  know  that  rain  is  approaching. 
And  many  times,  a  superintendent  will  water  at  night  or 
early 
the  early  morning  hours,  when  wind  and 
evaporation  speed  are  low.

in 

role 

areas.  Meadowbrook, 

Wildlife  preservation  also  plays  a  key 

in 
maintaining  a golf course. With the cooperative efforts of 
the Audubon Society and various other organizations, golf 
courses  also  serve  as  wildlife  sanctuaries  and  wetlands 
preservation 
for  example, 
introduced  the  idea  of  using  nest  boxes  throughout  the 
course  that  not  only  provided  a  habitat  for  threatened 
species  of  birds,  but  also  allowed 
for  community 
participation 
in  monitoring.  Because  of  these  added 
benefits, a golf course then  becomes multi-functional.  No 
more  is the course simply a  playground for golf  lovers,  it 
now  provides 
joggers,  and 
therefore  attracting  a  vast  amount  of 
birdwatchers, 
outdoor enthusiasts.

to  walkers, 

recreation 

It  wasn’t  until  I  had  enrolled  in  a  biology  class  at 
Michigan  State  that  I  discovered  the  important  role  that 
integrated  pest  management  plays  in  managing  a  golf 
course.  I had always assumed that a superintendent used 
dangerous  pesticides to eliminate the  spread of disease, 
insects,  and weeds on the  golf course.  The  reality is that 
today more and  more of our nation’s  greenskeepers  rely 
on  natural  methods of disease control  and  prevention.  In 
my own  experiences  at  Meadowbrook,  I  was  introduced 
to  the  idea  of  using  pseudomonus,  a  naturally  occurring 
soil  bacteria,  to  compete  with  destructive  fungi  found  in 
the  soil  to  prevent  and  control  turf  disease.  Other areas 
have used BT, another naturally occurring bacteria, to kill 
swarms  of  Gypsy  moths,  which  were  defoliating  many 
trees  at  an  alarming  rate.

Althouh  many superintendents are now using  naturally 
occurring  substances  more  and  more  to  maintain  an 
attractive  and  healthy  course,  pesticides  remain  widely 
used. Many controversies have arisen because of regular 
pesticide  use,  especially  in  the  golf course  industry.  But 
if you  refer to  the facts  and  not  ignorant  individuals who 
make uneducated assumptions, you will see that the use 
of  pesticides  can  be  beneficial.  For  starters,  contrary  to 
popular belief, various university and government studies 
indicate  that  pesticides  and  fertilizers  that  are  properly 
applied  do  not  leach  into  groundwater.  Also,  many  of 
these products are only a applied on certain areas of the 
course  while  other  areas  are  natural  and  are  not 
maintained  with turf care  products.

Besides  having  a  generally  beneficial  impact  on  the

A  Patch of Green  - 19 -  Summer Issue,  1998

environment,  golf  courses  also  offer  many  economic 
benefits.  Today’s  irrigated  golf courses  generate  millions 
of  tourist  and  property  tax  dollars  for  state  economies. 
Golf  courses  are  also  thrivinig  businesses  that  provide 
many  skilled  and  semi-skilled  jobs,  and  provide  a  place 
for social interaction and community events. Besides that, 
courses  are  also  civic  benefactors  that  give  major 
contributions to charities.

As  you  can  see,  a  well  maintained  golf  course  could 
definitely  benefit  the  environment.  According  to  the 
USGA,  a  golf  course  is  actually  an  "air  conditioner that 
will  produce vast amounts of oxygen while cleansing the 
air  of  pollution  and  cooling  the  atmosphere."  Many 
independent university research projects also support the 
idea  that  a  well-managed  golf  course  does  not  pose 
significant  risk  to  the  environmental  quality,  wildlife,  or 
human  health.  And  many  employees  of  the  golf  course 
industry  are  very  well  educated  individuals  who  are 
themselves 
avid  wildlife 
conservationists.

nature 

lovers 

and 

It  is  a fact that  new  developments  deplete  our airable 
land,  but  unfortunately,  developments will  never come to 
a halt.  So  it  is the  responsibility of all  course  developers 
and  golf  course  superintendents  to  be  careful  with  the 
land  they  use,  and  give  back  to  the  earth  as  much  as 
possible.  This was definitely the case  in  my experiences 
at Meadowbrook.  I  first looked at  my job as just a way to 
make  money  during  the  summer,  but  the  more  I  have 
learned,  the  more  pride  I  take  in  my  work.  So  my  once 
ignorant  views  of  golf  courses  and  their  impact  on  the 
environment have finally been replaced with a mature and 
educated view of the reality: golf courses do not affect the 
environment negatively when the proper practices are put 
to  use.

AWARD ANNOUNCEMENT

A great way to contribute to the association  is  by writing  an article for A  Patch of Green.  Each 
one  of  us  can  benefit from  an  article  that  shares  an  experience,  opinion  or  area  of  expertise. 
Articles that are published in  POG are eligible for the John Walter Award  (plaque and $100).  In 
addition,  the  Board  has  decided  to  continue  giving  a  $50  credit  towards  meeting  expenses  or 
dues for each article published (maximum $100 credit)  in a POG. The critera is an article of 500 
words or more on any topic that would be benefical to the membership. This is a good opportunity 
not  only  to  save  some  money  for  yourself  or  your  club,  but  to  give  back  to  your  association. 
Contact Awards Chairman  Rick Murphy,  CGCS for more  information.

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A  Patch  of Green  - 20 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

Board  Meeting  Highlights 
Knollwood  Country  Club 
Monday,  March  31,  1998

FINANCE  (McKinley)
Assn.  Checking:  $3,530.63;  Savings:  $40,937.97 
Foundation  Checking:  $98.03;  Savings:  $1,509.26

MEMBERSHIP (Thommes)
Membership  - 412.  Applications approved  - 2.

MEMBERSHIP  RELATIONS (Thommes)
The association will  be  sending  out a  recruiting  letter to  local  public courses.

EDUCATION  (Murphy/Jones)
April  meeting  -  Joint  Canadian 
Date:  April  27 
Site:  CC  of  Dettroit
Cost:  $40 for golf/dinner or dinner only.  $35 for caddie  (no carts)
Format:  CANAM Tournament 
Educational  Topic:  Skin  Cancer

July  meeting  -  Burning  Tree for Association  Championship 

GOLF DAY (McKinley/Dorner)
5  sites:  Barton  Hills,  Bay  Pte.,  Katke-Cousins,  Lochmoor and  Oak Pte. 

SPECIAL OLYMPICS (Thommes/Schall)
Assn,  donated  logoed  shirts from the clothing  inventory for raffle  prizes.

GAM  SEMINAR (Szyndlar)
Was  held  March  21  at  Detroit  Golf Club.
Ward  Swanson  received  the  Distinguished  Service  award.  Event  was  very 
successful.

NEW  EQUIPMENT (E.S.)
Board  approved  copier to  be  purchased  from  Gestetner for  approx.  $4,000. 
Savings  of $900  per year in  maintenance fees.

DR.  PAUL RIEKE  RETIREMENT (TOM  MASON)
Celebration  planned 
for  Rieke’s  retirement  at  1999  MTF  Conference. 
Endowment fund to be established  in his  name.  Rieke will administer.  Alumni 
will  be  solicited.  Associations  are  being  asked  to  support  a  possible  annual 
golf fundraiser.

• Greens & Fairway 
Grade Fertilizers 
with Nutralene®
• Quality Polymer 
Coated SCU 
Fertilizers
• Combination 
Products
• Granular 
Insecticides & 
Fungicides

lee  Time is a registered  I ladctnark ol  I'he Andersons.  Ine 

Nutralene is a registered trademark of Nu-(îro('orp

Distributed by:

TURFGRASS, INC.

WOMEN’S AMATEUR (McKinley)
Date:  August  20.  Board  agreed  to  place  an  ad  in  the  program.  More  details 
to come.

P. O. Box 667. 28064 Pontiac Trail. 
S. Lyon, Ml 48178 
Call Toll Free:
1-800-521-8873 o r
(248) 437-1427  (C all  C ollect)

PHONE  CHAIN  (Kolbe)
Association  needs  to  establish  a  phone  chain  to  notify  members  of  deaths, 
illness, crises, etc. affecting our membership.  Kolbe to contact Vendor Liaison 
John  Skaife for assistance.

INDUSTRIAL/ENVIRONMENTAL RELATIONS  (Murphy)
Proposed  name change of committee to  Government  Relations approved  by 
Board.  This  is  name  used  by GCSAA.

A  Patch of Green  - 21  -  Summer Issue,  1998

j'(zap Your Co uro a 
Jn  Top  Con d id  on

'  s 

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Control water,  labor and energy costs 
with a  Legacy irrigation system. 
Century is your local distributor with

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help  solve  any  irrigation  or  drainage  problems.  They  can  also 
show  you  what's  new 
lighting, 
water features  and  more.  Call  today for a  FREE catalog and  on-site 
consultation:  800- 347- 4272.

in  clubhouse 

landscape 

J O   o lf  course  superintendents  like  yourself  are  making 
%3i  [dans  to  get  their  courses  in  top  shape  for  the  new  season. 
And  irrigation  is at the top  of their lists.  Century golf professionals 
can  show you  how  to  maintain  a  highly-playable  course,  and  can

Controller Board  Repairs 

Call Century when you need controller 
board repairs for Rain  Bird and Toro golf 

controllers. 
Replacement 
boards can be 
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24  hours.  Call 
m m à   888-855-9132.

SyncroFio Pumps
An efficient pump station can solve many 
irrigation problems. Century now offers the 

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Series, the premier 
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courses.

Aqua  Master Fountains
Improve water quality with an aerating 
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Wisconsin  and Ontario,  Canada.

CENTURY GOLF PROFESSIONALS - MICHIGAN • BRIAN BIRDWELL  810-588-2990
•ROGER GRIFFITH  616-954-0660

A  Patch  of  Green  - 22 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

Board  Meeting  Highlights 
Knollwood  Country  Club 

Monday,  May 5,  1998

FINANCE (McKinley)
Assn.  Checking:  $539.05;  Savings:  $27,776.43 
Foundation  Checking:  $94.03;  Savings:  $2,471.87

MEMBERSHIP (Thommes)
Membership  - 416.  Applications  approved  -  2.

EDUCATION  (Murphy/Jones)
April  meeting  - Joint with  Canada.  Successful.  Good 
attendance.  Good  speaker.  Next year’s  site:  Essex 
June  Meeting  -  Joint wtih  WMGCSA  Site:  Travis  Pte.
Date:  June 29.
Board  hopes to  utilize the proposed  Rieke  Foundation  golf 
fundraiser  as  a  forum  for  statewide  interaction  between 
associations,  as  they  work  together  and  function  as  area 
host associations for the  event.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS  (Thommes/Schall)
Plans  going  well.  Golfers  100.  Sponsors  have  filled  tee 
sponsorships.  Auction  and  raffle  items  coming  in.  Have 
enlisted the services of an  auctioneer for the  event.

AWARDS (Murphy/McKinley)
Turfgrass Scholarship to  be offered  in  Sept.  Recipients will 
be  announced  at  Golf  Day.

SOCIAL (Schall/Abbott)
Picnic:  Being  planned  for an  August weekend.  Sites  being 
considered. Clarence Wolfram Classic will be held at Maple 
Lanes GC.  Date TBD.

WELFARE  (McKinley)
Phone Chain  to  be formed.

O.J.  NOER  FOUNDATION  ANNUAL  REPORT (Kolbe)
Kolbe to cc  Board  on  info  relevant to  Midwest.

NEW  POLICY:
"No mobile phones allowed on course", will be placed on all 
meeting  notices.

WATCHING YOUR 

COURSE WITH 
AN  EAGLE*  EYE.

Golf course superintendents have to keep a sharp 
eye out to protect their turf...and they keep watch 
for any tool  to fight tough turf diseases. That’s why 
so many of them depend on  Eagle1® fungicide.
Eagle  protects greens against more than 

15 tough diseases.  Even when temperatures and 
humidity rise and disease  pressure is highest,
Eagle doesn’t quit. And  it provides exceptional 
turfgrass safety.  It’s solvent-free—gentle to all 
major varieties.  No weakened  roots,  leaf damage 
or coarse turf blades. Greens always look and play 
their best.

Six-tenths of an  ounce  per  1,000 square feet 

gives you all the control you  need—that’s more 
performance with  less material.  Cost-effective 
protection  like that is the reason you should  keep 
an  Eagle eye on your course.

BENHAM CHEMICAL CORPORATION 

800-452-6520

Farmington Hills 
24800 N.  Industrial Dr. 
248-474-7474 
Fax: 474-3228 

Saginaw
300 Cass Ave

517-793-8210
Fax:  793-8695

A  Patch  of Green  - 23 -  Summer Issue,  1998

HERITAGE
An  Ounce  o f Prevention...
HERITAGE is a highly flexible fungicide that exhibits 
both preventative and curative activity against most 
turfgrass diseases, plus the following advantages:
•  Improves turf quality
•  Controls brown patch, Pythium, take-all patch, 

summer patch, anthracnose and snow mold

•  Reduced risk to  environmental resources
•  Low risk toxicological profile
•  Low rates, extended spray intervals
•  Novel mode of action

Once you learn about the powerful, preventative 
protection and its fit with your best management practices, 
you’ll agree that it’s time to  change  the  course  of your 
turfgrass disease management program, with HERITAGE.

For more information, contact your authorized 

Zeneca Distributor, or call Zeneca Professional Products 
Toll  Free at  1-888-617-7690.  w ww.zenecaprofprod.com

Anthracnose  (Colletotrichum graminicola)on 80% Annual Bluegrass, 20% Perennial  Ryegrass

Pythium Blight (Pythium aphanidermatum) on Perennial ryegrass 

100

0z./1,000 sq.ft.
Number of Applications
Application Interval (days)

0.4
2
14

0.2 
2 
14

0.2
1

0.25
1

—

1.5
2
14

2.0
2
14

8.0
2
14

Final Reading  17DAA2  17DAA2  31 DAA1  31  DAA1  17DAA2  17DAA2  17DAA2
US 67-95-P354

Dr. Don Scott, Purdue University,  1995 
1 Also isolated from plots: 2 species Rhizoctonia; 3 species Pythium; and several species Phytophthora.

0z./1,000 sq.ft.
Number of Applications
Application Interval (days)
Dr. John Watkins, University of Nebraska,  1996

0.4
4
14

4.0* 2.0**

3
21

6.0*  4.0**

4
14

Brown Patch (Rhizoctonia solani)on Colonial  Bentgrass 

100

Summer Patch (Magnaporthepoae)on Kentucky Bluegrass

0z./1,000 sq.ft.
Number of Applications
Application Interval (days)

0.4
2
28

0.2
4
14

3.0
2
21

0.25
2
28

1.0*  4.0**

4
14

0.2
4
14

4.0*  8.0**

4
14

Final Reading 12 DAA 2 8 DAA 4 19 DAA 2 12 DAA 2 8 DAA4  8 DAA4

8 DAA 4

Dr. Pat Sanders, Penn State University,  1994

Oz./1,000 sq.ft.
Number of Applications
Application Interval (days)

0.4
3
28

0.2
4
14

4.0 
3 
28 

0.33 
3 
28 

0.75 
3 
28 

0.6
3
28

Final Reading 19 DAA 3  33 DAA 4 19 DAA 3  19 DAA 3  19 DAA 3  19 DAA 3

Dr. Bruce Clarke, Cooke College, Rutgers University,  1994

ZENECA Professional Products

Always  read and follow label  directions carefully.  HERITAGE® and  DACONIL® are  registered trademarks of a Zeneca  Group Company. 
Aliette® is a trademark of Rhone-Poulenc Ag  Company.  Banner®,  Sentinel® and  Subdue® are trademarks of Novartis Corporation. 
Cleary's® is a trademark of W.A.  Cleary Chemical  Company.  Eagle® and  Fore® are trademarks of Rohm  and  Haas Company.
Prostar® is a trademark of AgrEvo.  Rubigan® is a trademark of Dow AgroSciences.
©1998.  Zeneca  Inc.  Zeneca  Professional  Products is a  business of Zeneca  Inc.

FUNGICIDE
C h a n g in g  t h e  C o u r s e 
o f D isease C o n t r o l

A  Patch  of  Green  - 24 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

New Member Roster

Note:  If you  are a  member of  GDGCSA and  are not  listed  in the  roster or in the following  pages, 
please contact  Kate  Mason at (248) 362-1108.

ADD THESE  NEW  MEMBERS TO  YOUR  ROSTER

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Fax:  (248)  373-4445

A  Patch  of  Green  - 25 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

ALTMAN,  HOWARD C.
(KATHLEEN)
CLASS  AN
Stony Creek  Golf  Course 
1213  Peveril  Rd. 
Bloomfield  Hills,  Ml  48304 
H-(248)  852-0915 
O-(810)  781-4027

DIEHL,  BRIAN  A.
AFFILIATE  N 
Valley Turf  inc.
11711  E.  Grand  River  Rd. 
Brighton,  Ml  48116 
H-(248)  486-9164 
0(810)  220-2040 
FAX-(810)  220-2750

MC  MASTER, AARON  S.
CLASS  CN
Orchard  Lake  Country Club 
5500  W.  Shore  Dr.
Orchard  Lake,  Ml  48324 
H-(734)  482-2828 
0-(248)  682-2150

SCHNEEBERGER,  PAUL G.
CLASS  CN 
Links of  Novi 
1060  E.  State  Rd.
Lansing,  Ml  48906 
H-(517)  484-5535 
0-(248)  380-6950

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(JENNIFER)
CLASS  BN
Hilltop  Golf  Course 
47000  Powell  Rd. 
Plymouth,  Ml  48170 
H-(734)  699-8512 
0(734)  453-9800 
FAX-(734)  453-6289

TRAYNOR,  TERRY W.
(DARLENE)
AFFILIATE
Golf Course  Repair  Parts 
454  N.  Cass 
Pontiac,  Ml  48342 
H-(248)  922-9718 
0-(248)  332-4304 
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A  Patch of  Green  - 26 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

MAKE  THESE  CHANGES  TO  YOUR  ROSTER

BRANDT,  MARTIN 
P.O.  Box  805 
Lapeer,  Ml  48446 
H-(810)  688-7132

34)

BURROWS,  MATTHEW  (pg. 34)
Wingfoote  GC 
P.O.  Box  324 
Mamaroneck,  NY  10543

OSBURN

CUSTOM TOP DRESSING  BLENDS 
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Floyd  McKay Deep  Drill 

Southern  Green  Deep Tine  Soil  Reliever

DALTON,  ANDREW  R.  (pg.  36)
CLASS  B
Brookwood  Golf Club 
P.O.  Box  129 
Lakeville,  Ml  48366 
H-(248)  628-8117 
0-(248)  651-8757 
FAX-(248)  628-8117

FOUTY  MICHAEL  (pg.  40)
Lake  Forest 
0-(734)  669-2097 
FAX-(734)  662-0861

MYERS,  DONALD  (pg.  56)
Great  Greens of America 
0-(248)  640-2718  (Mobile)

PAWLUK,  DAVE  (pg.58)
288  Hunters  Rill 
Oxford,  Ml  48371 
H-(248)  969-8212

SCHALL, THOMAS V. JR.  (pg.  62)
FAX-(810)  229-9493

SCHWEIHOFER,  BRIAN  (pg.  63)
CLASS  BN
Indianwood  Golf  &  Country Club 
1819  Village  Green  Blvd.  #207 
Rochester Hills,  Ml  48307 
H-(248)  844-8013 
0-(248)  693-3330 
FAX-(248)  693-3398

SHANNAHAN, JOHN  (pg.  63)
2441  S.  Wild  Blossom  Ct.
E.  Lansing,  Ml  48823-7203 
H-(248)  543-9367

WEATHERS, TIM  (pg.  68)
Palace  Equipment 
H-(248)  528-1861 
0-(248)  373-8200 
FAX-(810)  373-0398

682  S.  RENAUD  •  CROSSE  POINTE  W O O DS,  M l  48236

1- 800- 942-5650

A  Patch  of  Green  - 27 -  Summer Issue,  1998

GREATER  DETROIT GOLF COURSE 
SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION 

Statement of  Financial  Position 

December 31,  1997 &  1996

GREATER  DETROIT GOLF COURSE 
SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION 
Statement of  Revenue  and  Expenses 

For the  Years  Ended  December 31,  1997 &  1996

ASSETS

Current Assets

1997

1996

REVENUES

1997

1996

C a sh.....................................
Accounts  Receivable 
...........
Dues Receivable  .................

$41,923.00
6,560.00
440.00

$35,163.00
3,545.00
165.00

Advertising 
...................................
Dues..............................................
Interest..........................................
Meeting  Fees 

..........................

$54,612.00 $ 44,055.00
33,898.00
757.00
28,208.00

34,559.00
849.00
43,125.00

Total Current Assets  ...................

$48,923.00

$38,873.00

TOTAL  REVENUES 

....................

$133,145.00 $106,918.00

Equipment (net of depreciation)  .  .

1,172.00

2,127.00

EXPENSES

TOTAL ASSETS..........................

$50,095.00

$41,000.00

LIABILITIES

Current Liabilities

Accounts  Payable 
...............
Income Tax  Payable.............
Unearned  income.................

$  686.00
1,000.00
460.00

$  407.00
900.00
0.00

TOTAL LIABILITIES 

...................

$2,146.00

$  1,307.00

EQUITY

Membership  Equity  ......................

47,949.00

39,693.00

Awards..........................................
Depreciation  .................................
Income T axes..............................
Insurance  .....................................
Magazine  Production &  Mailing 
.  .
Meetings.......................................
Membership Welfare  ...................
Postage 
.......................................
Printing  &  Supplies 
......................
Professional  Fees  ........................
Repairs &  Maintenance  ...............
Telephone.....................................
Miscellaneous..............................

$  2,000.00 $  2,000.00
759.00
1,500.00
1,090.00
42,534.00
34,349.00
236.00
2,671.00
1,942.00
20,158.00
1,989.00
1,428.00
0.00

995.00
2,200.00
1,090.00
39,905.00
46,061.00
291.00
2,832.00
1,317.00
24,372.00
2,154.00
1,407.00
305.00

TOTAL LIABILITES  &  EQUITY  .  .  .

$50,095.00

$41,000.00

TOTAL  EXPENSES......................

$124,889.00 $110,656.00

Change  in  Membership  Equity  . . .

8,256.00

(3,738.00)

Beginning  Membership  Equity 

.  ..

39,693.00

43,431.00

Ending  Membership  Equity 

.........

$ 47,949.00 $ 39,693.00

GREATER  DETROIT GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS  FOUNDATION 

Statement of  Revenues and  Expenses 

For the Years  Ended  December 31,  19.97 &  1996

Golf Day

Special
Olympics

1997
Total

1996
Total

REVENUES

Donations................................................
Event F ees.............................................
Interest....................................................

$30,830.00
27,205.00
292.00

$20,952.00
9,647.00
101.00

$51,782.00
36,852.00
393.00

$49,295.00
36,610.00
162.00

TOTAL  REVENUES 

..............................

$58,327.00

$30,700.00

$89,027.00

$86,067.00

EXPENDITURES

Research/Scholarships/Donations...........
Event F ees.............................................
Miscellaneous.........................................

$27,000.00
31,476.00
33.00

$20,647.00
9,632.00
33.00

$47,647.00
41,108.00
66.00

$47,500.00
40,184.00
30.00

TOTAL  EXPENDITURES........................

$58,509.00

$30,312.00

$88,821.00

$87,714.00

Fund  Balance  Increase  (Decrease).........

(182.00)

388.00

206.00

(1,647.00)

Beginning  Fund  Balance 

........................

Ending  Fund  Balance*............................

21,980.00

23,627.00

$22,186.00

$21,980.00

‘ This  balance  is  not  included  in  the  assets  of the  association

NOTE:  The  financial  statements  presented  herein  have  not  been  audited.  However,  the  association’s  Audit 
Committee (Past Presidents Ken DeBusscher, Jay Delcamp and Jim Timmerman) conducted their annual audit of 
our financial records and have noted no problems. We have presented these statements based on the accrual basis 
of accounting.

A  Patch  of Green  - 28 -  Summer Issue,  1998

_ ^ u M U L , Here’s something 
worth spreading 
around- 

Scotts, Fluid Fertilizer
Scotts,,  Fluid Fertilizer is the answer for golf 
course superintendents and turf managers who 
have asked for a liquid-applied fertilizer.  It gives 
a greening response and colour maintenance 
without promoting excessive growth, when used 
as directed.  Spray product has a wide range of 
compatibility with commonly used fungicides 
and insecticides.

ü

s

s

|  C l a s s i f i e d s . . .
To  place  your  Classified  Ad  contact  A
•   Patch  of Green at  (248)  362-1108,  or fax  your ad 
5 
to (248) 362-1736, or mail your ad to P.O. Box 173,
•   Troy,  Ml  48099.  Payment m ust accompany ad!
•   Charge:  $.85  per  word.  Minimum:  $25.00.
•   Additional charge: borders,  bold lettering or special
•  

setup.

s  HELP WANTED -
2  BENHAM  CHEMICAL  CORPORATION,  a
leading  turf  and  ornamental  distributor  is 
■ 
looking  for  sales,  service  and  warehouse
8 
personnel,  due to expansion.  Please send 
resume to:

5 

■ 
■ 

Benham  Chemical  Corporation
Attn:  General  Manager 
24800  N.  Industrial  Drive 
Farmington  Hills,  Ml  48335

M A R C   D U T T O N
I R R I G A T I O N ,  
I N C .
YOUR IRRIGATION 

PUMP STATIONS

RESOURCE IN MICHIGAN
IRRIGATION
Installation 
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Electrical repairs 
Mechanical repairs 
Controller upgrades 
Radio controls

Installations
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WE INSTALL AND SERVICE ALL 
MAJOR IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

4720 Hatchery Road 

Waterford, Michigan 48329 

(248) 674-4470  FAX (248)  674-3091

Contact DAVE or ED

A  Patch  of Green  - 29 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

Talk to Terra 
for the Right 
Products, Advice and 

Services for Thrf.

Terra is your 
single source for 
plant protection 
products,

fertilizers,  micronutrients, 
turfseed and so much more. 
Call us for the right products 
and the technical  support and 
agronomic advice you can 
count on.

Terra

Terra Industries Inc.
Sue Shockey, Agronomist 
Professional Products 
3847 Long Meadow Lane 
Orion, Michigan 48359 
Office: (248) 393-2571 
FAX: (248) 393-2572 
Pager: (810) 402-2907

GDGCS 

1998  Calendar

June 29
July
Aug. 6
Aug.
Sept.
Oct. 5
Oct. 29
Nov.  10
Dec. 8

Travis Pointe CC
Site & Date TBA
Links of Pinewood "The Invitational"
Site & Date TBA Picnic
Site & Date TBA Annual Meeting

Novi Hilton

Golf Day "The Big Event"
Management Meeting
GCSAA Regional Seminar
Birmingham CC Superintendent Only Meeting

Mid-Michigan  GCSA 

1998  Calendar

June
Aug.
Sept. 28

Oct.

Site & Date TBA
Site & Date TBA
The Dream - 
West Branch
Site & Date TBA Annual Meeting

Golf Day MTF Fundraiser

Western  Michigan  GCSA 

1998  Calendar

Joint Meeting with GDGCSA

June 29
Aug.
Sept. 21
Oct.
Nov.

Travis Pointe
Mullenhurst
Cascade Hills
Site & Date TBA Annual Meeting
Kent CC

Fall Party

Golf Day MTF Fundraiser

Northern  Michigan  Turf 
Managers  Association 
1998  Meeting  Schedule

June 8

The Dream- 
West Branch
Beaver Creek
Site & Date TBA

July 19
Aug.
Sept.  15 Charlevoix CC
Oct.

MTF Fundraiser

Picnic

The Heathlands Onekama

NMTMA Fundraiser

A  Patch  of  Green  - 30 -  Summer  Issue,  1998

IN THIS BUSINESS, 
YOU  DEVELOP A 
REPUTATION FOR 
BEING EITHER A 
DRIVER OR A 

PUTTER.

TORO.

Quality. Leadership. 

Innovation.

Spartani

Distributors

Auburn Hills,  MI 

800- 822-2216 

&

Sparta  ,  MI

SitePro Irrigation Control System

Designed to accommodate a short learning curve and a long list of 
features, Site Pro operates within Windows 95 for point-and-click 
simplicity.

*  Electro-Flow manages hydraulic and electrical demands 

simultaneously for total system efficiency.

*  Operates on wireless or wireline-based systems with one or 

two-way communication.

*  Advanced programming flexibility with T. Wizard.

*  Interacts with weather stations using T. Weather with 

WeatherLogic.

*  Import a CAD drawing or aerial photo with T. Map for the 

ultimate in mapping flexibility.  GPS compatible for 
complete map accuracy.

SitePro Central Control System.  Flexible.  Accurate.  Powerful.

Groundsmaster Contour 82 Mower

Hills and mounds have finally met their match.

This innovative rotary mowing deck features four out-front, 
independent, 22” chambers which articulate a full +/- 20 degrees,
providing superb ground following------ even in heavily undulating
terrain.  Coupled with the four-wheel-drive Groundsmaster, the free 
floating deck can wrap over hills and flex up banks to mow up to 4.6 
acres per hour with an unmatched quality of cut.

Contour 82.  Takes rotary mowing where it’s never gone before.

A  Patch  of Green  - 31  -  Summer  Issue,  1998

Pay Half Now and  Half in 6 Months
Or zero down and 6 monthly payments of 6,536.05

25125 Trans-x Novi,Ml 48376

A PATCH OF GREEN

P.O.  Box 173 
Troy,  Ml 48099 
USA

The Official Publication of the 
Greater Detroit Golf Course 
Suoarintandents Association

PETE  COQKINGHAM 
MSU  MAIN  L I BRARY/ W2 1 2  
c  LANSING  MI  4 8 8 2 4

4 8 8 2 4
11

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