Vol. IV, No. 3 Published monthly by the Metropolitan Golf Course Superintendents Association MEETING NOTICE Date: April 29, 1975 Place: Rockland C.C., Sparkhill, New York Lunch: Available in grill room Golf: 12 noon on (Note it is M.G.C.S.A. policy that you sign for dinner when you tee off for golf) Cocktails: 6-7 PM Dinner: 7 PM Program: Panel Discussion — “The current Economic Problems at Clubs and what we can do about them.” There will be also a question & answer period following the panel discussion of the panel members. Host: Ron Boydston Directions: Cross the Tappan Zee Bridge. The first exit on the other side is Route 9W South. Follow Route 9W South about 4 miles to Rockland Country Club which is on the right approximately Vi mile after the first traffic light you see on 9W. Note: Please return your post cards as they will update our membership files and directory for the coming year. COMING EVENTS April 19-20 Home and Garden Show. M.G.C.S.A. booth display April 21-25 Grounds Maintenance Workshop, Eisenhower Park L.I. April 29 Rockland C.C. May 13 Conn. G.C.S.A. Middlefield, Conn. May 20 Quaker Ridge Golf Club, M.G.C.S.A. June 10 Conn. G.C.S.A. Pautapaug C.C. June 12 Pelham C.C., M.G.C.S.A. July 10 Conn. G.C.S.A. Manchester Golf Club July M.G.C.S.A. date and club to be announced August 18 M.G.C.S.A. family picnic details to be annouced later Sept. 10 Conn. G.C.S.A. Elmcrest C.C. Sept. 11 M.G.C.S.A. Superintendents Invitational, Fenway Golf Club Oct. 7 Conn. G.C.S.A. Golf Club of Avon OcL 17 M.G.C.S.A. Field Day (chairmen Terry Mulligan, Bob Phipps) November Annual meeting date to be announced December 13 Christmas Party, Rye Golf Club WELFARE: Keep us informed. Call Dick Gonyea 914-835-3205, Dan April, 1975 Cancelled 914-667-3737 or Roger Morhardt 914-279-7181 with any information which you think should be shared. Congratualtions are extended to Eric and Kristin Johnson for the recent birth of their first child. Eric was recently named Superintendent at the Oronoque Country Club and has applied for Association Membership. We are pleased to report that Sherwood Moore is “well on the road” to recovery from his recent operation. M.G.C.S.A. NEWS: We had an excellent meeting at the Stanwich Club. Thanks go to our host Ray Twombly and the Stanwich staff for an excellent lunch. The return cards gave an accurate count so lets keep up the pace for the remainder of the year. It certainly is helpful in setting up meals. We had #63 for the days program. Mr. Frank Blaschke spoke on the new pension law and how it may effect us. Those who do not have a pension plan provided by the club certainly will want to consider setting their own pension of up to $1500/yr which is tax deductible. Also, interest accumulated in the pension is tax sheltered. Mr. John Rapacs a public accountant spoke on various areas where we might save money in the income tax area. Because of a job title we may be eligible for deductions we are not aware of. There also was Mr. Monahan from Morrissey Associates to answer questions in regard to our insurance situations. And the pension laws different options as to investments. There was a lively question answer period that followed. The interest was certainly there as all tables remained full to the very end. Two of our members spoke at the University of Mass. Conference, Chuck Martineau and Bob Phipps. Harry Nichol spoke at the national on Weather. Speaking of weather we again had another mild winter with little noticeable winter damage other than increased traffic. Actually we have had less play the last few cold weekend than during the middle of the winter. The cold weather of early April has kept things in a dormant condition so early openings were played under winter conditions. Its just a friendly reminder that good growing weather really doesn’t come until May but some memberships expect instant playing conditions just because it is “spring.” We all are under tighter budgets which in most cases affects our labor force so maybe mother nature will help us by keeping things held back until we get our summer or seasonal help back. Once the grass really starts to grow you really can’t do much about cleaning up. Our next meeting will be a panel discussion on how some of superintendents in our area are which is very important especially from the library standpoint. Concurrent with this, we are filing for tax exempt status. All committees are working hard to provide the membership with a full program of educational, recreational and family social events. If you have any questions or problems please speak to the respective chairman, a member of the board or me. If we communicate our problems or gripes then we can discuss them and rqsolve them. We are looking forward to serving you this coming year. Sincerely, Garry N. Crothers Editorial Staff Garry Crothers Ted Horton Co-Edi tor Co-Editor OFFICERS President: First Vice President: Second Vice President: Secretary: Treasurer: Sergeant at Arms: Garry N. Crothers, Apawamis Club Office 914-967-2100, Home 914-234-3770 Robert DePencier, Westchester C.C. Office 914-967-6000, Home 203-531-9780 Charles Martineau, Whippoorwill C.C. Office 914-273-3755, Home 914-428-3826 Edward C. Horton, Winged Foot Golf Club Office 914-698-2827, Home 914-937-3613 Robert Alonzi, Burning Tree C.C. Office 203-869-5779, Home 914-937-1527 Orlando Casterella, Westchester Hills G.C. Office 914-948-5020, Home 914-698-3976 CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERETT WOOD, C.G.C.S.: “Woodie” successfully completed all requirements for G.C.S.A.A. Certification by passing the examination with flying colors. It is an exhilarating feeling so let’s see some more from our area. Call Garry Crothers, who is on the G.C.S.A.A. Certification Committee, for further information. for Not copyrighted. I f there is good here, we want to share it with all chapters - unless author states otherwise. handling the tighter budgets. It should be of great interest to all because we all are looking for ways to trim our budget and yet still try to give our membership the best possible playing conditions. Congratulations to Vic Cedrone on becoming the new superintendent at Mt. Kisco. Vic worked for A1 Tretara for the last couple of years. Fred, good luck in your new spot at Chevy Chase. GEO SCHOFIELD CO., I N C . PO PRESIDENTS MESSAGE: We are about to embark on another season not only at your club, but with your association. In this regard the executive committee has established a policy for the coming year. It will be in effect at our first meeting at Rockland Country Club and through the remainder of the season. All M.G.C.S.A. members will sign at the first tee for the days events which includes dinner. M.G.C.S.A. members will sign for their guests. It is the feeling of the board that the Golf at our monthly meetings is a privilege and so we should support the host by staying for the days program. The cost of the dinner is certainly worth the combination of golf and an educational program. Our membership roster should be up to date by May 1st as all deliquent members were notified by mail March 25th. This was in accordance with our By-Laws. Article IV Section 3 which states: “Any member of this association in arrears over two months without due cause will 30 days after written notification be deemed automatically suspended from this association.” By adhering to the By-Laws we will be able to have an accurate membership count. In this way we can complete and up date our roster and also act upon new membership applications more promptly—especially in the classification. The feeling of the executive board is that 90 days is adequate time to pay your dues. We are also working on incorporation of our association B o x 110 Bonnd Brook, 201 356 0858 G R E E N H O U S E S • N U R S E R IE S "O U R S T A N D A R D IS E X C E L L E N C E " 1081 K IN G S T R E E T G R E E N W IC H , C O N N . 0 6 8 3 0 T E L . (2 0 3 ) 531 7 3 5 2 - 0 1 4 ) 9 3 7 -4 6 4 4 One Stop WHOLESALE CENTER Distributors of Lebanon — Rockland T u rf Chemicals Broadleaves & Evergreens Flowering Trees USS Agri-Chemicals Flowering Shrubs A D S Drainage Pipe Shade Trees Grass Seed Fencing Railroad Ties Prairie-Film Fir & Pine Bark H ollytone Lawn S prinkler Systems W eather ! !matic. Lawn S p r in k la r S y ste a s 2 M.G.C.S.A. MEMBERSHIP: Charles Lund has announced that he will retire from his position as Mechanic at Winged Foot Golf Club. He has held this post for 50 years and to commerate this it was decided to present Charlie with an Honorary Membership to the M.G.C.S.A. To show our appreciation to Joseph Austin, for service to our association and its members over the years it was also voted to present Joe with an Honorary Membership. Both gentlemen have been invited to receive their presentations at the May meeting. We are also pleased to note that we have invited our Life Members to attend the May meeting where we would like to present each of them a complimentary membership plaque. M.G.C.S.A. MEMBERSHIP PLAQUES: The M.G.C.S.A. Membership plaque is still available by contacting Bob DePencier. Unfortunately, the price has now increased to $13.50 each. If you wish to have it mailed we have to add an additional $1.00 for postage. M.G.A. YARDAGE MARKERS: Many of the clubs have installed yardage plaques in the tees to denote official yardage locations. Don’t forget to maintain these locations. Keep the plaques trimmed and replace any broken or damaged monuments. JOB WANTED Assistant Golf Course Superintendent Mr. Donald B. Baker, Jr. 30 Mist Hill New Milford, Conn. 203-354-9152 Age: 20 A.A.S. Degree — Farmingdale, N.Y. Major: Ornamental Horticulture & Turfgrass Mangement At the March 19,1975 M.G.C.S.A. Board Meeting The following men were accepted for membership pending pubication of their names in the newsletter: Mike Magarone Class A David L. Griffin Class B Carl Embrendo Class B Eric Johnson Class B Applications from Kenneth Porreca and Alfred Ludovicy were both tabled until the applicants could attend the required meetings. The following Class C applications were read and tabled until vacancy exists: Robert Vite K. Freeze William Carriere J. & B Trucking Bradford Martin B. & J. Co. Frank Buschini Toro Mfg. Richard Almstead Almstead Tree Co. Bill Stinson O.M. Scotts Richard Hodgkins I. & F. Irrigation David Kelly Golf Contours Lem Comm E.I. Dupont, Co. The following resignations were read and accepted: Don Marshall Class A Dan Brogan Class C A1 Arison Class C NEWS FROM THE GOLF COMMITTEE By A1 Tretera, Golf Chairman 1. It will be mandatory that all Class “A” members attain an M.G.A. handicap from their respective club. This handicap will be required to participate in our championship. 2. The championship will be spread over a two month period, starting with the June meeting and ending at the July meeting. A Class “A” member participating in the championship will have to attend both meetings. Class “B” and “C” members will play their championship at the July meeting. 3. The Invitational Tournament will be played at the Fenway Golf Club on September 1-lth. In order for Class “A” members to participate in the event it will be necessary to attend two monthly meetings prior to the Invitational. This year the Invitational will be limited to the first 36 teams that reply by sending the team card accompanied with a check for payment of the day’s activities. TUCO These proven turf fungicides help prevent or eradicate ACTI-DIONE Leafspot Dollarspot Melting-out Fading-out Rust Brown Patch Pink Patch Powdery Mildew in your Tees Greens Fairways Program Your golf course looks better and plays better when your turf is healthy PURDY A. OUTHOUSE 45 PLEASANT LANE POUGHKEEPSIE, NEW YORK 12603 3 WINTER USE OF GOLF CARTS By Ted Horton In retrospect, the past two winters have been exceptional for turfgrass maintenance. Weather related diseases and damages have been minimal in most cases but, due to the snow-free conditions play related injuries have perhaps increased. Understandably, demands for golf related services have increased in proportion to the increases in winter play. For example, at Winged Foot Golf Club no amount of persuasion could limit the winter use of our greens—but this is normal. However, this has been the first winter that I have had to deal with a serious demand for the use of the golf carts during winter. Because the open winter made the membership request for golf carts quite justifiable I felt that I should examine the possibility of restricted use of the golf carts. Remember, clubs are competing for membership and if this is a service which might attract new members it could be important. Prior to forming my own opinions I prepared the following survey of our neighboring clubs. Several comments should be kept in mind as you examine the results of the survey: 1. Opening and closing dates for golf carts vary in almost all cases according to weather. 2. The amount of damage that could occur to the golf course is dependent upon the amount of winter play that a club experiences and the number of golf carts available for use. 3. Traffic damage would be more severe on heavy soil conditions than on light or sandy conditions. 4. Surface and subsurface drainage conditions would have to be considered. 5. Some golf courses have constructed asphalt paths to permit greater use of carts. 6. Because caddies are not available when school is in session some clubs may be forced to use golf carts against their better judgement. 7. Use of the carts was sometimes influenced by revenue generating aspects. This was particularity so at the profit oriented clubs or where the income generated went to an individual rather than to the club. 8. Winter storage of golf carts often made them unavailable for use. 9. When in use the golf cart mechanic is supposed to be on the job. Hiring a union mechanic would be costly for the limited demand of winter use. Summary Perhaps this discussion is academic. A “normal” winter with its full compliment of snow would certainly settle the question immediately. However, we have experienced two mild winters and as the weather pattern trends to warmer winters we likely will have to formulate a winter golf cart policy. From the survey of 36 golf clubs I have determined that: 1. Twenty-four clubs (67%) do not allow any use of golf carts in winter. 2. Seven clubs (19%) permitted one to five carts during winter. Generally, the use was restricted to medically handicapped golfers and permitted in the roughs or on cart paths only. Two of these clubs experience very little play. Each club allowed the Golf Course Superintendent to close the course to cart traffic at his discretion. 3. Two clubs (6%) permit use of six to ten carts during winter-—weather permitting. Both restricted the carts to the rough and cart paths. 4. Three clubs (8%) allowed eleven to thirty carts to be used. This seemed to be determined by questions of revenue and caddy availability. One final thought—perhaps, as Lou Ingalls suggested—we should correspond with one another as we make policy and possibly call our decisions to a “clearing house” in order to collectively make better decisions for our clubs. And, last of all, you have probably noted the column about the winter use of the golf course. But, Fm going to leave that for you to sort out. The P o w e r h o u s e ROUTE 6 & DINGLE RIDGE ROAD • BREWSTER, NEW YORK 16509 • Phone 914 279-7181 / i W / ' GROUNDSMASTER 72 Toro does. Like nobody else. 4 Summary of Comments on the use of Golf Carts and Golf Course Greens this Winter 1974-75 G o lf Club Course Superintendent A pprox. Closing Date fo r G o lf Carts G o lf Carts W inter Use A pprox. Opening Date for G o lf Carts W inter Use of of G o lf Course Comments Apawam is G. Crothers 1 2 /1 0 /7 4 none 4 /1 5 /7 5 Tem porary greens used at discretion of supt. Bonnie Briar D. D iM arzo 1 2 /1 /7 4 none 4 /1 /7 5 Tem porary greens used G o lf carts possible possibly available next year Blind Brook L. Santucci 1 1 /1 5 /7 4 none 4 /2 6 /7 5 Braeburn A. Caravella — . No play Club closed Up to 30 carts per day - Tem porary greens used at discretion of supt. Carts dictated by caddy needs Extrem ely wet golf course Burning Tree R. A lon zi 1 1 /1 5 /7 4 none 4 /1 /7 5 Tem porary greens used Centu ry J. Fulw ider 1 1 /3 0 /7 4 none 5 /1 /7 5 Tem porary greens used Deep Dale C. A m orin 1 2 /1 5 /7 4 Dellw ood J. Scafa 4-5 per day Tem porary greens used all w inter Carts available at supt. discretion Elm w ood H. Nichol 2-3 carts available Tem porary greens used at discretion of supt. Carts available fo r medical reasons only at discretion of supt. 4 /1 /7 5 Regular greens Fenway A. T reterà 1 2 /1 5 /7 4 none 4 /1 /7 5 Tem porary greens used Garden C ity M. Lucas Jr. 1 2 /1 5 /7 4 none 4 /1 5 /7 5 Tem porary greens used at discretion of supt. Greenwich P. Caswell 1 2 /3 1 /7 4 none 4 /1 9 /7 5 Tem porary greens used at discretion o f supt. Hampshire B. Caputi 1 1 /1 /7 4 none 4 /1 /7 5 Tem porary greens used Extrem ely w et course Lake Isle A. U rbanow itz Tem porary greens used at discretion of supt. Only 9 holes open Lake Over M. Russo Tem porary greens and tees used Very lim ited play — 10—15 carts at at discretion o f supt. - 5 carts available at discretion of supt. Metropolis B. Vadala 1 2 /1 5 /7 4 none 4 /1 /7 5 Tem porary greens used M o un t Kisco F. Scheyhing 1 2 /1 /7 4 none 4 /1 0 /7 5 Tem porary greens used 7 Hole W inter Course Old Oaks L. Ingels 1 2 /3 1 /7 4 none 4 /7 /7 5 Pelham T. Mulligan 1 2 /1 /7 4 none 4 /1 5 /7 5 Piping Rock M. Lucas Sr. K ept in rough in winter make reservations, 2-3 go out at most — Quaker Ridge T . Savone 1 2 /1 /7 4 none 4 /1 5 /7 5 Tem porary greens used R idgeway D. V errille 1 2 /1 /7 4 none 4 /1 5 /7 5 Tem porary greens used R ockrim m on R. Tosh Round H ill G. Powell 1 2 /1 /7 4 none Rye G.C. R. Gonyea 1 1 /1 /7 4 St. Andrews P. Santucci 1 1 /1 5 /7 4 Scarsdale E. Wood 1 2 /1 5 /7 4 Siwanoy V. Pentenero 5-6 carts per Weekend at discretion of supt. Sunningdale D. A llen 5 carts availabe fo r use Tam arack G. Grady 1 2 /3 1 /7 4 Westchester R. DePencier 1 2 /3 1 /7 4 Westchester Hills 0 . Casterella W hipoorw ill C. Martineau 1 2 /1 /7 4 none Winged Fo ot E. H orton 1 2 /3 1 /7 4 Woodway S. Moore 1 2 /3 1 /7 4 Wykagyl A. Sm ith — Course closed at discretion of supt. Very lim ited w inter play 5-4 carts To tal 4 /1 5 /7 5 Regular greens used 15-20 players per weekend max. none 4 /1 /7 5 Tem porary greens used at discretion of supt. none. 4 /1 5 /7 5 Tem porary greens used at discretion of supt. none 4 /1 /7 5 Tem porary greens used at discretion of supt. - _ none 2-3 out Tem porary sand greens, regular greens used at discretion of supt. Carts perm itted in rough only Regular greens used 7 5 -100 rounds of winter golf 4 /1 5 /7 5 Tem porary greens used 50 carts 4 /1 5 /7 5 Tem porary greens used at discretion of supt. Regular greens used at discretion of supt. G o lf pro owns carts 4 /1 5 /7 5 Tem porary greens used Members use regular greens frequently none 3 /2 0 /7 5 Regular greens used Course closed at discretion of supt. Very seldom closed. Early spring date for carts none 4 /1 /7 5 Regular greens used Course closed at discretion of supt. O nly 10 out - Regular greens used Tem porary greens used at discretion of supt. 5-6 carts available at discretion of supt. • Tem porary greens used As needed at supt. discretion. - 5 SECRETARY’S NOTES By Ted Horton Following discussion, Bob Alonzi, our Treasurer, presented an overall summary which was then approved by the Board of Directors. Fortunately, it appears that income should exceed expenses this year. The 1975 M.G.C.S.A. Field Day appears to be rapidly taking shape. Chairman, Terry Mulligan noted that the date had been confirmed by Westchester Country Club for Friday, October 17, 1975. It is anticipated that golf will be available for Superintendents and club officials if they tee-off before 10:00 A.M. Lunch will be available at the club and at the demonstration area. Equipment and products will be exhibited in the afternoon followed by a Cocktail Hour and Dinner at the club. We are excited to announce that Tom Mascaro is scheduled to then address us. Bob DePencier, Terry Mulligan and Chuck Martineau were appointed to a committee to review our policies about accepting donations from interested commercial firms or individuals for Scholarship and Research, sponsorship of cocktail hours, door prizes, etc. Please, if you have any comments on this subject, convey them to one of the above. They would appreciate your help. Sherwood Moore, Chairman of the Scholarship and Research Committee, reported that the O.J. Noer Fund had received our donation of $150.00 and that it had been matched by Metro-Milorganite, Inc. He noted that we would present Cornell with a $500.00 check at the May M.G.C.S.A. Meeting. Following a discussion about the abuse of the Golf privileges associated with M.G.C.S.A. Membership meetings it was decided that a policy would be established requiring those who play golf to sign in advance for their meals. Because we have experienced difficulty in collecting some accounts, only Members in good standing of the M.G.C.S.A. would be allowed to sign for services. It was decided to extend an invitation to the neighboring associations to attend our meeting at Rockland Country Club. Remember, if you have any questions about your Association Affairs, contact one of the Board Members. We are all trying our best but we always need membership input. Two M.G.C.S.A. Board Meeetings have taken place since last reported in the Newsletter: M.G.C.S.A. Board Meeting—Westchester Country Club— March 18,1975 In an effort to again update the Membership Roster it was decided to mail the enclosed information return card to each of the members so that the address or other corrections could be made. If you are in need of a copy of the present roster please let me know, and a copy will be mailed as soon as possible. The “Tee to Green” was discussed at length, noting the income now begin generated by the increased number of ads. A committee was appointed to examine alternative directions for the Newsletter. Your suggestions would be welcomed by the committee members—Bob Alonzi, Bob DePencier, Sherwood Moore, Ted Horton or Garry Crothers. The M.G.C.S.A. 1975 Christmas Party will be held at the Rye Golf Club on Saturday, December 13, 1975. Chairman, Dick Gonyea, has priced a variety of menues at a variety of locations and because of his conscientious efforts we have every reason to believe that this year’s party will be enjoyable to all who attend. It’s early, but please plan to attend. Set aside the date of Monday, August 18, 1975 and invite your family to attend our Summer picnic. Chairman, Bob DePencier, and his committee are planning an outstanding day which will include a ferry ride to one of the Greenwich Town island parks. Swimming, games and of course a cookout will await us there. Members who were delinquent in the payment of dues were discussed and it was decided to send each a 30-day notice by certified mail. This is always unpleasant. M.G.C.S.A. Board Meeting—Westchester Country Club— April 1,1975 At this meeting, each of the Committees were required to present proposed 1975 Budget Expense and Income Estimates. ARBOR ASSOCIATES Tree Movers AQUA-BRO AQUA - T Tree Pruning at the Best Price Possible Q u a lity Blended W etting Agent L o w Cost Blended W etting Agent STOMA-BEAL (201) 226-1118 Chemical C o n tro l o f W ilt P. O. BOX 182 Convenience o f A p p lic a tio n CALDWELL, N. J. AQUA-BRO GRANULAR 6 April 1975 MEMBERSHIP CLASS_ _____ Dear M.G.C.S.A. Member, Will you kindly help us in formulating changes in our By Laws, by answering carefully the following questions? This questionnaire is a result of your comments and constructive criticism. Here, now is your opportunity to convey to the Executive Committee just how you want your association to operate. Let’s have 100% cooperation! You need not sign your name, but please indicate your membership classification. (A, AA, B, C, or Honorary) Please send your completed questionnaire to: M.G.C.S.A. P.O. Box 37 Rye, New York 10580 1. Do you now have a copy of the M.G.C.S.A. By Laws? No ___ Yes___ 2. How familiar are you with the By Laws? Very______ Moderately _ Not Fam. 3. Should we permit non-superintendents to be Class A members? Yes___ No ___ 4. Should more than one class C member represent a Commercial Concern? Yes___ No ___ 5. Should committee members include all Classes? Yes___ No ____ 6. Do you favor donation of monies from our S & R Fund to finance research? Yes___ No ____ 7. Should these donations be made yearly (if possible) leaving no balance in the S & R Fund? Yes___ No ____ 8. Should we solicit additional funds from our member clubs to perpetuate the S & R Fund? Y es_ No ____ 9. Would you budget permit you to donate____ none,______ $50,______ $100,______more,. S & R Fund? .C onn.. Hudson Valley. 10. What other association do you belong to? G.C.S.A. A. on an annual basis to New Jersey______ Long Island 11. Are our existing By Laws too complicated?__ Too strict?. Too vague? Yes. 12. Are they properly enforced? 13. Our officers should have m ore______ or less No __ authority in conducting the affairs of our organization. 14. Should we require G.C.S.A.A. membership as a prerequisite for our M.G.C.S.A. membership? Yes___ _ No 15. Should All our members have the right to vote? Yes___ No 16. Please indicate on reverse side, any changes or additions you feel would improve our organizations. Comments welcome on Field Day, Meetings, Program and Social Events. The New Sticker-Extender That Prolongs Pesticide Effectiveness. Simple and economical to use. A pint per 100 gallons of solution. Readily water-soluble, just add while agitating and keep agitating during use. Rinses out easily using just water; residue will not clog. Exhalt 800 is the new way to stop pesticide wash-off. To prevent pesticide build-up in the soil. To keep costly pesticides working longer on plants and turf. To cut down the labor costs of more frequent applications. Find out more. Write for our literature. Distributed There’s no doubt that today’s pesticides do an everbetter job in fighting turf and plant problems. And there’s no doubt that Exhalt 800 Sticker-Extender prolongs that effectiveness. Gives you longer action. Prevents wash-off. Cuts your costs substantially over a season. Exhalt 800 encapsulates and holds pesticides where you want them— on the turf and plant foliage. It flexes with leaf growth, for longer action. Even if it rains an hour after application you still get full extender activity! Full pesticide effectiveness. by Andrew Wilson, Inc., Union, New Jersey. ® Exhalt8 0 0 Kay-Fries Chemicals, Inc. Crop Protection Division Stony Point, N.Y. 10980 7 □ Chipco Spot Kleen □ Chipco Microgreen Liquid □ Chipco Turf Heit)icide“D” □ Chipco Spreader Activator □ Chipco Thiram 75 □ Chipco Crab Kleen □ Chipco Turf Herbicide MCPP □ Chipco Buctril □ Chipco Turf Kleen CHIPCO the most effective arsenal ever assembled to protect your turf RHODIA INCORPORATED AGRICULTURAL DIVISION Somerset, New Jersey 08873 8 , | Kbada* l RESEARCH REPORT PROGRESS IN FIGHT AGAINST NEMATODES John K. Springer, Associate Extension Specialist, Plant Pathology, and Tseh-An Chen, Professor, Nematology, Cook College The more astute turf specialist will observe that affected turf lacks drought-hardiness and the turf becomes more suscepti­ ble to the other stress factors before any yellowing of the blades occurs. He will also note that disease control programs are frequently somewhat less effective in these areas, particularly with Dollar Spot. Mild Winters Favor Nematodes In most instances, the degree of nematode injury is related to the amount of nematode feeding on the roots. Consequently, factors which increase or decrease the nematode population levels affect the amount of injury incurred. One of the most prominent factors in New Jersey is the relative mildness of the past winters. When several mild winters occur in a row, nematode injury is observed in almost all turf throughout the state. However, when several consecutive severe winters occur, nematode injury appears to be more restricted in its distribution. Nematode injury should be suspected whatever turf does not respond to good cultural practices and where the obvious cause is not evident. Although precise diagnosis of nematode feeding injury cannot be determined in the field, a soil sample can be processed to confirm whether nematodes are involved in the affected area. Turf managers frequently ask how the nematodes were introduced in the first place. From a survey of uncultivated woodland areas in New Jersey, conducted in 1961-63, we know that most of the serious plant parasitic nematodes attacking turf occur naturally in our soils. Consequently, the initial source of the problem was present when a course was constructed. Another source of infestation is with introduced soil. We examined six loads of topsoil for nematode levels this fall and found that five of the six had nematode population levels higher than the level needed to cause economic damage to turf. Chemical Control Winning At present, the only control possible is through the use of chemical treatments to the soil. Both homeowners and commerical turf managers have successfully used DBCP and Sarolex for control for a number of years. DBCP has the disadvantage of being somewhat phytotoxic to bentgrasses and, in some instances, to bluegrasses. Sarolex has produced some temporary yellowing and stunting to bentgrasses. Dasanit, a new contact-systemic type nematicide, can be used by commerical turf producers, but because of its high mammalian toxicity, it cannot be used by homeowners. We have not observed any phytotoxicity to bentgrass or any other grasses tested. Turf response to treatment has been rapid and quite dramatic. Turf managers have observed an increase in clippings within a couple of weeks and an increase in the depth of rooting within four or five weeks of application. Dasanit has the added advantages of not being as temperature-dependent as is DBCP and it can be applied earlier and later in the growing season. Just recently Nemacur has been cleared for use by commercial turf producers. We have tested this material, A number of plant-parasitic nematodes are found feeding on the roots of grasses in New Jersey. Those most frequent encountered causing injury are the Dagger, Ring, Lance, Lesion, Pin, Spiral, Stubby Root, and Stunt nematodes. In general, Lance, Ring, Dagger, Stunt, and Spiral nematodes are most prevalent in the lighter soils of our Coastal Plains, while Lesion, Dagger, Lance, Spiral, and Ring nematodes are more prevalent in the heavier soil of northern counties. The root systems of turf exhibit injury symptoms before the above-ground portions of the plant show any evidence of injury. The type of symptom expressed on the roots varies with the specific nematode involved. Most plant-parasitic nema­ todes which attack turf in New Jersey produce discolored lesions at the root tips or along the side of the roots. When feeding injury is extensive, considerable dead roots and sloughing of the root cortex is observed. With a few kinds of nematodes, no distinct, necrotic lesions are observed, but a general stunting of the roots and a lack of feeder roots is evident. Whichever type of root injury occurs, the end result is a very shallow, sparse root system. Turf Loses Vigor The above-ground symptoms of nematode feeding injury are similar to those symptoms of any factor which restricts root development; i.e., poor cultural practices, severe soil compaction. Initial symptoms are development of lighter green color of the grass in variously shaped patches. The patches can range in size from a few inches to a few feet, and shaped from somewhat circular to elongated streaks. Later, the grass blades turn shades of yellow and eventually die from the tips of the leaf to its base. The most common symptom of nematode injury observed by individuals working in turf is the lack of plant vigor and a gradual thinning of the stand. By this time, extensive root injury has already occurred. ANDREW WILSON INC. DISTRIBUTORS FOR BUCKNER AUTOMATICS SALES • SERVICE • DESIGN 975 Ball Avenue, Union, New Jersey 07083 ( 201 ) 686-2000 9 together with most of the new contact-systemic type nematicides for several years and feel it performs comparable to Dasanit. Several long-range experiments have been initiated in the Central and South Jersey golf courses and turf plots. One of the nematicide tests conducted this fall will, hopefully, summarize everything presented in this article. Two greens at a local course were not responding to good cultural practices. The soil was analyzed for nematode level in October and 625 Ring and 450 Lance nematodes to 250 milliliters of soil were found. Since the Economic Threshold Level of the combined population of these two nematodes is 50 nematodes/250 ml. of soil, it was obvious that nematodes were responsible for the problem. Nemacur 15G (3 lb/100 square feet) was applied on Nov. 27 and the soil re-examined on Dec. 18. On the latter date, the population level was 20 Ring and 10 Stunt nema­ todes/250 ml. of soil. See Agent for Test No growth response from this nematicide treatment has been recorded as yet. The value will be readily obvious, however, late next spring when stress conditions develop. The same favorable growth response would occur from treatment with any of the effective turf nematicides. As time goes on, a number of other excellent nematicides will receive label clearance for use on turf. Those suitable for use in New Jersey will be brought to your attention for your consideration. Before you attempt nematode control, contact your County Agent. He can arrange to have your soil tested for nematodes, and provide you with additional details necessary for the safe and successful use of control materials. Credit: Green World, Winter 1975 Fungicides 3 3 3 6 ‘T u r f F u n g ic id e A broad spectrum systemic fungicide that prevents and con­ trols all major tu r f diseases. CORPORATION B ro m o sa n " T u r f F u n g ic id e P.O. Box 10, Somerset, N.J. 08873 The newest broad spectrum systemic fungicide fo r those per­ sistent trouble areas. C addy PM A S (10% ) S p o tr e te G ra n u la r T u r f F u n g ic id e C a d -T rete Herbicides M C PP M C PP P lu s 2 ,4 -D M e th a r 8 0 M e th a r 3 0 AMA P lu s 2 ,4 -D AM A (S u p e r M ethar) Specialties All W et C lea r S p r a y T ru-G reen G ra ss-G re en z it FERTILIZER—LIME—SEED MULCHES—SOIL CONDITIONERS INSECTICIDES—HERBICIDES—FUNGICIDES -F O R GOLF COURSES-ATHLETIC FIELDS HIGHWAYS—INDUSTRIAL PLANTS CHURCHES-OFFICE BUILDINGS - FOR SERVICE C A LLGAYLE J. LOSEY Commercial Sales Manager 7 Timberly Drive Goshen, N.Y. 10924 PHONE (914) 294-7823 10 years ago. A slight change in weather can lead to devasting famines around the world. IS OUR WEATHER CHANGING? The high and low temperature records of the National Weather Service used by the World Almanac tend to support the theory that the U.S. climate is cooling off. Through 1972, the last time a new state record for heat was established was in the summer of 1954. But new cold weather records have been set in 8 states in 5 different years since 1957. This cooling trend reverses a previous trend towards warmer weather through the early 1940’s. Since the late 1940,s the average temerature of the northern hemisphere has dropped one half of a degree. Some scientists believe this small change is enough to cause important changes in the world’s weather and in agriculture. A recent study by the International Federation of Institutes for Advanced Study concluded that the weather change will continue for several decades and will lead to major crop failures during the next ten years. Weather experts and governments are watching these changes carefully because of their probably effect on the world food supplies. Present populations and agricultural methods are highly dependent on the favorable weather trends of 30 ONE STORMY DISMAL DAY! The March Snow has woven the Road into an icy bale— Along the ever-winding bend of the glistening rail— As the Wheels point skyward against a stubborn glare— In a surging whirl to reach the Barn—on-a-prayer. The Shelter, hollow—nary a trifling whisper— Its cold stillness scaling a dispirited ring— Welcoming even the missing Dog’s eerie whimper— This day,—or any Bird’s flapping wing— To awaken the ghostly silence in the wind. Only the sounding of Tinselled-Snow pelting the Shingle, remain— Downward, filling-in the Tire-Design, now erased and un-stained. Lingering, (Salesman) in a seemingly captive mood— Eyeing the Slanted-Calendar’s date which delude the nearing Spring— Nearby, multi-armed machinery, some Octopus-like, in quiet repose. LAKESHORE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLY CO. 300 So. Abbe Rd., Elyria, Ohio 44035 Shadows affirm the Day’s end that sped the Work-Crew homeward bound— Wall-Clock proves its 4;—No wonder all the silent ground— No doubt, missed the “ Super” by the length of a stone’s throw— But lost is the friendly sling to enjoy in a warmly renewing flow. Distributor & Formulator GRASS SEED — FERTILIZERS INSECTICIDES — FUNGICIDES — HERBICIDES REPLACEMENT MOWER PARTS REPLACEMENT TIRES LESCO PRODUCTS Drenched, the Car ignited tardily, blackening the snowcovered-flakes— Skidding, crazily,—squealing from a cautious brake— Setting new snow-patterns into the ageless lathered-clay— Viewing acres of Wintered-Fairways along the way— Disappears under a Stormy Sky—turned Grey. Frank Paladino Price Quotation on request New York Customers call our office collect 216-323-7544 baron KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS U.S. Plant Patent =#3186, Dwarf Variety A professional grass for professional people One reason Baron is the choice of most professionals is the combination of fast germination, slow growing and its ability to quickly form what sod growers call ” a tight-fisted root system.” You can mow Baron as low as %-inch — and that's another reason Baron is ideally suited for golf courses, sod fields, fine lawns, industrial and other landscaping areas. Since Baron is winter hardy, it keeps its deep green color well into the cold months. . .highly disease-resistant, too. b a rc fh A professional grass for professional people For more details and the name of your nearest Baron distributor or sod grower, call or write: Exclusive North American Grower and Distributor: m Lofts Pedigreed Seed nC Bound Brook, N.J. 08805 / (201) 356-8700 LO F TS 11 -------------------------------------------------------------------- : : M.G.C.S.A. Box 37 Rye, New Y ork 10580 First Class MELVIN B LUCAS JR A GARDEN CI TY GOLF CLUB* 3 1 5 STEWART AVE g/)rpen c/ r y ivy Agri-Chemicals Division of United States Steel P O B o x 1 6 8 5 . A tla n ta , G a 3 0 3 0 1 W RITE FOR COMPLETE SPE C IFIC A TIO N S H E E TS Vertagreen Vertanite Vertagreen Tee Green Plus Ureaform Tournament Plus Technical Turf Food for Tees & Greens 38- 0 - 0 Fertilizer As a professional in turf manage­ ment you know more about your course and grounds than anyone else. And you are constantly looking for ways to improve them, physically and aesthetically. 7, As professionals ify turf care prod­ ucts, the people at USS Agri-Chemi­ cals know fertilizers and dhemicals. Like you, we are constantly striving to improve our products. And we have. By working together as profession­ als, we can develop a turf program for you that is second to none. Turf Food for Fairways Vertagreen Vertagreen Vertagreen Vertagreen Tee^Greeri Tournament Fertilizer Fertilizer Technical Turf Food for Tees & Greens Professional Use 1248 Turf Food for Fairways Fertilizer BfiARL contcnoN For Professional Turf with Balan USS Vertagreen—The complete line • Six improved fertilizer products. • All w ith guaranteed amounts of calcium, magnesium, sulfer, zinc, manganese, boron, copper and chelated iron. • Only water-soluble sulfate of potash used. • Much of the nitrogen content dervied from slow-release Urea-Formaldehyde. • A complete selection of the nation's leading herbicides, fungicides, insecti­ cides and nematicides.