Page 1International Turfgrass Society - September 2017

International TurfgrassThe Newsletter of the International Turfgrass Society

September 2017

In this Edition

ISSN 2312-6558

It was good to see everyone at the conference and I hope everyone had an a very good conference experience. I want to thank Bruce Clarke and his committees for organizing an excellent conference and associated activities. Remember to renew or join ITS now as all memberships ended at the conference. Also note most all past copies of the ITSRJ are no longer available with a few exceptions. Contact Bruce Clarke if you are interested in obtaining a copy of the 13th ITSRJ.

Also, if you have any newsworthy stories or information for readers of International Turfgrass, I hope you will consider submitting an article for the next newsletter in January 2018.

I hope you enjoy the very good articles in this edition.

Sincerely,Nathan R. Walker

• 13th International Turfgrass Research Conference

• Zoysiagrass Symposium well Received• Planning Committees for the 13th ITRC• Sponsors for the 13th ITRC• James R. Watson Celebration a Great Success• Students Shine at the 2017 ITRC• ITRC Preconference Tour Enjoyed by all• In Memorial of Dr. Ken Carey• 14th ITRC in Copenhagen – Save the date!• Survey Announcement• ITS Membership Application • ITS Board Members

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13th International Turfgrass Research Conference Attracts Almost 500 Attendees from 24 Countries

by Dr. Bruce Clarke, ITS Past-PresidentDirector, Center for Turfgrass Science,

Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ USA

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The 13th International Turfgrass Research Conference (ITRC) was held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Brunswick, NJ USA from 16-21 July, 2017; the first time the ITRC had been held in the United States since 1993. Traditionally, International Turfgrass Research Conferences are among the largest and most comprehensive gatherings of turfgrass professionals anywhere in the world; and, this year’s conference was no exception, with over 480 registrants from 24 Countries in attendance. Conference delegates enjoyed keynote addresses, scientific sessions and field tours, and commented on how much they appreciated the frequent opportunities to network and see all that the New York City/New Jersey area had to offer. Over 145 papers were published in three journals thanks to the diligent efforts of Dr. Jim Murphy (Editor-in-chief, International Turfgrass Society Research Journal [ITSRJ], Rutgers University, USA), Dr. Trygve Aamlid (Assistant Editor, ITSRJ; Norwegian Institute for Bioeconomy Research, Norway) and their staff of 55 Associate Editors from throughout the world.

Outstanding Pre-Conference Tour

Sixteen individuals participated in the Pre-Conference Tour which took in the sites of Washington, DC and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania during a 5-day trip that provided a mix of history, fun and, of course, turfgrass. Dr. Mike Agnew (Syngenta) and his committee put together an incredibly interesting and enjoyable tour of two iconic U.S. cities. Participants stayed at the historic Jefferson Hotel which is in close proximity to

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the Nation’s Capital and saw the Lincoln Memorial and a myriad of museums including the Smithsonian in Washington, DC (see article on page 14). There was also plenty of time for sightseeing and visits to turf-related venues including the newly renovated National Mall, the Grass Roots exhibit at the National Arboretum, the National Botanical Gardens, Congressional Country Club, and National Park (home of the Washington Nationals Major League Baseball Team). In Philadelphia, participants visited Lincoln Financial Field (home of the Philadelphia Eagles American Football Team), Talen Energy Stadium (home of the Philadelphia Union Soccer Team), as well the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Brandywine Museum of Art, and Longwood Gardens (the former summer home of Pierre DuPont and one of the most spectacular private gardens and conservatories in the world).

Conference Highlights

The major highlights of the conference included a “what’s new in industry” session, the conference opening session and keynote presentations, a graduate student oral competition, and breakout sessions focusing on cutting edge topics in breeding and genetics, physiology, microbiomes, establishment and management, and major turfgrass pests. A special recognition in honor of Dr. James Watson, one of the founders of the International Turfgrass Society (ITS) and a pioneer in the turfgrass industry for over 40 years, was held on Monday evening to the delight of more than 100 people.

Turfgrass Industry Session

For the first time at an ITRC, there was a special Turfgrass Industry Session on Sunday afternoon, 16 July just prior to the conference welcome reception. This event, overseen by Dr. Josh Friell (Toro Company, USA), featured a brief mixer followed by a two hour session highlighting recent advancements in the turfgrass industry. Thirteen companies gave presentations, and judging from the attendance (> 150 people) and the number of questions asked during this session, this session is likely to be offered again at next ITRC in Copenhagen.

Welcome Reception

The Conference itself was kicked off with an opening reception on Sunday night with a Mardi Continued on next page

Gras theme. The reception featured a Dixieland band, card tricks and plenty of Mardi Gras beads. This was a great opportunity to socialize and just sit back and enjoy a night of music, conversations and hors d’oeuvres. This was followed by a week packed with educational and social activities (https://scisoc.confex.com/scisoc/2017trc/webprogram/start.html) that allowed attendees to re-engage with old friends and network with new acquaintances from all over the world.

Welcome Reception: Alan Stewart with caricature artist. (Photo courtesy of S. Trusty)

Opening Session

The Scientific Program Planning Committee lead by Dr. Bingru Huang (Rutgers University, USA) put together an outstanding educational program based on the conference theme, “Meeting the Challenges of a Changing Environment.” This theme was chosen for the 2017 conference because it reflected the tremendous impact that the environment has had and continues to have on our personal and professional lives. From the changing climate, to the changing regulatory environment for pesticides and fertilizers, and the rapid technological changes in molecular biology and other aspects of turfgrass science, the environment continues to affect the way we live and conduct turfgrass research.

Dr. Bruce Clarke (Rutgers University, USA and then ITS President,) officially opened the 13th ITRC at 8 am on Monday morning. Clarke gave an overview of the conference, addressed the importance of the conference theme, and introduced dignitaries on the stage including Dr. Robert Goodman (Dean of the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences and Executive Director of the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, Rutgers University,

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USA) and Dr. Debasish Dutta (Chancellor, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, USA) who both welcomed conference attendees on behalf of Rutgers University. The opening session concluded with a 15 minute video entitled, “Understanding the mechanisms that drive global and regional climate change.” Dr. Anthony Broccoli (Co-Director of the Rutgers Climate Institute, Rutgers University, USA), who could not attend the conference, was featured in the video which gave a New Jersey perspective to a global problem. The video was very professionally done and well received by the more than 300 delegates in attendance.

Dr. Debasish Dutta, Chancellor, Rutgers University, welcoming conference attendees. (Photo courtesy of M. Sweatlock)

Keynote Presentations

Four keynote addresses were presented by internationally renowned scientists focusing on cutting-edge topics including plant breeding, microbiomes, climate change, and sustainable water management following the opening session. Dr. William Meyer (Rutgers University, USA) did an excellent job giving an overview of “Breeding improved cool-season turfgrasses for stress tolerance and sustainability in a changing environment.” Dr. Jerry Hatfield (USDA-ARS, National Laboratory for Agriculture and the Environment, Ames, Iowa, USA) talked about “Climate impacts on crops and turfgrass and building effective adaptation strategies.” Dr. Timothy Colmer (University of Western Australia) discussed “Managing water use by warm-season turfgrasses in a drying climate.” Finally, Dr. Christine Hawkes (University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA) discussed how fungi interact in communities with her presentation entitled, “Microbial tools in agriculture require an ecological context: stress-dependent non-additive symbiont interactions.”

James Watson Celebration a Great Success

On Monday evening, a special celebration organized by Dr. Gwen Stahnke, (Walla Walla Community College, USA) was held highlighting the many contributions of Dr. James Watson, one of the original founders of ITS and an early pioneer in the turfgrass industry (see article on page 12). Dr. James Beard (President and Chief Scientist of the International Sports Turf Institute, Inc. and Professor Emeritus of Turfgrass Science, Texas A & M University, USA) gave the keynote address, and Dr. Richard Schmidt (Professor Emeritus, Virginia Tech, USA), Dr. Paul Rieke (Professor Emeritus, Michigan

Top left to right; Dr. William Meyer and Dr. Jerry Hatfield and bottom left to right; Dr. Timothy Colmer and Dr. Christine Hawkes provided keynote addresses. (Photos courtesy of S. Trusty & M. Sweatlock)

Opening session audience. (Photo courtesy of S. Trusty)

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State University, USA), Dr. Kimberly Erusha (Managing Director of the USGA Green Section, USA), Mr. Dana Lonn (Director of the Center for Advanced Turf Technology, Toro Company, USA) and Dr. Jim Murphy (Rutgers University, USA) reflected on Dr. Watson’s accomplishments and the impact he had on students in the field of turfgrass science. Dr. Watson’s son Rick Watson said a few words on his father’s behalf at the conclusion of the celebration. A reception followed this special event which was enjoyed by all who attended.

Students Shine at Oral Paper Competition

A student competition was held Tuesday morning to showcase some of the exciting research that graduate students are conducting in turfgrass science. Students from the U.S, Canada, and Japan participated in two subject matter categories: 1) Turfgrass Diseases and Soils and 2) Turfgrass Physiology. A panel of judges evaluated the student presentations and selected three winners in each category (see article on page 13). Recipients received small cash prize and a four-year membership in ITS. Poster Sessions

Research posters were displayed on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday (over 70 posters were presented) and, for the first time at an ITRC, one-minute, rapid (oral) summaries were given by poster authors who volunteered prior to each poster session. To entice conference attendees to meet poster authors and discuss their latest findings, hors d’oeuvres and refreshments were provided during the Monday and Tuesday poster sessions. All three poster sessions drew large crowds.

Technical Tours and BBQ Dinner

A full day of technical tours was offered on Wednesday, highlighting the extraordinary range of turf venues in the New Jersey/New York City region. Special thanks to Dr. Rich Hurley (Emeritus Adjunct Professor, Rutgers University) and his planning committee. They did a superb job organizing the technical tours. There were six tours to choose from: 1) The United States Golf Association Museum / Testing Facility (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/pdf/USGA-Center.pdf) and Baltusrol Golf Club (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/pdf/Baltusrol-Golf-Club.pdf ; the host location for the 2016 PGA Championship). Dr. Kimberly Erusha and her colleagues did a wonderful job showcasing the USGA research programs and testing facility at Golf House, and Mr. Mark Kuhns did a fantastic job highlighting the management programs that have made Baltusrol one of the top golf courses in the United States.

The United States Golf Association Museum / Testing Facility.

Tour group at Baltusrol Golf Club. (Photo courtesy of S. Barry)

2) The Red Bull Arena (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/pdf/RedBull-Soccer-Arena.pdf ; home of the New York Red Bulls Major League Soccer

Left to right: Rich Cooper (NCSU), Jack Fry (KSU), and Charles Peacock (NCSU) at poster session. (Photo courtesy of M. Sweatlock)

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Participants at the Red Bull Arena, home of the New York Red Bulls Major League Soccer Team. (Photo courtesy of B. Clarke)

Aerial view of Bayonne Golf Course.

Team) and Bayonne Golf Course (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/pdf/Bayonne-Golf-Club.pdf), called “the most audacious golf course in the world” by Sports Illustrated Magazine. Mr. Dan Shemesh, Director of Grounds at the New York Red Bulls, provided a comprehensive tour of the facility that everyone enjoyed, and Dr. Rich Hurley gave an excellent overview of Bayonne Golf Club, as well as an enjoyable ride for all attendees to the Statue of Liberty on the club’s private boat.

3) The Quest Diagnostic Training Center (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/pdf/MetLife-Stadium.pdf ; New York Giants American Football Team) and Yankee Stadium (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/pdf/Yankee-Stadium.pdf; home of the world famous New York Yankees and the New York City Football Club of Major League Soccer). Attendees were treated to two outstanding tours. Mr. Rob Davis, Head Groundskeeper at the Quest Diagnostic Training Center spoke about how he maintains one of the top facilities in the National Football League, and Mr. Dan Cunningham, Head Groundskeeper for the

Participants at New York Yankee’s Stadium. (Photo courtesy of F. Lord)

Sod harvesting at Tuckahoe Sod Farm. (Photo courtesy of S. Trusty)

NY Yankees gave an outstanding tour of the field and how he keeps the turf and skin-surface looking great at this legendary, multi-use stadium.

4) Tuckahoe Sod Farm (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/pdf/Tuckahoe-Turf.pdf);one of the largest and most successful sod farms in the United States) and Monmouth Park Racetrack (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/pdf/Monmouth-Park-Race-Track.pdf); the site of the 2007 Breeders Cup, one of the premier horse racing events in the world). Allen Carter Jr, General Manager at Tuckahoe Turf Farms, Inc. and the Betts family gave an excellent tour of this amazing sod farm explaining how sod is produced and marketed on a national scale. Bill Anderson, General Manager at Monmouth Park Racetrack provided a behind the scenes look at one of the oldest and most well know horse racing facilities in the United States.

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5) Central Park (the iconic green space on Manhattan Island) and the American Museum of Natural History /Hayden Planetarium (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/pdf/Central-Park.pdf; one of the world’s pre-eminent scientific and cultural institutions renowned for its exhibitions and scientific collections). Mr. Gary Gentilucci, Turf Care Manager at the Central Park Conservancy, gave a fantastic walking tour of one of the oldest and most well-known parks in the country. The day concluded with two hours in the Museum of Natural History before returning back to the Hyatt to get ready for the BBQ at the Rutgers Hort Farm 2 later that evening.

View of Manhattan from Central Park. (Photo courtesy of J. Murphy)

6) The New York Botanical Garden (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/pdf/Bronx-Botanical-Gardens.pdf; a National Historic Landmark and one of the top botanical gardens in the world with an extensive collection of plants and gardens). Mr. Brian Sullivan (Vice-President for Gardens, Landscapes and Outdoor Collections) and his staff at the Botanic Garden lead a detailed and hands-on tour of this New York Landmark. Participants had time after the tour for lunch and a leisurely self-guided tour of the facility before returning to the Hyatt Hotel.

The day conclude with a cocktail reception, an American-style BBQ, and an opportunity to informally view research plots at the Rutgers Turf Research Facility at Hort Farm 2 (brief You Tube videos of the research trials were accessible via free wireless internet). Wednesday night’s BBQ featured a ‘Beach Party’ theme, live music provided by the Casey and Bill Show, and a mini golf course arranged on a natural turf research putting green. More than 400 attended this event and stayed well into the night.

American-style BBQ at the Rutgers Turf Research Facility at Hort Farm 2. (Photos courtesy of M. Sweatlock)

The New York Botanical Garden with Dale Chihuly glass art. (Photo courtesy of N. Walker)

Side games on putting green at BBQ.

Monmouth Park Racetrack.

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Extensive Offerings for Accompanying People

Accompanying persons had a full range of activities to choose from during the conference (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/pdf/Accompanying-Persons-Tours.pdf) including: a trip to Longwood Gardens (one of the world’s great gardens and former summer estate of Pierre du Pont), the Bronx Zoo (one of the largest zoos in the United States), the Liberty Science Center (a state of the art science center with IMAX theater), the Camden Adventure Aquarium (home to the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast, hippos, blue penguins and the longest Shark Bridge in the world), the American Museum of Natural History /Hayden Planetarium, and even a day trip to the beautiful white sand beaches of Point Pleasant, NJ. Thanks to Ellen Clarke and Nancy Hurley for overseeing the accompanying persons tours.

Twilight Dinner Cruise of the NY/NJ Harbor and Statue of Liberty

Immediately following the ITS Quadrennial Business Meeting and the Graduate Student Awards Presentations on Thursday afternoon, more than 420 attendees boarded buses for a night on the town featuring a Twilight Dinner Cruise of the NY/NJ Harbor and Statue of Liberty on the “Cornucopia Majesty.” Attendees were treated to awesome views of the New York City Skyline, as well as a cocktail reception, great food, and a night of dancing to the beat of an incredible band. This was truly a memorable experience and the capstone social event of the conference. Everyone had a great time.

Abundant food and space for everyone on the cruise. (Photo courtesy of B. Clarke)

Twilight Dinner Cruise ship waiting to depart. (Photo courtesy of B. Clarke)

Return to the dock for bus ride back to Hyatt.

Dancing and participants have a good time on the cruise. (Photos courtesy of S. Trusty)

The statue of Liberty at twilight. (Photo courtesy of S. Trusty) Continued on next page

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Zoysiagrass Symposium Well Received

The last day of the conference featured a special Zoysiagrass Symposium on Friday (8:00 am - 12:30 pm) showcasing invited speakers who provided a world-wide perspective on this important and underutilized turfgrass species. Dr. Jack Fry (Kansas State University, USA) and his committee put together a very interesting and informative program that was very well attended. Speakers included Drs. Don Loch (the University of Queensland, Australia), Masumi Ebina (Forage Crop Genome Unit, Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, Tochigi, Japan), Simone Magni, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy), Peter McMaugh (Turfgrass Scientific Services, Carlingford, New South Wales Australia), Aaron Patton(Purdue University, USA), and Ambika Chandra (Texas A&M University, USA). The Symposium conclude with a panel discussion(see article on page 9).

An optional afternoon tour of the world-famous Rutgers Breeding Program’s Adelphia Research Farm was offered at the conclusion of the conference (12:30 pm) on Friday. Over 100 people attended this tour which was focused on the Rutgers Turfgrass Breeding Programs of Drs. Bill Meyer and Stacy Bonos, and well as current research in turf physiology (Dr. Bingru Huang), entomology (Dr. Albrecht Koppenhöfer), and weed science (Dr. Matt Elmore). Even though it was a very hot day (>35 C; 95 F), everyone enjoyed the tour and returned to the Hyatt by 6 pm to relax before their return home on Saturday, 22 July.

Dr. Bingru Huang discussing research on turf physiology. (Photo courtesy of S. Trusty)

Dr. Bill Meyer speaking at the optional afternoon tour of Rutgers Breeding Program’s at Adelphia Research Farm. (Photo courtesy of S. Trusty)

Dr. Stacy Bonos speaking at Adelphia Research Farm. (Photo courtesy of M. Sweatlock)

Aerial view of Rutgers Turf Research Farm at Hort Farm 2. (Photo courtesy of B. Clarke)

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Record Number of Sponsorships for 13th ITRC

The fundraising committee chaired by Dr. Bill Meyer (Rutgers University, USA) did a wonderful job attracting sponsorships for the 13th

ITRC. As a result of their efforts, more than 40 companies and organizations including Syngenta, Bayer Crop Science, Aquatrols, the USGA, BASF, the New Jersey Turfgrass Association / Foundation, TORO, Intelligro, DLF, PGG Wrightson Seeds, and Ocean Organics supported the 2017 ITRC (http://www.turfsociety.com/itrc2017/?p=reg%20-%20sponsors#sponsors). More than $300,000 was raised to support the 13th ITRC. This helped keep the cost of registration down, provided over $20,000 in travel support for students in the U.S, Europe, and

Asia, and greatly enhanced the quality of the overall program. We are very appreciative for the support of our colleagues in the turfgrass industry.

Special Thanks Thanks to Dr. Josh Honig, Dr. Stacy Bonos, and their AV Committee for doing an excellent job organizing all of the power point presentations during the conference. Overseeing the planning and implementation of the 13th ITRC was incredibly gratifying and exhilarating experience. While the conference was hosted by Rutgers University, more than 80 people from 10 countries assisted with the planning of the 13th ITRC (see list of committees and their members on page 10). I would like to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who helped. Their hard work and support over the past four years is very much appreciated.

Zoysiagrass Symposium Well Received by Jack Fry, Ph.D.,

Kansas State University Manhattan, KS, USA

On Friday, 21 July 2017, the last day of the International Turfgrass Research Conference (ITRC), six speakers provided a worldwide view of zoysiagrass for an audience of over 100 representatives of the scientific community and private industry. In 2015, an International Zoysiagrass Symposium was held in Okinawa, Japan with speakers from Japan, Korea, China, and Australia. Interest arising from this gathering led to an informal meeting at the Golf Industry Show in San Diego in 2016 of individuals from eleven countries involved with zoysiagrass research and management. This led to the idea of hosting the 2017 Zoysiagrass Symposium at the 13th ITRC in New Brunswick, NJ, USA. The organizing committee for the 2017 Symposium, composed of Don Loch Ph.D. (the University of Queensland, Australia), Ambika Chandra, Ph.D. (Texas A&M University, USA), Aaron Patton, Ph.D. (Purdue

University, USA), and Jack Fry, Ph.D (Chair, Kansas State University, USA), developed an outstanding program that gave an overview of the current status of Zoysiagrass research, use and culture throughout the world. Each of the speakers listed below gave a thirty-minute presentation on their area of expertise, which was accompanied by an article published in one of the ITSRJ journals. The presentations included:

Ecological Implications of Zoysia Species, Distribution and Adaptation for Management and Use of Zoysiagrasses. Don Loch, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Evaluation and Breeding Zoysiagrass using Japan’s Natural Genetic Resources. Masumi Ebina, Forage Crop Genome Unit, Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, Tochigi, Japan

Zoysiagrass Use and Culture in Europe. Simone Magni, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy

Occurrence, Distribution and Introduction of Zoysia spp. and their Management and Current Use in Australia. Peter McMaugh, Turfgrass Scientific Services, Carlingford, New South Wales Australia

Zoysiagrass (Zoysia spp.) History, Utilization, and Improvement in the United States: A Review. Aaron Patton, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana USAZoysiagrass Symposium Friday morning.

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An Overview of Molecular Advances in Zoysiagrass. Ambika Chandra, Texas A&M University, AgriLife Research, Dallas Texas USA

After the presentations, a panel of industry specialists that included Tim Bowyer, Ph.D., Patten Seed Company, Lakeland, Georgia USA; David Doguet, Bladerunner Farms, Poteet, Texas USA; Ki Sun Kim, Seoul National University, South Korea;

and David Stone, The Honors Course, Ooltewah, Tennessee USA joined the speakers on stage to share their experiences with zoysiagrass. A lively discussion with the audience ensued for over an hour. Everyone left the Symposium energized and looking forward to future opportunities to collaborate and share science-based information on this important underutilized species.

Planning Committees for the 13th International Turfgrass Research Conference 16-21 July 2017

by Dr. Bruce Clarke, Past-President and Local Arrangements ChairDirector, Center for Turfgrass Science,

Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ USA

As past-president of ITS, I would like to thank the following individuals who assisted with the planning and organization of the 13th ITRC over the past four years. This conference would not have been possible without their hard work and attention to detail. Over 80 people from 10 countries assisted with the conference planning. Their dedication and service on the following committees is very much appreciated.

Accompanying Persons ToursS. Bonos, chairE. ClarkeN. HurleyD. KobayashiN. Zhang

Audio Visual PresentationsS. BonosH. ChenK. GenovaA. GrimshawJ. HempflingJ. Honig, chairT. TateY. QuP. Vines

Fundraising and SponsorshipsP. BurgessB. ClarkeL. HoffmanB. HorganW. Meyer, chairC. Throssell

Graduate Student Competition and Travel AwardsT. AamlidL. BeirnE. ErvinD. Gomez de Barreda FerrazP. Koch, chairK. Kopp

Industry SessionL. BrilmanB. ClarkeJ. Friell, chair

James Watson CelebrationB. ClarkeK. ErushaB. HuangD. LonnJ. MurphyG. Stahnke, chair

Local Arrangements CommitteeM. Agnew R. HurleyR. Buckley D. KobayashiS. Bonos A. KoppenhöferS. Butterworth T. J. LawsonB. Clarke, chair C. MansueJ. Clark W. MeyerA. Diglio J. MurphyM. Fidanza B. ParkB. Fitzgerald C. PeabodyL. Hoffman S. ReynoldsJ. Honig N. ZhangB. Huang G. Ziemienski

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Pre-Conference Tour to Washington, DCand Philadelphia, PAM. Agnew, chairN. AgnewM. FidanzaK. MorrisG. RinehartL. Spencer

Post-Conference Tour to Asheville, NCLee ButlerJ. KernsL. SpencerLane Treadway, chair

Zoysia SymposiumA. ChandraJ. Fry, chairD. LochA. Patton

Scientific Program Planning CommitteeT. Aamlid P. KochS. Baker K. KoppS. Bonos A. KoppenhöferS. Butterworth C. LambridesJ. Brosnan D. LochB. Clarke R. MannE. Ervin P. McCulloughJ. Friell B. McGrawR. Gibbs M. StrandbergB. Huang, chair Y. WuT. Hsiang

Technical ToursB. ClarkeR. BuckleyJ. HonigR. Hurley, ChairC. MansueB. Park

Sponsors for the 13th International Turfgrass Research Conference 16-21 July 2017

by Dr. Bruce Clarke, Past-PresidentDirector, Center for Turfgrass Science,

Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ USA

The following organizations provided financial andlogistical support for the 13th ITRC. Their support and commitment to ITS and the ITRC is very much appreciated and greatly enhanced the quality of this year’s conference.

Legacy PremierSyngenta

PremierAquatrolsBASFBayer CropScienceNew Jersey Turfgrass Association / FoundationUSGA

PlatinumRutgers - The Center for Turfgrass Science / New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station

GoldIntelligroToro

SilverDLFOcean OrganicsPGG Wrightson Seeds

BronzeAMVACControl Solutions, Inc.Dow AgroSciencesGrass Roots Turf ProductsGrigg BrothersNew Jersey Landscape Contractors AssociationPennington SeedRutgers - Office of Continuing Professional EducationScotts Miracle-GroSpectrum Technologies, Inc.Turfgrass Producers International / The Lawn Institute

Session SponsorGolf Course Superintendents Association of NewJersey Foundation

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Student Oral / Poster CompetitionGolf Course Superintendents Association of AmericaHarrellsLebanon Turf

Student TravelAquatrolsBayer CropSciencePure Seed Testing

Technical Tour BBQ DinnerGolf Course Superintendents Association of New JerseyNew Jersey Turfgrass Association / FoundationUSGA

BusCultivated Sod Association of New JerseyDeLea Sod Farms

Pre-ConferenceRegent Instruments

ITRC SupporterFloratineGowan USALandmark Turf and Native SeedMountain View SeedsNuFarmOklahoma Turfgrass Research FoundationPeak Plant GeneticsPennsylvania Turfgrass Council

James R. Watson Celebration a Great Successby Dr. Gwen K. Stahnke, Walla Walla Community College

Walla Walla, WA USA More than 150 people attended the James R. Watson Celebration at the 13th International Turfgrass Research Conference (ITRC) on Monday evening, 12 July 2017. The ceremony began with Dr. Gwen Stahnke, moderator of the program, introducing Mr. Dana Lonn, Director of the Center for Advanced Turf Technology, Toro Company, who recognized Dr. Watson’s son Rick and his daughter Betsy along with their spouses who had travelled to the ITRC for the Celebration.

Dr. Richard Schmidt, Professor Emeritus, Virginia Tech, started the Celebration with an overview of past ITRC’s and shared stories of Dr. Watson as a friend and colleague. Dr. James B. Beard, President and Chief Scientist of the International Sports Turf Institute, Inc. and Professor Emeritus of Turfgrass Science, Texas A & M University gave an overview of how the International Turfgrass Society (ITS) was founded and the history of Dr. Watson’s involvement and accomplishments in the Society over the years. Dr. Kimberly Erusha, Managing Director of the USGA Green Section showed an impactful and thoroughly delightful 10-minute interview that the USGA had conducted with Dr. Watson before his passing. Dr. Erusha and Dr. Paul Rieke, Professor Emeritus of Michigan State University then spoke about Dr. Watson’s service on the USGA Research Committee and how he influenced the field of turfgrass science. Dana Lonn and Dr. Jim Murphy of Rutgers University wrapped up the hour long celebration with comments about the James R. Watson Fellowship and

the impact that he had on students. Recipients of the Watson Fellowship were highlighted in a power point presentation and those in attendance were asked to stand to be recognized.

The evening was a wonderful tribute to Dr. James R. Watson, one of the pioneers of the ITS, and his continued impact on the turf industry throughout the world. The program was followed by a reception with hors d’oeuvres and refreshments where the attendees mingled with each other and Dr. Watson’s family members.

Thanks to the Watson Celebration Organizing Committee: Gwen Stahnke (chair), Dana Lonn, Dr. Erusha, Jim Murphy, Bruce Clarke, and Bingru Huang for hosting a very enjoyable and memorable evening.

Dr. James Beard gave an overview of Dr. Watson’s involvement in the Society over the years.

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Students Shine at the 2017 ITRCby Paul Koch, Ph.D.

University of Wisconsin – Madison, WI USA Student attendance at any conference is important for fostering collaborations in the next generation of turfgrass scientists, and the 13th

International Turfgrass Research Conference (ITRC) held in New Brunswick, NJ USA from 16-21 July 2017 was no exception. At the 2017 ITRC, 22 student travel awards totaling nearly $20,000 were provided to students from the United States, Canada, Japan, and Europe. This included two top awards that provided the approximate full cost of meeting attendance for one U.S. candidate and one candidate from outside of the U.S. The U.S. award was presented to John Koehler of the University of Missouri and the international award was presented to Sara Stricker from the University of Guelph, Canada. Additional awards providing travel support to the 2017 ITRC were presented to Ryan Gourlie from the University of Guelph, Quincy Law from Purdue University, Souichirou Sugiura from the Tokyo University of Agriculture. Complimentary 2017 ITRC registration was also awarded to an additional 17 students. Support for the 2017 ITRC Student Travel Awards was provided by Bayer Environmental Science, Pure Seed Testing, and Aquatrols.

This year, there was a Graduate Student Oral Presentation Competition at the ITRC. Students from the U.S, Canada, and Japan entered the competition and all presenters performed exceptionally well. Students were grouped into two different categories: 1) Turfgrass Diseases and Soils and 2) Turfgrass Physiology, and were judged by a panel of seven judges in each category. The scores evaluating student performance were very close, and students receiving the top three scores in each category were awarded a cash prize and a complimentary ITS membership for the 2018-2021 period. The winners of the 2017 ITRC Graduate Student Competition were:

Disease and Soils1st place: John Koehler, University of Missouri “Impact of nitrogen source and a pH buffer on the in vitro growth and morphology of Rhizoctonia solani AG 2-2 LP”

2nd place: Clint Mattox, Oregon State University “Nitrogen and iron sulfate affect Microdochium patch and turf quality on annual bluegrass putting greens”

1st place Disease and Soils: John Koehler

1st place Turfgrass Physiology: Luqi Li

3rd place: Quincy Law, Purdue University “Turfgrass selection and grass clippings management influence soil carbon and nitrogen dynamics”

Turfgrass Physiology1st place: Luqi Li, University of Nebraska “Seeding date and bur treatment affect establishment success of dormant-seeded buffalograss”

2nd place: Stephanie Rossi, Rutgers University “Heat-induced leaf senescence associated with chlorophyll metabolism in bentgrass lines differing in heat tolerance”

3rd place: Isaac Mertz I o w a S t a t e U n i v e r s i t y “Physiological responses of creeping bentgrass to a tryptophan-containing organic byproduct”

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International Turfgrass Society - September 2017 Page 14

Support for the Graduate Student Oral Presentation Competition was provided by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, Harrells, and Lebanon Turf Products.

Congratulations to all who competed and special thanks to the following judges of the competition: Lisa Beirn (Syngenta Professional Products), Patrick Burgess (Bayer Environmental Science), Mark Carroll (University of Maryland), Michelle DaCosta (University of Massachusetts – Amherst), Erik Ervin (Virginia Tech University), Diego Gomez de Barreda Ferraz (Universitat Politecnica

de Valencia), Charles Fontanier (Oklahoma State University), Paul Johnson (Utah State University), Kelly Kopp (Utah State University), Renee Rioux (Bayer Environmental Science), Alan Stewart (PGG Wrightson Seeds), Barry Stewart (Mississippi State University), Hideaki Tonogi (Chiba University), Zhaolong Wang (Shanghai Jiao Tong University). Also, thanks to the graduate student competition and travel awards committee composed of Trygve Aamlid, Lisa Beirn, Erik Ervin, Diego Gomez de Barreda Ferraz, Paul Koch (chair), and Kelly Kopp for their hard work planning and overseeing the 2017 ITRC student travel awards and competition process.

ITRC Preconference Tour to Washington DC and Philadelphia, PA Enjoyed by All

by Michael Agnew, Ph.D., Syngenta

Sixteen attendees from three countries participated in the 2017 International Turfgrass Research Conference (ITRC) Preconference Tour from 11 to 16 July 2017 which was highlighted by visits to historic sites, famed turfgrass venues, museums and botanic gardens.

The Preconference tour started off in Washington DC on Tuesday, 11 July with a welcome reception and dinner at the historic Jefferson Hotel hosted by the National Turfgrass Federation and local industry. The next day, attendees visited the Lincoln Memorial, the National Museum of Natural History, the United Sates Botanic Garden and the National Mall Restoration Site. Michael Stachowicz, National Park Service, Washington DC, provided an excellent overview of the National Mall Restoration Project and Ari Novy, Executive Director, United States Botanic Garden, gave an excellent tour of the US Botanic Garden. In the afternoon, participants had a choice of free time to explore Washington DC or to attend the Maryland Turfgrass Field Day hosted by Joe Roberts. Despite extremely hot temperatures, everyone had a very enjoyable time.

On day 2, participants toured world renowned Congressional Country Club with Superintendent Mike Giuffre followed by a tour of Arlington National Cemetery. After lunch, the group toured National Park, the home of the Washington Nationals Major League Baseball team with John Turnour, Director of Field Operations. This was followed by a tour of the Grass Roots Exhibit at the U.S. National Arboretum with ‘Grass Roots’ Program Coordinator, Geoffrey Rinehart.

Pre-conference tour attendees. Day 3 started off with cooler weather and free time in historic Philadelphia, PA where attendees were only steps from where the United States declared their independence in 1776. In the afternoon, attendees toured Lincoln Financial Field and practice facility,

United States Botanic Garden

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International Turfgrass Society - September 2017 Page 15

Tony Leonard visiting with tour participants.

the home of National Football League’s Philadelphia Eagles, with Director of Grounds Tony Leonard. This was followed by a reception hosted by Mike Fidanza, Penn State University, at Talen Energy Stadium, home of the Philadelphia Union Major League Soccer team.The final day of the tour was highlighted with a visit to the Brandywine Museum of Art which showcases the work of Andrew Wyeth, a major American realist painter. This was followed by a visit to the iconic Longwood Gardens, an American botanical garden that is the former summer estate and living legacy of Pierre S. DuPont. A private dinner with Head of Grounds, Shawn Kister preceded a 30 minute

Indoor conservatory at Longwood Gardens.

illuminated fountain performance set to music in the newly renovated main fountain garden at Longwood.Attendees arrived at the Hyatt Hotel in New Brunswick, NJ the afternoon of Sunday, 16 July tired, but with outstanding memories of a very successful pre-conference tour.

Special thanks to the Preconference Tour Committee: Mike Agnew (chair), Nancy Agnew, Mike Fidanza, Kevin Morris, Geoff Rinehart, and Libby Spencer for putting together a very successful, informative and enjoyable trip!

In Memorial of Dr. Ken Careyby Tom Hsiang, University of Guelph

Guelph, Canada

It is with deepest sorrow that we report that Dr. Ken Carey passed away on Feb 28, 2017, following a tough battle with cancer. Ken was a long time member of the ITS, serving as a Director for the ITS representing Canada from 2001 to 2009. Ken was also a member of the organizing committee for the ITRC in Toronto in 2001, and the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal for that conference.

The halls of the Guelph Turfgrass Institute will be hollow without the man who was truly Mr. GTI. Ken’s work with the GTI started long before the building of the Mac Frost Centre. Ken was a brilliant researcher who could not only answer any question or find a solution, but always more than willing to offer a helping hand, all without expecting anything in return. Since learning of his illness last fall, many students and colleagues have come forward and remarked on how often Ken, in his quiet good-natured manner,

went out of his way to mentor, listen and assist.

On behalf of the Guelph Turfgrass Institute,

International Turfgrass Society - September 2017 Page 16

14th International Turfgrass Research Conference in Copenhagen July 11 - 16 2021 – Save the date!By Maria Strandberg, ITS president, Sweden

The next International Turfgrass Research Conference will be arranged by STERF (Scandinavian Turfgrass and Environment Research Foundation) in Copenhagen 2021.

The conference will include keynote speakers, oral and poster presentations, industry networking opportunities, technical tours, social events and much more. New for ITRC 2021 is one-day programme for practitioners.

Scientific topics of interest may include: turfgrass establishment and management; turfgrass pests (diseases, weeds, insects et cetera); turfgrass physiology; turfgrass genetics and breeding; soil biology, chemistry and plant nutrition; soil physics and rootzone construction; sustainable water management; ecosystem services and biodiversity; information technology, education and communications.

Technical tours will introduce you in Nordic turfgrass research and development which is focusing on internationally important key areas. These include the pressures from government demands for greater environmental regulation, the increasing pressure on

natural resources (notably water, energy and land), the emerging role of turf management in supporting ecosystem services and enhancing biodiversity, the continued need to promote integrated pest management, and the looming challenges posed by a changing climate, and urgent need to adapt.

The on-day programme for practitioners will strengthen the ambition to take a lead in making research results and new knowledge easy accessible to end-users and to provide support to implement changes, which is a prerequisite for achieving improvement in the sustainable management of turfgrass.

Copenhagen is the congress capital of Scandinavia, and its vibrant cultural heart. Copenhagen is also truly a green city surrounded by water and parks, with climate-friendly citizens to match. The ambitious green profile of the city has a clear goal: The City of Copenhagen aims to become the world’s first CO2 neutral capital by 2025. Experience it for yourself. Swim in the clean waters of the city’s harbour baths, stay in a sustainable hotel, eat organic, and ride the electric city bikes around the old maritime city.

Please join us in 2021 for the latest cutting-edge research in the turfgrass industry and stay to enjoy all that the Copenhagen area has to offer!

Please visit www.Itrc2021.org to continually get information about the conference.

For more information about STERF please visit www.sterf.org

Nordic turfgrass research.

Copenhagen the green capital.

International Turfgrass Society - September 2017 Page 17

International Turfgrass Society Survey Coming Soon by Tom Hsiang, University of Guelph

Guelph, CanadaDear ITS members (and potential members)

The ITS Board of Directors is conducting a survey of members (and potential members). This survey is to gather information to improve ITS as well as the International Turfgrass Research Conferences (ITRC) held at 4 year intervals. Specifically, we wish to (a) to allow the ITS board to further develop and improve ITS, (by improving the service to ITS members); (b) to involve the ITS members in this work; (c) to increase ITS membership.

The survey link will be made available in a direct email to you soon. We value your opinion and would like your thoughts on services provided by ITS as well as the 2017 ITRC. The results will be anonymous and announced in a future ITS Newsletter.

ITS Survey SubcommitteeTom Hsiang, Scott McElroy, Gwen Stanke and Trygve Aamlid

A few more pictures from the 13th International Turfgrass Research Conference

International Turfgrass Society - September 2017 Page 18

Please Use Autofill:

Name: Affiliation: Address: City: State: Postal Code: Country: Phone: Fax:

E-Mail:

PLEASE CHECK MEMBERSHIP TYPE DESIRED:

Regular Membership Fee (2017-2021) $325.00 USD Sustaining Membership Fee (2017-2021) $1000.00 USD

Student Membership Fee (2017-2021) $150.00 USD* PLEASE INDICATE METHOD OF PAYMENT:

Check** PayPal

Bank Wire Transfer, please contact j_r.james@syngenta.com for instructions & account information

* Student member must have confirmation letter from major faculty advisor.** To avoid heavy collection fees, only checks from U.S. affiliated banks will be accepted. Please make check payable to: International Turfgrass Society. MAIL OR E-MAIL THIS COMPLETED FORM, ALONG WITH 1) YOUR CHECK OR 2) YOUR PAYPAL INFORMATION OR 3) THE WIRE TRANSFER INFORMATION TO:

J.R. JamesSyngenta410 S. Swing RoadGreensboro, NC 27409 USA

Email: j_r.james@syngenta.com

Check here, if you do not want your information to be listed on the ITS Website or Newsletter.

INTERNATIONAL TURFGRASS SOCIETYMEMBERSHIP/PAYMENT OF DUES

Please send comments, feedback, and turfgrassnews articles for future issues to the newsletter editor. If you know any non-members, new faculty, staff, and new personnel involved in turfgrass research who might be interested in joining ITS please forward their e-mail address to the newsletter editor and they will also receive the Triannual issues of International Turfgrass.

The deadline for submissions for the next newsletter is December 15, 2017

Directors

ITS Board Members 2017 - 2021

International Turfgrass Society - September 2017 Page 19

Visit the ITS Website here

Become a member here

Past PresidentBruce ClarkeRutgers UniversityDept of Plant Biology59 Dudley RoadNew Brunswick, NJ 08901USATel: +1 848 932 6295bclarke@SEBS.Rutgers.edu

Vice-PresidentRuth MannSTRI (Sports Turf Research Institute)St Ives EstateBingley BD16 1AUUKTel: +44 (0)1274 565131ruth.mann@strigroup.com

TreasurerJ.R. JamesSyngenta410 S. Swing RoadGreensboro, NC 27409USATel: 336 632 5586j_r.james@syngenta.com

SecretaryJim MurphyRutgers UniversityDept of Plant BiologyNew Brunswick, NJ 08901USATel: +1 848 932 6326jamurphy@njaes.rutgers.edu

HistorianRichard GibbsSTRI (Sports Turf Research Institute)St Ives EstateBingley BD16 1AUUKTel: +44 (0)1274 565131richard.gibbs@stri.co.uk

PresidentMaria StrandbergSTERF (Scandinavian Turfgrass & Environment Research Foundation)P.O. Box 11016, SE-11016 StockholmSwedenTel: +46 (8) 622 15 27maria.strandberg@golf.se

Australia: Christopher LambridesChina: Shuxia YinGermany: Fritz LordNew Zealand: Alan StewartSwitzerland: Tobias Schmid

Chile: Alejandra AcunaFrance: Stephen AldertonItaly: Alessandro De LucaSweden: Bruno HedlundUSA: Scott McElroy

Austria: Ulrike PithaDenmark: Christian JensenGreece: Nikolaos NtoulasSpain: Diego Gomez de Barreda FerrazUSA: Gwen Stahnke

Officers

President- ElectHideaki TonogiChiba UniversityH-310, 3-1 Kotesashi-choTokorozawa, SaitamaJapanTel: +81-90-1268-6937tonogi1234@jcom.home.ne.jp

Newsletter EditorNathan R. WalkerDepartment of Entomology and Plant PathologyOklahoma State UniversityStillwater, OK 74078Tel: +1 405 744 6830nathan.walker@okstate.edu

Journal Editor-in-ChiefTrygve AamlidNIBIOReddalsveien 215Grimstad, N-4886NorwayTel: + 47 (9)052 83 78trygve.aamlid@bioforsk.no

Website EditorTom HsiangUniversity of GuelphEnvironmental SciencesGuelph, Ontario N1G 2W1CanadaTel: +1 519 824 4120 ex. 52753thsiang@uoguelph.ca