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Commonwealth Crier
News from the Virginia Golf Course Superintendents Association Spring 2021
President’s Message
Welcome to our newest board VGCSA Championship will be held at
members, Eric Ferrell and Chris Two Rivers Country Club in
Roberts. Eric Ferrell (Caverns CC) Williamsburg. Brent Graham just
replaces long time board member Ed continuing to allow applications of completed the installation of a new
Eagle (retired) as the SVTA External these insecticides by certified irrigation system last year and Billy
VP. Chris Roberts (First Tee of applicators. Thanks must also go out Bunkers this past winter at Two
Richmond) replaces Jay Wade to the other members of the Rivers. I know Brent will have the
(Magnolia Green GC) as ODGCSA committee including Brent Graham, course in its usual perfect condition.
External VP. Both Ed and Jay have Rob Wilmans, Cutler Robinson, Jay The Joe Saylor will be hosted at
been great board members and we Wade, and Peter McDonough. All of Lakeside Park Club in Richmond.
thank them for their service. We look these gentlemen gave unselfishly of Formerly known as Jefferson Lakeside,
forward to working with Eric and their time and experience to protect the golf course was renovated a few
Chris over the coming year. our interests. years ago by Kris Spence. I have heard
nothing but rave reviews of the course
Hopefully everyone had a chance to Our BMP Committee, chaired by under the direction of Mike Nowicki.
participate in the virtual GIS. Tim Doran, published our 2nd It is sure to be a treat!
Personally, I thought GCSAA did an edition of the BMP Manual in
outstanding job, especially considering December and hosted the BMP We would not be able to sponsor
everything that has happened over the workshop in February. A template is research, host education events and
past year. I enjoyed being able to now in place to publish an individual tournaments, or employ lobbyists
access all of the education and archive BMP for your own golf course. Tim without the generous support of our
the notes and slides. That being said, and his committee completed all of partners. They are vital to our success.
I do hope that we will be able to the sometimes tedious work without I personally want to thank all of our
return to the in-person conference complaint. Thank you all for your sponsors who continue to support the
next year. There is just something hard work! association. I ask that all members
about talking to peers from across the please consider this when making your
country (and the world) in person that I hope everyone had a chance to fill purchasing decisions and support our
cannot be replicated virtually. out the VGCSA survey. The survey partners whenever possible!
underwent a fairly massive overhaul
The government relations this year by committee chairman Eric
committee, led by Chairman Jeff Snelsire and Tyler Eastman. They
Holliday, has been busy working with eliminated many of the redundant
our legislature and lobbyist, Robb questions also found on the GCSAA Jeff Whitmire
Bohannon, on behalf of our interest. Survey. The results from this survey CGCS
House Bill 2030 would have outright will help guide our policy decisions in President
banned the use of neonicotine the future.
insecticides in its original draft. The
committee and Robb worked with our The Golf Committee, led by Matt
allied association partners to convince Drayton, has lined up some great
the legislators to modify the bill, venues for our events this year. The
2021 VGCSA Board of Directors
VGCSA Officers VGCSA External Vice-Presidents At-Large Board Members
President Old Dominion Golf Course Assistant Superintendent
Jeff Whitmire, CGCS Superintendents Association Jacob Odum
Williamsburg Golf Club Chris Roberts Hermitage County Club
1801 Merrimac Trail First Tee of Greater Richmond 1248 Hermitage Rd.
Williamsburg, VA 23185 14809 Watermill Lake Trail Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103
Cell: 757-291-2286 Midlothian, VA 23112 Cell: 276-620-6097
E-Mail: jeffwcc1@gmail.com Cell: 804-263-4879 Email: rjodum@gmail.com
Email: chris@thefirstteerva.org
Vice President Associate
Mike Mueller Tidewater Turfgrass Association Eric Snelsire
Herndon Centennial Golf Course Tim Doran Bayer
1270 Old Heights Road Elizabeth Manor G&CC 5 Candytuft Lane
Herndon, VA 22070 1 Ace Parker Drive Berlin, MD 21811
Ph: 703-435-6864 / Cell: 571-221-0133 Portsmouth, VA 23701 Ph: 412-977-3882
E-Mail: mueller68@hotmail.com Ph: 757-434-9712 Email: eric.snelsire@bayer.com
E-Mail: timdoran@emgcc.com
Secretary/Treasurer General Counsel
Matt Drayton Virginia Turfgrass Association
The Federal Club Sean Baskette William A. Macilwaine
10305 Sanbet Ct. Hidden Valley Country Club Whiteford Taylor Preston
Glen Allen, VA 23060 2500 Romar Rd. Two James Center
Cell: 540-223-3403 Salem, VA 24153 1021 E. Cary St., Suite 1700
E-mail: mrdrayton@gmail.com Cell: 540-892-9299 Richmond, VA 23219
E-Mail: hvccmaint@comcast.net Ph: 804-799-7857
Past President Email: wmacilwaine@wtplaw.com
Bill Keene Greater Washington Golf Course
Blacksburg Country Club Superintendents Association
1064 Clubhouse Rd. David Walter
Blacksburg, VA 24060 Potomac Shores Golf Club
Ph: 540-552-2461 / Fax: 540-552-0461 1750 Dunnington Place
Cell: 540-537-1096 Potomac Shores, VA 22026
E-Mail: bkeene@blacksburgcc.com Ph: 703-300-2594
Email: dwalter@troon.com
Shenandoah Valley Turfgrass Association
Eric Ferrell
Caverns Country Club
PO Box 748
Luray, VA 22835
Ph: 540-743-7111
Email: eferrell77@aol.com
Staff
Executive Director Chapter Executive Lobbyist
David Norman Tyler Eastham Robb Bohannon
VGCSA VGCSA Hunton Andrews & Kurth
15 Quail Run Dr. 15 Quail Run Dr. Riverfront Plaza, East Tower
Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103 Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103 951 East Byrd St.
Ph. 804-708-9760 / Cell: 804-399-7802 Ph: 804-708-9760 / Cell: 757-329-3577 Richmond, VA 23219
E-Mail: dnorman008@gmail.com E-mail: teastham@gmail.com Ph: 804-788-8375 / Cell: 804-614-7542
Email: Rbohannon@huntonak.com
2 The Commonwealth Crier
Virginia’s Rounds4Research
Virginia’s Rounds4Research Auction Runs
Auction Runs April 26 to May
April 26 Please
to May 2 to Bidders
Promote
Research Auction
The 2020 Rounds 4 Research Runs April 26 to May 2
lease Promote to Bidders
fundraising program in Virginia
was successful despite COVID.
The program is administered by
the Environmental Institute for
Golf (EIFG), the philanthropic
organization of the GCSAA.
Many clubs pledge support every
year, so it’s a great auction. Some
top ones in Virginia include the
Dormie Network (Ballyhack),
Golden Horseshoe GC, Raspberry
Falls, Salisbury CC, Spring Creek
GC, The Federal Club and The
Golf Club at Lansdowne.
Funds raised can be used to
further efforts in the areas of
research, advocacy, and education.
Golfers and golf facilities are the • Be sure to designate VGCSA as • Auction Website - a link will be
ultimate beneficiaries of funds the chapter to receive the provided when the website is
raised. proceeds. live – please promote it to your
members.
How can you help? • GCSAA will take care of the
rest and can even create the All packages donated, along with
• Courses can simply fill out an winner’s certificate for you! all relevant restrictions, will be
online or paper donor form available on the auction website
and send it to the EIFG. The When is the auction? for the public to view and place
courses determine the bids.
restrictions. • The auction will be held online
from April 26 to May 2.
Spring 2021 3
when a barrier or thermocline prevents oxygen-rich surface w
deeper water. Subsurface aeration circulates the water, moves
Boosting Dissolved Oxygentemperature
column, and eliminates Boosts Pond Health
stratiMication.
Boosting Dissolved Oxygen Boosts Pond Health
Keeping ponds clean and odor-free is
essential to a golf course’s success.
Essential for keeping ponds healthy
Keeping ponds clean and odor-free is essential to a golf course’s success. Essential for
and sustaining aquatic life is dissolved
keeping
oxygen (DO).ponds
So howhealthy and sustaining aquatic life is dissolved oxygen (DO). So how can
can you ensure you
ensure the inDO
the DO levels yourlevels in where
ponds are your ponds are where they need to be? Subsurface aeration.
they need to be? Subsurface aeration.
PondHawk, a subsurface aeration
PondHawk,
system from solar a innovator
subsurface LINNEaeration system from solar innovator LINNE Industries, brings
Industries, brings about notable
about notable changes to DO levels. This is important because low DO levels are unable to
changes to DO levels. This is
support aquatic
important because lowlife and are
DO levels lead to anoxic conditions in the bottom sediment. Anoxic
conditions cause internallead
unable to support aquatic life and nutrient-loading from the re-release into the water column of
to anoxic conditions in the bottom
nutrients formerly bound in the sediments. Pond stratiMication can also lead to low DO
sediment. Anoxic conditions cause
when
internalanutrient-loading
barrier or thermocline
from the prevents oxygen-rich surface water from circulating with the
deeper water. Subsurface aeration circulates the water, moves oxygen through the water
re-release into the water column of
nutrients formerly bound in the
column,
sediments. and eliminates
Pond stratification cantemperature
also stratiMication.
LINNE compared baseline DO levels unable to escape. The recommended
lead to low DO when a barrierWater or Quality Study
collected in 2018, prior to PondHawk’s level is a minimum of 5.0 mg/L. The
a-Troll 500 multiparameter sonde to collect samples from 151 locations across the
thermocline prevents oxygen-rich
To
surface water from circulating with thestudy
installation, with data collected after
twoPondHawk’s
years of PondHawk effectiveness,
operation. In
2018 baseline sampling of this pond
LINNE
measured conducted
the dissolved an asses
oxygen at 0.45
d at 1, 2, 4 and 6’ depths to understand the improvements PondHawk delivered. The
deeper water. Subsurface aeration municipality’s
2020, LINNE
golf course
deployed an
pond.
Aqua-Troll
Various
mg/L at 6
factors
feet. The
affecting
sample at 6 feet in
wate
500 multiparameter sonde to collect 2020 was up to 6.27 mg/L at the same
course pond is adjacent to areas of recent or active construction and collects run-of
circulates the water, moves oxygen
through the water column, andtemperature, samples from pH,151conductivity,
locations across the turbidity, and DO were studied.
6’-deep location.
an agricultural Mield. compelling
eliminates temperature stratification. pond
DO Mindings.
at 1, 2, 4 and 6’ depths to
understand the improvements Subsurface Aeration Improves Pond
Water Quality Study PondHawk delivered. The golf course Health
ble Improvement in Dissolved Oxygen
To study PondHawk’s effectiveness,LINNE compared baseline DO levels
pond is adjacent to areas of recent or
active construction and collects run-off
collected
This data in 2018,
is just one example of theprior to
positive effect of subsurface aeration
LINNE conducted an assessment of a
with data fromcollected
an agricultural after
field. two years
U.S. Geological Survey considers DO levels below 2 mg/L to be hypoxic and a “dead
Midwest municipality’s golf course on of
pond PondHawk operation. In
health. Solar-powered
” for organisms unable to escape. The recommended level is a minimum of 5.0 mg/
pond. Various factors affecting water
Notable Improvement in Dissolved
PondHawk is a proven, effective,
quality including temperature, pH, low-cost tool that creates water
2018 baseline sampling of this pond measured the dissolved oxygen at 0.45 mg/L a
conductivity, turbidity, and DO were
Oxygen movement, improves DO
The sample at 6 feet in 2020 was up to 6.27 mg/L at the same 6’-deep location.
studied. The focus here is on the The U.S. Geological Survey considers
DO levels below 2 mg/L to be hypoxic
concentration, and maintains long-
term pond health.
compelling DO findings.
and a “dead zone” for organisms
Water Quality Study
To study PondHawk’s effectiveness, LINNE conducted an assessment of a Midwest
municipality’s
4 golf course pond. Various factors affecting water qualityThe
including
Commonwealth Crier
Virginia Tech Turfgrass Research Classic
Set for May 17th at Independence Golf Club
Turfgrass Research Classic
Set for May 17th at Independence Golf Club
2020 Team Sponsor Listing
Thank you Sponsors!
Closest to the Pin - Hole 9 - Troy Hall
Closest to the Pin - Hole 11 - Josh Sumler
Closest to the Pin - Hole 14 - Jimmy Prucnal
The VGCSA, VTC and VTF are proud Longest
first classPutt
from- Hole 16 -toMike
the golf, Mueller
the food & golf team sales now. A sellout is expected!
to announce the return of their joint beverage, to the- prizes
Longest Drive Hole 17and more.
- Will The
Sexton Please visit www.vgcsa.org and www.
fundraiser, the Virginia Tech Turfgrass event has become the ultimate networking
vaturfgrass.org for event details and plan to
Research Classic, set for Monday, May event in the industry. The tournament
17th, hosted by Independence Golf Club attend!
committee Scenes fromsponsorship
has opened the Virginia and Tech Turfgrass Research Classic
in Richmond. The event returns to its
traditional date, having been postponed to
late summer last year due to COVID-19.
Amazing results last year, as the event
The Virginia Green Team
raised over $55,000 for turf research.
Now in the fourth year, the Virginia
Tech researchers continue to conduct
turfgrass testing on the Short Course at
Independence. During the event
(depending on COVID protocols), the
research team will provide an update on
their work. The Tech team established this
research in central Virginia, as the climate
and growing conditions are more
“mainstream Virginia,” than that found in
Blacksburg. Primary testing is for warm The VGCSA, VTC and VTF are proud to announce the return of their joint fundraiser, t
season grasses on putting greens. Tech Turfgrass Research Classic, set for Monday, May 17th, hosted by Independence Golf
Independence has Champion bermuda Richmond. The event returns to its traditional dare, having been postponed to late summ
grass on their greens. due to COVID-19. Amazing results last year, as the event raised over $55,000 for turf re
After a challenging year, this year’s golf
tournament promises to be a “can’t miss”
affair! Plans are in place to make it totally The Virginia Tech Turfgrass Team On-Site at Independence
The Virginia Tech Team
VGCSA Social Media & Digital Outlets
Join our Facebook group! Follow us on Twitter @VirginiaGCSA
Website: www.vgcsa.org
Spring 2021 5
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6 The Commonwealth Crier
JORDAN ELECTED
85TH PRESIDENT OF GCSAA
Election took place as part of the virtual 2021 Golf Industry Show Club
University – ATI in Wooster, Ohio, with an 88 sessions, with preliminary numbers for
associate of science degree in turfgrass those presentations currently at 9,197
management; and the Ohio State University participants total. More than 200 exhibitors
in Columbus with a Bachelor of Science are part of the trade show, and so far, have
degree in agronomy. recorded 213,299 in total booth visits. The
24-hour-a-day virtual trade show will be open
Other elected officers were Kevin P. Breen,
through March 6 as well.
CGCS and golf course superintendent at La
Rinconada Country Club in Los Gatos, “Like so many organizations this year, a
Calif., as vice president, and Kevin P. virtual show was unchartered territory for us,
Sunderman, CGCS, director of grounds at and frankly it was difficult to project how our
Isla Del Sol Yacht and Country Club in St. traditional attendance would translate to the
Petersburg, Fla., as secretary/treasurer. virtual world, so we are extremely pleased
with the very enthusiastic response,” GCSAA
Board members Jeff L. White, CGCS and
CEO Rhett Evans said. “I was particularly
superintendent at Indian Hills Country
excited to see that many facilities that took
Club in Mission Hills, Kan.; T.A. Barker,
advantage of our All-Access package for
CGCS and superintendent at Fore Lakes
everyone on the team. It really shows the
Mark Jordan Golf Course in Taylorsville, Utah; and Paul
desire for education for every member of the
L. Carter, CGCS and superintendent at
facility, and we hope our curriculum helps
Lawrence, Kan. – Mark F. Jordan, the Bear Trace at Harrison Bay in Harrison,
enhance their careers and facilities.”
certified golf course superintendent (CGCS) Tenn., were elected to serve again, while
and natural resource leader at Westfield Marc E. Weston, CGCS and superintendent The Golf Industry Show is produced by
Country Club in Westfield Center, Ohio, at Indian Hill Country Club in Newington, GCSAA along with its presenting partners
was elected to a one-year term as president of Conn. , was newly elected to the board. the Golf Course Builders Association of
the Golf Course Superintendents America (GCBAA) and American Society of
Douglas D. Dykstra, CGCS, golf course
Association of America (GCSAA) at the Golf Course Architects (ASGCA.)
superintendent at White Mountain Country
association’s annual meeting Feb. 4, held in Club in Pinetop, Ariz., continues his service The 2022 Golf Industry Show is currently
conjunction with the Golf Industry Show. on the board. John R. Fulling Jr., CGCS, scheduled to be an in-person event and will
He is the 85th president in the association’s grounds and facilities manager at Kalamazoo be in San Diego Feb. 5-10, 2022, at the San
history. (Mich.) Country Club, will serve as Diego Convention Center.
Jordan served as vice president of the immediate past president, while past
president Rafael Barajas, CGCS and the In other news from the Golf Industry Show:
association in 2020 and has been a member
of the association’s board of directors since director of golf course operations at Boca • A team from Purdue University won the
2014. A 34-year member of GCSAA, Jordan Grove Golf and Tennis Club in Boca Raton, annual GCSAA Collegiate Turf Bowl
is also a member and past president of the Fla., retired from board service. Competition, which was presented in
Northern Ohio GCSA. 2021 Golf Industry Show highlights partnership with John Deere Golf. It was the
Boilermakers’ first win since 2009.
Jordan has served as the natural resource The Golf Industry Show, the largest
leader at Westfield CC since 2007, but has educational conference and trade show in • Jim Nantz, three-time Emmy winner and
been with the club since 1988, previously the turfgrass management industry, lead anchor of CBS Sports’ golf team,
serving as general manager, club manager, transitioned to a virtual event in 2021 due to received GCSAA’s 2021 Old Tom Morris
superintendent and assistant the COVID-19 pandemic. While on a virtual award. He joined the GIS live from his home
superintendent. Prior to Westfield CC, platform, the 2021 event continued the in California during the Opening Session on
Jordan had stints as an assistant GIS’s long tradition of connecting attendees, Feb. 2, which was presented in partnership
superintendent at Winding Hollow Golf exhibitors and industry experts through a with Syngenta.
Club in New Albany, Ohio, and Hyde Park progressive week of unparalleled education
Golf and Country Club in Cincinnati. • The General Session: Managing the
opportunities and access to golf facility Challenges of Disruptive Change on Feb. 3,
“As Col. John Morley was establishing solutions for those in the golf industry. which was sponsored in partnership with
GCSAA in 1926, he used the altruistic Attendance for the virtual GIS was strong Bayer, featured Evans, PGA Tour
principles of justice, faithful brotherhood with more than 9,300 attendees from Commissioner Jay Monahan, LPGA
and generous benevolence as foundational around the world during the live event. The Commissioner Michael Whan, USGA CEO
elements. These timeless principles continue event also provides attendees with up to 30 Mike Davis and PGA of America CEO Seth
to guide the association today,” Jordan said. days of on-demand access, so final Waugh in a live discussion of golf’s reaction
“I am humbled and honored to lead this attendance and education numbers will not to the pandemic and how the golf industry is
same organization that Col. Morley and be known until the conclusion of the moving forward.
every single president before me has led.” on-demand portion on March 6. The
He graduated from the Ohio State education component of the event featured
Spring 2021 7
Extraordinary
is Your New Ordinary
Spencer Roberts
Golf Course Superintendent,
The National Golf Club of Kansas City
Jack Roberts
Son
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8 The Commonwealth Crier
Saylor Memorial Tournament on Monday, October 4 . Mike N
fun event of the season, which will conInue its tradiIon of fri
side Park Club
side Lakeside
Park Club toHost
to Host
refreshments
Park Club the
the Joe
toaJoe
and Saylor
Saylor
liJle
Host golf! Memorial
Memorial
thethJoe Saylor Memorial
Save the
Save theDate
Date––Monday,
Monday,October4
October4th
Save the Date – Monday, October 4th
The VGCSA is pleased to announce that The superbly conditioned, fast-paced
eased
ased toto announce
Lakeside Park Club inthat
announce Lakeside
Richmond
that will
Lakeside Park
greensClub
Park presentin
Club Richmond
in
quite a challenge. will host this year’s Joe
Richmond will host this year’s Joe
host this year’s Joe Saylor Memorial
Tournament
Tournament
Tournamenton
on Monday,
Monday,
on Monday,
October
OctoberOctober
4th.
4 th. Mike Nowicki is playing host to the most
As 4 th. Mike
always, this eventNowicki
supports the is
U.S.playing host to the most
season,Mikewhich
Nowicki will conInue
is playing host to the its
mosttradiIon of friendly
Marine Corps Reserve ToyscompeIIon
for Tots with plenty of
season, fun which
event of thewill conInue
season, which will its tradiIon of friendly compeIIon
Program so don’t forget to bring a gift to with plenty of
d a liJle golf!
d a liJle golf!
continue its tradition of friendly
competition with plenty of refreshments
donate!
and a little golf! This event is a tribute to Joe Saylor, the
honoree of this annual memorial event.
Opened in 1921, the LPC course is one Joe was longtime superintendent at
of the earliest works of famed Scottish James River Country Club, and a leader
golf course designer Donald Ross and a
ays, this event supports the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
in stateToys
andfor Tots Program
regional affairs forso
thedon’t
testament to the
to bring a giU to donate! enduring viability of superintendents. Joe passed away in
quality design. The easily walkable course 2005. Defending the title will be Bobby
winds through a beautiful park-like Friend, CGCS and Matt Pair of
setting just minutes north of the city. Brookwoods Golf Club.
Opened in 1921, the LPC course is one of the earliest works of
designer Donald Ross and a testament to the enduring viabilit
walkable course winds through a beauIful park-like seOng jus
superbly condiIoned, fast-paced greens present quite a challe
US Marines collect toys for deserving children. MattMaJ
Pair Pair
and and Bobby
Bobby Friend,
Friend, CGCSCGCS defended
defended the Itle
the title last year
last year at Hermitage
at Hermitage CC CC
Spring 2021 US Marines collect toys for deserving children. This event is a tribute to Joe Saylor, the honoree of this annual memorial event.9 Joe was
the LPC course is one of the earliest works of famed
longIme ScoOsh
superintendent golf
at James Rivercourse
Country Club, and a leader in state and regional a
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©2020 Syngenta. Important: Always read and follow label instructions. Some products may not be registered for sale or use in all states or counties. Please check with your local
Course Consulting Service
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Firstto learn morefacilities
Visit GreenCastOnline.com/Posterity to reap the benefits of on-site #Time4Posterity
or contact: what products to buy. Rather, it seeks
started in visits by highly skilled USGA to bring a wealth of information and
1953, the agronomists
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Course
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for spring the country.
dead spot control. Their you can
With Posterity, regarding
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Introducing Posterity® fungicide,Service
the most active officials
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10 The Commonwealth CrierJune 15, 2021
6th Annual Old Dominion GCSA Scholarship
Tournament Heads to6thSpring Creek Golf Club
Annual Old Dominion GCSA Scholarship Tou
June 15, 2021 Heads to Spring Creek Golf Club
June 15, 2021
Spring Creek Golf Club plays host to this SpringEntry
education. CreekFeeGolf Club Golf,
includes playsCart
host to this
Clubyear’s Old Dominion
of Petersburg. Scholarship
First place in the netTourney on
– open to all VGCSA members and partners. Proceeds from the event will be used fo
year’s Old Dominion Scholarship Tourney Rental,
will Range Balls, Bloody
be awarded Mary Bar,of a VGCSA
to employees division went toclub,
member the team
whoofareTom Adams
either actively enro
on Tuesday, June 15th – open to all Beverage Cart, and Dinner Buffet after the of Helena and Matt Drayton
actively enrolled students who wish to further their education. Entry Fee with a netincludes Golf
VGCSA members and partners. Proceeds Range
round, PrizesBalls, Bloody
and Fun Mary Bar, Beverage
Competition! scoreCart, and
of 55. Dinner
Prizes Buffet after
are awarded to thethe
topround, Priz
from the event will be used for scholarships Competition! gross and net teams, as well as contest
k Golf Club plays host to this year’s Old Dominion Scholarship Tourney on Tuesda
that will be awarded to employees of a Format for the event is two-man best ball winners. ODGCSA would like to thank
Format for the event is two-man best ball (four ball). Rhett Martin and Josh Nunn of S
VGCSA member club, who are either (four ball). Rhett Martin and Josh Nunn of Genesis Turfgrass for their role as
VGCSA members and partners. Proceeds from the event will be used for schola
actively enrolled students or non-actively
honors last year with a gross score of 63 at The Country Club of Petersburg. First pla
Salisbury CCwent
division took to
topthe
honors
teamlast
of year
Tom Adams Presenting
of HelenaSponsor.
and Matt Drayton with a net score
ded to employees of a VGCSA member club, who are either actively enrolled stude
enrolled students who wish to further their withawarded
a gross score of 63
to the topatgross
The Country
and net teams, as well as contest winners. ODGCSA would
Genesis Turfgrass for their role as Presenting Sponsor.
lled students who wish to further their education. Entry Fee includes Golf, Cart Re
Bloody Mary Bar, Beverage Cart, and Dinner Buffet after the round,
Presented by Prizes and F
he event is two-man best ball (four ball). Rhett Martin and Josh Nunn of Salisbury
ear with a gross score of 63 at The Country Club of Petersburg. First place in the
t to the team of Tom Adams of Helena and Matt Drayton with a net score of 55. Pr
he top gross and net teams, as well as contest winners.Additional
ODGCSA Sponsorswould
TBA like to th
grass for their role as Presenting Sponsor.
Presented by
The Bloody Mary Bar is always a good start, as Rhett Martin can attest.
The Bloody Mary Bar is always a good start, as Rhett Martin can attest.
Spring 2021 11BMP Second EditionSecond
Published
BMP Update
Edi*on to be Published Soon
Facility BMP's Now Available
The VGCSA’s BMP
Committee, headed by
Tim Doran of Elizabeth
Manor G&CC, is
pleased to announce the
publishing of a second
edition of the Best
Management Practices
Manual. The final task
is the creation of a
user-friendly website,
with capability for each
course to create its own BMP Committee Members (L-R): Tim Doran, Stacey Kingsbury, Cutler Robinson,
personalized facility Peter McDonough, Mike Augustin, Dr. Mike Goatley, Steven Ball
The project is supported by a $10K grant from GCSAA and EIFG. Here is the chapter lineup:
BMP – this is now Here is the chapter lineup: 9 POLLINATOR PROTECTION
available! 1 PLANNING, DESIGN, AND CONSTRUCTION 1 PLANNING, DESIGN,
BMP Commi)ee AND
Members Tim Doran, Stacey10Kingsbury,
(L-R): MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS
Cutler Robinson, Peter McDonough, Mike AugusDn, Dr. Mik
2 IRRIGATION CONSTRUCTION 11Goatley, Steven Ball
LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND
3 WATER MANAGEMENT 2 IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT
The first4 WATER
edition was MONITORING
QUALITY among the first This year the VGCSA’s BMP Commi)ee, headed by Tim Doran of Elizabeth Manor G&CC, has
3 WATER MANAGEMENT
5 NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT
12 ENERGY
ever published, only behind Florida, 4 WATER been working on
QUALITY a second ediDon of the Best Management Prac*ces Manual. At press Dme,
MONITORING
6 CULTURAL PRACTICES
and an update was needed to fit the the publishing of the PDF version was eminent. Please visit www.vgcsa.org to download
7 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT 5 NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT
new online software co-designed by
8 PESTICIDE MANAGEMENT 6 CULTURAL PRACTICES your copy! GCSAA members – start your
9 POLLINATOR PROTECTION
7 Page The
INTEGRATED first ediDon
PEST was
the among the first ever
personal published, only behind
online facility Florida,
guide for your and
cluban update w
GCSAA and USGA. OPERATIONS
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11 LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT
courses to
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12 The Commonwealth CrierVIRLINA CUP QUALIFYING SITES & DATES
VIRLINA VIRLINA
CUP CUPQUALIFYING SITES & DATES
QUALIFYING SITES & DATES
River Country Club in Newport News plays host to the 11th Virlina Cup on
r 10-12. Last year’s event was postponed due to COVID. The Carolinas holddd
based on victory in 2019, and the VGCSA looks to upend them. Here are the
ng dates for this year's Cup:
James RiverVGCSA
CountryChampionship
Club in Newport TTA Local Qualifier This year’s VGCSA Championship is
James MayRiver Country Club in Newport News plays host to the 11th Virlina Cup on
10, 2021
News plays host
TwotoRivers
the 11th VirlinaClub
Country Cup June 8, 2021 the premier qualifying event, as three
October
on October 10-12. 10-12.
Last year’s Last
event wasyear’s event was postponed
Elizabeth Manor Golf & due to COVID.
Country Club The Carolinas holddd
Virlina Cup berths are awarded
postponed due theto cup
GWGCSA COVID.based
LocalThe on victory in 2019, and the VGCSA looks to upend them.
Qualifier
Carolinas Here are the
(Superintendent Champion & Runner
basedMay
hold the cup qualifying 24, 2021
dates
on victory in for
2019,this
and year's Cup:
VTA/SVTA Local Qualifier
Up plus the Assistant Champion).
Bristow Manor Golf Club July 13, 2021
the VGCSA looks to upend them. Here There is also a Vendor Division, and
TTA
are the qualifying Local
dates Qualifier
for this year’s Cup: Pete Dye River Course at VA Tech
net prizes are also awarded. Brent
June 8, 2021 VGCSA Championship
VGCSA Championship Graham, CGCS hosts at Two Rivers
Elizabeth Manor Golf & Country Club In addition May
to six10, 2021 spots (5
available
May 10, 2021 Country Club on Monday, May 10th.
VTA/SVTA Local Club
Qualifier Two Rivers
superintendents, CountryatClub
1 assistant) these events,
Two Rivers Country The event is known for great
July 13, 2021 there is a Captain’s Pick and a Sponsor’s
Pete Dye River
GWGCSA LocalCourse at VA Tech PickGWGCSA
Qualifier to round outLocal
the team.Qualifier camaraderie, fun competition and an
May 24, 2021 May 24, 2021 outstanding social event after the
ion to six available spots (5 superintendents, 1 assistant) at these events,
Bristow ManorthereGolf Club tournament.
Bristow Manor Golf Club
ptain’s Pick and a Sponsor’s Pick to round out the team.
TTA Local Qualifier
June 8, 2021
Elizabeth Manor Golf & Country Club
VTA/SVTA Local Qualifier
July 13, 2021
Pete Dye River Course at VA Tech
In addition to six available spots (5 superintendents, 1 assistant) at these events, there
is a Captain’s Pick and a Sponsor’s Pick to round out the team.
This year’s This year’s
VGCSA VGCSA
Championship Championship
is the premieris the premier
qualifying qualifying
event, as event,
three as threeas Virlina Cup
This year’s This
VGCSA year’s VGCSA
Championship Championship
is the premier is the premier
qualifying event, as Virlina
qualifying event,
three Cup
Virlinathree
Cup Virlina Cup
berthsberthsberths
are awarded are awarded
(Superintendent
berths are (Superintendent
awardedChampion Champion
& Runner
(Superintendent & Runner
Up plus &the Up plus
Assistant the Assistant
are awarded (Superintendent Champion &Champion
Runner Up Runner
plus the Up plus the Assistant
Assistant
Champion). Champion).
There is There
also
Champion). a is
Vendor also
There isa Vendor
Division,
also aandDivision,
net
Vendor and
prizes net
are
Division, prizes
also
and are also
awarded.
net prizes awarded.
Brent
are also Brent Brent
awarded.
Champion). There is also a Vendor Division, and net prizes are also awarded. th. Brent
Graham, Graham,
CGCSCGCS hosts CGCS
at Two hosts at Two Rivers Country Club on Monday, May 10 The event is
atRivers Country Club on Monday, May
Club10 .Monday,
The
10th.event is10th.isThe event
th
Graham, Graham,hosts CGCSTwohosts
Riversat Country
Two Rivers
Club Country
on Monday, on
May Mayevent
The is
knownknown known
for great for great
camaraderie,
known for camaraderie,
fun
great competitionfun competition
camaraderie, and
fun an and anand
outstanding
competition outstanding
social
an event social
after
outstanding event event
the
social after the
after the
for great camaraderie, fun competition and an outstanding social event after the
tournament. tournament.
tournament.tournament.
Defending Defending
Champions Champions
Defending Champions
Defending Champions
Defending Champions
This year’s VGCSA Championship is the premier qualifying event, as three Virlina Cup
berths are awarded (Superintendent Champion & Runner Up plus the Assistant
Champion). There is also a Vendor Division, and net prizes are also awarded. Brent
Graham, CGCS hosts at Two Rivers Country Club on Monday, May 10th. The event is
known for great camaraderie, fun competition and an outstanding social event after the
tournament.
Bobby Friend – Supts. Jeff Snyder – Senior Ben Longest – Assts. Randy Rider - Affiliate
Bobby Friend Bobby
Supts.–Friend
Jeff–Friend JeffDefending
Supts.– Supts. Snyder Champions
– Senior – Ben Longest – Assts. Randy Rider
Randy- Rider
Affiliate
Bobby –Friend Bobby
Supts. Snyder – Senior
Jeff Snyder JeffBen
– Senior Longest
Snyder Assts.
– Senior
Ben Longest Randy
– Ben Rider
Longest
Assts. - Rider
Affiliate
– Assts.
Randy - Affiliate - Affiliate
Spring 2021 13Legislators in both chambers were limited in the num
12 bills and senators were allowed seven – due to th
session. While the Senate met in person at the Scien
Government Relations Update
Government Relations Update
into the building. All tesGmony and meeGngs with leg
The 2021
session of the
Virginia
General
Assembly
– both the
regular session
and the first of
what is
expected to be
several special
sessions
– concluded on
March 1st.
Originally, it
Robb Bohannon
was believed the
session would
only run 30 days, as Republican leadership
Robb
had statedBohannon
they would only agree to what was
constitutionally mandated, due to the virtual
environment and lengthy special session in
Like many things, the 2021 session of the Virginia General Assembly will look very different
2020. Ultimately, the General Assembly
agreed to a 30-day regular session, and a two
than it did in 2020. Similar to the special session that wrapped up in the fall, the House of
and a half week special session. The result was
very similar to the 45-day short session
Delegates will meet virtually, and the Senate will meet in person, but in a space larger than the
Virginia would normally have in an odd-
numbered year. VGCSA Superintendents protect pollinators.
Capitol provides. The Pocahontas
Legislators in both chambers were limited in VGCSA Building, where legislators’
Superintendents protect offices
pollinators.are located and where thD
stakeholders from the agricultural industry relayed the
public
the numbernormally meets
of bills they could with lawmakers,
file – delegates
were allowed 12 bills and senators were
will
and Virginia Tech, be aclosed
to draft compromise tobillthe public,
industry’s and will only be open to
that exempted out certified applicators and
VGCSA dealt with several problemaGc issues. Delegat
concerns to the
legislators andto the
allowed seven – due staff.
compressed and
those under their direct supervision, such as bill patron,
virtual nature of the legislative session. While
golf course superintendents and their staff. whose goal is to
have placed onerous reporGng
the Senate met in person at the Science
Museum of Virginia, the public was not requirements to the l
The industry’s BMP’s were helpful in making
begin examining
House and Senate Republican leadership announced in November they would only agree to a 3
the case that VGCSA members use
ways to replace
pesGcides, and would have
dieselallowed localiGes to regu
allowed into the building. All testimony and
neonicotinoids appropriately, and work to
school
meetings with legislators were conducted
day legislative session in 2021, as the General Assembly spent
remotely. much
with of 2020 in special session
promote, and in many cases, cultivate
buses
In an odd-numberedVGCSA
year,dealt beekeepers
the legislature inusually
would his district
pollinators.
that
meet The
for 45thatclaimed
electric ones.
bill applicaGon
days. Republicans have of
the
In the Senate, Senate Agriculture,
eventually passed
ability to insist on this change, Conservation
with several
problematic
as moving and beyond the constitutionally
Natural Resources
Committee Chairman Chap Petersen
the General mandated 30-day session
Assembly creates
requires a two-thirds vote
issues. in both
Delegate chambers.
(D-Fairfax ThetoHouse
City) was opposed placing and Senate have both voted to limit the
a work group to Delegate Mark Keam
Paul Krizek language regulating an approved product into
number of bills each legislator
(D-Fairfax) filed can file
the Code in 2021,
of Virginia. and
The bill the General
was further Assembly will likely hold
examine
funding
legislation that amended to simply require the Virginia
meetings on Saturdays and Sundays
would have Departmentduring the and
of Agriculture regular
Consumer session. Democrats
mechanisms have
for this process, but also
refer to a tax on dyed diesel fuel.
indicated
it does not
placed onerous Services (VDACS) to study the Beekeeper
that should they notreporting
complete the work
Pollinator theyPlan
Protection deem necessary during
and voluntary With the the regular
legislative session,
session completed,
Governor Ralph Northam
requirements to
the local (D) could call a special session to address
BMP’s to propose improvements to
communications between beekeepers and
unfinished business.
attention will now turn to elections. All 100
members of the House of Delegates are up for
community on applicators. This study is due to be completed reelection in 2021, and all three statewide
applicators of by December 1, 2021, and we have already offices – governor, lieutenant governor, and
Committee chairs are expected to be judicious in determining which bills will be docketed for
Delegate Paul Krizek
neonicotinoid requested that VGCSA be included in the attorney general – will be on the ballot in
pesticides, and discussion. November. Governor Ralph Northam (D) is
consideration, as there will less time
would have for debate and discussion. Both agricultural committee
Legislation was also introduced by Delegate
ineligible to run for reelection, so Virginia will
allowed localities to regulate or prohibit their have a new governor in 2022. We also expect
chairs – Delegate Ken Plum (D-Fairfax)
use. His concerns came from beekeepers in his and Senator
Mark Keam (D-Fairfax) Chap Petersen (D-Fairfax City) – may ha
that would have
implemented a $0.05 per gallon tax on dyed
at least one more special session in 2021, as
district that claimed application of the the General Assembly must address how to
only a few meetings before the diesel
pesticide was destroying bee colonies.crossover
fuel to help deadline, whereby
fund electric school buses in bills must pass their chamber of
allocate funds from the American Rescue Plan
the Commonwealth. While golf courses were
origin.
We worked with the bill patron, and not a target, the bill would have increased
Act of 2021 that was recently signed into law
by President Biden.
maintenance costs for superintendents. We
Prefiling
14 of legislation has already begun, and VGCSA is actively monitoring these filings.
The Commonwealth Crier AEmployment Corner
As a service to members, the VGCSA provides complimentary posting of jobs to VGCSA members and Partners.
Please visit www.vgcsa.org/-employment for a complete listing and details of available positions. Here is a sampling:
• Copper Cove Country Club in Hardy, VA seeks Superintendent
• Manor Country Club in Rockville, MD seeks Assistant Superintendent
• Virginia Beach National Golf Club Seeks 2nd Assistant Superintendent
• Washington Golf & Country Club in Arlington, VA seeks Assistant Superintendent
• Firethorne Country Club in Charlotte, NC seeks 1st Assistant Superintendent
• Wilmington Country Club in Wilmington, DE seeks 2nd Assistant Superintendent
• Copper Cove GC (formerly Westlake) Seeks Equipment Manager
• Farmington Country Club in Charlottesville Seeks Assistant Superintendent
• Helena Agri-Enerprises LLC, seeks Sales Representative in DE, MD & Delmarva Peninsula
• Tuckahoe Landscaping in Rockville Seeks Project Manager
• Advanced Turf Solutions seeks Golf Sales Representative
• Raven Golf Club in Snowshoe, WV seeks Golf Course Superintendent
• Greenbrier Country Club in Chesapeake Seeks Equipment Manager
Thank You 2021 Partner Program Participants!
Diamond Gold Silver
Bayer Environmental Science BASF Advanced Turf Solutions PondHawk by Linne Industries
Buy Sod Buffalo Turbine LLC Aspire Golf Consulting Precision Laboratories
Finch Services Capitol Golf Cars Club Procure SOLitude Lake Management
GE Turf Genesis Turfgrass, Inc. Commonwealth Sports Turf Synatek
Home Field Fertilizer Harrell’s Earthworks Target Specialty Products
Landscape Supply NuFarm Harmon Turf Services, Inc. Triangle Turf & Ornamental
Meadowspring Turf Peebles Golf Cars Horizon Virlina DryJect
Revels Tractor Rain Bird Links Bridges
Riverside Turf Simplot Luck Ecosystems
SiteOne Landscape Supply Textron Golf/Tri-State Pump Noble Turf
Smith Turf & Irrigation Turf Equipment & Supply Performance Nutrition
Syngenta Virginia Sand & Stone Plant Food Company, Inc.
Virginia State Golf Assn. Port City Staffing
Bronze
A-List Turf FMC Annual Golf & Assistants Nonprofit
Scott Turf
Aqua-Aid GreenCor Equipment
Conference Hydro Solutions, Inc. ESAGCS
Aquatrols Growing Solutions SePro PBI Gordon Mitchell Products Keep Virginia Beautiful
Better Billy Bunker Helena Chemical SipCam Agro The Drone Co. RVA Spiio MAAGCS
Cannon’s Service JRM, Inc. Sunbelt Rentals USGA Green Section
Corteva Agriscience Modern Turf Golf
The Andersons
DLF Pickseed Newsom Seed Vereens Geoponics
East Coast Sod Nutrien Solutions Yamaha Golf IGM
Farrar Sod Quali-Pro Cars of VA MAPGA
Fisher & Son R&R Products, Inc. M&M Consulting
Spring 2021 15News from Local Associations
ODGCSA News
Hello Everyone, I hope everyone is doing will get to a point where we can plan more would like to see discussed at future
well. I would like to thank Jay Wade for past events later this year. educational events please let us
years of service and hope I can hold up in We continue to discuss social events outside know that as well.
his shadow. of golf, so if you all have any suggestions, we I sincerely hope that we can get back to
Well it’s only a few months into 2021 and we would love to hear from you about what you normal in the months to come, we deal with
have already dealt with managing the whims all would like to see. Presently the focus for enough uncertainty already, so here’s to the
of Mother Nature, I know for my team and us is maintaining our Scholarship rest of 2021 and its promise to be better
myself it was a bit of a challenge to treat our Tournament in hopes to help deserving than 2020. So let’s all continue to be each
bermuda for the upcoming season as I am recipients throughout these unprecedented other’s best resource and support system, the
sure most of us were fighting saturated golf times we face together. best part about our industry!
courses and irate players, who always obey Right now our Scholarship Tournament is
the cart rules. Aerations are right around the scheduled for Tuesday, June 15th at Spring
corner, for some of us, and I’m sure it will be Creek Golf Club, more details to follow on
June before we know it, bringing the next starting times etc. I anticipate it being a great
round of expecting the unexpected and opportunity for all and any of us that want to
doing our best to keep the grass growing and play a great golf course, see our friends, and Chris Roberts
the golfers happy. support a great cause. ODGCSA
So many rules are still affecting our ability to If you have any questions or suggestions External VP
gather and socialize as we wish, which has please do not hesitate to let me know, this is
unfortunately led to another year of the your association and we are here to help
ODGCSA forgoing our March Madness provide events and gatherings you all would
event. It is our hope that Covid restrictions like to attend, if there are any topics you
TTA News
Longer days and fewer frost delays…Spring Dick Cake Memorial and Virlina Cup
is in the air! The Tidewater, much like most Qualifier at Elizabeth Manor Golf &
of Virginia, deserves some good weather Country Club on June 8th. Look for
after being under water for much of the VGCSA’s emails as we will add events to fill
winter. Our first event of the year was held out the summer and fall, including our Tim Doran
at Bayville Golf Club and to no one’s annual TopGolf event and the Bert Walton TTA External
surprise, the golf course was in excellent Memorial tournament. It’s not too late in VP
condition. We are continuing to fill out the the game to say 2021 will be our year!
schedule for 2021 and will be holding the
News from the GWGCSA
I hope everyone had a productive off-season this year. Be on the lookout for details on raised is allocated directly by our association
and projects are wrapping up as talk about our first event, which will be at Bristow to research we believe is most important to us.
pre-emerge applications and we all start Manor Golf Club on Monday May 24th. This
gearing up as the season gets underway. will be the Qualifier for the Local Association
There never seems to be enough time in the Challenge and Virlina Cup. Our Second
spring to get our to-do lists done and with event to look forward to will be will be the
the increased rounds it just seems that much Super / Assistant Championship at Potomac
more difficult this year. We’ve said it before Shores Golf Club on Tuesday June 29th. David Walter
but it’s times like these that we as GWGCSA
professionals get to shine and show our Lastly, please ask your club to donate to External VP
creative management styles and ability to Rounds 4 Research. The auction runs from
adapt to any circumstance. April 26th – May 2nd. We have a lot of great
clubs in the our area that can raise a
The GWGCSA will be hosting four events significant amount of money. All money
16 The Commonwealth CrierNews from Local Associations
VTA External VP Report
I always like to take a minute to look back scholarship fundraiser in June at Ivy Hills. a career in our industry.
at previous newsletter articles to see what One event that we had to postpone last year
topics had been discussed, how much time was a “mini field days” at Virginia Tech. We Keep your eyes peeled for the event schedule
I actually spend talking about the weather are currently working with the team at and emails from Brian Kearns. Looking
and just trying to get an overall idea of Virginia Tech to see if we can re-establish forward to getting a chance to see everyone
where each article needed to go. Going this event in July with hopes of tying it into this year…and not on Zoom. Stay safe.
back and reading last year’s Spring article our Virlina Cup qualifier. To end the year
was definitely surreal. All the unknowns we will be going down to Southside Virginia
that we were about to face, the anxiety of to have our annual meeting at Goodyear in
what was going to happen to the golf Danville. As restrictions ease, we will look
industry and scariest of all was how where to add a few more informal events to the
we going to make it through. Well, the calendar, doing our best to reconnect with Sean K.
good news is there seems to be light at the our fellow green industry members. Baskette
end of the tunnel and golf seems to have Hidden Valley
gotten a much needed boost. Once again the VTA will be opening up the Country Club
Bob Ruff Scholarship to students at Virginia VTA President
This year we hope to have some more Tech, children of VTA member as well as
activity within the VTA, starting with our staff members that may be wishing to pursue
SVTA News
Spring is fast approaching here in the valley. for the secretary position and I have
The golfers have been coming out of accepted the role of External Vice President,
hibernation and if the past few weeks are replacing Ed Eagle. I would like to thank Ed
any indication of how the season is going to for all of his work with the SVTA over the
Eric Ferrell
go, it’s going to be a busy one. We have a years. He has been an integral part in
SVTA External
newly elected board for the SVTA. David furthering the SVTA with membership
VP
Lewallen is our new president, Peter participation and involvement at the state
Schmidt is taking on the Vice President level. We have some exciting SVTA events
role. Bobby Jenkins remains our treasurer. planned this year so I hope to see everyone
Chris Dieter and Joel Miller are teaming up there!
Make Your Whole Team a VGCSA Member!
• All Assistants • Your Equipment Manager
Support our Association - Just $90 dues annually
Important for their professional development
Vendors: Sign up All Reps!
VGCSA Office: 804-708-9760
www.vgcsa.org
Spring 2021 17COLD PLAYABILITY
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strong base in the for tees, fairways.
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the geographic boundaries of bermudagrass into the
northernmost reaches of the Transition Zone. Highly
DROUGHT COLOR
cold tolerant, the name “Tahoma” comes from the Use less water. Takes Blue-green most of
18% less water than the year. Golden in
Native American word that means “frozen water.” TifTuf. dormancy. Earliest
Use Tahoma 31 to design golf courses that are beautiful, green-up for
spring color.
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18 The Commonwealth CrierYou can also read
