Commercial water features are built to run all year

Commercial water features are built to run all year

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Commercial water features are built to run all year

Commercial water features typically run all year round and only need draining when maintenance work calls for it or, on some sites, where ice from spray would create a safety hazard, according to commercial water feature specialist Waterscapes, which has published new guidance for facilities teams on when a drain-down is and isn’t justified.

Commercial water features are built to run all year

Commercial water features are built to run all year

The guidance, Do Commercial Water Features Need Draining? Why They Run All Year, explains why a feature built for a commercial site doesn’t need a seasonal drain-down, and argues that draining should be a planned maintenance step rather than a seasonal habit.

Waterscapes, which maintains commercial water features for public realm schemes, office developments, heritage gardens and managed estates, still sees the habit on some sites each autumn. Features are switched off and emptied with no work planned, then sit dry or part-filled with rainwater and leaves through the winter, before needing a full clean, refill, water treatment reset and recommissioning in spring.

“A feature that’s running gets looked at. One that’s been drained tends to be forgotten until March, and that’s when the problems show up,” said Ed Harwood, Maintenance Contracts Manager at Waterscapes. “If there’s a repair to do, drain it, fix it and get it running again. If there isn’t, leave it on and keep it maintained.”

The guidance identifies three costs of draining by default: an empty pool in public view for several months; standing water and debris collecting in a feature that is no longer circulated or treated; and a larger, costlier restart in spring, when there is little time to fix faults before the busy season.

It also sets out when a drain-down is the right call. Repairs, leak investigation, deep cleaning, resurfacing and refurbishment all need a feature empty, and that work can happen at any time of year, although winter often suits it because a planned shutdown affects fewer people. Waterscapes advises that any drain-down should have a defined scope and a date for refilling, rather than being left open-ended until spring.

“The question we’d ask any facilities manager is simple: is there work that needs the feature empty?” said Ed Harwood. “If the answer is no, draining it usually costs more than it saves.”

For features that keep running, the guidance recommends agreeing three things with whoever maintains them: who checks the feature and how often, what changes should be reported, and who to call for specialist support.

The full guidance is available at https://waterscapes.co.uk/blog/do-commercial-water-features-need-draining.

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STIHL introduces its most powerful battery-powered arborist chainsaw

STIHL introduces its most powerful battery-powered arborist chainsaw

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STIHL introduces its most powerful battery-powered arborist chainsaw

STIHL has launched the MSA 240 TC-O – the most powerful top-handle arborist chainsaw in its professional battery-operated range. Engineered to deliver fast, smooth cuts, while reducing operator fatigue during large tree maintenance tasks, the new chainsaw pairs high cutting power with an agile, manoeuvrable design to help arborists work more efficiently throughout the day.

STIHL introduces its most powerful battery-powered arborist chainsaw

STIHL introduces its most powerful battery-powered arborist chainsaw

STIHL fast cutting for large tree maintenance tasks

Delivering high torque, even at low speeds, the MSA 240 TC-O is ideal for removing large trunk sections and branches at pace for maximum efficiency. With a chain speed of 24 m/s and an operating weight of 4.66KG (including AP 200 P battery, 14” guide bar, saw chain and oil), the new chainsaw combines impressive cutting performance with the agility for professional tree care. The compact machine is also designed for easy tree top maintenance and the removal of deadwood, making quick work of arduous arborist tasks.

The MSA 240 TC-O’s standard bar and chain setup provides excellent cut quality with minimal chattering for a smooth user experience. It is comprised of a 12” or 14” Light 04 Guide Bar and a 3/8” Picco Super 3 PRO full chisel tooth saw chain.

STIHL comfort characteristics for maximum productivity 

The new MSA 240 TC-O chainsaw combines a low operating weight with excellent balance and can be used with an optional comfort loop for carrying in a climbing harness. This improves handling and supports freedom of movement for maximum comfort. Battery-operated, the MSA 240 TC-O is also ideal for use in noise-sensitive areas which means arborists can be more productive throughout the working day.

STIHL smart lubrication benefits for efficiency 

The MSA 240 TC-O has an integrated oil pump, which allows professionals to easily adjust the flow rate of the oil to suit their requirements. It reduces oil consumption and means professionals have full control of the saw’s operation for managing running costs.

Smart STIHL controls and all-weather performance

The new chainsaw has an in-built 180° LED display for at-a-glance monitoring of the machine’s status while on the job.  Additionally, the MSA 240 TC-O’s has an oil sensor which alerts the user when the oil level is low, and its externally mounted filter makes for simple cleaning and maintenance. Plus, the tool has a splash-proof design makes it ideal for professionals using it in all weather conditions.

STIHL’s ALLPRO system for fast flexibility 

The new MSA 240 TC-O is recommended for use with STIHL’s AP 200 P battery, powered by STIHL’s new ALLPRO system. When combined with STIHL’s new AL 1802 MO high-speed dual charger it can be charged to 80% in just nine minutes! This can even be done when working remotely, by combining with the PS 2000 portable power supply.

STIHL at 100 

The new chainsaw arrives as STIHL celebrates its 100th anniversary. Since 1926, STIHL has defined the global standard for battery and petrol-powered forestry, landscaping, and residential gardening equipment for professional and domestic users.

For more information on STIHL products, visit www.stihl.co.uk or contact your nearest STIHL Approved Dealer.

Find out more about STIHL’s historic milestone, here: https://100.stihl.com

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Reesink UK acquires Price Turfcare

Reesink UK acquires Price Turfcare

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Reesink UK acquires Price Turfcare

Reesink UK is pleased to announce the acquisition of Price Turfcare, the distributor of the Ventrac compact tractor in the United Kingdom and Ireland, with additional distribution rights in Switzerland and Iceland. The acquisition enhances Reesink UK’s position as a leading distributor of turf and groundcare equipment, broadens its offering to customers and creates a stronger platform for future growth. It also further strengthens the company’s long-standing relationship with Toro, owner of the Ventrac brand.

Reesink UK acquires Price Turfcare

Reesink UK acquires Price Turfcare

Price Turfcare was established in 2017 by Rupert Price, who secured the distribution rights for the Ventrac all-wheel-drive compact tractor and attachments in the UK, Ireland, Switzerland and Iceland. Supported by a highly experienced team with more than 150 years of combined industry expertise, the company has successfully introduced and developed the Ventrac brand across a broad range of customer segments, including golf courses, sports facilities, local authorities, contractors and commercial grounds maintenance professionals.

Ventrac equipment platform

At the heart of the business is Ventrac’s versatile equipment platform, built around a single power unit that can be combined with more than 30 different attachments. This enables customers to perform a wide range of year-round tasks, including mowing, aerating, turf renovation, debris management and snow removal, using a single machine. The combination of versatility, productivity and high utilisation rates has made Ventrac a popular choice for customers operating in demanding environments and on challenging terrain. The platform’s extensive attachment range also creates significant opportunities throughout the equipment lifecycle, generating ongoing demand for attachments, parts and service while supporting long-term customer relationships.

Strengthening the turfcare platform

Following completion of the acquisition, Price Turfcare will be integrated into Reesink UK, creating additional opportunities to expand the Ventrac business through Reesink UK’s established infrastructure, service organisation and market presence. As part of the transaction, founder Rupert Price will join Reesink UK as Commercial Director, where he will continue to drive the development of the Ventrac business while contributing to the broader growth of Reesink UK’s turfcare activities.

Rupert Price, Founder of Price Turfcare: “Over the past ten years, we have worked hard to establish Ventrac as a respected and trusted brand in the countries we serve. Joining Reesink UK and Royal Reesink creates exciting opportunities to further grow the business, strengthen our service capabilities and provide even greater support to our customers. I am proud of what our team has achieved and look forward to building on that success together.”

Alastair Rowell, Managing Director Reesink UK: “Price Turfcare has built a successful business based on specialist knowledge and strong customer relationships, making it an excellent strategic fit for Reesink UK. We are pleased to welcome Rupert and his team to the business. Together, we have an exciting opportunity to expand our offering, strengthen our presence across the UK, Ireland and beyond, and provide customers with access to a broader range of innovative equipment and support solutions.”

Jeff Dimos, Managing Director Ventrac: “There is a strong parallel between this acquisition and Ventrac joining The Toro Company in 2020. By combining two strong cultures, we preserved what made Ventrac successful while gaining the scale, resources and long-term strength of a company with more than a century of experience.

Rupert and the Price Turfcare team have built a tremendous foundation for Ventrac and bringing their expertise, relationships and entrepreneurial spirit together with Reesink’s long history, infrastructure and resources creates a powerful platform for the future. This combination will strengthen and expand the Ventrac brand, extend the reach of our unique ‘Versatility That Works’ value proposition and enhance our ability to support customers as well as invest in sustainable, long-term growth across these markets.”

Rogier van der Linde, CEO Royal Reesink: “This acquisition marks another step in the execution of Royal Reesink’s growth strategy. We aspire to be a consolidator in a consolidating market, and the addition of Price Turfcare further strengthens our position in turf and groundcare. By bringing this business into our global family of machinery equipment distributors, we expand our market presence while also reinforcing our longstanding relationship with Toro as owner of the Ventrac business.” 

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BIGGA announce six volunteers for 2027 John Deere TPC Sawgrass Programme

BIGGA announce six volunteers for 2027 John Deere TPC Sawgrass Programme

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BIGGA announce six volunteers for 2027 John Deere TPC Sawgrass Programme

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) have announced the six members selected for the 2027 John Deere TPC Sawgrass Volunteer Programme, which will give them the opportunity to help prepare one of golf’s most recognisable courses for the Players Championship.

BIGGA announce six volunteers for 2027 John Deere TPC Sawgrass Programme

BIGGA announce six volunteers for 2027 John Deere TPC Sawgrass Programme

Representing BIGGA’s five UK regions and its international membership, the greenkeepers will join the home agronomy team at the renowned Florida venue for the 2027 championship, which takes place from March 11 to 14.

With flights and accommodation provided courtesy of BIGGA Premium Partner John Deere, the programme offers an insight into elite tournament preparation and the opportunity to build connections with turf professionals from around the world.

“This long-standing initiative with BIGGA is something we’re extremely proud of,” said Chris Meacock, Division Sales Manager for Golf & Turf at John Deere. “We want to support the personal and professional development of greenkeepers across the UK, Ireland, and internationally, and the experiences these volunteers get at TPC Sawgrass is something truly unique. We wish this year’s cohort all the best.”

For Dominic Wright, senior greenkeeper and spray technician at Fulford, selection came after a second application. “I’m over the moon to have been selected for the TPC Sawgrass volunteer programme, especially as this was my second time applying,” said Wright.

“I’m really excited about being involved in such an iconic championship, seeing first-hand the attention to detail that goes into preparing and managing the course, and learning from an experienced and diverse team.

“I’m also proud to be representing the BIGGA Northern Region and look forward to building my network, sharing experiences and bringing new ideas back to Fulford.”

Harvey Sims, first assistant at Hayling, also highlighted the opportunity to learn from fellow greenkeepers.

“Being selected for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will help me network with other turf professionals that I wouldn’t normally get to network with,” said Harvey.

“I’m looking forward to learning what goes into creating such a special event and being a part of a world-class team.”

Euan Polson, first assistant at Royal Aberdeen, said: “It’s an absolute honour to be selected from the Scottish region for the TPC Sawgrass volunteer support initiative next year.”

Famous for its island green on the 17th hole, the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass provides a spectacular setting for the championship.

During their 10-day stay in Ponte Vedra Beach, the volunteers will be fully integrated into the venue’s agronomy and course maintenance team, working alongside greenkeepers from across the globe.

John Deere will also provide food and uniform, helping the selected members make the most of this opportunity to experience tournament preparations at the PGA Tour’s headquarters.

The 2027 BIGGA volunteers

  • Cameron Braes, greenkeeper, Sheringham – South East
  • Zane Pexman, deputy head greenkeeper, Elsham – Central England
  • Harvey Sims, first assistant, Hayling – South West and South Wales
  • Dominic Wright, senior greenkeeper and spray technician, Fulford – Northern
  • Euan Polson, first assistant, Royal Aberdeen – Scotland and Northern Ireland
  • Marcus Davies, senior assistant superintendent, Royal Golf Club Bahrain – International

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