Mansfield Sand’s Impact on Repton School’s Clay-Based Grounds

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Mansfield Sand’s Impact on Repton School’s Clay-Based Grounds: Navigating the challenges of turf management on heavy clay soil presents a unique set of obstacles. Andrew Butler, Head of Grounds and Gardens at Repton School in Derbyshire, understands this all too well.

Tasked with maintaining Repton’s extensive grounds, Andrew has turned to Mansfield Sand’s MM40 to address the specific needs of the school’s clay-based terrain.

Mansfield Sand's Impact on Repton School's Clay-Based Grounds

Mansfield Sand’s Impact on Repton School’s Clay-Based Grounds

At Repton School, the soil’s heavy clay composition poses challenges to turf health and drainage. Andrew explains, “We are such a heavy clay soil-based site…the clay has got compressed, and it is so heavily compacted.” Recognising the importance of improving soil quality, Andrew sought solutions to enhance the medium and facilitate better water movement through the profile.

Enter MM40 from Mansfield Sand, a product renowned for its ability to improve soil structure and promote drainage. MM40 is sourced directly from the Two Oaks Quarry in Mansfield where the company produces its renowned Mansil range of Silica Sands. MM40 is a moist, medium sand which is predominantly used in the construction and maintenance of a wide range of sports surfaces.

MM40 serves as a vital tool in Repton’s efforts to combat compaction and enhance turf resilience.

The implementation of MM40 extends beyond addressing surface issues. Repton School is in the midst of a comprehensive drainage programme, aiming to alleviate waterlogging and improve turf health across the entire site. Andrew emphasises the importance of this initiative, stating, “We are trying to help get that water away from the surface. It is all about improving the soil medium and getting it through the profile quicker.”

The short renovation window of opportunity during Easter poses a logistical challenge for Andrew and his team. However, the application of MM40 during this period is essential to maximising its impact. Andrew explains, “We only have a short window during Easter to get as much sand in as we can. We use MM40 across all the pitches, across the whole site. It has massively helped with the drainage and improved playability.”

As Repton School continues its commitment to providing top-tier facilities for its students, the role of products like MM40 in improving turf quality and resilience cannot be overstated. With Mansfield Sand’s MM40 as a key ally, Andrew is ensuring that the grounds at Repton School remain a source of pride and excellence for years to come.

For more information visit www.mansfield-sand.co.uk

You can also follow the company on Twitter – @MansfieldSand and Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/MansfieldSandSportSurfaces/

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Reduce inputs, not quality, with Microclover

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Reduce inputs, not quality, with Microclover: It’s fair to say that in many aspects of modern life we are encouraged to be mindful of the impact we have on the environment.

That’s certainly the case for most Turf Managers across the sporting spectrum, together with landscapers and those looking after green community spaces, some of whom face increasing pressure to operate more sustainably. Whether it’s for environmental reasons or a result of budget constraints, reducing fertiliser applications could be considered. With Microclover® from DLF, this can be achieved without a compromise on turf quality.

Reduce inputs, not quality, with Microclover

Reduce inputs, not quality, with Microclover

Microclover® is a legume with the natural ability to fix nitrogen from the air. To capitalise on this benefit, DLF developed a unique small leaved variety, specifically for use in professional grade lawns and surfaces. When sown alongside more traditional varieties, Microclover® will contribute to a dense, uniform appearance and a harder-wearing, more drought-tolerant sward that stays greener for longer.

Its own natural fertiliser reserves feed the Microclover® and the surrounding companion plants via root nodules that convert atmospheric nitrogen into a natural fertiliser, improving nutrient availability and reducing the risk of leeching. This process continues throughout the growing season until the first frost.

The competitiveness of Microclover® is another benefit for less intensively managed areas, quickly filling gaps to lock out weeds and reduce the need for herbicides.

Microclover® is incorporated into the PM26 and PM27 mixtures from DLF’s Masterline collection, these two formulations specifically developed to reduce input costs and be kinder to the environment by eliminating the need for excessive fertiliser, water and herbicides. Incorporating 5% Microclover®, both PM26 Ecosward and PM27 Ecosward Plus offer low-maintenance yet tolerant and visually attractive swards, ideal for landscape applications.

Self-sustaining Microclover® is just one of a number of sustainable seed developments borne from DLF’s global research and breeding programmes, seeking to meet the needs of today and those of the future. More information can be found by visiting www.dlf.co.uk

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Pioneering fish fertiliser provides biological boost

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Pioneering fish fertiliser provides biological boost: British organic fertiliser manufacturer Biocore Agri has developed a new fish-based fertiliser that has significantly increased microbial life, including bacteria and fungi, in a variety of growing systems.

In a series of trials with its Biocore Land product, a fertiliser made by fermenting fish, the Fleetwood-based manufacturer has used Eurofins’ Soil Life Monitor tests to prove the soil-enhancing effect of the product. The liquid fish hydrolysate contains a broad range of macro and micro nutrients, amino acids, trace elements and organic matter, as Managing Director Stephen Welsh explains:

Pioneering fish fertiliser provides biological boost

Pioneering fish fertiliser provides biological boost

“We shred and mulch fish that is not suitable for human consumption in a process known as cold hydrolysis. The resulting liquid organic fertiliser that can be applied to soil as a conditioner or to plants as a foliar spray. It can also be mixed with other biological or chemical products to reduce spraying frequency.”

In a trial, seven litres per hectare of Biocore Land was used to improve lettuce growth. It reduced the growth cycle by three days, equivalent to a 10% reduction.

“We are working with Harlequins F.C. to enhance the training pitches at the club. We are also running a series of trials with VCS Agronomy, and recently completed a successful trial with the British Carrot Growers Association which saw carrot yields increase by 9.65%,” he says.

Tests with Eurofins Agro UK have identified that, when compared to a control sample, the organic fertiliser can increase microbial biomass by 85% and organic matter by 27%. In addition, the tests showed increases in total bacteria of 66.6% and total fungi of 85.71%.

“In a 15-hectare split field trial we applied Biocore Land to grass, which showed an 8.47% increase in grass protein and an organic matter increase of 27%. This demonstrated a benefit to both soil life and grass quality,” adds Mr Welsh.

The product, being made of natural material, is certified by the Soil Association and is expected to appeal to farmers and growers looking to enhance soil health by improving soil life. As an agricultural product for grassland or arable, it has the potential to help soils manage stresses such as drought, floods, extreme temperatures, pests and disease.

“Eurofins was the only laboratory that could identify the build-up of microbial biomass in the soil samples from our trials. The results show that Biocore Land is capable of making significant improvements to microbial life quickly, which we hope will appeal to farmers and growers looking to use natural fertilisers rather than chemicals,” he concludes.

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Bernhard Academy announces expansion of leadership team

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Bernhard Academy announces expansion of leadership team: The Bernhard Academy has today announced the expansion of its leadership team, with the appointment of Phil Helmn as full-time Programme Leader – Agronomy, Leadership, and Management.

Helmn’s new position will see him take control of delivery of all Bernhard Academy courses and workshops relating to Agronomy, Leadership, and Management subjects. He will work closely with the recently appointed Education Director for the Bernhard Academy, Sami Strutt, other programme leaders, and internal and external teams to ensure a coordinated and positive experience at the Bernhard Academy.

Bernhard Academy announces expansion of leadership team

Bernhard Academy announces expansion of leadership team

Helmn has more than 35 years of experience in the turf and agronomy industry, having worked for some of the biggest names in the business, managed full golf course construction projects, and also supported the Bernhard Academy previously as a speaker and workshop guest. Helmn is a GCSAA Class E – Educator member, and also a Master Greenkeeper – one of only a few worldwide – so is extremely well placed to work with Strutt to take the Bernhard Academy forward.

Speaking on his new role, Helmn said: “I’m delighted to be joining the Bernhard Academy and helping Sami to expand its operations. Since its inception, the Bernhard Academy has been making real progress and providing greenkeepers and turf professionals in the UK with superb tools to enhance their careers.

“Throughout the last year, the cutting unit setup workshops and management programmes that the Academy has delivered have been very successful. So, I’m excited to work with Sami and the wider team to continue developing and evolving the full programme of classes and workshops over the next few months.”

Strutt added: “Phil is a fantastic addition to the Bernhard Academy team. He is a Master Greenkeeper and highly regarded internationally within the turf industry, so his expertise will be a tremendous asset to the Bernhard Academy as we continue to evolve its offering.

“Since I started my role in the spring, it’s been great to see the commitment from everyone involved in the Bernhard Academy to enhance the careers of greenkeepers and sports turf professionals. We’re trying to provide something really positive for the turf industry, and Phil is sure to be a crucial part of that as we move forward.”

Strutt joined the Bernhard Academy as Education Director earlier this year having previously performed numerous roles in a 30-year tenure at BIGGA (British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association), most recently as the organisation’s chief operating officer.

During Helmn’s first few months, he will be in charge of identifying and developing a range of workshops relating to Agronomy, Leadership and Management subjects for the forthcoming Autumn/Winter season.

In addition to the appointment of Helmn, the Bernhard Academy is also recruiting for a second senior management position, as Programme Leader – Technical and Equipment Management. The successful candidate will be responsible for reviewing, adapting, and introducing programmes to deliver world-class learning and development opportunities to the industry in all subjects related to Technical training and Equipment Management.

To find out more about this additional recruitment opportunity, visit: https://bernhard.co.uk/careers/. Applications will close on June 7th, 2024.

To learn more about the Bernhard Academy and the courses, programmes, and workshops it offers across its locations at Haverhill (Suffolk), Moortown (Leeds), Norwich (Norfolk), and Gleneagles (Scotland), visit: https://bernhardacademy.co.uk/

You can also find the Bernhard Academy on Twitter at @BernhardAcademy or on Instagram at @bernhard_academy

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Release the pressure with new washer from EGO

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Release the pressure with new washer from EGO: Leading battery-powered outdoor power equipment specialist, EGO Power Plus, is introducing an industry-leading cordless pressure washer.

The innovative HPW2000E combines heavy-duty cleaning power with market-leading battery run times. Featuring the company’s tried and tested Peak Power™ technology, its powerful motor can deliver pressure of up to 200 Bar or 2900psi, firing out more than 300 litres of water per hour.

Release the pressure with new washer from EGO

Release the pressure with new washer from EGO

Andrew Frohock, Product Manager at EGO, said: “The HPW2000E brings a new level of power and performance to cordless pressure washers. With this step change in technology, users no longer have to choose between mains connectivity and high-pressure capabilities.”

The first pressure washer from EGO, it features a dual battery port – and the ARC Lithium batteries are compatible with all other EGO products, providing additional versatility and reducing user costs. Standard features include remote mode selection for intuitive control, plus power and battery charge level indicators all integrated into the wand.

The HPW2000E also has large 185mm wheels and a telescopic pull-out handle for ergonomics and easy transportation. A garden hose connector is included for standard hose connection, along with a siphon hose to allow water to be taken from any fresh water source or reservoir. Quick-connect hoses, an included foam cannon, and a selection of nozzles deliver complete control for the most effective, efficient results encompassing a range of different cleaning tasks.

The EGO Power Plus Pressure Washer has a nozzle for every cleaning situation, with all nozzles featuring a bayonet system which makes switching between them easy and simple. The design of each nozzle has been optimised to create a uniform fan of water, improving efficiency and preventing water atomisation. Turbo is the most powerful nozzle in the EGO range, for use on the hardest surfaces. The 15° nozzle is ideal for brick, concrete and driveways; the 25° attachment is for cleaning decking, wheels and ATVs; while the 40° nozzle is perfect for general cleaning of windows and cars or vans. A premium Brass foam cannon is available as a separate accessory for more specialist applications.

The pressure washer is part of a series of exciting lifestyle product launches from EGO in 2024. They are supported by EGO’s next-generation battery charging solution to ensure these robust products always have the power they need throughout the day.

For more information on the latest products from EGO, visit; www.egopowerplus.co.uk

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