EGO launches first robotic mowers

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EGO launches first robotic mowers: EGO Power+ is adding not one, but two robotic lawnmowers to its portfolio of battery-powered outdoor power equipment.

EGO’s first robotic tools, the RM4000E and the RM2000E can automate mowing for lawns up to 4000m2 and 2000m2 respectively, meaning users can now sit back and let the mower do the leg work.

EGO launches first robotic mowers

EGO launches first robotic mowers

Andrew Frohock, IoT Product Manager for EGO comments: “Re-defining the way that our customers can care for their lawns, our GPS-supported boundary wire robotic mowers use three pivoting blades to deliver a 24cm cutting width, combined with some innovative mowing features, they offer outstanding cutting performance.”

The EGO robotic mowers are part of a select few boundary wire machines on the market to provide systematic mowing, which delivers a more efficient working practice. The systematic mowing feature enables the mower to cut grass systematically in parallel tracks, providing the most efficient coverage, especially in complex lawn layouts. Likewise, the smart GPS navigation promotes even coverage and reduces wear on the lawn around the charging station. RM2000E and RM4000E are capable of navigating gradients of up to 50%, in challenging and complex spaces.

Users benefit from a choice of simple control settings, with the schedule and mowing settings of both mowers easily adjusted by an intuitive 3.5-inch colour touchscreen display. Also fully connected, the mowers can also be optimised for remote control using the EGO Connect App. Adding the mower to the app offers full live status visibility of the mower via a cellular data connection – meaning the mower is always accessible, wherever you are in the world.

Andrew continues: “By using the EGO Connect app, users can see a map of their lawn, the mower’s live location and details of what areas have been covered so far. And for enhanced usability, the remote-control function in the app enables users to tell the robot mower to drive, park, pause or schedule its work time. Other features, such as changing the LED colour, weather features and software updates enable users to customise their mower and keep it up to date.”

The robot mowers also incorporate advanced sensing and monitoring capabilities, rain, lift and tilt sensors to protect the user, lawn and machine during operation; and GPS tracking to provide advanced warning and traceability in the event of theft.

The RM4000E retails at £2099 and the RM2000E retails at £1699.

For more information visit: https://egopowerplus.co.uk/products/robotic-mowers

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Royal Jersey GC recovers after devastating fire

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Royal Jersey GC recovers after devastating fire: Royal Jersey Golf Club has overcome a catastrophic fire, which destroyed much of the club’s greenkeeping buildings and equipment, with vital support from Reesink Turfcare, Toro, and local supplier JFTU. Now, with a fresh fleet of Toro machinery and new and improved facilities, the club’s future looks brighter than ever.

The fire, which broke out in the early hours of May 20th 2023, wiped out the club’s welfare building, workshop, and 15 Toro machines. As Course Manager, Allan Black, remembers: “I arrived at four in the morning to a disaster. It looked like a scene from a war film. Equipment wise, we’d lost everything required for cutting greens and approaches, plus six electric trucks and most of our tools.”

Royal Jersey GC recovers after devastating fire

Royal Jersey GC recovers after devastating fire

Fortunately, some equipment was spared, which allowed Allan and his greenkeeping team to continue hand cutting greens and tees on foot while adjusting the height of the cut as needed, while they worked on a recovery plan. But being the start of the season, they had to act fast.

“I contacted Andy Brown at Toro, who put me in touch with Jon Cole, Reesink’s Divisional Business Manager,” Allan explains. “With the help of John Renouf, General Manager at JFTU, they put together a plan for renewing the fleet. 

“Jon reassured me Reesink could quickly source two Workman utility vehicles and a Toro Greensmaster 3400. It was a huge relief because now we could get around the course and maintain our greens.”

By August 2023, the club had received six Toro Workman GTX vehicles. Over the next 12 months, Reesink delivered a Greensmaster 3250, five Greensmaster Flex 1021 walk-behind greens mowers, and three Toro Greensmaster TriFlex 3420 hybrid greensmowers, enabling the club to rebuild its course maintenance capabilities.

“Reesink did all this while supporting Royal Liverpool in the build up to The Open and against a machinery backlog and long lead times,” Allan continues. “Without their support, the club would have struggled and we might have had to shut the course. We couldn’t be more grateful for Reesink, Toro, and JFTU.”

Allan is feeling optimistic about the future. “We’re now back to a full fleet,” he says. “Three mowers are still at JFTU, awaiting transfer to our new mower sheds, which will be ready by the end of March. Once complete, we’ll see staff morale soar and our 1000-plus members will see that reflected in the course.

“It goes to show that even the most dire circumstances can turn around and bring people together. Ultimately, our club, members, and partners like Reesink and JFTU are closer now than ever,” Allan concludes. 

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Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation

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Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation: Keeping UK sports fields in pristine condition is no easy feat, but Landscape Watering Systems Limited is making it simpler and more efficient than ever. As one of the UK’s leading distributors of Rain Bird irrigation products, the company is bringing the latest in smart irrigation technology to the nation’s sporting arenas — delivering next-level performance, precision, and sustainability.

At the heart of this offering is a suite of cutting-edge Rain Bird products: the IVM (Integrated Valve Module) control system, the powerful 11000 Series Rotors, and the intuitive IQ4 Central Control platform. Together, these technologies are setting a new benchmark for irrigation management on sports turf.

Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation

Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation

A Smarter Approach to Irrigation

Simon Edginton, Director at Landscape Watering Systems Limited, believes these innovations come at the perfect time for the UK’s sports turf sector.

“We are committed to providing UK sports facilities with the most advanced tools to ensure optimal playing conditions,” Edginton explains. “Rain Bird’s IVM, 11000 Series, and IQ4 represent a significant leap forward, offering the precision, efficiency, and ease of management that turf professionals need to keep fields at their best.”

The Technology Making It Happen

Rain Bird IVM – Integrated Valve Module
At the core of this modernisation is the IVM system, which replaces traditional decoders in 2-wire systems with a “smart solenoid” that communicates directly with the controller. This streamlined design simplifies installation, lowers material and labour costs, and delivers real-time diagnostics — a major asset when fast troubleshooting is essential. With its increased reliability and responsiveness, the IVM helps groundskeepers maintain consistent, high-quality pitch conditions.

Rain Bird 11000 Series Rotors – Built for Performance
Designed specifically for sports fields and large turf areas, the 11000 Series rotors deliver powerful, even coverage with a throw radius of up to 32 metres. Their robust build ensures long-term durability, while the minimal exposed surface reduces interference during play. Fewer heads are required thanks to their wide coverage, translating into cost savings on installation and maintenance.

Rain Bird IQ4 Central Control – Control at Your Fingertips
The IQ4 platform offers grounds teams a comprehensive control centre for their irrigation operations. With weather-based scheduling, evapotranspiration (ET) adjustments, remote access, and detailed reporting, IQ4 enables precise and proactive water management. Its user-friendly interface puts full system visibility in the hands of groundskeepers, helping them make informed decisions quickly — whether managing a single pitch or an entire complex.

Why It Matters for Sports Facilities

These new technologies aren’t just about saving time and water — they’re about raising the standard of sports field care. Facilities can expect a wide range of benefits, including:

  • Superior Turf Health: Precision irrigation ensures even watering, promoting vigorous, resilient grass that can withstand intense play.
  • Water Conservation: Smart controls and efficient hardware reduce waste and align with sustainability targets.
  • Lower Maintenance: Fewer components, streamlined troubleshooting, and robust design all help minimise downtime.
  • Remote Oversight: With IQ4, irrigation schedules can be monitored and adjusted from anywhere — a game-changer for complex sites.
  • Cost Effectiveness: Reduced water usage, lower installation costs, and fewer maintenance demands result in long-term savings.

A Trusted Partner for Irrigation Excellence

With decades of industry expertise, Landscape Watering Systems Limited continues to support turf professionals with innovative products and hands-on support. As UK sports venues face increasing pressure to improve efficiency and environmental performance, the company’s latest offerings provide a powerful edge.

About Landscape Watering Systems Limited
Landscape Watering Systems Limited is a leading UK distributor of professional irrigation products. Serving the sports turf, landscape, and amenity sectors, the company is known for its technical expertise and commitment to delivering tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of grounds professionals.

About Rain Bird Corporation
Founded in 1933, Rain Bird Corporation is a global leader in irrigation systems. With a strong focus on The Intelligent Use of Water™, Rain Bird designs products that conserve water while promoting healthier environments in landscapes, agriculture, and public spaces around the world.

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Enhancing Fairway Resilience at Burnham & Berrow

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Enhancing Fairway Resilience at Burnham & Berrow: Burnham & Berrow Golf Club has successfully enhanced fairway resilience and improved turf quality following the integration of ICL’s H2Pro TriSmart into its water management programme. The initiative was driven by the club’s preparations to host Final Open Qualifying for The 152nd Open Championship at Royal Troon in 2024.

Like many links courses, Burnham & Berrow faced significant challenges during the severe drought of 2022. Despite an extensive irrigation system, maintaining uniform turf coverage proved difficult, highlighting the need for a long-term solution. Course Manager Rich Whyman, working alongside the R&A’s agronomy team, adopted a strategic approach to water management, incorporating H2Pro TriSmart as a key component.

Enhancing Fairway Resilience at Burnham & Berrow

Enhancing Fairway Resilience at Burnham & Berrow

Applied at 10L per hectare throughout the 2023 and 2024 seasons, TriSmart was used in conjunction with reseeding, targeted nutrition, and irrigation refinements. The surfactant’s proven ability to enhance soil moisture retention and improve drought tolerance played a critical role in restoring and strengthening fairway surfaces.

“We’d seen how TriSmart helped improve moisture control in other areas of the course, so we had confidence it could play a key role in strengthening the fairways,” said Rich Whyman, Course Manager at Burnham & Berrow Golf Club.

Since implementing TriSmart, the club has reported measurable improvements, including stronger, more uniform turf coverage, better moisture retention during dry periods, and greater consistency across playing surfaces. Volumetric Moisture Content (VMC) testing has further confirmed more stable moisture levels across the course.

“We’ve seen a real difference in how the fairways respond to dry spells. Areas that struggled in the past have held up far better, and the consistency across the course is much improved,” added Rich.

Burnham & Berrow’s enhanced course conditions have been instrumental in meeting the standards required for Final Open Qualifying, providing firm and consistent playing surfaces for elite golfers. TriSmart has now become an integral part of the club’s ongoing agronomic strategy, supporting long-term turf health and resilience.

“H2Pro TriSmart has played a vital role in improving the resilience of our fairways. Over the past two years, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in turf density and consistency, even during prolonged dry spells. It’s become an essential part of our water management strategy, helping us maintain the high standards required for hosting a Final Open Qualifying event,” said Rich.

Burnham & Berrow’s efforts have been recognised with a nomination for the BIGGA Awards 2024 Championship Performance of the Year, highlighting the club’s commitment to excellence and innovation in golf course management.

Please contact ICL on 01473 237100 or visit www.icl-sf.co.uk or www.icl-sf.ie  if you are in Ireland.

For more news and insightful views, you can follow ICL on Twitter @ICL_Turf

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Petrol-powered tools undermine clean air zone efforts

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Petrol-powered tools undermine clean air zone efforts: Despite the widespread introduction of clean air zones in cities across the UK, new research obtained through Freedom of Information requests shows that high-polluting petrol-powered tools are still predominantly used in many of these areas, compromising clean air commitments.

Local authorities including Birmingham City Council and several London boroughs are still operating 100% petrol-powered tools within their clean air zones – at a time when cars are under increased scrutiny where emissions are concerned. The widespread use of petrol-powered tools can compromise air quality in these areas, producing emissions comparable with some cars.

Petrol-powered tools undermine clean air zone efforts

Petrol-powered tools undermine clean air zone efforts

Petrol-powered tools – such as leaf blowers and hedge trimmers – are known to be just as, if not more, harmful to people and the environment. Emissions testing carried out by EGO Power+ and Millbrook found that some petrol-powered gardening tools are capable of emitting 11 times more carbon monoxide and four times more nitrogen oxide than a Ford Fiesta.

While the majority of tools being operated by local authorities are still petrol-powered, some councils are progressing towards a cleaner, greener future with the adoption of battery-powered tools.

London’s Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is leading the way in its use of battery-powered outdoor equipment, accounting for 100% of its tools. Councils in Sheffield and London Brent are also making promising strides, with battery-powered equipment now accounting for 85% and 90% of tools respectively.

“The sustainability challenge is something that faces every local authority across the UK, and the removal of highly-polluting outdoor power equipment has a role to play,” says Vince Brauns, Product Director at EGO Power+. “By focussing our research on councils who have made clear commitments to sustainability through clean air zones, we were keen to understand if councils have recognised the negative impact of petrol-powered tools, and how much progress has been made on their journeys towards a greener, battery-powered future.

“While it’s encouraging to see a handful of councils have fully adopted battery power to maintain outdoor spaces, others still have a journey ahead of them. Birmingham City Council for instance still uses 100% petrol-power to maintain areas within the city’s Clean Air Zone, with the daily use of more than 60 tools emitting harmful emissions.

“Modern technology makes switching to battery power easier than ever, unlocking a series of benefits for councils and their maintenance professionals. Better still, transitioning to battery power can be done in an easy-to-manage and cost-effective manner, maximising council resources while supporting the drive towards cleaner air and greater levels of sustainability.”

The research, carried out by EGO Power+, saw Freedom of Information requests made to 40 local authorities operating Clean Air Zones – including individual London boroughs. As these zones are proving to be effective by reducing numbers of high-polluting vehicles, the research aimed to understand if harmful, high-emission outdoor power equipment was still being used in these areas to maintain public green spaces.

As one of the world’s leading suppliers of battery-powered grounds maintenance equipment, EGO Power+ has supported local authorities and businesses large and small to transition to battery power – sustainably and cost effectively. EGO’s technology adds social and environmental value while also driving down the total cost of ownership. For local authorities who face compliance and budgetary challenges, this offers a proven route to a sustainable and safer future.

The latest advice to government from the Climate Change Committee also recommends the phasing out of petrol and diesel lawnmowers in order to reduce emissions, with modern technology delivering petrol-matching power, without causing harm to the local environment through emissions and noise pollution.

Councils who have already adopted battery-powered maintenance equipment have unlocked a future that delivers improved comfort and safety to users, with tools that minimise noise and vibration.

To learn more visit: www.egopowerplus.co.uk/clean-air-zones

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