Tag Archive for: experts

Soil Scout’s New Grandmasters Program Honours Experts

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Soil Scout’s New Grandmasters Program Honours Experts: Soil Scout, a global leader in underground soil data and turf intelligence, has launched the Grandmasters Program, the first international recognition dedicated to the professionals whose mastery of the rootzone has quietly shaped the modern game.

For more than a century, the turf industry has focused on visible performance — firm fairways, smooth greens, fast surfaces. Yet the real expertise has always lived underground, in the decisions about oxygen, moisture and rootzone behaviour that determine how turf performs long before a player steps onto it. Until now, that expertise has rarely been acknowledged.

Soil Scout’s New Grandmasters Program Honours Experts

Soil Scout’s New Grandmasters Program Honours Experts

The Grandmasters Program changes this by celebrating the individuals whose work, philosophy, consistency and mentorship have elevated playing conditions across continents. This is not a product announcement; it is a long overdue recognition of the people who have advanced the profession — often without the visibility their impact deserves.

While Soil Scout provides the real-time rootzone data that supports modern decision-making, including the world’s only wireless oxygen measurement, the Grandmasters Program places the focus firmly on the professionals who turn knowledge and experience into world-class surfaces.

THE GRANDMASTERS — FOUNDING CLASS

Janne Lehto (Finland)

Master Greenkeeper, CGCS
— Course Manager, Hirsala Golf

One of only 38 people worldwide to hold both the Master Greenkeeper and Certified Golf Course Superintendent credentials. Janne is known for pioneering sustainable, long-horizon course management in the demanding Nordic climate, where oxygen availability, winter survival and resource efficiency define performance. His approach has helped shape modern thinking around rootzone management and long-term resilience in cold-climate turf. His guidance and mentorship have influenced an entire new generation of Nordic turf professionals.

Rodney McKeown (Singapore)

Senior Golf Course Superintendent

Rodney is internationally recognised for his ability to deliver world-class playing conditions in some of the most challenging tropical environments in
global golf. His agronomic philosophy has been shaped by years of preparing tournament-level surfaces in extreme heat, humidity and rapid climate shifts — including at one of Asia’s most awarded and internationally televised golf venues, named the continent’s Best Golf Course in 2024. This experience has helped raise performance expectations across Southeast Asia and redefine what elite tropical turf management requires. His leadership and mentorship continue to influence teams throughout the region.

Andrew Northeim (United States)

Senior Head Groundskeeper — Columbus Crew (OHPC)

Andrew Northeim is a leading figure in the evolution of American sports turf. As Senior Head Groundskeeper for the Columbus Crew at the Ohio Health Performance Center, he has helped elevate MLS training fields’ surface standards during a period of rapid growth for the sport. Andrew combines advanced agronomy with data-driven field management and new technology, while his collaborative approach and mentorship have supported emerging groundskeepers across North America.

Brent Downs (United States)

Master Greenkeeper, CGCS — Director of Agronomy,
Otter Creek Golf Course

Brent Downs is a Master Greenkeeper and Certified Golf Course Superintendent whose influence extends far beyond individual facilities. With over two decades of leadership in agronomy, superintendent development and data-informed field management, Brent has helped shape modern turf practices across the United States. His mentorship, training work and analytical approach have made him one of the most trusted and recognisable voices in American turf management.

A Global Platform for Expertise, Mentorship and the Future of Turf

The Grandmasters Program offers rare insight into the philosophies, field-tested practices and mentorship approaches of four widely respected professionals. Each Grandmaster brings not only technical expertise but a demonstrated commitment to guiding, teaching and elevating others within the industry.

Through shared discussions, interviews, mentoring sessions and ongoing collaboration, the initiative creates a platform where the industry’s most experienced voices can help shape future standards and actively support the next generation of turf managers. Mentorship is not an element — it is the program’s foundation.

As climate pressures intensify and expectations for sustainability grow, Soil Scout’s combination of underground intelligence and professional expertise — strengthened through peer-to-peer mentoring and cross-continental knowledge transfer — provides a powerful base for more informed, resilient and future-ready turf management worldwide

About Soil Scout

Soil Scout is a global leader in underground soil data and turf intelligence, providing long-term, real-time visibility into rootzone conditions. Trusted by golf courses, stadiums and sports organisations worldwide, Soil Scout enables more informed agronomic decisions, greater efficiency and sustainable performance. The platform includes the world’s only wireless real-time sensor capable of measuring soil oxygen — a key factor in turf health.

Jalmari Talola, CEO, Soil Scout

jalmari.talola@soilscout.com

www.soilscout.com

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Irrigation Experts’ essential steps to prevent failures

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Irrigation Experts’ essential steps to prevent failures: Waterscapes Ltd shares critical off-season preparation guidelines as UK landscapes face cold weather damage risks

As autumn temperatures signal the approach of winter, Waterscapes are sharing essential preparation steps to prevent costly system failures and protect landscape infrastructure investments. Frost damage to commercial irrigation systems can result in repair bills exceeding thousands per site, alongside significant environmental and structural impact from water waste.

Irrigation Experts' essential steps to prevent failures

Irrigation Experts’ essential steps to prevent failures

“Our experience across multiple complex landscape projects has taught us that correctly designed irrigation systems anticipate seasonal challenges from the outset,” said Ed Harwood, Maintenance Contracts Manager of irrigation and water feature specialists Waterscapes Ltd. “However, even the most robust systems benefit from targeted winter preparation.”

The guidance comes as facilities managers and landscape contractors prepare for the off-season period, when inadequate system protection can compromise entire landscape investments.

Essential Preparation Steps

According to Waterscapes, proper system drainage represents the most critical protection measure. Water removal from pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads prevents expansion damage, with professional blow-out services using compressed air recommended for complex installations.

“DIY attempts often leave residual water in system low points, which becomes expensive damage when temperatures drop,” explains Ed. “The off-season is also ideal for identifying worn seals, cracked housings, or damaged sprinkler heads.” The company emphasises that isolation valves and backflow preventers require particular attention, whilst modern smart controllers should be adjusted to seasonal programmes with automatic watering schedules disabled.

Sustainability and Efficiency Focus

Beyond immediate cost implications, correct preparation supports broader sustainability goals. Systems that restart smoothly in spring waste less water during calibration and testing, whilst well-maintained infrastructure lasts longer, reducing replacement cycles and embodied carbon.

“Climate change means more unpredictable weather patterns, from sudden frosts to summer droughts,” notes Ed. “Off-season preparation might seem like an additional cost, but it’s actually an investment in system longevity, water efficiency, and spring productivity. Whilst basic preparation can be handled in-house, complex commercial systems benefit from specialist knowledge.”

The company recommends updating system maps and maintenance logs during the off-season, ensuring spring start-up procedures run smoothly when systems are needed most.

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Level Up Your Career with the Experts

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Level Up Your Career with the Experts: Since Integrated Pest Management (IPM) was first introduced to sports turf literature, over 1,900 articles have been published on the subject. This underlines IPM’s central role in modern turf management and highlights the importance of continued professional education.

Finding a trusted source of knowledge is key. At STRI Group, our courses are built on science and delivered by leading experts, giving you the skills and confidence to apply acquired knowledge effectively in your role.

Level Up Your Career with the Experts

Level Up Your Career with the Experts

Dr Christian Spring, Principal Scientist at STRI, explains:

“IPM and ITM represent the best-practice approach for sustainable turf management. They are critical to the short, medium and long-term success of every playing surface. With the challenges facing turf managers – from climate change and water availability to regulatory pressures – adopting IPM is the only way to make sports surfaces as resilient as possible.”

BASIS courses provide the knowledge and qualifications needed to put IPM into practice. IPM is about managing turf sustainably by combining cultural, biological, and chemical controls, while reducing reliance on pesticides.

Through BASIS and FACTS training, turf professionals can:

  • Apply IPM principles effectively in real-life situations
  • Meet regulatory requirements by showing they’ve considered non-chemical options first
  • Improve turf health, resilience, and sustainability through best practice in pest, disease, and nutrient management.

In short, BASIS courses turn the philosophy into practical, accredited skills that help turf professionals deliver high-quality, sustainable playing surfaces.

How can STRI help?

Each autumn, STRI hosts three BASIS-accredited courses at our headquarters in Bingley. With an 8-hectare research facility, expert tuition from Dr Christian Spring, and plenty of hands-on practical learning, there really is no better place to immerse yourself in turf science.

Courses available

  1. BASIS Foundation in Amenity Horticulture – Turf

Who it’s for: Practitioners or those new to product sales who need a grounding in IPM, agronomy, and safe pesticide use.

  • Format: Fully face-to-face teaching, with an online exam afterwards.
  • Dates: 24-26 November 2025 (teaching), 28 November 2025 (exam).
  • Cost: £1,130 + VAT (includes exam fee).
  1. BASIS Certificate in Crop Protection – Amenity Horticulture

(Turf or Hard Surface specialist modules)

Who it’s for: Advisors, agronomists, or anyone seeking advanced IPM and plant protection product training.

  • Format: Two teaching weeks face to face, plus online written exam, with ID and viva exams held at STRI HQ.
  • Dates:
    • Week 1 teaching: 6 – 10 October 2025
    • Week 2 teaching: 3 – 6 November 2025
    • Online written exam: 8 December 2025
    • ID exam (live samples at STRI): 9 December 2025 (afternoon)
    • Vivas at STRI: 10 December 2025
  • Cost: £2,990 + VAT (includes exam fee).
  1. FACTS Turf Course

Who it’s for: Turf professionals wanting to deepen their expertise in nutrient management and fertiliser planning.

  • Format: 3.5 days face-to-face teaching, with online written exam and viva.
  • Dates: Teaching: 21 – 24 October 2025 Exams: 11–12 December 2025
  • Cost: £2,195 + VAT (includes exam fee).

Why Choose STRI?

At STRI, you’ll learn directly from leading turf scientists while gaining hands-on experience at our 8-hectare research facility. Our courses are designed to futureproof your skills, equipping you with the knowledge to meet challenges such as climate change, water management, and increasing regulatory pressures.

Alongside expert tuition, you’ll also join a strong professional network, giving you valuable connections that extend well beyond the classroom.

Book your place now – spaces are limited.

Email enquiries@strigroup.com or call 01274 565131.

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Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts

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Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts: High-grass mowing has been the core competence of AS-Motor since 1959. AS-Motor customers rely on the high performance of the products and expect above-average quality, durability and service.

Meeting these demands is and remains the driving force of the high grass experts. What has changed – as part of the Ariens Company – are the opportunities to utilise additional technologies and expertise. AS-Motor will be presenting the first results of this new constellation at GaLaBau 2024.

Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts

Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts

The new AS 920 ESherpa 2 WD

The trend towards electrically powered mowers in the green sector cannot be overlooked.  At GaLaBau, AS-Motor is now presenting the first professional AS 920 ESherpa 2 WD high grass battery-powered ride-on mower. The new electric mower from the popular Sherpa family impresses above all with its battery exchange system. The electric drive and blade drive works very efficiently and ensures a professional mowing performance that is even better than that of a combustion engine. The 56V FusionCore battery system from Ariens not only offers above-average performance in all areas, but can also be used multiple times. The exchangeable batteries of the AS 920 ESherpa 2WD are compatible with the professional Zenith E and Arrow E zero-turn mowers from sister brand Ariens. This ensures optimum seasonal use and utilisation of the batteries.

The new AS 1000 Ovis Evo RC

For two and a half years now, numerous remote-controlled AS 1000 Ovis RC machines have been in use on steep slopes throughout Europe. The tracked flail mower with maximum mowing performance and extreme slope capability has become an integral part of the AS-Motor product range. At GaLaBau 2024, the tall grass experts will be presenting the next development stage of the mower, the AS 1000 Ovis Evo RC: with more RC functions for even greater user comfort. The new model differs from the basic model with a remote-controlled, electric cutting height adjustment with display, a remote-controlled, electromechanical blade clutch and quick release of hydrostats and brake.

New: The AS-Motor X-Act Track steering assistant

For the new mowing season, AS-Motor is offering a steering assistant for its remote-controlled tracked flail mowers AS 1000 Ovis RC (next generation) and AS 1000 Ovis Evo RC. With the new X-Act Track steering assistant from AS-Motor, the driver can save his concentration and dexterity for difficult mowing passages. On large areas with an easy to medium profile, the automatic steering system takes over precise steering. GPS signals, which are corrected to within a few centimetres by RTK correction data from fixed base stations, enable clean mowing lines without loss of cutting width and uncut areas. The result is a significantly higher area output and less operator fatigue.

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Tyre-Line – Experts In Groundscare

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Tyre-Line – Experts In Groundscare: Tyre-Line will again be exhibiting at this year’s SALTEX show at the NEC Birmingham, stand D090, bringing their extensive knowledge and product portfolio to the UK’s Premier Turf Management exhibition.

Aftermarket Tyres, Wheels & Specialist Services

Tyre-Line’s Aftermarket sales and support division pride themselves on their vast knowledge and extensive experience supplying the aftermarket tyre and machinery markets with tyres, wheels and associated accessories. They are able to offer services such as tread pattern conversions (Agri to Turf and vice versa), bespoke wheel and tyre fitments along with specialist patterns and fitment advice for all Groundscare, ATV/UTV, High Speed Trailer, Compact Agricultural and Construction machinery.

Tyre-Line – Experts In Groundscare

Tyre-Line – Experts In Groundscare

Being Official UK Distributor of Carlstar (formerly known as Carlisle) & ITP Tyres and Wheels gives Tyre-Line un-restricted access to one of the world’s biggest, specialist tyre suppliers for Lawn & Garden, ATV/UTV and Agriculture & Construction tyres. With a heritage of supplying many prestigious names with O.E. fitments including John Deere, Countax, Polaris, Can-Am, Toro, Cub Cadet and more, Carlstar & ITP have been at the forefront of tyre development and technology for over 100 years and Tyre-Line are proud to be Official UK Distributor and will once again be exhibiting their extensive range of Carlstar Lawn, Garden & Golf Tyres at SALTEX.

Tyre-Line will also be showcasing the revolutionary Michelin Tweel Airless Radial Tyre for UTV’s, Golf Buggies and ZTR Mowers at SALTEX. The Michelin Tweel is a single unit, replacing the existing tyre and wheel assembly with a No Maintenance, No Compromise & No Downtime tyre and wheel assembly. Michelin Tweel’s require no complex mounting equipment and once fitted require no inflation pressure maintenance. On ZTR mowers they provide a consistent hub height ensuring an even cut, excellent lateral stability on hillsides and sloped terrain along with excellent operator comfort even when navigating curbs and other bumps with unique energy transfer within the Polyresin spokes help to reduce the “bounce” associated with pneumatic tyres while providing improved handling.
The Michelin Tweel is available to order now with fitments for an expanding range of makes and models of machines directly from Tyre-Line’s Aftermarket division.

Also on display will be examples of their range of High Speed Trailer tyres and wheels. Offering a range of Radial & Crossply tyres from brands including Compass, Ovation, Laufenn, Nankang & Wanda and rim sizes from 8” – 17.5” with both UK and European fixings for many trailer brands including Ifor Williams, Brian James, Indespension, Logic, Nugent etc. A complimentary range of accessories are also available from Tyre-Line including jockey wheels, clamps, couplings, hubs and stub axles

Original Equipment Tyres & Wheels

Over the past 30 years, Tyre-Line’s Original Equipment Division have partnered with many of the industry’s biggest names in Groundscare, Trailer and ATV/UTV markets including the likes of John Deere, Kubota, Logic, Nugent & Ariens. Supplying customer specific tyre and wheel fitments from their centrally located, 50,000 sq.ft purpose built facility in Daventry, Northamptonshire, Tyre-Line have a wealth of experience, coupled with a comprehensive product range from industry leading brands allowing them to offer application specific solutions

Visit Tyre-Line Aftermarket on Stand D090 at this year’s SALTEX show at the NEC, Birmingham on 1st & 2nd November or contact the team on 01458 250350 / aftermarket@tyreline.com / www.tyreline.com

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