Tag Archive for: Future

South Staffs build ‘fleet for the future’

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South Staffs build ‘fleet for the future’: South Staffordshire Golf Club are busy equipping themselves with a machinery fleet that’s fit for the challenges of the future – and for that, they’ve chosen Redexim.

Whether it’s managing increased rainfall, or disease and pest control in an era with fewer chemical treatments, the greenkeeping team are well placed to tackle the issues head on with a range of machines from across Redexim’s aeration, overseeding, scarification and brushing portfolio.

South Staffs build ‘fleet for the future'

South Staffs build ‘fleet for the future’

While Paul Law has been at the club for the last eight years, and Course Manager for the last four, the club’s history with Redexim dates back much further! “We’ve got Verti-Drains in the shed which are close to 30 years old, that are still playing an active role in our annual maintenance” Paul says. No strangers to the Redexim build quality and in-field performance, he says they’ve been the first port of call now that maintenance requirements are changing.

“This year has been incredibly wet, so drainage works have been top of the priority list.” Complementing the Verti-Drains, Pauls most recent purchase is a linear aerator in the form of the Redexim Verti-Quake® 2516. “We tried one of these on demonstration last year, on a particularly compacted area where we had no drainage whatsoever. It was incredible! It’s no exaggeration to say that this machine is set to transform our drainage.”

“At the opposite end of the spectrum, when we’ve had periods of drought, it’s again been Redexim that has come to the rescue. We’ve been employing the services of our Overseeder 1275 to incorporate more tolerant species into our surfaces, and maintaining presentation during those really high-pressure periods with the Redexim Top-Brush.”

Paul continues, “The 6m Top-Brush has become one of our most important pieces of equipment. We’ve had it since 2022 and it’s blown us away with how many applications we’ve found for it. We’ve been removing organic matter from the fairways, delivering incredible presentation through the winter with it, as well as clearing dew and dispersing worm casts to improve plant health and playability.”

Further work to remove organic matter has been conducted using the Redexim Verti-Cut, which was delivered in early 2024. “We’ve worked hard to reduce OM over the last four years, and with the Verti-Cut bringing new speed and efficiency to the task, we’ll be able to continue this on the greens and other areas of the course.”

The loyalty to Redexim and belief in the product, is equalled by the trust and quality of partnership established with local dealers Charlies Ag & Turf. “I’ve known Matt Lewis from Charlies for a long time and he and the whole team have always gone above and beyond to support us over the years.” He adds, “It’s great to know we have both the equipment and the advice to help us face whatever challenges lay ahead!”

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Equipping Turf Managers for the Future

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Equipping Turf Managers for the Future: Turf Science Live Ireland, a renowned educational event in turf management, returned in September, hosted at the magnificent Killeen Castle.

This prestigious golf course provided a fitting venue backdrop for turf professionals to gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in turf science, hands-on product demonstrations, and real-world solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing the industry today.

Organised jointly by ICL and Syngenta, the free-to-attend event has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality educational content and showcasing innovative products. It also provides an excellent networking opportunity for golf course managers and turf professionals.

This year’s event featured a series of interactive learning stations, each led by industry experts who shared their knowledge on a wide range of critical topics. Dr. Andy Owen, ICL’s International Technical Manager, led discussions at his station focused on organic-based fertilisers and their role in soil sustainability.

Dr. Owen emphasised the importance of understanding what an organic or organic-based fertiliser truly is, highlighting that many products can be over-marketed with exaggerated claims. He encouraged attendees to take a more informed approach when selecting fertilisers, and showed some demo plots illustrating the value of CRF products by comparing turf response from a range of different fertilisers with matched nitrogen inputs.

At another station, Colman Warde, ICL Ireland Country Manager, presented the latest advancements in precision nutrition. As the demand for high-quality sports turf increases, Colman demonstrated how precision spreaders can dramatically improve the results of granular fertilisers. His station was a reminder of the importance of calibration and investing in proven, high-quality technology to ensure turf managers achieve the best possible outcomes for their courses.

Glenn Kirby, Syngenta’s EAME Technical Services Manager for Turf & Landscape, tackled the growing pressures of climate change at his station. With disease threats on the rise, Glenn provided valuable insights into emerging turf diseases and the importance of fungicide rotation to combat these challenges.

He stressed the need for predictive models and responsible management of fungicides to maintain healthy turf in a changing climate, stating, “Climate is changing, and disease pressure is increasing.”

A pressing issue discussed at the event was worm casting, which affects the quality of playing surfaces and increases wear on equipment. Fergal Greenan, ICL Area Sales Manager, and Sean Loakes, Syngenta Technical Manager, led a station focused on mitigating these effects. Attendees learned best practices for using growth regulators like Primo Maxx II, with practical insights from Mark Collins, Killeen Castle’s Course Superintendent, on how the product has helped manage worm casting on his course.

In addition to the educational sessions, Turf Science Live2024 provided attendees with hands-on demonstrations of new products, including ICL’s 360ST spreaders. These spreaders are designed to enhance the precision of fertiliser applications, ensuring that nutrients are delivered evenly across turf surfaces.

Beyond the educational content, Turf Science Live was an invaluable networking event, allowing turf professionals to exchange ideas and learn from one another’s experiences. It was an opportunity for attendees to come together and discuss common challenges and explore potential solutions.

Andy Sheehan, Course Superintendent at Milltown Golf Club and President of the Association of Turfgrass Professionals Ireland, shared his thoughts: “Disease management is our biggest issue. Presenting a good golf course is, in my opinion, easy with quality products, but getting the disease timing right is a challenge—especially in Ireland in autumn and winter. ICL and Syngenta help you get through the worst of it.

The networking and education here allow us to exchange insights and problem-solving strategies .”

David Behan, a Course Manager, echoed these sentiments: “Turf Science Live is a highlight of the Irish greenkeeping calendar. Climate change is a growing concern, and the event provided insights into new biology strategies for disease management. The innovative solutions from ICL and Syngenta to manage healthy turf in Ireland’s challenging conditions.”

Mark Bewley, head greenkeeper at Grange Golf Club, added: “The event is a credit to ICL and Syngenta for their research. We tested the 360ST spreader, and the calibration is spot on. The lessons learned today on using organic products and slow-release fertilisers to reduce disease activity will help us maintain healthy turfgrass.”

Turf Science Live 2024 was once again an essential event combining education with hands-on product demonstrations and networking opportunities. Attendees left with practical knowledge, the latest advancements in fertiliser and fungicide technologies, and strategies for managing emerging challenges like climate change and turf diseases.

With industry-leading sessions, cutting-edge products, and opportunities to exchange ideas with peers, Turf Science Live continues to be a must-attend event for anyone serious about staying at the forefront of turf management.

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

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

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Origin marking out the future at GroundsFest

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Origin marking out the future at GroundsFest: Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) has announced its return to GroundsFest for the 2024 exhibition after a successful debut last year. OAS will showcase its comprehensive range of products and services, aimed at servicing the fine turf, sports, and grounds care sectors. You can find their prominently branded trailer and dedicated team in the outdoor arena on stand OSA 240.

Focus on Line Marking Excellence

With an expanded team of line marking specialists, OAS is positioned to offer the most comprehensive line marking solutions and support in the UK. Visitors to the stand will have the opportunity to see a diverse range of line marking machines, from pedestrian spray markers to the latest innovations in GPS-guided TinyLineMarker robotic line markers.  Experts will be on hand to demonstrate these cutting-edge machines and discuss their applications in various settings.

Origin marking out the future at GroundsFest

Origin marking out the future at GroundsFest

Additionally, they will be highlighting their industry-leading IMPACT ready-to-use paint range, known for its durability, vibrancy, and ease of application. This paint range, coupled with advanced line marking equipment, ensures that every marking project is executed to the highest standards.

Exclusive Show Offers

Exclusive show offers will be available to show visitors. Furthermore, an exciting competition will be announced on the stand which is likely to attract a lot of attention.

Looking to the future

Reflecting on the past year and looking ahead to the future, Glen Howard, OAS Line Marking Product Manager, shares his thoughts: “I am incredibly proud of the progress we have made over the past year. Our dedicated line-marking team is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence. At GroundsFest 2024, we are excited to showcase our product range and demonstrate how our solutions can make a real difference for our customers. Our goal is to continue leading the way in line marking technology and support, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible service and products.”

Continued Commitment to Excellence

OAS’s presence at GroundsFest 2024 reaffirms its commitment to providing high-quality, innovative solutions. Since the successful merging of four leading brands, OAS has continued to evolve, making strategic changes that benefit its customers. Their dedicated line-marking offering includes the widest selection of equipment, paints, and accessories available in the UK, supported by the largest sales and support team in the industry.

Join them on stand OSA 240 to experience firsthand the expertise, innovation, and customer-focused approach that defines Origin Amenity Solutions. Whether you’re looking to enhance your line marking practices or simply explore the latest technology, their team is here to help you mark out the future of your grounds care needs.

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Complete Weed Control invests in future workforce

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Complete Weed Control invests in future workforce: As Complete Weed Control, the longest established amenity weed control company in the UK and Ireland, has recently put 13 employees through the Amenity Nominated Storekeeper (ANSK) training and examination to strengthen its future workforce.

Launched by independent standards setting organisation, BASIS in 2021 and fully recognised by the Chemical Regulation Division (CRD) as a certificate of competence, the training course and accredited qualification, is specifically developed for professionals who are responsible for the storage of professional use pesticides within the amenity sector.

Complete Weed Control invests in future workforce

Complete Weed Control invests in future workforce

Strengthening the company’s commitment to young professionals in the industry, of those who took the course, 6 included future leaders: Craig Convery, contract manager for Tyne and Wear, office manager and site supervisor, Lewis Bloomer and grounds maintenance operative, Emma Hayman for Durham and Teesside, Mark Carnie, storekeeper for South West and East Scotland, Daniel Adamson, manager for North East and Sam Drury, business development manager for East Riding.

Lewis Bloomer said: “I’m proud to have passed the course alongside my colleagues from the wider organisation. Complete Weed Control is committed to its responsibility around compliance and ensuring industry regulations are met. This course has provided an opportunity for additional people within the team to maintain the high standards we deliver to our customers.

The organisation is a great place to learn and develop, one that’s investing heavily in its people. There’s no ceiling here, and the progression opportunities are something you don’t find readily with other employers.”

Ian Graham, managing director said: “We are delighted all of our team members who took part successfully passed the course. Not only are we cementing our future in the industry, but we are also growing our talent from the ground up.”

“Our industry is highly regulated and it is important we upskill as many people as possible in our commitment to surpass standards. Developing our people is not just shaping the individuals but supporting our culture of excellence and responsibility. Lewis and the other participants represent a bright future for our company, and we are proud to support them on their journey.”

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GMA’s ‘NextGen’ to Inspire Future Workforce

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GMA’s ‘NextGen’ to Inspire Future Workforce: During #GroundsWeek 2024, the industry’s annual awareness week, the GMA has announced that its Young Board of Directors has been relaunched as the GMA’s ‘NextGen’. The group of talented young grounds professionals will represent the grounds management industry, whilst acting as ambassadors for the GMA, in the association’s aim of encouraging more young people into grounds management.

Workforce development has become increasingly important over recent years, with research revealing that 20% of grounds staff could potentially leave the sector over coming years due to an ageing workforce and two in five grounds professionals being over the age of 50.

GMA’s ‘NextGen’ to Inspire Future Workforce

GMA’s ‘NextGen’ to Inspire Future Workforce

Since this research was conducted, the GMA has invested funds into raising the profile of the sector through public-facing activities, like its #GroundsWeek and Back to Play campaigns, earning widespread media coverage from regional local radio to national media outlets, like BBC Sport and ITV News.

The association has also forged closer relationships with sport’s National Governing Bodies which recently included working with the FA and the Women’s Super League, alongside Women in Football and Arsenal FC, to make history with the first all-female grounds team to prepare a pitch in the WSL for the North London Derby.

Since this activity was started, there have been green shoots of optimism with research conducted by the GMA in 2023 showing that there has been an increase in the percentage of young people in the workforce, with under 35s now making up nearly 30% of the workforce compared to 19% in 2022. There has also been an increase in the number of grounds managers aged 24 and under, and an increase in the percentage of grounds managers stating that they became involved in grounds management due to apprenticeships, with the figure now being close to 20%.

Armed with four new members and a fresh rebrand, as well as the support by sponsor, Reesink Turfcare, the GMA’s NextGen will build on recent signs of optimism by targeting young people, including those still at school and those at the start of their careers.

The new look and feel of the group creates a fresh and youthful brand identity, giving it a ‘club’ aesthetic that will enable the group to grow by better resonating with its target demographic whilst still aligning closely with the GMA’s existing brand.

Their work began on Tuesday 19th March, where new NextGen ambassador, Jack Langley hosted a Schools into Stadia event at Ashton Gate. Over the day, a group of local secondary school children got a taste of what it’s like to be a grounds person, as well as learning more about the wide range of careers that can be pursued in the grounds care sector.

Commenting on the new approach, GMA NextGen Executive Sponsor, Jennifer Carter is optimistic about the future:

“#GroundsWeek is all about celebrating the grounds management industry and encouraging more people to consider joining. So, what better time is there to celebrate the achievements of a talented group of young people and to announce their renewed efforts to inspire other young people too?

“We’ve already seen what impact they can have on the sector, with three GMA NextGen ambassadors representing the industry during the recent women grounds showcase at the Emirates Stadium, and I’m confident that their fresh energy and focus will be highly impactful on the hearts and minds of other sport-loving young people.

“There are opportunities across the sector, both on the ground as well as in the businesses that support it, and we’re already seeing signs that recent years of hard work are starting to pay off. We as an industry need to keep up the momentum, and our NextGen ambassadors will play an important role in helping us drive this change.”

Longtime member of the group and currently acting as leader of the NextGen, Joe Broadwood is confident the new look and feel will resonate with its target audience:

“The new name and brand will give our group its own strong identity that is stand-out and brings a youthful feel. Our industry is intrinsically connected to sport, so the ‘club-feel’ of the brand will help us appeal to younger people who share our passion for sport and are interested in pursuing a career close to sport.

“In looking to appeal to younger audiences, we hope this relaunch will better support us in our mission to inspire the next generation of grounds staff.”

#GroundsWeek runs from 18 – 24 March 2024. To find out more about the week and how you can support it, visit: thegma.org.uk/groundsweek.

Keep an eye on GMA social media channels to find out more about its NextGen.

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