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Wiedenmann double all in a day’s work

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Wiedenmann double all in a day’s work: This summer, Brian Dunne, celebrates 20 years as Course Superintendent at Adare Manor Old Course GC in the southwest of Ireland.

He has built a long-established relationship with local Wiedenmann dealer Seamus Weldon, at nearby Killarney.

Wiedenmann double all in a day’s work

Wiedenmann double all in a day’s work

“We go back years; they’ve always been there for us,” he said. “When we purchased a new blower back in 2008 or thereabouts, Michael Weldon pointed us in the direction of a Wiedenmann Whisper Twister. It was new to the market, and we were among the first to buy.

“You can’t fault it. Aside from a new belt and some wheel bearings, it’s never missed a beat. We’d be lost without it.

“From October to December, it’s out every day of the week on leaf clearance duty. Our course is lined with beech and oak trees so there’s plenty of work. One of the team on our small tractor blows the leaves into lines and our collector follows behind. It has dozens of tasks; we use it to dry off the fairways or tee boxes, it helps year-round with presentation and tidying and, of course, when we’ve had storms, it’s come into its own.”

“We used to bring contractors in to help with deep aeration on our fairways. It was always a struggle to book the right week: and balance weather and the needs of golfers. It was also getting very expensive.

“I asked Michael if he could source a second-hand aerator so we could do the job ourselves. He came back with a beautifully refurbished Wiedenmann Terra Spike XP, and we haven’t looked back.

“Your own machine makes such a difference.  We try to do our fairways twice a year. We just pick when the conditions are right and do two or three at a time. We’ve got twelve acres in total, as well as walkways and tee boxes, so it takes us around a week and a half normally to do all the split sessions.

“We were out in late January and with 20 mm diameter tines down to 250 mm. In some choice places known to hold water, we went a little deeper, so around 300 mm and we might revisit these more frequently.

Brian’s team, three at present, with a vacancy about to be filled, takes on two summer workers to help them cope. The friendly parkland club is constantly busy, its history and dramatic setting, marking it out as not your typical golfing experience, so enjoys lots of visitors.

Very few clubs can boast anything as spectacular as Desmond Castle (1200 AD) which nestles in the background of the 1st and 15th greens. Move to the centre of the course and the ruins of the Franciscan Abbey (1464 AD) let you know you’ve arrived somewhere extraordinary.

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Green-tech help to reduce the risk of flooding in Leeds City

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Green-tech help to reduce the risk of flooding in Leeds City: Leeds City Council is working with the Environment Agency on their Flood Alleviation Scheme Phase 2 (FAS2) to reduce the risk of flooding of a 14km stretch between Leeds Train Station and Apperley Bridge.

The project is designed to protect 1,048 homes and 474 businesses through a combination of traditional engineering methods and natural flood management. Due for completion in Spring 2024, it is expected that the flood risk will be reduced to a 0.5% probability of occurring in any given year (a 1-in-200-year level of flood protection).

Green-tech help to reduce the risk of flooding in Leeds City

Green-tech help to reduce the risk of flooding in Leeds City

BAM Nuttall is a construction and civil engineering company that delivers key pieces of infrastructure across the UK, from railways to wind farms. They use digital engineering and a net zero carbon approach, placing sustainability at their core.

Part of the scheme included work on the bank of the river Aire upstream of Kirkstall Bridge using an earth embankment or steel sheet piled flood walls in some areas. The embankment will tie into flood walls, that will extend up to the existing Kirkstall Bridge. This section of railway line connects Leeds with Shipley and Bradford and has flooded several times in the past, and currently remains at risk.

Alongside the embankment and flood walls, 2.4 hectares of landscape and ecological enhancements are being implemented in Kirkstall Meadows. This work includes the creation of wetland scrapes and various interventions to support local wildlife.

The project was subject to planning conditions that required reinstatement or protection of vegetated features along the riverbank where the construction of hard flood defences would otherwise have compromised the permanent river-side ecology.

Sub-agent Jim Mitchell, comments, “Green-tech was chosen as the products they offered were designed exactly for this purpose. They were able to supply products that complied with the project specification and offered expert advice on alternative solutions that improved buildability and function’.

For this part of the project, Green-tech supplied 45 pre-established Coir Edge Sods which comprise 5 different aquatic plant species mixes. This unique system incorporates pre-established vegetation within the face of stone-filled gabions which is an integral part of the erosion control solution for a water’s edge, even where the projects require hard engineering solutions. This innovative, green erosion control system helps when the stability of engineering with gabions is combined with the benefits of immediate vegetation to provide rapid environmental and ecological regeneration.

20 gt Coir Log Rolls were supplied. These are cost-effective and an excellent technique for establishing marginal vegetation around lake edges, streams, and river banks. Compressed coir fibre encased in woven polyethylene or coir netting, gt Coir Log Rolls can be supplied pre-established with UK native species or unplanted.

These were accompanied by 20 gt Rock Rolls – designed to help reduce and prevent long-term erosion and allow for the ground to stay stabilised. Commonly used around watercourse shorelines, high-flow riverbanks, and streams, gt Rock Rolls are UV-stabilised polypropylene mesh filled with gabion stones. They are ideal for creating a solid foundation for installing pre-vegetated coir products – the roots of the emergent plants grow into the voids of the rock rolls, giving long-term erosion control and bank support. Gt Rock Rolls installed below coir units can also be used to support a filter fabric or biodegradable matting.

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XP Kinetic now available in Europe

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XP Kinetic now available in Europe: Following the announcement of the arrival of the all-new RANGER XP Kinetic last year, Polaris has now announced that the first shipments of the Ultimate trim model have started, with both the Premium and Ultimate models now available at European dealerships.

RANGER XP Kinetic is available as a 3-seat model in Premium and Ultimate trim. The Premium trim contains a single 14.9 kWh lithium-ion battery that offers an estimated range of 45 miles (70 kilometres), whilst the Ultimate trim delivers double the battery capacity of 29.8 kWh with a higher estimated range of 80 miles (130 kilometres)* – ideal for longer days spent hard at work.

XP Kinetic now available in Europe

XP Kinetic now available in Europe

Convenient charging options are designed to fit specific customer needs and are as easy as plugging into a standard wall outlet. Whether customers are looking for an overnight charge, or a quick top off during the lunch hour, they are covered. XP Kinetic comes standard with a 1-phase EVSE that allows riders to charge from a 240V outlet. Factory-installed on-board charging rate is 3kW for the Premium trim—reaching full charge from 0% in 5 hours—and 6kW for the Ultimate trim—reaching full charge in 10 hours, which can be reduced to 5 hours with peak charging**. Peak charging requires a 3-phase (380V) outlet together with a 3-phase WallBox EVSE accessory, and along with the available 3kW on-board charging system (sold separately), rates can be boosted to 6kW for Premium and 9kW for Ultimate for up to 50% faster charge times.

Alongside all the premium features found in both model trims – like LED headlights, integrated dash switches and full-coverage front bumper fitted as standard – the Ultimate trim also offers a bright 18-centimetre (7-inch) touchscreen infotainment screen powered by RIDE COMMAND technology, which offers configurable gauges to monitor ride activity. Pair that with the Ultimate’s added front and rear camera, riders can then see a full view of their surroundings – including other riders behind. Riders can also seamlessly pair the display via Bluetooth to wirelessly stream music and stay connected with call and text alerts.

A feature also seen on the petrol-powered Ranger XP 1000 model, ‘Plow Mode’ activation on the XP Kinetic Ultimate makes snow removal even easier by automatically lowering the plow when shifting into low gear ratio, and automatically raising the plow when shifting into reverse. It also features a handy ‘Back Drag’ mode for pulling snow away from buildings. 

Capabilities and Performance

Manufactured at Polaris’ state-of-the-art facility in Opole, Poland, and engineered through Polaris’ exclusive 10-year partnership with Zero Motorcycles, the RANGER XP  Kinetic features an all-electric powertrain that offers the most horsepower and torque ever found in a utility side-by-side. Not compromising on capability, the XP Kinetic can effortlessly tow up to 1,134kg and boasts an industry-best 680kg payload capacity, as well as a class-leading 35.5 centimetres of ground clearance and 25.4 centimetres of suspension travel to confidently rise over obstacles and smooth out the bumps.

With regenerative braking, electric power steering, on-demand all-wheel drive and VersaTrac Turf mode as standard, as well as three driving modes—ECO, Standard and Sport—riders are in complete control of their ride, depending on the terrain and task at hand.

Warranty

Thanks to being fully electric, the RANGER XP Kinetic features fewer moving parts for lower maintenance costs, and both Premium and Ultimate models are backed by a two-year total coverage warranty, three-year electric powertrain warranty, and five-year battery coverage***.

Availability

The following models are now available in dealers across EMEA – please confirm with your local market for specific regional homologations available:

RANGER XP Kinetic Premium in Icy White Pearl (MD homologation)

RANGER XP Kinetic Premium in Icy White Pearl (Tractor T1a homologation)

RANGER XP Kinetic Premium in Icy White Pearl (Tractor T1b homologation)

RANGER XP Kinetic Premium in Icy White Pearl (ZUG/LOF homologation)

RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate in Icy White Pearl (MD homologation)

RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate in Icy White Pearl (Tractor T1a homologation)

RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate in Icy White Pearl (Tractor T1b homologation)

RANGER XP Kinetic Ultimate in Icy White Pearl (ZUG/LOF homologation)

For availability and pricing in your market, please speak to your regional Media Contact or contact the Polaris EMEA Press Office at press@polaris-orv.media.

* Range estimates based on manufacturer data on typical customer driving usage and conditions. Actual range varies based on conditions such as external environment, weather, speed, cargo loads, rates of acceleration, vehicle maintenance, and vehicle usage.

** Charging times vary depending on the charging capacity of your battery system and the output capacity of the power supply, as well as the ambient temperature.

*** Warranty coverage period, terms and conditions may vary by market. Promotional powertrain warranty inclusive of 24-month factory warranty plus an additional 12-month warranty. Promotional battery warranty inclusive of 24-month factory warranty plus an additional 36-month warranty. The duration of this warranty may vary by international region based upon local laws and regulations.

For images of all European homologations, please visit the RANGER XP Kinetic product page

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The dawn of a new era in fungicide

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The dawn of a new era in fungicide: In a groundbreaking announcement at BTME 2024, Agrovista Amenity revealed the much-anticipated launch of Maxtima®, a revolutionary turf fungicide.

Maxtima® heralds a new era in fungicide technology, promising fast-acting and long-lasting solutions for turf disease control.

The dawn of a new era in fungicide

The dawn of a new era in fungicide

John Marland, Head of Amenity at Agrovista Amenity, expressed his excitement about Maxtima®, stating, “We are thrilled about the launch of Maxtima®, a product that truly represents the dawn of a new era in fungicides. Building on the success of Attraxor® plant growth regulator, Maxtima® showcases the excellence in BASF technology and promises fast-acting, long-lasting disease control that will undoubtedly make a significant impact in the turf management industry.”

Innovative Active Ingredient: Maxtima® contains Mefentrifluconazole, an advanced demethylase inhibiting fungicide. This active ingredient is responsible for the fungicide’s exceptional performance against turfgrass pathogens.

Fast-Acting: Maxtima® rapidly enters the plant and effectively combats active infections. Its quick uptake and action help control turf diseases promptly.

Effective at Low Temperatures: Maxtima® demonstrates excellent absorption even at temperatures as low as 4°C giving it an improved ability to combat fungal pathogens during the autumn and winter months.

Long-Lasting Protection: One of the standout features of Maxtima® is its ability to provide extended protection for up to 28 days. This is made possible by the active ingredient’s slow release from leaf tissue reservoirs.

Broad-Spectrum Disease Control: Maxtima® offers broad-spectrum disease control, making it effective against a range of turf fungal pathogens. It can help manage even the toughest turf diseases.

Favourable Environmental Profile: Maxtima® boasts low application rates, minimising chemical usage and impact on the environment.

Excellent for Rotation: Due to its unique chemistry, Maxtima® serves as an excellent rotation partner for non-DMI (demethylation inhibitor) fungicides on sports pitches, greens, fairways, and tees. This rotation capability can help prevent the development of resistance in fungal populations.

Phillippa Overson, Key Account Manager at BASF, highlighted the significance of Maxtima®, saying, “We have been so eager to launch Maxtima® in the UK! The ground-breaking DMI fungicide is a must-have for turf management professionals and is a cost-effective, and versatile fungicide for complete control of the toughest turf diseases. We know it is going to quickly become a favourite for turf specialists due to its wide range of disease protection, and its year-round application.

“Maxtima® is the latest turf product to be added to the BASF turf and amenity portfolio, and we’re extremely excited for turf management teams to try it.”

As the sun rises on the era of Maxtima®, the collaboration between Agrovista Amenity and BASF has delivered a product that not only meets but exceeds expectations in the realm of turf fungicides. Turf managers and professionals can now look forward to a new standard in disease control, one that is fast, enduring, and effective — ushering in a brighter future for turf health management.

For more information about Agrovista UK, visit www.agrovista.co.uk/amenity

Find out more about Maxtima in our video from BTME 

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Bernhard and Company makes senior appointment in North America

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Bernhard and Company makes senior appointment in North America: Industry-leader in turf sharpening equipment and management solutions, Bernhard and Company, has today announced a new senior sales appointment in its North American team.

Danny McConnell, who has been a key part of the North American sales team for Bernhard and Company since joining as Technical Sales Support Manager in 2022, has been promoted to the role of Director of North America Business. The move comes as Bernhard and Company continues to enhance and build its brand – and that of the Bernhard Academy – within North America.

Bernhard and Company makes senior appointment in North America

Bernhard and Company makes senior appointment in North America

Gary Ray, Business Development Manager for North America, has been with Bernhard and Company for more than 20 years and has played a pivotal role in developing the company’s business, customer, and distributor relationships in the region. Gary will continue to manage key accounts and distribution partnerships, in addition members of the Bernhard and Company Prestige Club within North America.

Steven Nixon, Managing Director for Bernhard and Company, said: “We’re delighted to have appointed Danny to this new position within our North American team, as we continue to drive business growth and brand awareness in the region. Having been a key member of our team for a number of years now, we feel Danny is the ideal person to help us further strengthen customer relationships.

“Having Danny and Gary in place in North America is a great foundation for business progression. Gary has been instrumental in much of our development in that area over the last couple of decades, so with the addition of Danny in a more senior role, we believe that our business will go from strength-to-strength.”

Speaking about his new role, Danny added: “I’m really pleased to be taking up this new position within the Bernhard and Company team. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed forming important customer relationships and helping to tell the Bernhard story around North America, so it’s exciting that I’ll be able to take that to the next level with the support of a great team.”

The new-look Bernhard and Company North American sales team will be headed up by Danny and Gary. The team also features Chris Langley, Technical Sales Support Manager North America; Tommy Richey, Technical Sales Support Manager North America; and Daryl Nagy, Technical Sales Manager Western North America.

The Bernhard and Company North American team will be on-site at the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show next week in Phoenix, Arizona. They will be on-hand to provide walk throughs of the Bernhard and Company grinding machinery range, and provide insight into each product and the customer network. Bernhard and Company will be located at stand 5109.

KNOW BERNHARD AND COMPANY?

A specialist in sports turf technology, Bernhard and Company is committed to providing leading turf care solutions to golf course and pitch care specialists worldwide. The Company offers innovative and market leading blade sharpening systems as well as sports surface air movement and moisture control solutions.

With over 150 years of being at the sharp end of the industry the Bernhard and Company product portfolio is focused on providing its global customer base with championship turf, world-class playability, and unbeatable quality of cut. Bernhard and Company’s turf health solutions are used at top 100 courses and famous sporting venues around the world – there must be a reason why. For more information, visit www.bernhard.co.uk.

Find Bernhard and Company on their official social media channels:

  • Twitter – @BernhardCompany
  • Facebook – Bernhard Company
  • Instagram – @BernhardCompany
  • LinkedIn – Bernhard Company

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