Fresh Cut Grass: Recent Episodes
Penn State Extension
Fresh Cut Grass is a weekly podcast in which hosts Jeff Fowler and Tanner Delvalle, Commercial Horticulture Educators with Penn State University, discuss various turfgrass topics with industry professionals from around the US. Topics include all aspects of sports turf management, lawn care, parks, golf, and any other professional turf. Professionals from different segments of the turf industry will be featured as guests, and casual conversation about turf management and turf improvement will occur.
Jeff and Tanner chat for the final time on Fresh Cut Grass. Each is moving on to different roles within the industry this year. After 150 episodes, a lot of laughs, and a ton of knowledge, the end has arrived for Fresh Cut Grass. Jeff and Tanner share their thoughts on the podcast and some parting words on this final episode.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Episode sponsor: The Toro Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have Joe Churchill, a sales representative with Reinders Inc., on the show. We discuss how (and why) to build relationships with your vendor representatives. Joe has nearly 40 years of experience in the turf business, fostering relationships with countless turf managers over this time. Joe talks about the different types of buyers and vendors.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Joe Churchill, Reinders Inc. (guest)
Episode sponsor: The Toro Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have Steve LeGros on the show to talk about grow blankets. We discuss timing, seeding, fertilization, how to keep them in place, and orientation. Steve shares his experiences through trial and error on using growth blankets and mound tarps properly.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Steve LeGros, LeGrow’s Inc (guest)
Steve and Tammy LeGros' Fight Against Leukemia
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff sit down and talk with Jon Cuny. Jon has been in the turfgrass industry for many years. We discussed many topics, ranging from interning at Augusta to managing people. We also share a lot of laughs on this episode.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Jon Cuny, Helena Products Pittsburgh Branch Manager
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff host their monthly “Tractor Cab Trivia.” Each person asks five questions. Answers are given on the air, some discussion ensues, and the winner is decided! It’s a 20-question round-robin quiz show that is won with correct answers from the participants or your hosts!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Pete Cipolla, New Castle Lawn & Landscape Inc.
Chris Lessig, Volusia County Parks
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have Dr. Chrissie Segars and Dr. Jeff Marvin from PBI Gordon on this episode to talk about "the journey" of a new active ingredient (AI) from the lab to the shelf. Getting a new chemical registered for use is no easy task. In many cases, it can take over ten years to get a new product to the market, and there are many hurdles along the way.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Chrissie Segars, PBI Gordon
Dr. Jeff Marvin, PBI Gordon
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff discuss the turf industry with a current turf student. During this episode, we have Trevor Sheets from Ohio State University join us and discuss the turf industry from his perspective.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Trevor Sheets, Ohio State University
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have Zachary Longenecker on the show. Zachary is one of only two groundskeepers in the United States to manage a field that is managed outdoors and played on indoors! The Las Vegas Raiders play at Reliant Stadium, which is a natural grass surface that moves outside during the week and moved inside for games. He talks about the turf management challenges that most people wouldn’t consider.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Zachary Longenecker, Head Groundskeeper Las Vegas Raiders
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have Paula Sliefert from The Toro Company join them on this episode. Paula has been with the company for 16 years and is currently a senior marketing manager. Paula is a passionate person when it comes to the turf industry. She represents turf professionals nationwide, helping them find a seat at the decision-making table. She advocates for every turf manager and supports the diversity of the industry.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Paula Sliefert, The Toro Company
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have Sun Rosselin with Jeffco Schools, Logan Strong with the Carolina Panthers, and BJ Thomas with the University of Georgia join the show and talk about women in turf and taking the Little League Softball World Series by storm. The three ladies talk about their experience of working with an all-female crew in Greenville, NC.
Women in Turf: Little League World Series 2023
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Guests:
Sun Rosselin, JeffCo School District
Logan Strong, Carolina Panthers
BJ Thomas, University of Georgia
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have John Turnour with the Washington Nationals on the podcast. John is one of the best field managers in the country, and he shares his approach to managing 81 home games and countless special events throughout the year. John shares how he gets the field and skinned areas ready to handle and recover from non-baseball events.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
John Turnour, Director of Stadium & Grounds Washington Nationals
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have two turf management students join them on this episode. During this episode, we have Hailey Tucker of Texas A&M and Bill Hilderhoff from Penn State join us and talk about the turf industry from their perspective.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Hailey Tucker, Texas A&M
William Hilderhoff, Penn State University
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have Alpha Jones from the Fayetteville Woodpeckers on this episode. We discuss turf management and, more specifically, professional development and becoming a great leader in the industry. Listening is a key component to success, and Alpha has some tips and tricks for being an effective listener. Alpha shares several interesting stories about his life and career and how we can all become better leaders in this industry.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Alpha Jones, Fayetteville Woodpeckers
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff talk turf management in Los Angeles, CA, with Lauren Lasocha, Senior Agronomist at the Bel-Air Country Club. We discuss maintenance practices at an exclusive country club west of Los Angeles. Lauren has volunteered on the grounds crew for several US Opens and other PGA events. She talks about the experience and what goes into preparing a course for large televised events.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Lauren Lasocha, Senior Agronomist at Bel-Air Country Club
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have Dr. Chase Straw from Texas A&M on the show to discuss irrigation technology. He discusses the research he has done on precision application of water. He then discusses the turf program at A&M, and we conclude with the SFMA conference education, of which Chase chairs.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Chase Straw, Texas A&M
Episode sponsor: The TORO Company
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff talk with Laura Simmons, CEO of the Sports Field Managers Association. Laura came to SFMA this year and has had a steep learning curve. We talk about the present and future of the association as well as her vision for the group. If you aren’t a member of the association, you can check it out here:
Sports Field Managers Association
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Laura Simmons, CEO of Sports Field Managers Association
Episode sponsor: Hummer Turfgrass Systems
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Season 3 Episode 27: Summer Wrap-Up, 2023 Little League World Series, and Fall Renovations
Tanner and Jeff look back at the summer of 2023 during this episode. Jeff talks about the Little League World Series in 2023 and how the series went. Jeff also talks about his skin examination and what he did because of a guest we had on the show. (Hint: Season 3 Episode 18: Protecting Yourself from the Sun with Brooke Breitenbach) Tanner discusses fall renovations and the proper steps for ensuring a good turfgrass surface.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension
Episode sponsor: Hummer Turfgrass Systems
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff host Ryan Nagy, Sports Turf Manager with the Seattle Mariners. Ryan talks to us about the experiences he had during the MLB All-Star game at T-Mobile Park in Seattle. He talks about the foot traffic on the turf during the week of the all-star game. From celebrity softball, Home Run Derby, Futures game, and the actual All-Star game itself. He also discusses how the intricate logo was put onto the field for the All-Star Game.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Ryan Nagy- Seattle Mariners
Episode sponsor: Walker Supply, Inc.
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff host Dr. Leah Brillman and Matt Duncan from DLF Pick Seed. Dr. Brillman has been a plant breeder for over 35 years, and she shares a wealth of knowledge about the industry, and we have great conversations about what it takes to develop a new variety of grass. Additionally, she shares information about this year’s seed and harvest.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Leah Brillman, DLF Pick Seed
Matt Duncan, DLF Pick Seed
Episode sponsor: DLF USA
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff host Ed Gross, Golf Superintendent at Northampton Country Club. Last year, Ed converted his driving range tee to Bermudagrass for better in-season turf recovery. Ed explains how the Bermudagrass was installed, managed, and winterized. Finally, he offers suggestions and tips for people who are interested in using Bermudagrass on their turf surfaces in the Northeast.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Ed Gross, Northampton Country Club
Episode sponsor: E.H. Griffith, INC
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff host Jamie Mehringer from Advanced Turf Solutions. Jamie leads the field care team in Whitestown, IN, home of the Central Region Little League Headquarters and the associated tournaments. Jamie discusses the process that he and the crew of JD Turf will perform after the regional softball tournament so they can host regional baseball six days later. Additionally, Jamie talks about the year-round maintenance of the field and the challenges he faces.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Jamie Mehringer, Advanced Turf Solutions
Episode Sponsor: Hummer Turfgrass Systems, Inc
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff talk with Extension Educator Danny Kline. Danny spent his early years at Penn State with the late Dr. Paul Heller and, more recently, with turf Entomologist Dr. Ben McGraw. Danny is now an Extension Educator focusing on pesticide education. This episode discusses turfgrass insect pests, including grubs, webworms, chinch bugs, and crane flies.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Danny Kline, Penn State Extension
Episode sponsor: Walker Supply, Inc.
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Turf and Ornamentals Field Day
Want to hang out with Jeff and Tanner? Come to the Turf and Ornamentals Field Day being held at the Penn State Arboretum on August 1, 2023.
Penn State Turf and Ornamentals Field Day is our chance to show you the results of turfgrass research designed for golf course superintendents, sports turf managers, and lawn care operators; and provide tours and hands-on demonstrations for landscapers, nursery operators, and others interested in ornamental horticulture.
Tanner and Jeff host their monthly “Tractor Cab Trivia” with two former guests on the show. Each person asks 5 questions. Answers are given on the air, some discussion ensues, and the winner is decided! It’s a 20-question round-robin quiz show won with correct answers from the participants or your hosts!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Erin Wilder, Sod Solutions
Jimmy Simpson, Town of Cary
Episode sponsor: DLF USA
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff talk with Extension Turfgrass Specialist Dr. Pete Landschoot about two common diseases: anthracnose and gray leaf spot. Both turf diseases can be devastating, and control of each is discussed.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Peter Landschoot, Penn State University
Episode sponsor: EH Griffith
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff talk with two former major league sport field managers that now work in sod production. We discuss all things sod, including site preparation, installation, and watering. We also discuss the most common mistakes of sod installation.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Chris Ecton, Carolina Green
Evan Fowler, Green Valley Turf
Episode sponsor: Hummer Turfgrass Systems, Inc.
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff talk with Brooke Breitenbach, Certified Physician Assistant, about skin protection from the sun! In this business, we work outside and are exposed to the sun most of the day. In this episode, Brooke discusses UV clothing, sunscreen, hats, and all other protection from the sun. We also talk about having an annual examination. You can't afford to miss this episode for your peace of mind and the peace of mind of your loved ones.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Brooke Breitenbach, Certified Physician Assistant (guest)
Episode sponsor: Walker Supply, Inc.
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff open the mail bag this week and dive into some of the questions they have had from listeners. A variety of topics in this episode from seed selection in heavy wear areas to changing pH. They answer a question from a listener in Alaska about changing soil structure and talk about growth regulators.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Episode sponsor: DLF Seed
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff host two former guests on this episode of “Tractor Cab Trivia.” Each person asks five questions in a 20-question round-robin quiz show that is won with correct answers from the participants or your hosts!
Episode Hosts:
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension
Speakers:
Dan Miller, North Huntington Twp., PA
Lee Clinton, Clover School District, Clover, SC
Episode sponsor: EH Griffith
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find a lot of information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff host Tim VanLoo. Tim has been in the turf business for more than 20 years and works for D & K Products. Tim worked at Iowa State before working with D & K. Tim is a past President of SFMA and an all-around great guy. We discuss athletic field turf management, seeding, fertility, annual bluegrass control, and several other turf topics.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Tim VanLoo, D&K Products
Episode Sponsor: Walker Supply, Inc.
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find a lot of information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff host Rob Guthrie, sports turf manager at Little League Headquarters in Williamsport, PA. Recently, Rob oversaw a complete renovation of Volunteer Stadium. Over time, the infield had risen from the original grade and created issues that needed to be addressed. Rob discusses the project and the materials they used.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Rob Guthrie, Little League International
Episode Sponsor: DLF Seed
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find a lot of information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff host Aaron Ramella of the Buffalo Bills in this episode. During the show, we discuss the new practice field that was recently installed, Buffalo winters, and field management. Aaron talks about the proposed new natural grass stadium and his challenges since arriving in Buffalo.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Tom Butzler, Penn State Extension
Aaron Ramella, Head Groundskeeper/Director of Grounds, Buffalo Bills
Life on the Sidelines: Bills Grounds Crew
Episode sponsor: EH Griffith
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find a lot of information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
On this episode, Tanner and Jeff host their coworkers who have a podcast called “Keeping It Green.” The “Keeping it Green” podcast covers ornamental and landscape questions, which can greatly benefit most professionals. We discuss common lawn and landscape mistakes that people make throughout the year.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Keeping It Green Hosts:
Tom Butzler, Penn State Extension
Sandy Feather, Penn State Extension
Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension
Tim Abbey, Penn State Extension
Keeping It Green podcast
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find a lot of information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff host two former guests on this episode of “Tractor Cab Trivia.” Each person asks 5 questions in a 20-question round-robin quiz show that is won with correct answers from the participants or your hosts!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Tom Butzler, Penn State Extension
Krystal Snyder, Penn State Extension
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find a lot of information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have Dr. Andrew McNitt on the show. They discuss his upcoming retirement in August of 2023. Dr. McNitt shares some highlights of his career and interaction with the students and professionals he has interacted with over his 39-year career. His impact is broad and deep to the turf industry in Pennsylvania and across the country. We wish him well in retirement and thank him for all he has done for our industry.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Andrew S. McNitt, Penn State University
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find a lot of information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff talk with long-time Beaver Stadium grounds crew member Paul Curtis. Paul has spent his career helping to maintain Beaver Stadium at Penn State. As one of the few people to mow Beaver Stadium for many years, Paul discusses what that was like. He also reflects on the changes he has seen in field care, athletics, and coworkers over the years. Finally, Paul talks about his years working with the students that were on the crew and where they are now.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Paul Curtis, Retired Beaver Stadium Grounds Crew
Lead photo: Dr. Andrew McNitt, Penn State
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find a lot of information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff have Dr. Dave Huff back on the show to discuss the commercialized production of annual bluegrass seed ready to hit the marketplace. He talks about the development and value to the golf industry and the University’s assistance in getting it to market. Dr. Huff is a wealth of knowledge and always a joy to talk with!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. David Huff, Penn State University
Lead photo: Annual bluegrass, credit Penn State Extension website
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
You can find a lot of information on turf issues in the Turfgrass and Lawn Care section of the Penn State Extension website.
Tanner and Jeff host two former guests on this episode of “Tractor Cab Trivia.” Each person asks five questions in a 20-question round-robin quiz show that is won with correct answers from the participants or your hosts!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Bobby Piccolo - Derry Township
Steve LeGrow- LeGrows Inc.
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Tanner and Jeff host Brad Park from Rutgers University to discuss turf-type tall fescue. Brad talks about his research on varieties and establishment, not only in athletic fields but also in lawns. They talk about the seeding rate, mowing height, and nutritional needs of tall fescue.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Brad Park, Rutgers University
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Tanner and Jeff host Dr. Gerald Henry, University of Georgia, and his Ph.D. student Erick Begitschke. Dr. Henry talks about the turf program at the university and serves as Erick’s advisor for his Ph.D. research. Erick’s research is focused on researching how turf surfaces have an impact on lower extremity injuries in sports. Erick is working with a kinesiologist to measure the impact on joints and the amount of force that is returned back to the athlete from the turf surface. Erick uses several different soil profiles to do this study which will be the baseline for dozens of tests that can be utilized in the future.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Gerald Henry, University of Georgia
Erick Begitschke, University of Georgia
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Meet some of the characters Tanner and Jeff work with and join the Penn State Green Industry Team for their 2023 winter meeting season. We have in-person events and webinars!
Turf and Ornamentals Conferences and Webinars, Various dates & locations, 1/10/2023 to 3/22/2023
Tanner and Jeff host Matt Wimer from Hummer Turfgrass Systems, Inc. Matt discuss sod production on native soils and how it is used in various renovation projects throughout the region. Some interesting projects and the challenges associated with each job are discussed.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Matt Wimer, Hummer Turfgrass Systems, Inc.
Lead photo: Courtesy Hummer Turfgrass Systems, Inc.
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Meet some of the characters Tanner and Jeff work with and join the Penn State Green Industry Team for their 2023 winter meeting season. We have in-person events and webinars!
Turf and Ornamentals Conferences and Webinars, Various dates & locations, 1/10/2023 to 3/22/2023
Tanner and Jeff talk with Murray Cook, a long-time consultant for Major League Baseball. Murray talks about what it takes to pull off the special Major League games like those held at The Field of Dreams, Little League Classic, and international games like MLB in Mexico or even the World Baseball Classic. Murray talks about some of the challenges he has seen, from equipment to maintaining a field and using the supplies available to make the fields safe for play.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Murray Cook, President, Brightview Sports Fields
Lead photo: Jeffrey T. Fowler, Penn State
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Meet some of the characters Tanner and Jeff work with and join the Penn State Green Industry Team for their 2023 winter meeting season. We have in-person events and webinars!
Turf and Ornamentals Conferences and Webinars, Various dates & locations, 1/10/2023 to 3/22/2023
Tanner and Jeff host their inaugural “Tractor Cab Trivia” with two former guests on the show. Each person asks five turfgrass-related questions to the group, and a discussion follows. It’s a 20-question quiz show that is won with correct answers from the participants or the hosts!
Play along to see how you fare in this fun turfgrass trivia game!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
John Fowler, Anuvia
Matt Duncan, DLF Pick Seed
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Meet some of the characters Tanner and Jeff work with and join the Penn State Green Industry Team for their 2023 winter meeting season. We have in-person events and webinars!
Turf and Ornamentals Conferences and Webinars, Various dates & locations, 1/10/2023 to 3/22/2023
Tanner and Jeff just returned from the National Sports Field Managers Association Conference in Salt Lake City. They do a quick review of the conference and talk about Season 3 of Fresh Cut Grass and what listeners can look forward to in 2023.
National Sports Field Managers Association
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension
Lead photo: Jeffrey Fowler, Penn State
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Meet some of the characters Tanner and Jeff work with and join the Penn State Green Industry Team for their 2023 winter meeting season. We have in-person events and webinars!
Turf and Ornamentals Conferences and Webinars, Various dates & locations, 1/10/2023 to 3/22/2023
In this episode, Tanner, Jeff, and Nina discuss field safety from a different perspective. Nina Johnson-Pitt works for Little League International as a Senior Strategist and is also a Little League Mom. This episode discusses how field safety goes deeper than player safety on the field. Nina’s daughter is a softball pitcher, and we discuss the mechanics of proper pitching and how unsafe conditions negatively impact the performance of young athletes.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Nina Johnson-Pitt, Little League International
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Meet some of the characters Tanner and Jeff work with and join the Penn State Green Industry Team for their 2023 winter meeting season. We have in-person events and webinars!
Turf and Ornamentals Conferences and Webinars, Various dates & locations, 1/10/2023 to 3/22/2023
Tanner and Jeff talk with Tom Bettle, facility manager of the Joseph Valentine Turf Research Facility in University Park, PA. Tom was a golf course superintendent for 25 years prior to working for Penn State. He works with university faculty to ensure they have space and the proper conditions for field research.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension
Tom Bettle, Penn State University
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Meet some of the characters Tanner and Jeff work with and join the Penn State Green Industry Team for their 2023 winter meeting season. We have in-person events and webinars!
Turf and Ornamentals Conferences and Webinars, Various dates & locations, 1/10/2023 to 3/22/2023
Tanner and Jeff talk with their colleague, Brian Walsh, about the spotted lanternfly. The spotted lanternfly was first discovered in Berks County, PA, and moved as far west as Detroit and as far south as North Carolina. While not a turf pest, it is one that turf professionals do find periodically. Brian talks about the insect and the damage that it will do.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Brian Walsh, Penn State Extension
PennState Extention: Spotted Lanternfly
Lead photo: Jeffrey Fowler, Penn State
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Meet some of the characters Tanner and Jeff work with and join the Penn State Green Industry Team for their 2023 winter meeting season. We have in-person events and webinars!
Turf and Ornamentals Conferences and Webinars, Various dates & locations, 1/10/2023 to 3/22/2023
Tanner and Jeff talk with industry expert Dr. Mike Goatley of Virginia Tech. He talks about his research and his proudest moments in his 34 years in academia. Dr. Goatley is a world-renowned pillar of the turf industry—you won’t want to miss this one!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Michael Goatley, Virginia Tech
Lead photo: Tanner Delvalle, Penn State
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!
freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Meet some of the characters Tanner and Jeff work with and join the Penn State Green Industry Team for their 2023 winter meeting season. We have in-person events and webinars!
Turf and Ornamentals Conferences and Webinars, Various dates & locations, 1/10/2023 to 3/22/2023
Tanner and Jeff talk with Jerad Minnick, Founder and Lead Advisor of Natural Grass Advisory Group. There are more than a dozen ways to reduce compaction's effects. In this episode, we discuss several different pieces of equipments that can be used under different scenarios. Jerad is a longtime natural grass advocate who brings years of turf management to the show.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
Jerad Minnick, Principal, Natural Grass Advisory Group
Lead photo: Jeffrey Fowler, Penn State
Send us an email! We would love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and questions!freshcutgrass@psu.edu
Meet some of the characters Tanner and Jeff work with and join the Penn State Green Industry Team for their 2023 winter meeting season. We have in-person events and webinars!
Green Industry Conference, 1/4/2023
Turf and Ornamentals Conferences and Webinars, Various dates & locations, 1/10/2023 to 3/22/2023
Estimating and Bidding for Landscape Installation
Bucks County, PA: 1/19 and 1/20/2023 and Allegheny County, PA: 2/8 and 2/9/2023
Golf, Lawn, Landscape, and Sports Turf Conferences: Held by the PA Turf Council
• Northeastern PA Golf, Lawn, Landscape and Sports Turf Conference, 1/26/2023
• Eastern PA Golf, Lawn, Landscape and Sports Turf Conference, 2/2/2023
• Western PA Golf, Lawn, Landscape and Sports Turf Conference, 2/21 and 2/22, 2023
Tanner and Jeff talk with Jeff Salmond with United Turf and Track about his personal decision to take better care of himself. A routine physical led to a bunch of tests, and a couple of days later, it led to major surgery! We talk about the impact of stress on our bodies and how to better care of our own bodies for the sake of our loved ones!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Jeff Salmond, Vice President of United Turf and Track
Lead photo: Jeffrey Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk with Mike Buras, head grounds manager for Longwood Cricket Club in Chestnut Hills, Massachusetts. The club opened in 1878, and Mike is only the 5th head grounds manager. On the show, we discuss the agronomic practices used in caring for grass courts. Mike surprises us with a discussion about turf species used for tennis courts.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Michael Buras, Longwood Cricket Club
Lead photo: Michael Buras, Longwood Cricket Club
Tanner and Jeff talk with Andy Ommen about his journey to transform McLean County PONY Field into a Sports Field Management Association (SFMA) Field of the Year! Since then, Andy has started a company that renovates and maintains natural grass surfaces. He has a fantastic story to tell about volunteer involvement in making improvements to turf surfaces.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Andy Ommen, Professional Outdoor Solutions
Lead photo: Jeffrey Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk with the University of Connecticut’s Vicky Wallace. Conversation highlights aerification, topdressing, and overseeding, as well as the late fall fertilization application.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Vicky Wallace, University of Connecticut Extension
Lead photo: Jeffrey Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk with Extension Specialist Dr. Pete Landschoot about the new Pennsylvania Fertilizer Bill, which was signed into law in July 2022. We talk about the law and the effects that it will have on fertilizer applications in the state.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Peter Landschoot, Penn State University
Lead photo: Tanner Delvalle
Tanner and Jeff talk with Dr. Pete Landschoot about Summer Patch, a common fungal disease of bluegrasses. Identification, prevention, and management are discussed.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Peter Landschoot, Penn State University (speaker)
Photo: Dr. Peter Landschoot, Penn State University
Tanner and Jeff talk with Steve Majchrzak of Hoffman Irrigation about water reels. Steve has worked with many field managers to help them figure out the best solution to their water needs. He shares his expertise with us in this episode. We talk about volume, pressure, and site needs.
After the dry growing season we had this year, you don’t want to miss this one!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Steve Majchrzak, Hoffman Irrigation
Photo credit: Steve Majchrzak, Hoffman Irrigation
Tanner and Jeff mix it up this week and call on a few friends to talk about smoking meat! Inspired by Roch Gaussoin, University of Nebraska Extension Turfgrass Specialist and a certified BBQ Judge, we decided to call up a few friends in the turf business who smoke meat and discuss tricks of the trade.
If for no other reason, you must listen to this to find out how to smoke ice!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Speakers:
Dr. Roch Gaussion, University of Nebraska
Jeff Salmond, United Turf and Track
Brian Hall, Sylvania Parks
Warren Albert, Cranberry Little League
Tanner and Jeff host Chris Lessig from Volusia County Parks in Florida. After an extensive career in Pennsylvania, Chris found himself managing warm-season grass in Florida Parks. Chris compares the two grass types and discusses the major differences. Park maintenance in Florida is much different than in Pennsylvania, in more ways than you may think!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Chris Lessig, Volusia County Parks
Lead photo: https://www.volusia.org/
Tanner and Jeff talk with Andy Lipinski from EH Griffith about aerification and overseeding. Andy spent 18 seasons working in the NFL and stepped away to work with professionals as a sales consultant. We talk about field care in the NFL and fields at the parks and recreation level. Aerification, overseeding, wear, and recovery are all discussed.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Andy Lipinski, EH Griffith
Lead photo: Jeffrey Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk with Dr. Ben McGraw about turf insects in the summer of 2022. We focus on chinch bugs, billbugs, and white grubs. We talk about the potential of a fall armyworm invasion like there was in 2021. We also discuss how to sample for, identify, and sample for these pests.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Ben McGraw, Penn State University
Lead photo: Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk about how the summer of 2022 is going. We discuss turf disease issues, turf selection, fungicides, weeds, and other topics. Tanner adds his observations on the Bluemuda plots he has established.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Lead photo: Jeff Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk with Dr. Amy Korman about protecting ourselves from tick-borne illnesses. Working outdoors has certain risks; one of those is being exposed to insects that can carry bacteria and viruses that can infect us. Amy talks about Lyme disease and how it spreads, as well as other diseases that can be transmitted by insects.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Amy Korman, Penn State Extension
Lead photo: Amy Korman, Penn State Extension
Tanner and Jeff have four guests on the show this week. All four are prominent figures in the turf industry, and all four are women. These ladies have come together to volunteer at the Women’s U.S. Open, and in 2022, a team of 14 will be volunteering at the Little League Softball World Series in Greenville, NC.
What a fantastic way to show 11-12-year-old girls playing softball that field maintenance is a potential career! They have been featured on the Golf Channel, Sports Field Management Magazine, and countless other publications, and now we have them on Fresh Cut Grass!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Nina Oldenkamp, Odey’s Field Experts
Jessica Lenihan, Green Valley Turf
Kelly Lynch, Pure Seed
Jill Seymour, Charleston Springs South
Lead photo: USGA
Tanner and Jeff have three of the top professionals in the turf industry on the show this week. The conversation is centered around resodding in-season during the NFL football season. We discuss sod quality and working with sod growers to grow exactly what is needed to withstand the wear and tear that games and special events put on the field.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Andrew McNitt, Penn State University
Tony Leonard, Philadelphia Eagles
Tom Goyne, Pittsburgh Steelers
Lead photo: Dr. Andrew McNitt, Penn State University
Tanner and Jeff have two past Sports Field Management Association (SFMA) presidents join them and discuss park maintenance in a big city. They talk about the challenges of managing a tremendous number of parks, equipment, and staffing. Water is the most important aspect of managing their parks and is crucial to keeping all of their parks safe and enjoyable for residents of their cities.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Abby McNeal, City Wide Manager, Denver Parks and Recreation
Sarah Martin, Water Resource Manager, City of Phoenix
Photo: Jeffrey T. Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff have industry veteran Sean Cullen join them to share his expertise on reel mowers. They talk about questions to ask when making a purchase and things to consider before looking for a new mower.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Sean Cullin, Territory Manager, Turf Equipment and Supply Company
Lead photo: Jeffrey T. Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff have industry veteran Sean Cullen join them to share his expertise on rotary mowers. They talk about questions to ask when making a purchase and things to consider before looking for a new mower. Blades, discharge direction, mulching, zero turns, rear-wheel steering, and much more are discussed.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Sean Cullen, Territory Manager, Turf Equipment and Supply Company
Lead photo: Jeffrey T Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff have Dr. Roch Gaussoin, a professor at the University of Nebraska, join them this week. Roch talks about strategies for hard-to-get annual and perennial weeds. Roch’s recent research has focused on Nutsedge, but we talk about many other tactical approaches to control.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Roch Gaussion, Professor, University of Nebraska
Lead photo:Pete Landschoot, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff host Dr. Mike Agnew from Syngenta on the show this week. Dr. Agnew has spent 40 years in the turf industry and 30 of those have been working with plant growth regulators. Dr. Agnew discusses how and why to use growth regulators and how to incorporate them into a program.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Michael Agnew, Technical Manager, Syngenta
Lead photo: prestigousturfinc.com
Tanner and Jeff walk with Weston Appelfeller, from Austin FC. Weston talks about managing seashore paspalum at the newly constructed Austin FC facility. Weston talks about why this grass was chosen and how shade was a factor in its selection. This discussion is a unique opportunity to learn about professional soccer stadium turf maintenance with a unique turf species.
Weston Appelfeller, Senior Director of Grounds // Austin FC, 2020 Class of Pioneers in the Field—Pioneer Athletics
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Weston Appelfeller, VP of Grounds, Austin FC
Lead photo: Weston Appelfeller
Tanner and Jeff talk with Kyle Leppelmeier from the Toledo Mudhens about transitioning from having an ice rink on a natural turfgrass field to opening day in just a few months. From removing the rink to grading, sodding, and having it safe for play, Kyle tells the listeners the steps he and his team take to pull off the impossible!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Kyle Leppelmeier, Toledo Mudhens
Lead photo: Kyle Leppelmeier, Toledo Mudhens
Tanner and Jeff host Erin Wilder of Sod Solutions and Randy Price of Tri Tex Sod. The topic for this episode is all about Zoysia grass. Erin and Randy discuss new varieties and management practices to maintain a quality Zoysia stand. We talk about recovery after heavy wear and its nutritional needs as a warm-season grass.
Sod Solutions
TriTex Sod
Episode Hosts/Speakers:
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Erin Wilder, Sod Solutions
Randy Price, Tri Tex Sod
Lead photo: Dr. Peter Landschoot, Penn State University
Tanner and Jeff talk with Krystal Snyder, Extension Educator with Penn State, about the basics of maintaining landscape plantings and flower beds. Most turf managers have responsibilities to maintain flowers and/or landscapes in some way at their facility but may have little or no knowledge of how to do so.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Krystal Snyder, Penn State Extension (guest)
Lead photo: Sinclair Adam, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk with Boyd Montgomery, Regional Business Manager Sports Fields & Grounds for The Toro Company, about buying vs. leasing equipment. Boyd, a great friend, and champion of natural turf enlightens us on the options of buying vs. leasing when making a new equipment acquisition. Boyd continues by talking about the supply chain and its influence on the supply of new equipment.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Boyd Montgomery, Regional Business Manager Sports Fields & Grounds, The Toro Company
Lead photo: Jeffrey T Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk with Matt Uveges, Manager of the Commercial Technical Services Division at Toro, to discuss equipment care and maintenance. They also discuss winter care and preparation for the spring season.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Matt Uveges, The Toro Company
Lead photo: Jeffrey Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk with Pam Sherratt from Ohio State University. Pam talks about the importance of a quality stand of turf when managing for play, be that sports or golf. Pam is native to England; she came to Ohio State for the summer, and more than 20 years later—she's still there! It is a delight to catch up with Pam and talk turf!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Pam Sherratt, Ohio State University
Lead photo: Jeffrey T. Fowler
Tanner and Jeff talk with Zach Holm, Turf Care Manager in Central Park, New York City. Central Park has an unbelievable amount of foot traffic annually. More than 42 million people walk, run, bike, or recreate in Central Park. Additionally, there are 26 baseball or softball fields in Central Park! Zach talks about the maintenance schedule, traffic issues, and project planning in the iconic park in the Big Apple.
Central Park Conservancy
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Zach Holm, Turf Care Manager, Central Park Conservancy
Tanner and Jeff talk with Matt Williams of SGL about artificial lighting for improving turf growth. If you haven’t seen these systems, you will want to hear about them in this episode. If you have heard of them and maybe even have one, you will still want to listen to this episode when Matt talks about some new smaller, more portable lighting systems.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Matt Williams, SGL
Lead photo: SGL
Tanner and Jeff talk with John Mascaro, President of Turf-Tech International about his monthly photos in Sports Field Management magazine and Golf Course Management magazine about some of the craziest mistakes he has seen. But more important than the mistakes, we talk about the creative solutions managers have used to fix the error!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension (host)
John Mascaro, President, Turf-Tech International
Lead photo: Jeffrey Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk with Doug Schattinger, President of Pioneer Athletics. Doug talks about how a paint is made, the differences in paint types, and research that goes into a product before it hits the market. We also discuss paint removal from a variety of surfaces. He also talks about his recent Founders Award from the Sports Field Management Association.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Doug Schattinger, Pioneer Paint
Lead photo: Jeffrey Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk with Erin Wilder with Sod Solutions and Jimmy Simpson, Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM) with the Town of Cary, NC about bermudagrass. In the first “Fresh Cut Grass” panel discussion, we cover topics including breeding, maintenance, and cultural practices with bermudagrass. The use of bermudagrass has been marching northward over the past 20 years, and it will continue to be utilized more and more in the northeast as time moves forward.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Erin Wilder, Sod Solutions
Jimmy Simpson, CSFM, Town of Cary
Lead photo: Jeffrey Fowler, Penn State
Tanner and Jeff talk with Sun Rosselin about managing turf at over 5,000 feet. Sun is President-Elect of Sports Field Management Association and a Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM) for Jefferson County School District in Golden, Colorado. She talks about the challenges of growing cool-season grass at altitude and managing fields that six different high schools use!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Sun Rosselin, CSFM for Jefferson County School District
Lead photo: Sun Rosselin, Jefferson County School District
Tanner and Jeff talk with Dr. Kevin Frank from Michigan State about snow and ice cover on turf. The conversation focuses mainly on putting greens, but the conversation gets at the root of the problem with ice. We discuss ways to manage ice and Dr. Frank gives some management tips to prevent winter kill and snow mold.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Kevin Frank, Michigan State University
Lead photo: Picture of winter kill. Dr. Pete Landschoot
Tanner and Jeff talk with Dr. David Huff, long-time Penn State faculty member, about the genetics of Poa. We have an in-depth conversation about DNA sequencing and the epigenetics of these crazy plants! David has traveled around the world collecting Poa seeds. He explains all of this in terms that everyone can understand.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. David Huff, Penn State University
Lead photo: Tanner Delvalle
Tanner and Jeff talk with Dan Brockett, a long-time Penn State Extension Educator about the candidate pool when looking for good employees. Dan has worked with countless small business owners over his career to help recruit, train, and retain high-quality employees. He gives tips for employers to use to find and retain the best employees.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dan Brockett, Penn State Extension
Lead photo: Jeff Fowler
Tanner and Jeff talk with Andy Gossel of the AAA Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs. Andy’s path to the majors is probably one of the roads least traveled by sports turf managers. Andy was a PE teacher/Athletic Director when the Iron Pigs hired him. He tells us about his most significant challenges when he started on the third day of the 2021 baseball season! He talks about the role he has taken with mentoring others through social media and credits those that helped carve the trail for him.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Andy Gossel, AAA Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs
Lead photo: Andy Gossel
Tanner and Jeff talk with Rodney Hopkins of Innovative Turf Application and Consulting, Inc. (ITAC) in Virginia. Rodney has extensive experience in field construction and renovation. In this episode, we focus on the topic of fraze mowing. Fraze mowing is a relatively new maintenance practice that is done to medium to high-level athletic fields. We talk about how it's done, the benefits of doing it, and how quickly turf will recover from the process.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Rodney Hopkins, Innovative Turf Application and Consulting, Inc.
Lead photo: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
In this episode, Jeff and Tanner talk about how their careers have led them to Penn State Extension. They also discuss hobbies and life lessons. Tanner asks Jeff to talk about his battle against cancer. Finally, find out the new questions they will be asking guests in Season 2 as they strike each other out at the end of the show. You don’t want to miss this final episode of Season 1.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
We will be taking a short break for the holidays. We’ll be back after January 3, 2022, with Season Two of Fresh Cut Grass!
Lead image: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk to Casey Montgomery, Director of Turf Operations for the Sporting Kansas City, Major League Soccer soccer club. Casey shares his favorite part of the profession with us and then turns the discussion to his bermudagrass fields. Casey manages nearly 20 acres of bermudagrass soccer pitches. Like many, Casey got bit by the turf bug at a young age. Casey spent a few years in Portland with the University before returning to KC. We also discuss his use of portable grow lights to promote turf growth in shaded areas.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Casey Montgomery, Director of Turf Operations, Sporting KC
Sporting Kansas City, Major League Soccer
Lead photo: Sporting KC
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk with Jeremy Thomas, owner of Thomas ProTurf. Jeremy is a 2004 graduate of the Penn State Turf Program and went on to start his own construction and field renovation business. Jeremy talks about how he assesses a field and works on a multi-year plan for the customer. Jeremy has extensive experience with fields having worked on the Beaver Stadium crew, interning with the Philadelphia Eagles, and working on the game day staff for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Jeremy then tells us about the piece of equipment that he wouldn’t be without.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Jeremy Thomas, Thomas ProTurf, Inc
Lead photo: Jeffrey T Fowler, Penn State Extension
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk with Colorado State University's Extension Turf Specialist, Dr. Tony Koski about WATER—a resource that people in the East take for granted. Colorado is one of only two states in the US that does not have water running into it from another state! Often referred to as a headwater state, Colorado supplies much of the water to the Southwestern states. You won't want to miss this extremely educational episode.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Tony Koski, Colorado State University
Lead photo: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk with Penn State’s Dr. John Kaminski about annual bluegrass. Dr. John Kaminski is Professor and Associate Head, Department of Plant Science and the Director, Golf Course Turfgrass Management Program.
They discuss both suppression and control methods for this major turfgrass weed. Chemical and cultural practices are examined on how they can influence annual bluegrass populations. Plant growth regulators (PGRs) are also considered, along with strategies to prevent seedhead formation.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. John Kaminski, Professor, Penn State University
Lead photo: Tanner Delvalle, Penn State Extension
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk with Turf Manager James Snell. James is the turf manager for possibly the busiest turf area in the country! James cares for turf on the National Mall in Washington DC. The National Mall is the area between the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial. We discuss fertility, mowing, cultural practices, and much more for a very well-used turf area.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
James Snell, Turf Manager, National Mall & Memorial Parks
William Phillips III, Private Contractor
Lead photo: Jeff Fowler
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk with legendary Golf Course Superintendent Matt Shaffer, Brand Ambassador for Anuvia, and John Fowler, VP of Sales for Anuvia. Matt talks about relieving compaction in nontraditional ways on a golf course. These principles can be used on all types of turf and can improve soil health anywhere. Discussion centers around soil conditions, watering and reducing pesticide use. Matt shares stories about prepping for a US Open and the challenges faced.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Matt Shaffer, Brand Ambassador for Anuvia
John Fowler, VP of Sales, Anuvia
Lead photo: Tanner Delvalle, Penn State
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk about the lessons that they learned this year. Topics include seed supply, fertilization, aeration, and armyworm prevention. They also discuss new equipment on the market that can make your job easier. And finally, they both uncover what their personal secret society would be!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Photo credit: Tanner Delvalle, Penn State
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk with Nick McKenna, Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) President, about the upcoming STMA conference and managing athletic fields at Texas A&M. The meeting will be held in Savanna, GA, from January 17-21, 2022. This is a great opportunity to meet new people, make new friends, and connect with old friends! This educational conference is second to none, and the network of professionals attending is staggering. Nick also talks about managing bermudagrass fields in Texas.
Sports Turf Managers Association website
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Nick McKenna, CSFM, Texas A&M
Lead photo: Sports Turf Managers Association
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk with Chris Ball, the volunteer grounds crew coordinator from the Little League Softball World Series. Jeff discusses the Little League Baseball World Series. The two compare notes about the 2021 experience with limited fans in the middle of a pandemic. They talk about what they learned and what will change moving toward 2022 when the tournament expands to more teams, more games, and some extra days on the schedule. They discuss working with incredible volunteers and put out the call for more volunteers for the 2022 series!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Chris Ball, Ewing Irrigation
Lead photo: Jeff Fowler
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk with Drew Miller and Sam Ruwe about the Brentsville High School turfgrass instructional program. This high school training program prepares students to be job-ready when they leave the classroom. Drew has over 200 youth enrolled in his class taking classroom learning and applying it to the real world. Drew has done a remarkable job of preparing these kids to hit the job market ready to work! Drew and his students also host the popular Tiger Turfgrass Podcast.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Drew Miller, Brentsville High School Instructor
Sam Ruwe, Student in Drew’s program.
Lead photo: Drew Miller, Brentsville HS, VA
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk with Patrick Coakley. Patrick was a long-time sports turf manager in minor league baseball and is now a Business Development Specialist for DuraEdge. They talk about what it takes to make a quality infield mix. Patrick uses his more than 20 years of experience to talk about the challenges of managing high-quality infields.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Patrick Coakley. Business Development Specialist, DuraEdge
Lead photo: Jeffrey T. Fowler, Penn State
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk with Judy Houck, Director of Parks and Recreation in Spring Township, PA. Judy discusses the public works department and field maintenance. Grow blankets and topdressing are discussed as well.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Judy Houck, Director of Parks & Recreation in Spring Township, Berks County
Photo credit: Parks & Recreation, Berks County, PA
"Antietam Creek at the Seidel Road Trailhead"
In this episode, Tanner and Jeff talk with Ross Kurcab, longtime head groundskeeper for the Denver Broncos. Ross talks about his years in Denver and his consulting work. Ross was the first STMA member to pass the Certified Sports Field Managers exam. Ross also performs field testing with Dr. Andrew McNitt on NFL fields around the country.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Ross Kurcab, (guest) Owner, Championship Fields
Tanner and Jeff host Sports Turf Manager of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles, Tony Leonard on the show. Tony discusses maintenance practices he uses at Lincoln Financial Field and the practice facility, the NovaCare Center. Tony will be utilizing bermudagrass year-round this season. Tony talks about the challenges of managing the stadium for two teams; the Philadelphia Eagles and the Temple Owls, as well as concerts and other non-football events.
Tony is one of the best turf managers in the industry and we are fortunate to have Tony join us for a conversation about professional turf management.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Tony Leonard, Philadelphia Eagles
Tanner and Jeff have Dr. Ben McGraw and Dr. Pete Landschoot back on the show. In this episode, they discuss the recent outbreak of fall armyworms in Pennsylvania. They discuss the effects it has had on turf, as well as what can be done after damage occurs. A discussion is also had about preventative options.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Pete Landchoot, Penn State University (special guest)
Dr. Ben McGraw, Penn State University (special guest)
Lead photo: Jeffrey T. Fowler
Tanner and Jeff speak with Alex Steinman, Director of Grounds for the University of Maryland Department of Athletics. Alex talks about the performance and maintenance of Bermudagrass on athletic fields in Maryland. He discusses cultural practices including verticutting, fertilization, and overseeding.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Alex Steinman, Director of Grounds, University of Maryland
Lead Image: Alex Steinman
Tanner and Jeff have Kristen Althouse on the show. Kristen is the Education Manager for the Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA). She has been working with KAFMO and Penn State University to build a circulmulmn for high school agriculture teachers that can be used to teach students about the turf industry. Kristen has video training clips, lesson plans and all of the teaching aids needed to prepare FFA (Future Farmers of America) students for a Turf Career Development Experience (CDE) at the state level.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Kristen Althouse, Education Manager STMA (special guest)
Lead Image: FFA.org
Episode links:
Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA)
Keystone Athletic Field Managers Organization (KAFMO)
Future Farmers of America (FFA)
Penn State World Campus: Turfgrass Degrees and Certificates
Tanner and Jeff have Madison Manos on the show. Madison has 200 acres of grounds to maintain and she juggles all of the responsibilities as the ONLY full-time staff member dedicated to the fields. Though young, she brings lots of interesting experiences to the industry. Madison talks about entering the field that she has loved since a young age, as the daughter of a golf course superintendent, and later, the wife of a golf course superintendent. Madison serves on the KAFMO Board of Directors and during the show, she talks about her two biggest obstacles.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Madison Manos, Hempfield School District (special guest)
Lead Image: Madison Manos
Tanner and Jeff have Dan Douglas, Head Groundskeeper for the Reading Fightin’ Phils and President of the Pennsylvania STMA chapter, KAFMO (Keystone Athletic Field Managers Organization). Dan talks about how the chapter started and the benefits of being a member. He continues with the chapter's plans post-pandemic, and he discusses what his role is at First Energy Field.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dan Douglas, Head Groundskeeper of the Reading Fightin' Phils and President of KAFMO (special guest)
KAFMO.org
Lead Image: KAFMO logo
Tanner and Jeff invite Dr. Michael Fidanza, Professor of Plant and Soil Science, to talk about Fairy Ring, a turf fungal disease. Growing up on a mushroom farm in Pennsylvania, Mike has always been interested in the fungi. Mike talks about causes, control and discusses some interesting facts about fairy rings, and the location of the largest rings in the world!
Speakers:
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Michael Fidanza, Prof. of Plant and Soil Science (special guest)
Lead Image: Dr. Michael Fidanza
Tanner and Jeff invite Chris Ball with Profile Products to join them for this episode to discuss the Little League Softball World Series. Chris is heading up the volunteer grounds crew for the event that, for the very first time, is being held in Chris’s hometown of Greenville, NC.
Chris talks about the field conversion from baseball to softball, coordinating the volunteers, and a lot more! The field that is being used has already had over 150 games played on it, and now the ESPN family of networks is showing up to broadcast every game in the tournament. Chris will use his many years of experience in minor league baseball to make the dream come true!
Episode Hosts/Speakers:
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Chris Ball, Profile Products
Lead Image: Chris Ball, Profile Products
George Peters, Supervisor of Grounds at Penn State University joins Jeff and Tanner on the podcast. George supervises all sports venues at Penn State except for baseball. During this episode, turf management of different fields is discussed, including changes made during the COVID pandemic. Beaver Stadium turf management is also discussed.
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
George Peters, Supervisor of Grounds (special guest)
Lead Image: Penn State Athletics
Tanner and Jeff talk with Dr. Doug Linde, professor of Turf Management at Delaware Valley University. They discuss the DVU turf program and give tips to making the most out of your student interns. Doug is also the golf coach for the University and conducts research at DVU in Doylestown, PA.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Doug Linde, Delaware Valley University (special guest)
Lead Image: Jeff Fowler
Tanner and Jeff host Dr. Pete Landschoot back on the show to talk about naturalized areas. Dr. Landschoot has been doing research on these areas for almost 5 years. We cover everything from establishment to fertilization to mowing and even weed control. While these naturalized areas are lower input, they are not areas that can be forgotten about and still need some attention. Listen to Dr. Landschoot discuss the care of these areas.
Episode Hosts/Speakers:
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Peter Landschoot, Penn State University (special guest)
Lead Image: Jeff Fowler
Tanner and Jeff host special guest, University of Connecticut Extension Educator Vickie Wallace. The trio talk about managing turf areas with reduced pesticide inputs. In Connecticut, pesticides use is restricted on most school grounds, so pest management is discussed in these scenarios.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Vickie Wallace, Extension Educator, University of Connecticut (special guest)
Lead Image: Jeff Fowler
Tanner and Jeff host Dianne Petrunak, academic advisor for turfgrass science students at Penn State. During this episode, you will hear about the programs that Penn State offers; several of which can be obtained through the World Campus. Dianne is also involved with the student challenge competitions that students take part in at the national level, which is also discussed.
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dianne Petrunak, Academic Advisor at Penn State University
Lead Image: Jeff Fowler
Tanner and Jeff host Rob Guthrie, Sports Field Manager at Little League International Headquarters in Williamsport PA. Rob is responsible for the care of 2 stadium fields and 3 practice fields that are used during the Little League World Series. Rob talks about his maintenance practices on the fields. Additionally, Tanner talks with the man in charge of the volunteer grounds staff (Jeff Fowler) about what it takes to manage the crew of almost 40 volunteers.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Rob Guthrie, Little League International
Photo Credit: Jeff Fowler
Tanner and Jeff host Dr. Andy McNitt, Professor of Turfgrass at Penn State. Andy is a well-known figure in the sports turf industry. He consults with the NFL groundskeepers and has instructed worldwide audiences on topics including topdressing, drainage, and soils. This episode is one you will not want to miss!
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Andrew McNitt, Professor, Penn State University
Lead Image: Jeff Fowler
Tanner and Jeff speak with Brad Jakubowski, Turfgrass Instructor at Penn State. Brad gives listeners some tips on making sure they have their irrigation system ready for spring. He also discusses how to perform an irrigation audit, diagnosing most common irrigation mistakes, and how to irrigate properly.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Brad Jakubowski, Instructor Penn State University
Photo Credit: Jeff Fowler
Audio Credit:
Pure Rock n Roll by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
Tanner and Jeff discuss turf insect pests with Dr. Ben McGraw, Turfgrass Entomologist at Penn State. Dr. McGraw discussed control options for white grubs, craneflies, and other turf pests. Dr. McGraw also provides information about the 17-year periodical cicada emergence that will occur in 2021.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Special Guest: Dr. Ben McGraw, Associate Professor of Turfgrass Science at Penn State University
Lead Image: Jeff Fowler, Penn State
Audio Credit:
Pure Rock n Roll by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
Tanner and Jeff discuss preparing natural turf areas for special events. We welcome Steve LeGros, an expert in turf protection, to the show. Steve takes our listeners through the steps that he recommends turf managers use to prepare for a festival, graduation, concert, or other event that is going to put excessive amounts of wear on your turf.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Steve LeGros, LeGrows Inc.
Photo Credit: Steve Legros
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Tanner and Jeff discuss fertilizer production and blending. Additionally, the hosts talk about sources of the different nutrients that make up fertilizer. They go on to talk about the differences between homogenous and blended as well as how fertilizers in turf are impregnated with different chemicals that help to control weeds and insects.
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
John Fowler, VP of Sales-Turf Market for Anuvia
Dr. Dan Froehlich-VP Product Development Anuvia
Photo Credit: Jeff Fowler
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Tanner and Jeff discuss the spring of 2021 weather and growing degree days. Tanner talks about the switch for pre-emergence applications for annual grass control and Jeff highlights the need to get soil testing done—Now! Finally, a discussion on the bluemuda research plots finishes up the episode.
Episode Hosts:
Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension
Photo Credit: Jeff Fowler
Intro music: Pure Rock n Roll by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
Tanner and Jeff discuss the latest research of manufactured baseball infield mixes. Evan Mascitti talks about his Ph.D. research which includes the search for what makes perfect infield soil. Evan describes characteristics that field managers are looking for and how they are measured. Be sure to listen for cutting-edge information!
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Evan C Mascitti, Penn State University, Ph.D. Candidate
Photo Credit: Jeff Fowler
Audio Credit:
Pure Rock n Roll by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
Tanner and Jeff welcome special guest Bobby Piccolo, Assistant Director of Public Works and Superintendent of Athletic Fields in Derry Township (Hershey, PA). Bobby talks about how the COVID pandemic affected his budget and his approach to field care! Bobby also discusses his approach to field renovation and field maintenance.
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Bobby Piccolo, Asst. Director of Public Works Derry Twp, PA
Photo Credit: Jeff Fowler
Audio Credit:
Pure Rock n Roll by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
Tanner and Jeff, along with Dr. Peter Landschoot, Professor of Turfgrass Science at Penn State, speak with Matt Duncan, with DLF Pick Seed. They discuss the seed outlook for the 2021 season after an interesting growing season in 2020. They talk about seed supply and the challenges this year may hold.
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Peter Landschoot, Professor of Turfgrass Science at Penn State University (special guest)
Matt Duncan, DLF Pick Seed (special guest)
Lead Image: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
Intro music: Pure Rock n Roll by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
Tanner and Jeff discuss the latest research on Bluemuda—a combination of bluegrass and Bermudagrass. They discuss establishment and survival in a cool-season climate as well as wear tolerance, fertilization, and recovery after use.
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Lead Image: Tanner Delvalle
Intro music: Pure Rock n Roll by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
Tanner and Jeff discuss spring homeowner questions with Dr. Peter Landschoot, Professor of Turfgrass Science at Penn State. They talk about new chemistries and new combination products on the market that help control weeds.
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Dr. Peter Landschoot, Professor of Turfgrass Science, Penn State Extension (special guest)
Lead Image: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
Intro music: Pure Rock n Roll by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
Tanner and Jeff talk MLB baseball with the Head Groundskeeper at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Matt Brown. They discuss the process of getting the field ready for play at the professional sports level. Additionally, the three talk about the importance of a safe and consistent playing surface.
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Matt Brown, Pittsburgh Pirates (special guest)
Lead Image: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
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Tanner and Jeff discuss growing sod on plastic with Evan Fowler, Agronomist with Green Valley Turf in Platteville, Colorado. They discuss the process of planting, growing, watering, and managing sod on plastic. The discussion then turns to why. Why grow grass on plastic? Additionally, a discussion about the importance of water and moisture management in the west.
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Evan Fowler, Green Valley Turf (special guest)
Lead Image: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
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Tanner and Jeff talk turf maintenance on a horserace track with Brad Park, Agronomist with Rutgers University. They discuss the wear and tear the turf receives and the importance of footing and moisture management when growing turf on a horse track.
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension (host)
Tanner DelValle, Penn State Extension (host)
Brad Park, Rutgers University (special guest)
Lead Image: Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
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Tanner and Jeff discuss important practices that should be done to get your athletic fields ready for the spring play, as well as what needs to be done for fall sports fields in the spring. Jeff talks about soil testing and year-long fertilization plans for all sports fields.
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler (host) Tanner DelValle (host)
Lead Image: Photo Credit Jeff Fowler, Penn State Extension
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Tanner and Jeff talk about important information regarding annual grass and grassy weed control early in the season for better season-long control. Tanner discusses the importance of split pre-emergence applications and when to apply them. This topic is outlined further here: https://extension.psu.edu/control-of-summer-annual-grass-weeds-in-turfgrasses
Episode Hosts/Speakers: Jeff Fowler (host) Tanner DelValle (host)
Lead Image: Photo Credit Pete Landschoot, Penn State University
Intro music: Pure Rock n Roll by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)