USGA Green Section Podcast United States Golf Association

In our new podcast, we talk with Chris Tritabaugh about data collection, innovation, and how focusing on surface performance and golfer satisfaction leads to great greens at Hazeltine.

Are frequent aeration and topdressing only needed because turf growth isn’t being properly managed? What maintenance practices aren’t worth the time, effort and money – and what should you being doing more of? In our new podcast episode, Dr. Micah Woods answers these tough questions in a fast-paced, informative conversation. He also shared his thoughts on what role zoysiagrass might play in golf’s future and why focusing on playability instead of just agronomy can lead to more success. It’s a great discussion with one of the sharpest minds in turf.

In our first episode of 2024, USGA agronomist Chris Neff discusses what’s been happening in the Southeast this winter, his role in the Green Section and tips to get the year off to a great start. 
Related Article(s): 
Southeast Regional Updates in the Green Section Record  
Chris Neff Joins the Green Section as an East Region Agronomist 

Are you ready for winter? In our new podcast, Dr. Paul Koch from the University of Wisconsin discusses the WinterTurf project and strategies for getting turf through the cold weather ahead.
Related Article(s): 
Be a Part of the WinterTurf Project 
Paul Koch, Ph.D. – The Koch Lab 

From robot mowers to education and leadership, Dan Meersman is a pioneer in the golf course maintenance industry. In our latest episode, we caught up with the third-generation superintendent to discuss how his role has evolved at The Philadelphia Cricket Club and the fleet of robots he has helping him maintain three golf courses and various other turf areas around the facility. He’s been very happy with his robot mowers so far and sees even more promise on the horizon.

Have you ever wondered about the best way to sample for organic matter in your greens? How many samples should you take? How deep should they be? Grass on or off? What’s the right amount of organic matter for your course? In our latest podcast episode, we talk with University of Nebraska professor and 2023 USGA Green Section Award recipient Dr. Roch Gaussoin for some answers to these and other sampling questions. He’s been working on a collaborative project to standardize putting green organic matter testing with USGA agronomists and researchers around the country.