Annual/Termination Reports:

[11/15/2012] [02/05/2013] [08/19/2014] [08/10/2015] [03/16/2017]

Report Information

Participants

Oregon State University  Rob Golembiewski;
Colorado State University  Yaling Qian;
Utah State University  Paul Johnson;
University of Idaho  Tom Salaiz;
University of Arizona - Kai Umeda;
Washington State University  Gwen Stanke;
University of Guam  Greg Wiecko

Brief Summary of Minutes

Meeting Minutes

WERA011: Western Regional Turfgrass Research
Host: Oregon State University, Corvallis OR
June 21-22, 2012
Present:

Oregon State University  Rob Golembiewski
Colorado State University  Yaling Qian
Utah State University  Paul Johnson
University of Idaho  Tom Salaiz
University of Arizona - Kai Umeda
Washington State University  Gwen Stanke
University of Guam  Greg Wiecko


Thursday, June 21

7:30 am Continental Breakfest

8:00-12:00 pm Introductions and Overview of State Reports

Noon- 5:00 p.m. Lunch on a bus and Seed Industry Tour
5:30  8:00 p.m. Dinner at OSU Turf Farm


Friday, June 22


7:30 am- 8:00 am Continental Breakfest

8:00a.m.  Noon

Continuation of State reports and business meeting

Several states could not participate in the meeting because of financial constraints at their institutions. Presented state reports were informative and generated extensive discussions.
A Field Tour organized by Dr. Leah Brilman, Research Director in Seed Research of Oregon was exceptionally informative and educational. In 2013 Multistate Coordination Committee WERA 11 will undergo midterm evaluation thus new ideas and future changes were discussed, however, decisions were postponed untill 2013. All participants supported continuation of yearly meetings. In order to save scarce travel funds, it was proposed that 2013 meeting will be held in conjunction with American Agronomy Society (Crop Science Society of America) meeting in Tampa, Florida. Participants voted to hold a meeting on November 6-7, 2013.

Accomplishments

State Reports: <br /> <br /> University: University of Arizona<br /> Official NCERA or WERA rep: David Kopec<br /> Email: dkopec@ag.arizona.edu<br /> Phone: 520 241 7450<br /> <br /> Teaching Program<br /> Current undergraduate enrollment: 6<br /> Trend in undergraduate enrollment over last 3 years: steady<br /> Placement: All students usually get a turf job in the first year after graduation.<br /> Brief comments on teaching: Considering on line teaching for industry based students.<br /> PLS 355; Turfgrass Science and Management (M.Pessarakli) PLS 455 / 555 ; Turfgrass Stress Physiology (M.Pessarakli) PLS 270 : Golf and Sports Turf Managemeent (D. Kopec)<br /> <br /> Research<br /> Faculty member (complete for each faculty member): Paul Brown, Bio meteorologist<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Jaime Banuelos<br /> MS or PhD: Masters of Science<br /> Project(s): Water use of warm season grasses under deficit irrigation. Graduation date:May 2011<br /> <br /> Faculty member (complete for each faculty member): Jim Walworth, Fertility and Water Specialist. Current or recently graduated graduate student: Tiffany Alvarez<br /> MS or PhD: Master of Science.<br /> Project(s): Hydrus 1 Salinity Modelling of deficit irrigated turf. Graduation date: June, 2011.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Other notable research projects led by faculty member: David Kopec<br /> Title: Novel collection of heat tolerant Hilaria belangeri clones for turf assessment.<br /> Description: Collection of 150 clones of HIBE from seed production location at 900 feet elevation/ Collaborators (name, institution): Manuel Rosales, USDA Plant Materials Center Tucson.<br /> Brief comments on research. Collection of plant materials from 15 year old field at below normal elevation range. Joint activities/publications with other regional collaborators over the last two years:<br /> Water Conservation. University of California Press. 12 Chapter Peer Review Book. Responsible for Chapter 13, "Review Chapter<br /> Synopsis". Publication released 2011,summer.<br /> <br /> <br /> Watkins, E., L.A. Brilman, and D.M. Kopec. Development of native grasses for turf. Book Chapter: In J. Stier, B. Horgan a nd S.A. Bonos<br /> (eds.) Turfgrass monograph 4th edition. American Soc. Agronomy, Madison, WI. Final Reviews made. ASA to release in 2012.<br /> <br /> <br /> Banuelos, J.B., J.L. Walworth, P.W. Brown and D.M. Kopec. 2011. Deficit Irrigation of Seashore Paspalum and Bermudagrass. Agronomy Journal, 103 (6):1567-1577.<br /> <br /> Pessarakli, M., David M. Kopec and Dennis T. Ray 2011. Growth responses of various saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) clones under salt stress conditions. Journal of Food, Agriculture & Environment, Vol.9 (3&4), July-October 2011. Pp 660-664.<br /> <br /> Pessarakli, and M., David M. Kopec. Responses of various saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) clones to drought stress at differen t mowing heights. Journal of Food, Agriculture & Environment, Vol.9 (3&4), July-October 2011. Pp 665-668.<br /> <br /> Extension Program<br /> State conference dates: 6 programs yearly with industry Collaborating with other organizations on conference (yes/no): If so who: Cactus and Pine GCSA<br /> Attendance figure: 85-125 per event<br /> Research field day held (yes/no): Karsten Field Day<br /> If so, when: April 2011<br /> Attendance figure: 112<br /> Other Extension activities: Smart scape program. Web (yes/no): www.ag.arizona.edu/turf FaceBook/Twitter/social networking (yes/no): no<br /> <br /> Staffing:<br /> Jeff Gilbert: Research Specialist Turf : IA Certified. 1989 to present. Responsibilities: Research project coordinator.<br /> Darrel Kilmer: Farm Supervisor, Karsten Turf Center, 2010  present. Retirements/vacancies:<br /> Dr. Mary Olsen, Plant Pathologist 50% time, from fulltime.<br /> <br /> <br /> General turf program comments:<br /> Challenge of how to charge traditional clientele for cost recovery for program deliveries.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> University: University of California, Riverside<br /> Official NCERA or WERA Rep: Jim Baird<br /> Email: jbaird@ucr.edu<br /> Phone: 951-333-9052<br /> <br /> <br /> Research<br /> FACULTY MEMBER: BAIRD<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Tyler Mock, PhD Project(s): Kikuyugrass Management, Genetics, and Breeding Graduation date: 2015<br /> <br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Ryan Nichols, PhD Project(s): Turfgrass Carbon Dynamics and Water Use Efficiency Graduation date: 2016<br /> <br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Alea Miehls, M.S.<br /> Project(s): Turfgrass Salinity Management<br /> Graduation date: 2013<br /> <br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Nick Hoisington, M.S.<br /> Project(s): Methiozolin<br /> Graduation date: 2013<br /> <br /> <br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Brent Barnes, M.S.<br /> Project(s): Festulolium<br /> Graduation date: 2012<br /> <br /> Other notable research projects led by faculty member:<br /> <br /> Title: Turfgrass Improvement for California and Arid Southwest<br /> Description: Projects underway to make cool season turfgrasses survive summer with less water and warm season grasses greener during winter.<br /> Collaborators (name, institution): Adam Lukaszewski and Jim Baird<br /> Brief comments on research: Focus on Festuca, Lolium, Cynodon, and Distichlis using conventional breeding, cytogenetic, and genomic approaches.<br /> <br /> <br /> Extension Program<br /> State conference dates: N/A Research field day held (yes/no): Yes If so, when: 13 Sep 2012<br /> Attendance figure: 200<br /> <br /> Other Extension activities: Invited Presentations Web (yes/no): Yes, but could do much more FaceBook/Twitter/social networking (yes/no): No<br /> Brief comments on Extension: Program is comprised mainly of invited presentations and Field Day<br /> <br /> <br /> Staffing:<br /> Additions: Brent Barnes (MS 2012) is now Bairds Assistant Specialist (technician)<br /> Retirements/vacancies: None/wishful thinking<br /> <br /> General turf program comments:<br /> Baird and Harivandi are last turf men standing at UC. Please send reinforcements.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> University: California State University- San Luis Obispo Official NCERA or WERA rep: Jason Lewis Email:jlewis07@calpoly.edu<br /> Phone:805-756-2870<br /> <br /> Teaching Program<br /> Current undergraduate enrollment: 20<br /> Trend in undergraduate enrollment over last 3 years: Increasing<br /> Placement: Quite good since Ive been here, but its only my second year<br /> Brief comments on teaching: We are looking for more students, and just started our new major- Agriculture and Environmental Plant<br /> Sciences that has a turfgrass management concentration.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> General turf program comments:<br /> This ends my second year at Cal Poly. Though my position is 100% teaching I am still expected to pursue some research activit ies. We have several projects underway: a bentgrass cultivar trial on our USGA putting green, , a Poa biotype collection study looking at Poa biotypes on the West Coast, and then their use for putting greens, some investigation on drought tolerance and suitabi lity of native sod products available in California, and working with Dairy Creek Golf Course as they try to become a zero waste facility. Specifically we are investigating their production of compost and compost tea for use on their golf course.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> University: Colorado State University<br /> Official WERA rep: Tony Koski / Yaling Qian<br /> Email: Tony.koski@Colostate.edu; Yaling.Qian@Colostate.edu<br /> Phone: 970-491-7070; 970-491-7079<br /> <br /> Teaching Program<br /> Current undergraduate enrollment: about 35<br /> Trend in undergraduate enrollment over last 3 years: stable<br /> <br /> <br /> Placement: Good. Most graduates start industry job in Colorado and other western states.<br /> Brief comments on teaching: Two turf-specific courses are supplemented by classes in pest management, nursery and landscape management, plant and soil science, business management, and irrigation design.<br /> <br /> <br /> Research <br /> Tony Koski's MS graduate student, Project(s): Development of saltgrass <br /> <br /> Tony Koski recently graduated a student: Alison Stoven O'Connor Advisor: Jim Klett and Tony Koski <br /> <br /> Yaling Qian recently graduated graduate student: Yao Zhang Project(s): Development of best turfgrass management practices using the DAYCENT model. Graduation date: Dec. 31, 2012<br /> <br /> Yaling Qian recently graduated graduate student: Koduah Ansah MS Project(s): Turfgrasses as potential candidates to phytoremediate arsenic pollutants in Ghana Graduation date: August 15, 2012<br /> <br /> Yaling Qian graduate student: Katrina Gillette Ph.D. Project(s): Carbon Footprint and Agronomy Practices to Reduce Carbon Footprint of Golf Courses Graduation date: Dec. 31, 2014<br /> <br /> <br /> Yaling Qian graduate student: Hanan Isweiri Ph.D. Project(s): The interactive effects of salinity and waterlogging on turfgrasses Graduation date: June. 31, 2013<br /> <br /> Other notable research projects led by faculty member: Yaling Qian<br /> Title: Graywater reuse in urban landscapes<br /> Collaborators (name, institution): Drs. Larry Roesner, Sybil Sharvelle, and Mary Stromberger, CSU Brief comments on research:<br /> A field experiment has been conducted to evaluate the effects of application of graywater on landscape soil and plant health. Data has been collected on plant health from four homes that have had graywater irrigation systems in place for 5 to 31 years. This research indicates that graywater has less impact on soil SAR compared to recycled water irrigation. The nutrient content in the graywater stimulated plant growth and showed beneficial effects on landscape plants in a 2-year greenhouse study.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Extension Program<br /> State conference dates: December, 2012<br /> Collaborating with other organizations on conference (yes/no): Yes<br /> If so who: Rocky Mountain Regional Turfgrass Association (RMRTA); Colorado Turfgrass Industry Associations<br /> Attendance figure: 1000<br /> Research field day held (yes/no): Yes If so, when: July, every other year Attendance figure: 250<br /> Other Extension activities:<br /> Web (yes/no): http://csuturf.colostate.edu/ FaceBook/Twitter/social networking (yes/no): Brief comments on Extension<br /> <br /> Staffing: Sarah Wilhelm Additions: Responsibilities: Retirements/vacancies:<br /> <br /> General turf program comments<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> University: New Mexico State University Official WERA rep: Ryan Goss Email: ryangoss@nmsu.edu<br /> Phone: 575.646.3297<br /> <br /> <br /> Teaching Program<br /> Current undergraduate enrollment: 8<br /> Trend in undergraduate enrollment over last 3 years: Slight increase<br /> Placement: 100% placement of students in turfgrass industry after graduation. Most begin in New Mexico or west Texas. Several have started in California. One graduate in 2011-2012 school year.<br /> Brief comments on teaching: All current students are freshman or sophomores. There has been a renewed interest in the program<br /> over last few years.<br /> <br /> <br /> Research<br /> FACULTY MEMBER: RYAN GOSS<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Matthew Alcala, M.S. Project(s): Khakiweed seed emergence and khakiweed herbicide control Graduation date: Expected Dec 2012<br /> <br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Jason Roelle, M.S. Project(s): Using residential graywater for ornamental landscape irrigation Graduation date: Expected Dec 2013<br /> <br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Michael Schaaf, M.S.<br /> Project(s): Subsurface drip irrigation for tall fescue establishment on sand-based rootzones<br /> Graduation date: Undetermined<br /> <br /> Bernd Leinauer, (extension and research appointment) Dr. Leinauer had nothing to report.<br /> <br /> <br /> Extension Program<br /> State conference dates: Nov 1-3, 2011 (Las Cruces, NM); Nov 13-15, 2012 (Ruidoso, NM)<br /> Collaborating with other organizations on conference (yes/no): yes<br /> If so who: Southwest Turfgrass Association (SWTA). In addition, the 2012 conference will be a joint meeting with the Rio Grande Golf<br /> Course Superintendents Association (GCSAA affiliated)<br /> Attendance figure: 175 in 2011<br /> Research field day held (yes/no): Yes<br /> If so, when: Nov 2, 2011 during SWTA Conference, no field day planned for 2012<br /> Attendance figure: 175<br /> Web (yes/no): Yes; turf.nmsu.edu<br /> FaceBook/Twitter/social networking (yes/no): not as group, but some individually<br /> <br /> General turf program comments<br /> Turfgrass program activities continue to focus on the needs of turfgrass managers in the arid southwest including water use, salinity, southwestern weeds and other related topics.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> University: Oregon State University<br /> Official WERA rep: Rob Golembiewski<br /> Email: rob.golembiewski@bayer.com<br /> Phone: (541) 602-3077<br /> <br /> <br /> Teaching Program<br /> Current undergraduate enrollment: 25<br /> Trend in undergraduate enrollment over last 3 years: Averaged 20-25 students<br /> Placement: All graduates have secured employment in the turf industry<br /> Brief comments on teaching: Currently offer 4 specific turf courses, class sizes continue to meet university mandated minimums<br /> <br /> <br /> Research<br /> FACULTY MEMBER: ROB GOLEMBIEWSKI<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Tod Blankenship, M.S. Project(s): Water Use of 10 Newly Established Cool-Season Turf Species Graduation date: June 2011<br /> <br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Ty Patton, M.S.<br /> Project(s): Evaluation of Soil Amendments for Quicker Establishment and Reduced Turf Water Use<br /> Graduation date: Expected December 2012<br /> <br /> Other notable research projects led by faculty member:<br /> Title: Impact of Mowing & Rolling on Poa Annua Green Speeds<br /> Description: The impact of mowing and rolling regimes, Primo Maxx, different rollers, and mowing heights on Poa annua greens speeds.<br /> Brief comments on research: Much has been documented with regards to rolling impacts on creeping bentgrass and<br /> bermudagrass greens, but little has been reported on Poa annua.<br /> <br /> Title: Evaluation of Phosphites for Controlling Microdochium Patch<br /> Description: Potassium phosphite was applied preventatively to evaluate its potential for controlling Microdochium patch and<br /> reducing fungicide inputs.<br /> Brief comments on research: Excellent control was observed when potassium phosphite was applied every 14 days to a sand based green but limited to no control was observed when applied monthly to a native soil green.<br /> <br /> <br /> Extension Program<br /> State conference dates: December<br /> Attendance figure: 400<br /> Research field day held (yes/no): Yes<br /> If so, when: September<br /> Attendance figure: 130<br /> Other Extension activities: Presentations statewide along with golf course visits, served as member of OGCSA Board and GCSAA<br /> Conference Education Committee<br /> Web (yes/no): Yes (www.BeaverTurf.com)<br /> FaceBook/Twitter/social networking (yes/no): Yes (www.BeaverTurf.ning.com)<br /> Brief comments on Extension: Extension program has been very successful considering the limitations time<br /> <br /> <br /> Staffing:<br /> Additions: Brian McDonald  Research Assistant (11 years)<br /> Responsibilities: Oversees 8-acre turf research facility and handles all product evaluation trials, data analysis, and submission of final reports<br /> <br /> Retirements/vacancies: Rob Golembiewski resigned March 30, 2012<br /> <br /> General turf program comments: The endowed turf faculty position is currently open and will be filled in 2012 with an expected start date of January 2013. The Oregon turfgrass industry is very supportive of the position and intends to pledge $50,000/year for five years in support of an additional research position. Student numbers continue to hold steady. Oregon State contin ues to maintain both a regional and national presence when it comes to turf education and applied research.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> University: Washington State University Official NCERA or WERA rep: William Johnston Email: wjohnston@wsu.edu<br /> Phone: 509-335-3620<br /> <br /> <br /> Teaching Program<br /> Current undergraduate enrollment: 15<br /> Trend in undergraduate enrollment over last 3 years: about level to slightly down<br /> Placement: 100% over past 5 years<br /> Brief comments on teaching: Turf classes are struggling to make as student numbers are historically down. Also, the number of students who must be enrolled in a class continues to be increased by the College for a class to be taught. Several of our courses are now being taught on an alternate year basis.<br /> <br /> <br /> Research<br /> FACULTY MEMBER: BILL JOHNSTON<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: None in 2011<br /> <br /> Other notable research projects led by faculty member:<br /> Title: Selective Poa annua control in cool-season turfgrasses with methiozolin<br /> Description: Methiozolin is being used to selectively remove annual bluegrass from bentgrass greens and Kentucky bluegrass collars.<br /> Collaborators (name, institution): Gwen Stahnke, WSU-Puyallup<br /> Brief comments on research: Fall applications look promising for selective Poa annual control. A spring application program was initiated in 2012 in Eastern and Western WA.<br /> <br /> Title: Snow mold control in the intermountain PNW<br /> Description: Several fungicides, combinations, and experimental compounds are being evaluated in E. WA, N. Idaho, and W. MT.<br /> Brief comments on research: Winter 2011-2012 throughout the intermountain region was one where considerable winter kill occurred due to ice damage. However, several products gave good snow mold control at locations were data was collected.<br /> <br /> Title: Evaluation of Kentucky bluegrass germplasm for seed production without field burning.<br /> Collaborators (name, institution): Gwen Stahnke, WSU-Puyallup<br /> Brief comments on research: After 4 harvests without field burning of post-harvest residue, Accession PI 368241 shows promise of being able to provide excellent seed yield under both irrigated and non-irrigated non-burn management while maintaining good turfgrass quality. The accession is currently in seed increase for on-farm testing.<br /> <br /> FACULTY MEMBER: GWEN K STAHNKE; DR. BILL JOHNSTON ON COMMITTEE<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Nate Stacey, M.S.<br /> Project(s): Identification of Pythium Species causing Injury to Poa Annua Greens in the PNW.<br /> Graduation date: Dec. 2013 or May 2014.<br /> <br /> Title: Adaptation of Turfgrasses and Ornamental Plants for Raingardens in the PNW<br /> Description: Plant establishment and growth and sustainability are being evaluated forplants adapted to the PNW along with 4 grasses. Growth rate, vigor, establishment and other vital plant statistics are being collected.<br /> Collaborators (name, institution):Dr. Rita Hummel, WSU<br /> <br /> Title: Evaluation of Organic Fertilizers from Food Waste for Golf Course Use.<br /> Description: An organic fertilizer made from food waste from a local grocery outlet in Seattle area is being tested for use on golf course greens at WSU-Puyallup and at several area golf courses for the next 2 years. A graduate student will be working on his MS degree on this project.<br /> Collaborators (name, institution): WISerg, Redmond, WA<br /> <br /> Title: Evaluation of Orthosulfuron for use on different cool season grasses.<br /> Description: Orthosulfuron was applied at several rates to Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, fine fescue, perennial ryegrass and annual bluegrass to check for necrosis, stunting and weed control over several months.<br /> <br /> Collaborators (name, institution):Chemtura<br /> <br /> Title: Evaluation of Alternative control Measures for European and common Crane Flies in PNW.<br /> Description: Newer less toxic insecticides or biocides are being tested for reduction in crane fly populations.<br /> Collaborators (name, institution): Gary Custis, PBI Gordon; David Cox, Syngenta;<br /> <br /> Title: Evaluation of Fungicides and Iron Products for control of Microdochium Patch.<br /> Description: Fungicides labeled for Microdochium patch control were alternated and combined with iron applications to control<br /> Microdochium patch and reduce amount of fungicide necessary for disease control.<br /> Collaborators (name, institution): FedCon, Bayer<br /> <br /> <br /> Extension Program<br /> State conference dates: Sept. 25-27 , 2011, Pullman, WA. Collaborating with other organizations on conference (yes/no): yes If so who: Oregon, Idaho, British Columbia<br /> Attendance figure: 80<br /> Research field day held (yes/no): yes<br /> If so, when: July, 19, 2011 at WSU-Puyallup: Collaborated with OSU<br /> Attendance figure: 85<br /> Other Extension activities:<br /> Web (yes/no): yes turf@wsu.edu; www.puyallup.wsu.edu/turf;<br /> FaceBook/Twitter/social networking (yes/no): no<br /> Brief comments on Extension: money for extension programs is down. Trying to collaborate with city water departments for monies<br /> for water use programs.<br /> <br /> <br /> Staffing:<br /> Additions:Mr. Nate Stacey, MS Student and Research Tech II<br /> Responsibilities: Statewide activities are difficult to defend with the downward trend in public funding.<br /> Retirements/vacancies: Loss of Dr. Eric Miltner, Turfgrass Researcher and Randi Luchterhand, Research Tech II.<br /> <br /> General turf program comments: Could be better. Student numbers are down and technician support by the University is continuing to decrease. There is a current reduction in funding for the turf program by the turfgrass industry, primarily di ctated by the poor economy.<br />

Publications

Watkins, E., L.A. Brilman, and D.M. Kopec. Development of native grasses for turf. Book Chapter: In J. Stier, B. Horgan a nd S.A. Bonos<br /> (eds.) Turfgrass monograph 4th edition. American Soc. Agronomy, Madison, WI. Final Reviews made. ASA to release in 2012.<br /> <br /> Banuelos, J.B., J.L. Walworth, P.W. Brown and D.M. Kopec. 2011. Deficit Irrigation of Seashore Paspalum and Bermudagrass. Agronomy Journal, 103 (6):1567-1577.<br /> <br /> Pessarakli, M., David M. Kopec and Dennis T. Ray 2011. Growth responses of various saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) clones under salt stress conditions. Journal of Food, Agriculture & Environment, Vol.9 (3&4), July-October 2011. Pp 660-664.<br /> <br /> Pessarakli, and M., David M. Kopec. Responses of various saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) clones to drought stress at differen t mowing heights. Journal of Food, Agriculture & Environment, Vol.9 (3&4), July-October 2011. Pp 665-668.<br /> <br /> Most of participants have not submit lists of publications.

Impact Statements

1. cost reduction resulting from sharing one turf specialist by two Land Grant institutions
2. less pesticide usage and cleaner environment resulting from sharing IPM experiences

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Report Information

Participants

Dave Kopec, Kai Umeda, Univ. Arizona; Yaling Qian, Univ. Colorado; Paul Johnston Utah State Univ.; Bill Doc Johnston, Wash. State Univ.; Shawn Bushman USDA, ARS, Utah; Lea Brilman DLF Pickseed; Ryan Goss , Bernd Leinauer New Mexico State Univ.; Keenan Amundsen, Univ. Nebraska; Marco Schiavon, Univ. Calif. ; Greg Wiecko Univ. Guam.

Brief Summary of Minutes

Recorded Minutes
2013 WERA-11 TURFGRASS MEETING
ASA Tampa Florida U.S.A.

Meeting called to order at 11:05 a.m. Dr. Greg Wiecko stated that state reports will be given orally and electronically an order of business will be the upcoming extension of the WERA 11 petition and possible development of Regional Project.

State reports highlighting accomplishments impacts and outcomes were presented by twelve participants of the meeting.

Business Issues:

The new proposal for WERA-11 renewal will be needed in 2015. WERA-11 group discussed a possibly to transform Coordinating Committee to the Regional Project. Discussion on this subject will continue during the next annual meeting scheduled for June 23-25, 2014 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Meeting was adjourned at 5:15 p.m.

Accomplishments

Outcomes, outputs and activities in participating states are presented below: <br /> <br /> California: Jim Baird (presented by Marco Schiavon): U.California turf program currently have 2 Ph.D. and 2 MS students in turf. Research addresses Festulolium hybrid development, salinity management and water use. Studies include 26 wetting agents on water use of turf. Primo TGR was best for postponing drought stress in Bermuda and Kikuyugrass. Other studies include drip vs sprinkler irrigation for turf established in either April or May. Other studies include the investigation od surfactants, nutrients and microbial amendments when bermudagrass turf was irrigated at 75% REF (ET0) 2x weekly. <br /> <br /> PoaCure appears to be safe on bentgrass in San Francisco area, but not sure yet for Coachella Valley. <br /> UC has hired a new breeder Predhi Sexina to work on tall fescue and perennial ryegrass, and also selecting for winter color retention in bermudagrass and bermudagrass. Dr. Baird is up for tenure in 2014. <br /> Robert Shortell is teaching at Cal Poly Pomona. <br /> <br /> Leah Brilman Seed Research of Oregon: DLF had bought SRO, Pickseed West, and Pickseed USA<br /> Leah will be head of developing 3 Brands for turf, and 1 brand line for forages as a direct employee of DLF. Her new title is Director of Product Materials and Technical Services. Breeding will continue with Steve Reid, Leah and Don Floyd.<br /> <br /> In Oregon seed is in short supply because of weather and lost acreage to other crops. Ryegrass yields are now up to 2500 pound per acre, KBG is 2000 lbs per acre when irrigated, and 850 lbs dry land. Yukon bermuda grass is now produced in the Columbian basin. For hard fescues, a field may last only 3 years at most, because of O.M. buildup without burning. Leah is breeding for plants that maintain higher seed yield from year to year, while marinating good turf quality.<br /> <br /> Oregon State University has a new turf professor on board Dr. Kowaleski (not present)<br /> <br /> Colorado: Yaling Qian. Colorado State University has 35 turf students undergraduate. Ned Tisserat will retire soon as plant pathologist. Research largely addresses carbon sequestration by turfgrass of various ages, and determining the carbon footprint of maintaining different turf surfaces and intensities of culture. The Golf Course Clubhouse is the biggest energy user, with the inclusion of golf carts. The largest energy sue on a golf course is mowing > electricity> irrigation. <br /> <br /> Putting greens can be heavy emitters of N2 gas. A rough is similar to that of a home lawn for N2 emission. The Aug/Sept issue of Agron. Journal has a paper on N2 emissions, and how this is affected by irrigation/soil moisture. The older the turf, the lower the nitrogen is required for basic turf. If extra N is added to an older turf, N2 emission increases. <br /> <br /> Yaling Quian is studying gray water use in 8 houses plumbed accordingly. Soil properties will be monitored for 10 years (depth = to 1 meter).<br /> <br /> Salt grass= Syn 2 generation is being evaluated for seed yield.<br /> <br /> Guam: Greg Wiecko. Greg has been the Department Director for 9 years and the advisor for WERA for the last five years. He is working on green roof systems. Roofs are comprised of mainly Zoysia tenufolia on a thick layer of sand and peat moss . Inside room temperatures are reduced significantly.<br /> <br /> New Mexico: Ryan Goss: Turf team at NMSU is Ryan, Berndt Leinauer and Natalie Goldberg (pathologist and Head of Extension). Ryan has 100 students in his intro to PLS class. Ryan has research which addresses gray water use in a residential house setting. Shower and clothes washer water is treated with U.V., than particle screening, more U.V., then can be stored for 100 days. The stored water is then used for irrigating around 2,000 sq. ft. lawn, and 50 landscape plants.<br /> <br /> For spraying Khakiweed (chafweed) a wetting agent is requires to penetrate the leaves, Without it, herbicide efficacy is almost nil.<br /> <br /> A LIGA experiment has shown that as increased nitrogen is given to turf, you can get better quality at lower levels of water applied, than otherwise. The LIGA included bermudagrass, buffalograss, KBG and perennial ryegrass. <br /> <br /> The bermudagrass SWI 2000 has been shown to have a low water use, or respond to lesser amounts of applied water. <br /> <br /> A three year study is under way to measure the effects of soil surfactants for water conservation on C3 and C4 grasses. Revolution soil surfactant with polycoated sands allowed bermudagrass to be grown successfully for longer periods of time when turf was irrigated at 50% REF ET(0).<br /> <br /> The Turf Conference may rotate to a 2 year event, rather than annual.<br /> <br /> NMSU is working with the Toro Soil sensors (wireless) for irrigation/applied water studies.<br /> <br /> Grasses for alleyways in grape vineyards include the use of hard fescue, tall fescue and chewings fescue.<br /> <br /> CSU school of mines, Berkeley, and Stanford and cooperators in a Bioreactor water membrane treatment trial (decentralized water treatment). Turf included in this system are tall fescue, bermudagrass, buffalo, saltgrass. The water is 15 ppm N-, and 1600 ppm salinity. All plots are SSI. <br /> <br /> Nebraska: Keenan Amundsen. 55 undergraduates, 9 grad students in turf. A new extension specialist starts Jan 14. There are 3 leaf spot diseases in buffalograss complex, being the fungi of Alternaria, Curvularia and Bi-polaris. Smut can be a problem in seed production of buffalograss, not false smut as once assumed. <br /> <br /> Other breeding objectives include , fall color retention, traffic tolerance, shade at 60% shade (5 lines show tolerance), chinch bug resistance, dormant seeding techniques. NEXGEN is capable of elucidating the Curvularia X Buffalograss sequencing. <br /> <br /> Sundance is a 6X seeded buffalograss variety coming out for release in 2014. <br /> Bluegramma clones from Nebraska are being evaluated for turf and as landscape feature plants.<br /> <br /> Utah: Paul Johnson. Paul has one graduate student, working on Poa genetics. Kelly Kopp is working on water conservation, and Shaun Bushman is working on salt tolerance in the following turfgrasses, KBG, perennial ryegrass, Alkaligrass. He is looking at mechanisms and gene expression. Plants obtained from Russia may be very salt tolerant. Shaun is also looking for bio-markers for various I.D. traits.<br /> <br /> LIGA studies have shown that chewings fescue performs better than hard fescue under drought induced from low applied water amounts. In Utah, there are at least 4 species of billbugs with very different life cycles, which dont match up to GDD models elsewhere.<br /> <br /> Kelly Kopp is irrigating turf using various forms of climate and soil sensors.<br /> Shaun has shown that drought tolerance and salt tolerance and not correlated in KBG, and he is developing genetic tests to compare like and dislike gene sequences between them. The salt is at EC 5.0 dS/m.<br /> <br /> Washington: Bill Johnston. Gwen Stanke has a new position teaching at Wala Wala Community College. He is working on projects dealing with, pythium on bentgrass, composts, and grass seed in terms of identifying KBG plants that produce stable seed yields without burning. <br /> <br /> When working with PoaCure, he found that when greens are at less than 5 % PA cover, that a single fall application, followed by a single fall application the next year worked best. He thinks reseeding interval may be 8 weeks or more. PoaCure is excellent in a seed production nursery, leaving 100% PA free rows with a slight reduction in seed yield. Bill has also tried Xenortate (amycarbizone) and Tenacity (mesotrione) for weed control in some production fields.<br /> <br /> In eastern Washington, there are more crane flies on turf than ever.<br /> <br /> The University may have an endowed chair position in turf, and is seeking co-funds from the seed industry to bolster such a position with research funds. <br /> <br /> Arizona: Dave Kopec: Mary Olsen is now ½ time in pathology and Mike McCLure will retire this June after 38 years as an applied nematologist. <br /> <br /> Salt and Drought Tolerance of Perennial Ryegrass: M. Pesssarakli. 15 clones of perennial ryegrass that originated from a golf course with saline water (Ec=3.5) were evaluated for salinity tolerance in solution culture. Two clones tolerated EC of 20 dS/m before leaf firing occurred 1 month later.<br /> Buffalograss tolerance to Tower, Topramezone and BASF 720. Tower was non injurious to buffalograss at 32 or 64 ounces of product /acre. BASF 720 caused injury for 2 weeks while BASF 670 caused injury for 3 weeks.<br /> For white grubs, DuPont PX had no control what so ever, while the least control for acelepryn treated turf was 69%, from the 8.0 ounce product/acre applied on June 1st, which was no different than that of the 8.0 ounce rate applied in May (74%) The greatest percent control was achieved at (100%) from acelepryn at the 16.0 ounce rate applied on June 1, and for 8.0 ounce rate applied in July.<br /> <br /> Diquat timing/rates and vertical mowing preparations for fairway overseeding enhancement. The 2 quart per acre rate produced the least amount of verdure removal, and produced fully acceptable overseed establishment. The label recommends 1 quart per care product rate for safety, without irrigation between the application and actual seed drop.<br /> Common bermudagrass and Princess bermudagrass tolerance to Spectcile (Indaziflam). Specticle was safe on common bermudagrass when applied to the same turfs in both the fall and at spring green up, when applied at rates of 3,6,8,9,12 ,16 or 18 ounces per acre. However, on Princess, Specticle caused long term injury at rates at 8 oz. product/acre and above, with long term recover required at the highest rate.<br /> New NTEP trials established 2013. NTEP bermudagrass greens trials. NTEP zoysiagrass / Seashore paspalum greens trials. NTEP fairway trials (vegetative and seeded). NTEP zoysiagrass trials (all vegetative)<br /> Poa control on bentgrass using PoaCure (methiozoline) at low and high elevation courses in Arizona. PoaCure was applied at 0.6 ounce product/M, as 4 repeat applications in the fall, 4 applications made in spring, or both fall and spring (8 applications total). Fall only programs produced 95% weed control at Tucson (low elevation) and at Payson (high elevation). Spring only applications produced significantly less weed control at both locations. When applied in both seasons, weed control was 97% in Tucson and 100% at Payson. Fall alone treatments did show either a return or appearance of new Poa annua in late spring at both locations.<br /> Katana is effective against this hard to control weed at 2 ounce/prod/acre from one single application. After one month after application, weed control was 100% at the 2 ounce prod/acre rate. The 1.0 ounce rate resulted in 70% weed control.<br /> Alternative grasses for desert turfs. A collection of Hilaria belangeri was acquired in 2011 and transplanted as a clonal evaluation trial at the USDA Plant Material Center in Tucson. This germplasm (135 clones) was selected from a low elevation location which was planted 17 years ago for seed production and thus, should have improved heat tolerance. Poor soil conditions (extreme shrinking/swelling) has compromised the trial, but a few number of plants have shown acceptable turfgrass growth habit. Mowing (1 ¾ inches - twice weekly) was stopped in July to save the trial altogether. If feasible, replanting the trial at another soil /sight should allow for greater clonal expression with mowing being the only stress and selection pressure. <br /> For ryegrass removal from bermudagrass, the use of penoxsulam (Sapphire) and halosulfuron + foramsulfuron + thiencarbazone (Tribute Total) in comparison to commonly used trifloxysulfuron (Monument), foramsulfuron (Revolver), flazasulfuron (Katana), and pronamide (Kerb) was observed. Applied 1 time on 06 May 2013, Sapphire at 1.5 pt/A was slower and less effective than Kerb. (Other demonstration studies showed Sapphire to be effective in slowly removing ryegrass with early May applications.) Tribute Total at 1.0 oz/A was nearly fast acting and highly effective as Katana at 1.0 oz/A and better and more consistent than Revolver at 17 oz./A.<br /> Nutsedge control strategies evaluated the timing and sequence of application of sulfentrazone (Dismiss CA) with sulfonylurea herbicides as MSMA use is restricted. An application of Dismiss before a single application of halosulfuron (SedgeHammer), sulfosulfuron (Certainty), flazasulfuron (Katana), or halosulfuron + foramsulfuron + thiencarbazone (Tribute Total) appeared to reduce nutsedge more than when an SU was applied first followed by Dismiss on regrowth. Sequential applications at a 5-week interval of SU herbicides applied in July and August were very effective.<br /> Evaluated efficacy and safety of topramezone (Pylex) and mesotrione (Tenacity) for removing bermudagrass from cool-season turfgrasses. Pylex alone and Tenacity + triclopyr effectively bleached and removed most bermudagrass with late summer applications in Poa/KBG/ryegrass turf. Pyle applied on mature goosegrass appeared to provide good control with bermudagrass bleaching that was temporary. <br /> Determined that spring applications of methiozolin (PoaCure), amicarbazone (Xonerate), and bispyribac-sodium (Velocity) were not effective against Poa annua. Xonerate at caused significant bentgrass phytotoxicity and death at 3 and 4 oz/A.<br /> Determined that MSMA was more effective than quinclorac-containing products (Drive XLR8, Solitare, OneTime, and Q4plus) against crabgrass.<br /> Continuing spring applications of dinotefuran (Safari) against pearl scale. Single and sequential applications in April and May dont appear to reduce populations or turf injury symptoms.<br /> Business Issues:<br /> The new proposal for WERA-11 renewal will be needed in 2015. WERA-11 group discussed a possibly to transform Coordinating Committee to the Regional Project. Discussion on this subject will continue during the next annual meeting scheduled for June 23-25, 2014 in Salt Lake City, Utah. <br /> Meeting was adjourned at 5:15 p.m. <br /> <br /> <br />

Publications

not submitted as documents for this WERA-11 meeting.

Impact Statements

1. improved information and research coordination between turf programs in western region.
2. improved efficiency of delivering information to the endusers

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Report Information

Participants

Kopec, David - Arizona
Umeda, Kai-Arizona
Baird, Jim-California
Qian, Yaling-Colorado
Wiecko, Greg-Guam
Amundsen, Keenan-Nebraska
Serena, Matteo-New Mexico
McDonald, Brian-Oregon
Mattox, Clint-Oregon
Kelly Kopp, Kelly-Utah
Paul Johnson, Paul-Utah
Robins, Joseph-Utah (USDA Forage & Range Lab)
Bushman, Shaun- Utah (USDA Forage & Range Lab)
Johnston, William-Washington

Brief Summary of Minutes

WERA II Regional
Summer Meeting
Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

Tuesday, June 24th, 2014
9:00 AM
Introductions and opening statement from our host, Paul Johnson, Utah State, and our advisor, Greg Weicko of Guam. Greg has served as our advisor for the last five years or so and Paul Johnson will be our new advisor, starting in 2015 A.Y. Greg is returning to turf research full time. The five year plan for WERA II has been approved with an immediate approval for the next two years. (NOTE: a revised plan will be due in 2016). The Federal offices are seeking more demonstrative documentation of activities.


State Reports:
All states will submit official state reports as a full addendum to these minutes, proper.
Oral Reports:
Arizona
California
Colorado
Guam
Hawaii (New position filled). Weed control and pest management.
Nebraska
New Mexico
Oregon
USDA – Logan Laboratory
Utah
Washington

Discussion for a Regional
SCRI Proposal for Western States

Topics brought up during discussion:
• Energy benefits of turf
• Carbon sequestration
• Use of non potable water sources
o Grey water
o Saline
o Reclaimed municipal waste water
• Cost benefits of environmental inputs and benefits of turfgrass(es)
• Final audiences need to be defined in all cases, for eample.
• Water agencies
• Utility companies
• Policy makers
• Depts of Health, Agriculture, Environmental Quality

Issue specific projects:
• Germplasm
• Energy savings
• Using non-potable water
• Grey water use (universal)
• Saline water use

Accomplishments

Accomplishments:<br /> The WERA group, like most of the scientists working in the turfgrass science area, is often working closely with stakeholders in the industry. This is essential due to the importance of that type of funding in academic research.<br /> <br /> • Outputs<br /> o Numerous extension presentations and publications by WERA cooperators. These include industry conferences and workshops, Extension bulletins and newsletters, master gardener workshops, and meeting presentations.<br /> o Refer to the publication section for additional outputs.<br /> • Activities<br /> o Identification of fungicide alternatives to PCNB for snow mold control.<br /> o Study of the carbon footprint of turfgrasses in landscapes.<br /> o Genetic understanding of salt grass (Distichlis spicata) for improved breeding methods.<br /> o Study of the physiological impacts of salinity on turfgrasses and improved management procedures.<br /> o Reducing the water footprint of turfgrasses but retaining needed functionality.<br /> o Understanding the genetics of bluegrasses as a model allo-auto-polyploid and to better improve lines of the species for turfgrass use.<br /> o A study of billbug biology. The species is a major insect pest of bluegrass in the West.<br /> o Evaluation of smart irrigation controllers for urban landscapes.<br /> o Evaluation of turfgrass varieties for adaptation in Intermountain West drought situations.<br /> o Breeding work to further improve characteristics of buffalograss characteristics and production challenges.<br /> o Evaluation of little used bentgrass species for turfgrass use.<br /> o Alternative strategies for management of Microdochium patch on annual bluegrass putting greens.<br /> o Management and improvement of kikuyugrass as turf.<br /> o Evaluation of seed coatings for establishment of turfgrass under deficit irrigation.<br /> o A study of using nitrates in effluent water (tailored water) as a fertilizer source for turfgrasses.<br />

Publications

Barnes, B.D., Kopecky, D., Lukaszewski, A.J., Baird, J.H. 2014. Evaluation of turf-type interspecific hybrids of meadow fescue with perennial ryegrass for improved stress tolerance. Crop Sci. Vol. 54: 1 p.355-365.<br /> <br /> Blunt, Tamla; Koski, Tony; Tisserat, Ned. 2013. Typhula blight severity as influenced by the number of preventive fungicide applications and snow compaction. Plant Health Progress. August 21. p. [1-7].<br /> <br /> Blunt, Tamla; Koski, Tony; Tisserat, Ned. 2013. Effect of snow removal on typhula blight development at high elevation golf courses in Colorado. Plant Health Progress. August 21. p. [1-9].<br /> <br /> Bushman BS, Warnke SE, Amundsen KL, Combs KM, Johnson PG. 2013. Molecular markers highlight variation within and among Kentucky bluegrass varieties and accessions. Crop Science 53:2245-2254.<br /> <br /> Bushman, B.S., S.E. Warnke, K.L. Amundsen, K.M. Combs, P. Johnson. 2013. Molecular markers highlight variation within and among Kentucky bluegrass varieties and accessions. Crop Science. 53(5):2245-2254. <br /> <br /> Bushman, S., Warnke, S. E., Amundsen, K. L., Combs, K. M., Johnson, P. G. (2013). Molecular markers highlight variation within and among Kentucky bluegrass varieties and accessions. Crop Science, 53, 2245-2254.<br /> <br /> David J. Skiles and Yaling Qian. 2013. Soil chemical property changes on golf course fairways under eight years of effluent water irrigation. Int. Turfgrass Res. J. 12:561-566.<br /> <br /> Flessner, M.L., McElroy, J.S., Baird, J.H., Barnes, B.D. 2013. Utilizing Flumioxazin for Annual Bluegrass (Poa annua) Control in Bermudagrass Turf. Weed Technology. Vol. 27: 3 p.590-595.<br /> <br /> Graus M., S.D. Allyson, R. Fall, B. Yuan, Y.L. Qian, P. Westra, J. Gouw, C. Warneke. 2013. Biosphere-atmosphere exchange of volatile organic compounds over C4 biofuel crops. Atmospheric Environment. 66:161–168.<br /> <br /> Grimshaw, A.L., B.M. Schwartz, T.L. Grey, P.E. McCullough, P.L. Raymer, T.M. Webster, A.R. Kowalewski, T.M. Tate and W.A. Parrott. 2014. Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase Herbicide Tolerance in Bermudagrass. Agronomy Journal. 106(3):1-6. <br /> <br /> Hoisington, N.R., Flessner, M.L., Schiavon, M., McElroy, J.S., Baird, J.H. Tolerance of bentgrass (Agrostis) species and cultivars to methiozolin. Weed Technology. (Accepted 02/15/2014. 25 galley pages.)<br /> <br /> J.Z. Wang, J.M. Fu, S. J. Wilhelm, and Y.L. Qian. 2013. Performance and physiological processes of ‘Brilliant’ Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) in response to salinity and mowing management. Int. Turfgrass Res. J. 12:491-495. <br /> <br /> Johnston, W.J., Golob, C.T., & Streeter, T. (2013). Multi-year autumn applied methiozolin for Poa annua control on golf greens. ASA-CSSA-SSSA abstracts. ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annu. Meeting, Tampa, FL. <br /> <br /> Johnston, W.J., Johnson, R.C., Golob, C.T., Dodson, K., and Stahnke, G.K. (2013). Sustainable Kentucky bluegrass seed production without field burning. Abstract. Western Soc. Crop Sci. 2013 Annual Meeting <br /> <br /> Johnston, W.J., Johnson, R.C., Golob, C.T., Dodson, K., Silbernagel, D., and Stahnke, G.K. (2013). Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) germplasm for non-burn seed production. In A. Rakshit (Eds.), Technological Advancement for Vibrant Agriculture (Chapter 4, p. 43-49). Athens Institute for Education and Research.<br /> <br /> Johnston, W.J., Johnson, R.C., Golob, C.T., Dodson, K., Silbernagel, D., and Stahnke, G.K. (2013). Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) germplasm for non-burn seed production. ATINER Conference Paper Series No: AGR2012-0181<br /> <br /> Johnston, W.J., Johnson, R.C., Golob, C.T., Dodson, K., Stahnke, G.K., and Guertal, E. (2013). Kentucky bluegrass germplasm evaluation for turfgrass quality and grass seed production without open-field burning. ASA-CSSA-SSSA 2013 Annu. meeting abstracts ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annu. Meeting, Tampa, FL. <br /> <br /> Kopecky, D., Martis, M., Cihalíková, J., Hribová, E., Vrána, J., Bartos, J., Kopecká, J., Cattonaro, F., Stoces, S., Novák, P., Neumann, P., Macas, J., Šimková, H., Studer, B., Asp, T., Baird, J.H., Navrátil, P., Karafiátová, M., Kubaláková, M., Šafár, J., Mayer, K., Dolezel, J. 2013. Flow Sorting and Sequencing Meadow Fescue Chromosome 4F. Plant Physiology. Vol. 163: p.1323-1337.<br /> <br /> Kory Nickell and Yaling Qian. 2013. Saltgrass germination responses to salinity with different seed treatments. Int. Turfgrass Res. J. 12: 187-192. <br /> <br /> Kowalewski, A.R., B.M. Schwartz, A.L. Grimshaw J.N. McCrimmon and J.M. Layton. 2014. Mowing Requirements and Costs to Maintain Bermudagrass is Influenced by Cultivar Selection and Trinexapac-Ethyl Use. Applied Turfgrass Science. Accepted April 25, 2014. <br /> <br /> Kowalewski, A.R., B.M. Schwartz, A.L. Grimshaw, D.G. Sullivan, J.B. Peake, T.O. Green, J.N. Rogers, III, L.J. Kaiser and H.M. Clayton. 2013. Biophysical Effects and Ground Force of the Baldree Traffic Simulator. Crop Science. 53:1-6. <br /> <br /> McDonald, B.W., R.C. Golembiewski, T.W. Cook and T.M. Blankenship. 2103. Effects of Mowing and Rolling Frequency, Primo Maxx, and Roller Weight on Annual Bluegrass Putting Green Speed. doi:10.1094/ATS-2013-0529-01-RS. <br /> <br /> Negahban-Azar, M., S.E. Sharvelle, Y.L. Qian, and A. Shogbon. 2013. Leachability of chemical constituents in soil-plant systems irrigated with synthetic graywater. Environ. Sci. Processes Impacts 15:760-772. <br /> <br /> Peterson, K.W., C.J. Wegner, K.L. Amundsen, R.E. Gaussoin, W.H. Schacht, G.L. Horst, R.C. Shearman. 2012. Mowing Height and Genotype Influence on Carbohydrate Content of Buffalograss. Crop Science 53(3):1153-1160.<br /> <br /> Proctor, C., Johnston, W.J., Stahnke, G.K., Golob, C.T., and Williams, M. (2013, July). Topdressing sand color, cultivation timing, and cultivation method effects on disruption of a creeping bentgrass golf green in the Intermountain Pacific Northwest. Applied Turfgrass Science (29 July 2013).<br /> <br /> Reicher, Z. J. P. H. Dernoeden, and D. S. Richmond. 2013. Insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and growth regulators used in turfgrass systems. pp 891-932 In Turfgrass: Biology, use, and management. J. C. Stier, B. P. Horgan, and S. A. Bonos, eds. ASA, CSSA, and SSSA. Madison, WI.<br /> <br /> Schiavon, M., Barnes, B.D., Shaw, D.A., Henry, J.M., Baird, J.H. 2013. Strategies for converting tall fescue to warm-season turf in a Mediterranean climate. HortTechnology. Vol. 23: 4 p.442-448.<br /> <br /> Schiavon, M., Green, R.L., Baird, J.H. 2014. Drought tolerance of cool-season turfgrasses in a mediterranean climate. Europ. J. Hort. Sci. Vol. 79 (3) p.175–182.<br /> <br /> Skiles, D.J., S. Alshammary, and Y.L. Qian. 2014. Spatial and temporal salinity accumulation patterns on golf course fairway soils under effluent water irrigation. Australian Journal of Crop Science. 8:80-98. <br /> <br /> Sousek, M. D., R. E. Gaussoin, A. J. Patton, D. V. Weisenberger, and Z. J. Reicher. 2014. Weed control and turf safety of single and sequential applications of herbicides over spring seedings. [Online] Appl. Turfgrass Sci. 11(1):p. 1-7.<br /> <br /> Sousek, M., R. E. Gaussoin, A. J. Patton, D. V. Weisenberger, and Z. J. Reicher. 2014. Weed control and turf safety of single and sequential applications of herbicides over spring seedings. Online. Applied Turfgrass Science doi: doi:10.2134/ATS-2013-0046-RS <br /> <br /> Sun, Hongyan and Kelly Kopp. 2013. Identifying high-risk areas of N leaching in the Salt Lake Valley. International Turfgrass Society Research Journal. 12:39-46.<br /> Thompson, C., J. Fry, M. Kennelly, M. Sousek, and Z Reicher. 2014. Seasonal Timing of Glyphosate Application Influences Control of Poa trivialis. Online. Applied Turfgrass Science. doi: 10.2134/ATS-2013-0044-BR. Posted online 7 May 2014<br /> <br /> Wang, Y., W. Fang, D. Li, and R. Gaussoin. 2013. Soil chemical properties of golf greens affected by age, initial construction and establishment. Int. Turfgrass Soc. Res. J. 12:p. 539-544.<br /> <br /> Yao Zhang, Yaling Qian, Dale J. Bremer, and Jason P. Kaye. 2013. Simulation of N2O emissions and estimation of global warming potential in turfgrass systems using the DAYCENT model. J. Environ. Qual. 42:1100–1108.<br /> <br /> Zhang, Y., Y.L. Qian, B. Mecham, and W. J. Parton. 2013. Development of best turfgrass management practices using the DAYCENT model. Agron. J. 105:1151-1159. <br />

Impact Statements

1. Several effective controls for snow mold diseases have been identified. This is cooperative with WERA cooperators and those elsewhere in the US.
2. Carbon source and sink research has identified turfgrass as a carbon sink in most cases and comparable to plant communities included in many Conservation Reserve Program lands.
3. The wide variety of water related research is reducing urban water use. Improved consumer awareness of irrigation practices has helped reduce urban irrigation by at least 18%.
4. Breeding and management work on native and well adapted species has reduced management costs and inputs in many situations. This includes fertilizer, pesticides, water, and labor, and continues to increase the diversity of the urban landscapes. And those savings are small compared to expected savings long term thanks to ongoing breeding efforts.

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Report Information

Participants

Kai Umeda, University of Arizona
Dave Kopec, University of Arizona
Conner Olsen, Oregon State University
Brian McDonald, Oregon State University
Keenan Amundsen, University of Nebraska
Marco Schiavon, University of California-Riverside
Matteo Serena, New Mexico State University
Zhiqiang Cheng, University of Hawaii
Greg Wiecko, University of Guam
Paul Johnson, Utah State University (Administrative Advisor)

Brief Summary of Minutes

Notes from discussion:
• Renewal of the WERA project. All in attendance agreed the group should continue and that there is value in meeting each year. While the group doesn’t have a funded regional project, meeting, sharing, and learning from each other is most important. Our region is dealing with similar challenges across the states, for example billbug insects in turf and water issues. Attending this meeting helps build relationships among the institutions to better address those challenges in our own states either separate or hopefully together. Keenan Admundsen agreed to lead this renewal effort with the deadline of January 15, 2016 for submission of the renewal proposal.
• Considered meeting for 2016 in Hawaii with Cheng as host. Plan B sites are Pullman or Seattle, Washington or Dallas, Texas if hosts are willing.
• Discussed a possible regional project centered around teaching. During state reports, a frequent comment was reduced numbers of students interested and pursuing a turfgrass management degree, but still many needing the information for related urban horticulture degrees. In addition, there are holes in several programs because of too few students to offer the classes or lack of ability to teach the classes due to few faculty. Sharing of courses over IVC or online formats between states may be an effective solution to meet some of these regional needs and most importantly, those of the students.
• Several of the faculty in the region either currently or in new job postings have a 3-way split of teaching, research, and Extension. This presents a challenge in meeting the varied expectations, but also attracting and keeping good people in those positions.
• In the past, representatives from industry were commonly in attendance at this meeting. It was decided to attempt to reconnect for coming meetings.

Accomplishments

Hawaii, Zhiqiang Cheng, cheng241@hawaii.edu, Joseph DeFrank<br /> Research:<br /> Graduate student: Bishnu Bhandari<br /> Project(s): “lights out” non-chemical turf renovation; Lobate lac scale management in golf course.<br /> Rover ant management in golf course; mini ring and Bermuda decline management at golf courses; Chinese banyan stem and leaf gall wasp control; survey and control of coconut rhinoceros beetle in Hawaii.<br /> Graduate student: Scott Lucas<br /> Project(s): Native Hawaiian plants for roadside use.<br /> Herbicide efficacy projects at golf course and sports turf; soil solarization for weed control in turf (in collaboration with me) and crop systems; native plant establishment of highway rights-of-way.<br /> <br /> Extension Program<br /> Work with local associations for extension education. The largest annual turf and green industry education events are: Landscape Industry Council of Hawaii (LICH) Conference and Trade Show (October each year), and Crop Protection Services (CPS) Seminar and Trade Show (May each year).<br /> <br /> Arizona, David Kopec, dmk@email.arizona.edu, Kai Umeda, Mohammed Pessarakli, Paul Brown, J. Walworth, Jeff Gilbert.<br /> Research:<br /> Topramezone seasonal timing and rate investigation for bermudagrass removal on golf green collars. <br /> Topramezone rate determination for goosegrass control in bermudagrass turf. <br /> Methiozolin timing of application in early or late fall season for Poa control on bentgrass greens. <br /> Methiozolin comparison of efficacy of rates followed by water applications.<br /> Amicarbazone formulations comparison and seasonal timing for efficacy against Poa annua. <br /> Kurapia ground cover evaluation for non-play areas on golf courses.<br /> Evaluation of 6 seashore paspalums for salinity tolerance.<br /> Evaluation of six perennial ryegrasses for salt tolerance.<br /> Tall fescue response to Bio-stimulants.<br /> Field drought tolerance of selected saltgrass clones.<br /> Oscillating salt stress assessment technique for Sea Spray Seashore paspalum.<br /> Salinity and sodium management of Tifway 419 as determined by soil cultivation, and applications of gypsum or free elemental sulfur amendments.<br /> Drip irrigation modeling for landscape plants. w/ U.K. Schuck, Urban Hort. Specialist.<br /> Low water use grasses for secondary roughs.<br /> Curly mesquitegrass for turf.<br /> Sprucetop grama for turf.<br /> Fairway overseeding trials<br /> PGR suppression of Poa annua in overseeded fairways.<br /> Acute drought tolerance of 36 bermudagrass clones.<br /> Tolerance of Tifway bermudagrass to Tenacity and Princep herbicides. <br /> <br /> Extension Program:<br /> State Turfgrass Conferences (2014 and 2015):<br /> Turfgrass IPM Seminars (CEU) based<br /> Smart Scape Series Seminars<br /> Annual Turf School<br /> Football Turf Field Day<br /> Synthetic Turf Field Day<br /> Glyphosate resistance work group<br /> Various local/state seminars <br /> Cactus Pine GCSA, Hort. Seminars, State Parks and Recreation etc.<br /> <br /> Field Days (2011 and 2012):<br /> Karsten Field Day (2014), Tucson, Az., May 4th, 2014<br /> Karsten Field Day (2015), Tucson, Az. , May 6th, 2015<br /> U/A Overseeding Ext. Demonstration., Tucson, Az., Spring, 2014<br /> <br /> <br /> Iowa, Shui-zhang Fei, e-mail. Nick Christians<br /> Research:<br /> Nick Christians<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Dan Strey and Kevin Hansen finished MS degrees in 2015. Isaac Mertz will finish his MS in summer 2015.<br /> MS or PhD: Nick currently have 4 MS students. Three of them are in full time jobs and completing their degrees through the Horticulture non-thesis program. Isaac Mertz will begin a Ph.D. program in 2015.<br /> Project(s): We are working with the effects of paint on grass and soil on sports turf areas. There is also a project on rhizomatous tall fescue and some work on biostimulants. <br /> <br /> Shuizhang Fei<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Jingjie Hao finished her PhD in Dec 2014.<br /> MS or PhD: Shuizhang currently have one MS (Paul Merrick) and one PhD (Yang Liu) student. <br /> Project(s): Rapid gene discovery in creeping bentgrass by high throughput gene silencing (funded by the Consortium for Plant Biotechnology Inc.); herbicide resistant turfgrasses, targeted gene editing in perennial grasses (Funded by the United States Department of Agriculture); biological nitrification inhibition in turfgrass species; develop plant breeding curricula for African universities (funded by the Bill and Malinda Gates Foundation). <br /> <br /> Extension Program<br /> State conference dates: January 20-22th 2015. Attendance: 816<br /> Research Field Day: July 23th, 2014; Attendance: 86<br /> <br /> Extension efforts focus on providing research-based information to Iowa’s commercial turfgrass industries (sports turf, golf course, and lawn care). We also have scheduled presentations for Iowa Master Gardeners, Federated Garden Club of Iowa, and local/regional garden shows. Extension efforts are working on creating an Iowa State University-High School Athletic Field Short Course and increasing attendance and tracks for ISU field day. In addition, we will continue to comply and build online videos and tutorials for Iowa pesticide recertification program. One of current activities is revising out of date publications and creating new publications. Some of the new publications topics are an Iowa State University Athletic Field Guide to Safe Playing Fields, Reducing Industry Water Usage, and Guide to Sprayer and Fertilization Calculations, Managing Localized Dry Spot, as well as others. <br /> <br /> <br /> Nebraska, Keenan Amundsen; Email: kamundsen2@unl.edu<br /> Research:<br /> Faculty member (complete for each faculty member): Keenan Amundsen<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Luqi Li<br /> Project(s): Improving establishment of buffalograss <br /> Title: Characterize seed dormancy mechanisms in buffalograss<br /> Description: Conduct studies to test alternative seed treatments to break seed dormancy, profile hormones during germination of treated and untreated seeds. Research is expected to optimize seed treatment to break dormancy and reduce production costs.<br /> Funded by the Native Turf Group. Co-PIs: William Kreuser, UNL; Gautam Sarath, USDA<br /> <br /> Faculty member: Roch Gaussoin <br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Matt Pederson <br /> Project(s): Investigating the potential of select whole grass extracts and their isolated components for protection against mammalian inflammation <br /> <br /> Faculty member: Tiffany Heng-Moss and Fred Baxendale<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Crystal Ramm?<br /> Project(s): Molecular insights into the defense response of buffalograss to chinch bugs?<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Kyle Koch (co-advised with Jeff Bradshaw)<br /> Project(s): Evaluation of tetraploid switchgrasses for resistance to phloem-feeding insects?<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Travis Prochaska (co-advised with Gautam Sarath)<br /> Project(s): Physiological, biochemical and anatomical insights into aphid-switchgrass interactions<br /> <br /> Faculty member: Bill Kreuser<br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Darrell Michael<br /> Project(s): Winter desiccation prevention and recovery <br /> Current or recently graduated graduate student: Glen Obear<br /> Project(s): Characterization, remediation, and prevention of iron layer formation in USGA putting greens<br /> <br /> <br /> Extension Program<br /> State conference dates: January 5-7, 2015; Attendance: 548<br /> Research field day: July 23; Attendance: 177<br /> Other Extension activities: Backyard Farmer TV, Thursday nights ~20,000 viewers/episode<br /> <br /> Oregon, Alec Kowalewski; alec.kowalewski@oregonstate.edu <br /> Research:<br /> Current graduate student: Clint Mattox <br /> MS or PhD: M.S. <br /> Project(s): Turfgrass managers within Canada and the United States are facing increasing pesticide bans, restrictions and regulations. Considering this turf managers are seeking fungicide alternative management practices for pathogens like Microdochium patch. Previous research conducted at Oregon State University using the mineral oil Civitas One in combination with sulfur and/or potassium phosphite has shown promising results. The proposed research is intended to address concerns generated by this previous work, notably abiotic damage produced by Civitas One and the potential detrimental effects of repeated sulphur applications. Finally, as a means of continuing the search for alternative control practices, the effect of various charcoal sources and application methods will be explored. Graduation date: 2015 <br /> Collaborators: Gwen Stahnke, Walla Walla Community College and Nate Stacey, Washington State University<br /> Funding Source: Oregon Turf Foundation, Oregon GCSA, Western Canada Turfgrass Association, Northwest Turfgrass Association and Western IPM Center, USGA, GCSAA. <br /> <br /> Current graduate student: Brian Daviscourt <br /> Project(s): Cost-Benefit of Synthetic Infill and Natural Grass Systems – The objectives of this research are to analyze and compare the costs of installation and maintenance of synthetic infill and natural grass systems. Case studies will be used to develop a survey that will then be used to assess various athletic field systems on a state wide level. Projected outcomes will include an enterprise budget, user hours, cost per user and an assessment of seasonal playing conditions (ground cover, surface hardness and temperature). <br /> Funding Source: Oregon State University Department of Athletics and Northwest Turfgrass Association. <br /> <br /> Current graduate student: Micah Gould <br /> Project(s): Oregon public school’s need research on low maintenance ground covers and grasses in response to Oregon’s school IPM law, which became effective July 1, 2012. The IPM law requires schools to reduce pesticide use to create a healthier environment for the preK-12 school communities. Other driving forces for this research include: pest infestations, contaminated ground water by pesticides, and budget cuts in Oregon’s public school system. <br /> Therefore, the objective of this research is to evaluate the establishment rate, drought tolerance, weed suppression, mowing tolerance, and visual quality of various ground covers and grasses in a low maintenance situation.<br /> Funding Source: USDA-NIFA (Secondary Extension Implementation Program Priority Area)<br /> <br /> Current graduate student: Conner Olsen <br /> Project(s): Quantify the energy inputs and water storage capabilities of rainwater harvesting systems for use in homeowner lawn irrigation. <br /> Evaluate the effects of varying irrigation rates with coincidentally varying timescales on established perennial ryegrass maintained as a home lawn. <br /> Funding Source: Oregon GCSA and Oregon Turf Foundation <br /> <br /> <br /> Other notable research projects:<br /> Title: Effects of Pseudomonas fluorescens WH6 on annual bluegrass establishment<br /> Description: Research in collaboration with the USDA – Forage Seed and Cereal Research Unit evaluating the pre-emergence effects of P. fluorescens WH6 on annual bluegrass in an established perennial ryegrass stand was initiated on March 11, 2013 at the Lewis-Brown Horticulture Farm, Corvallis, OR. Pseudomonas applications were made twice annually (spring and fall) at varying rates on a perennial ryegrass stand in March and again in October. Prior to fall Pseudomonas applications P. annua seed was applied to the plots. Currently, P. annua germination rates, as well as perennial ryegrass health and vigor are being assessed in the field.<br /> Funding Source: Agricultural Research Foundation <br /> <br /> Title: 2014 National Fine Fescue Test<br /> Description: Oregon State University is currently a host to the 2014 National Fine Fescue Test, which is a collaborative effort including universities across 15 U.S. states (NC, NJ, MO, WA, MD, IL, MI, MN, ND, MN, CT, CA, MA, OR and IN) and two countries (USA and Canada).Victor Collaborators:<br /> Funding Source: National Turfgrass Evaluation Program <br /> <br /> Title: Effects of Sulfur, Calcium Source and pH on Microdochium Patch <br /> Description: The objectives of this research are to first, determine if elemental sulfur applied with and without various calcium sources can effectively mitigate the number of annual fungicide applications necessary to manage Microdochium patch on annual bluegrass. The second objective of this research is to evaluate the effects of various sulfur applications rates on annual bluegrass health and vigor. The final objective is to explore potential correlations between soil pH, turf health and Microdochium patch incidence.<br /> Funding Source: United State Golf Association<br /> <br /> Title: Effects of Mowing Timing on the Efficacy of Proxy PGR to Reduce Annual Bluegrass Seed Head Production<br /> Description: Annual bluegrass seed head production on putting greens results in a number of detrimental effects including, but not limited to reduced putting speed and consistency, and reduced aesthetics. To provide a more consistent putting surface those maintaining greens with annual bluegrass present have used a number of cultural practices such as the application of herbicides and plant growth regulators, to suppress seed head flushes. Research and practical application have shown that Embark (mefluidide) and Proxy (ethephon) provide the best reduction is seed head production. However, due to the phytotoxicty associated with the plant growth regulator Embark, Proxy is often the product of choice for suppression of annual bluegrass seed head production. Recent research has determined that Proxy absorption and transportation from the flag leaf contributes substantially to seed head suppression. However, mowing, a critical practice on golf course putting greens, removes the flag leaf. The objective of this research would be to determine if mowing delays prior to and following the application of Proxy will affect the seed head suppression of annual bluegrass during the spring flush. <br /> Funding Source: United State Golf Association<br /> <br /> Extension Program<br /> Recent State Conferences: 2015 OGCSA Annual Meeting - May 20, 2015; 2015 OSTMA Membership Drive - March 3, 2015; 2014 OGCSA Annual Pest Management Seminar - December 3 and 4, 2015. <br /> <br /> Other Recent Extension Activities: 2014-2015 School IPM Coordinator Training; 20 events from October 3, 2014 to June 11, 2015; Cumulative Attendance 268. <br /> <br /> Major Extension efforts include the development of the following program:<br /> Schools IPM Landscaping Project – In collaboration with the OSU Integrated Plant Protection Center, this ongoing project includes the development and implementation of curriculum and workshops on IPM for School Turf and Landscape Management which was and is being offered to schools across the state of Oregon. <br /> OSU Turf Field Day - The curriculum currently includes a program update presentation, which I deliver during the opening remarks. As well as a take-home proceedings booklet, which includes the objectives, plot maps and findings from the featured projects (15 presented in 2014), as well as contact information for industry booth and equipment exhibitors. A field tour was also offered and included presentations by OSU faculty, staff and graduate students allowing the industry an opportunity to interact with the programs current members. Industry booths and equipment exhibitors were a new component offered this year which we are hoping to grow in the future. This year, the field day, which is Sept 3, 2015, will include ODA pesticide applicator CEU credits, a golf outing and dinner at the Trysting Tree Golf Course. <br /> <br /> <br /> Utah, Paul G. Johnson, paul.johnson@usu.edu<br /> Research:<br /> Shaun Bushman, USDA-ARS<br /> Poa breeding for salt tolerance & drought tolerance continues.<br /> Genetics of bluegrass using molecular tools.<br /> MS Graduate student Paul Harris starting on seed production characteristics. Co-advised with Paul Johnson.<br /> Joe Robins, USDA-ARS<br /> Ryegrass drought evaluation study<br /> Wheatgrass breeding for turfgrass application<br /> Ricardo Ramirez, USU-Biology<br /> PhD student Madeleine Dupuy continuing billbug biology and biological control studies.<br /> Kelly Kopp, USU-Plants, Soils, and Climate<br /> Water use Extension<br /> Turfgrass Water Conservation Alliance trial established this year<br /> Several leadership positions nationally<br /> Paul Johnson, USU-Plants, Soils, and Climate<br /> NTEP evaluations: tall fescue standard tall fescue lateral spread, Kentucky bluegrass standard, creeping bentgrass putting green standard, bentgrass putting green drought, bentgrass fairway/tee drought<br /> Salt tolerance in bluegrass research with Shaun Bushman.<br /> <br /> <br /> New Mexico, Ryan Goss, Bernd Leinauer, Matteo Serena<br /> Research:<br /> ReNUWIt Project: Field study was terminated in May. We are expanding the study in the greenhouse and analyze for gasses (N2O).<br /> Salinity Trials: in collaboration with Barenbrug for plant breeding purposes.<br /> Seed coating studies: in collaboration with Aquatrols and Barenrbug.<br /> Surfactants/PGR for Water Conservation: several companies involved in the test this year. Last year results were promising. This year we are also conducting an injection study, in which the soil surfactant is injected through the irrigation system.<br /> Salinity Alleviation Study: in collaboration with Macosorb technologies and others. To study the effects of several chemicals on Kentucky bluegrass establishment.<br /> Soil Sensor Study. In progress, supported by USGA to test accuracy of TDR sensors in saline conditions.<br /> Fertilization Trial (under decision)<br /> Reduced Irrigation Trial. In collaboration with barenbrug, this would be the last year.<br /> Surfactant injection on subsurface drip irrigation (modeling with HYDRUS)<br /> Seed increase<br /> Bermudagrass morphology trial<br /> Forage fescue for salinity screening<br /> Sod establishment using a poly-gel to help retain water.<br /> <br />

Publications

Etemadi, Nematollah, Mohamad-Hossein Sheikh-Mohamadi, Ali Nikbakht, Mohammad Reza Sabzalian, and Mohammad Pessarakli. 2015. Influence of Trinexapac-ethyl in Improving Drought Resistance of Wheatgrass and Tall Fescue. Acta Physiologiae Plantarum, 37(53:1–17.<br /> <br /> Pessarakli, Mohammad and Dennis E. McMillan. 2014. Seashore Paspalum, a High Salinity Stress Tolerant Halophytic Plant Species for Sustainable Agriculture in Desert Regions and Combating Desertification. International Journal of Water Resources and Arid Environments, 3(1): 35-42. <br /> <br /> Pessarakli, Mohammad. 2014. Saltgrass, a True Halophytic Plant Species for Sustainable Agriculture in Desert Regions. Research on Crop Ecophysiology, 9/1(1): 1-11.<br /> <br /> Nikbakht, Ali, Mohammad Pessarakli, Naghmeh Daneshvar-Hakimi-Maibodi, and Mohsen Kafi. 2014. Perennial Ryegrass Growth Responses to Mycorrhizal Infection and Humic Acid Treatments. Agronomy Journal. 106 (2): 585-595. <br /> <br /> Pessarakli, M. (Ed.). 2014. Handbook of Plant and Crop Physiology, 3rd Edition, Revised and Expanded. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Publishing Group, Florida, 1080p.<br /> <br /> Nikbakht, Ali and Mohammad Pessarakli. 2014. New Approaches to Turfgrass Nutrition: Humic Substances and Mycorrhizal Inoculation. In: Handbook of Plant and Crop Physiology, 3rd Edition, Revised and Expanded (M. Pessarakli, Ed.), 913-925, CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Publishing Group, Florida.<br /> <br /> Umeda, Kai. 2015. Use of phenoxy herbicides in turfgrass in the U.S. In National Pesticide Impact Assessment Program Report. (S. McDonald, Ed.), In Press.<br /> <br /> Jones, M., N.E. Christians, and I. Mertz. 2014. Impact of plant growth biostimulents on creeping bentgrass growth. In press ACTA Horticulturae.<br /> <br /> Merrick P and Fei S 2015. Regeneration and genetic transformation in switchgrass Journal of Integrative Agriculture. 14:483-493<br /> <br /> Feng Y, Yin Y, Fei S. 2015. Down-regulation of BdBRI1, a putative brassinosteroid receptor gene altered growth and enhanced drought tolerance in Brachypodium distachyon. Plant Science 234:163-173<br /> <br /> Li Y, Han L, Hao J, Fei S. Agrobacterium tumefaciens -mediated transformation of big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii Vitman). Journal of Plant Biotechnology. http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs11240-015-0754-y<br /> <br /> Jingjie Hao, Jiangli Dong, Jinliang Yang, Shuizhang Fei. Transcriptome analysis of a cbf3 mutant by RNA-seq in Brachypodium distachyon XXIII Plant and Animal Genome Meeting, San Diego, CA (Abstract). <br /> <br /> Amaradasa, B., D. Lakshman, B. Horvath, K. Amundsen. 2014. Development of SCAR markers and UP-PCR cross-hybridization method for specific detection of four major subgroups of Rhizoctonia from infected turfgrasses. Mycologia 106(1):163-172.<br /> <br /> Donze, T., B.S. Amaradasa, C. Caha, T. Heng-Moss, K. Amundsen. 2014. Molecular differentiation of gender in buffalograss. Crop Science. doi:10.2135/cropsci2014.07.0478<br /> <br /> Ramm, C., M. Wachholtz, K. Amundsen, T. Donze, T. Heng-Moss, P. Twigg, G. Sarath, and F. Baxendale. 2015. Transcriptional Profiling of Resistant and Susceptible Buffalograsses in Response to Blissus occiduus (Hemiptera: Blissidae) Feeding. Journal of Economic Entomology. doi: 10.1093/jee/tov067<br /> <br /> Reicher, Z., M. Sousek, and R. Gaussoin. 2014. Fall or late winter applications of preemergence herbicides rarely provide season-long control of crabgrass (Digitaria spp) in Nebraska. Online. Applied Turfgrass Science doi: 10.2134/ATS-2014-0024-BR.<br /> <br /> Sousek, M., R. E. Gaussoin, A. J. Patton, D. V. Weisenberger, and Z. J. Reicher. 2014. Weed control and turf safety of single and sequential applications of herbicides over spring seedings. Online. Applied Turfgrass Science doi: doi:10.2134/ATS-2013-0046-RS. <br /> <br /> Watkins, E., D. S. Gardner, J. C. Stier, D. J. Soldat, R. A. St. John, N. E. Christians, R.E. Gaussoin et al. 2014. Cultivar performance of low-input turfgrass species for the North Central United States. Appl. Turfgrass Sci. 11(1):p. 1-7. doi: 10.2134/ATS-2013-0101-RS<br /> <br /> Berndt, W. L., R. E. Gaussoin, and J. M. Jr. Vargas. 2014. Cellulase accelerates short-term decay of thatch-mat. Agron. J. 106(3):p. 781-788.<br /> <br /> Schmid, C.A., R.E. Gaussoin and S. A. Gaussoin. 2014. Organic Matter Concentration of Creeping Bentgrass Putting Greens in the Continental U.S. and Resident Management Impact. Applied Turfgrass Science doi:10.2134/ATS-2014-0031-BR<br /> <br /> Schmid, C.A., R.E. Gaussoin, R.C. Shearman, M. Mamo and C.S. Wortmann. 2015. Cultivation Effects on Organic Matter Concentration and Infiltration Rates of Two Creeping Bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) Putting Greens. Applied Turfgrass Science doi:10.2134/ATS-2014-0032-RS<br /> <br /> Kreuser, W.C., and F. S. Rossi. 2014. Civitas increases clipping yield on a cool-season putting green. Applied Turfgrass Science. <br /> <br /> Kreuser, W. C., and F. S. Rossi. 2014. The horticultural spray oil, CivitasTM, causes chronic phytotoxicity on cool-season golf turf. HortScience. 49:1217-1224. doi:10.2134/ATS-2014-0012-BR.<br /> <br /> Sousek, M., R. E. Gaussoin, A. J. Patton, D. V. Weisenberger, and Z. J. Reicher. 2014. Weed control and turf safety of single and sequential applications of herbicides over spring seedings. Online. Applied Turfgrass Science. doi:10.2134/ATS-2013-0046-RS.<br /> <br /> Reicher, Z., M. Sousek, and R. Gaussoin. 2014. Fall or late winter applications of preemergence herbicides rarely provide season-long control of crabgrass (Digitaria spp) in Nebraska. Online. Applied Turfgrass Science. doi: 10.2134/ATS-2014-0024-BR.<br /> <br /> Thompson, C., J. Fry, M. Kennelly, M. Sousek, and Z. Reicher. 2014. Seasonal timing of glyphosate application influences control of Poa trivialis. Online. Applied Turfgrass Science. doi: 10.2134/ATS-2013-0044-BR.<br /> <br /> Leibhart, L. J., M. D. Sousek, G. Custis and Z. J. Reicher. 2014. Speedzone has potential for postemergence goosegrass control in perennial ryegrass and creeping bentgrass. Online. Applied Turfgrass Science. doi:10.2134/ATS-2014-0025-BR<br /> <br /> Proctor, C., Wiesenberger, D. V., Reicher, Z. 2015. Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass mixtures for establishing Midwest lawns. HortScience 50(1):1–4. 2015.<br /> <br /> Grimshaw, A.L., B.M. Schwartz, P.L. Raymer, A.R. Kowalewski and T.L. Grey. 2015. Influence of soil type on nitrogen leaching of controlled release fertilizers. Florida State Horticultural Society. In Press, Accepted Feb 15, 2015. <br /> <br /> Kowalewski, A.R., B.M. McDonald and C.M. Mattox. 2015. Evaluation of sulfur rates and calcium sources on Microdochium patch and Anthracnose of an annual bluegrass putting green in western Oregon, 2013 – 2014. In Press, accepted Feb 12, 2014. Plant Disease Management Reports. <br /> <br /> Mattox, C.M., A.R. Kowalewski, and B.W. McDonald. 2014. Evaluation of winter fertility practices in combination with simulated traffic in order to determine their effects on the suppression of Microdochium patch and turfgrass recovery on annual bluegrass in western Oregon, 2013-2014. Plant Disease Management Report. Report No. 8:T043. pg 1. <br /> <br /> Mattox, C.M., A.R. Kowalewski, and B.W. McDonald. 2014. Evaluation of fungicide alternatives for the control of Microdochium patch on annual bluegrass in western Oregon, 2013-2014. Plant Disease Management Report. Report No. 8:T042. pg 1. <br /> <br /> McDonald, B.W., and A. R. Kowalewski. 2014. Evaluation of fungicides for preventative control of gray snow mold in central Oregon, 2010 – 2011. Plant Disease Management Report. Report No. 8:T040. pg 1-2.<br /> <br /> Mattox, C., A. Kowalewski and McDonald. 2014. Research Update: Effects of Alternatives to Traditional Fungicides and Winter Fertilization Practices on Microdochium Patch. Western Canada Turf Association (Online). Retrieved May 22, 2014. http://wcta-online.com/turfgrass-research/item/965-research-update-effects-of-alternatives-to-traditional-fungicides-and-winter-fertilization-practices-on-microdochium-patch<br /> <br /> McDonald, B., A. Kowalewski and C. Mattox. 2014. Evaluation of Fungicide Rotation Programs for the Control of Anthracnose. BeaverTurf.com. Oregon State University. Retrieved March 21, 2014. http://horticulture.oregonstate.edu/content/2013-evaluation-fungicide-rotation-programs-control-anthracnose-and-effects-turf-quality-annual-blue<br /> <br /> Kowalewski, A.R., B.M. Schwartz, A.L. Grimshaw J.N. McCrimmon and J.M. Layton. 2014. Mowing Requirements and Costs to Maintain Bermudagrass is Influenced by Cultivar Selection and Trinexapac-Ethyl Use. Applied Turfgrass Science. Accepted April 25, 2014. <br /> <br /> Grimshaw, A.L., B.M. Schwartz, T.L. Grey, P.E. McCullough, P.L. Raymer, T.M. Webster, A.R. Kowalewski, T.M. Tate and W.A. Parrott. 2014. Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase Herbicide Tolerance in Bermudagrass. Agronomy Journal. 106(3):1-6. <br /> <br /> Leksungnoen, N., Kjelgren, R. K., Richard, B., Johnson, P. G., Cardon, G., Hawks, A. (2014). Salt tolerance of three tree species differing in native habitats and leaf traits. HortScience, 49, 1194-1200.<br /> <br /> Staub, J., Robbins, M., Ma, Y., Johnson, P. G. (2014). Phenotypic and genotypic analysis of U.S. native fine-leaved Festuca population reveals its potential use for low-input urban landscapes. J. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci., 139(6), 706-715.<br /> <br /> Johnson, P. G., Dai, X., Gurgel, R. (2014). Growth of Bella bluegrass compared to a standard KBG blend and tall fescue. Applied Turfgrass Science, 11(1).<br /> <br /> Kopp, K., Johnson, P. G., Klotz, E., Miller, C. (2015). Water Use Efficiency on Golf Courses in Utah. Golf Course Management, 83, 114-117.<br /> <br /> Johnson, P. G., Bushman, S. (2014). Improved understanding and testing for salinity tolerance in cool-season turfgrasses. United States Golf Association, 13(3), 3-5. http://usgatero.msu.edu/v13/n3-3.pdf<br /> <br /> Rupp, L. A., Wheaton, A., Spranger, A., Anderson, D. T., Kopp, K., Johnson, P. G., Kjelgren, R. K. Combinations for Conservation: A Guide to Proven Plant Material Combinations for Low-Water Landscaping.<br />

Impact Statements

1. Through Extension and other efforts, WERA 11 members worked with a wide variety of turfgrass industry groups to help practioners use best management practices, making those diverse turfgrass areas sustainable and valuable to citizens in the Western US. This includes efficient use of fertilizer, pesticide, and labor resources.
2. WERA 11 members have focused as a group on water conservation in turfgrass management. These have included research, teaching, and Extension outreach to identify and recommend appropriate species choice, research and outreach information to estimate exactly what the turfgrass plants need to meet expectations, and management practices that further reduce plant water requirements. This has been a primary focus of this group historically but especially in response to current droughts throughout the region.
3. Several WERA11 members are actively improving species not previously used as turfgrass and improvements to already widely used species that have lower water requirements and increased biotic and abiotic stress tolerance. New varieties of the native buffalograss have been released, selections of native grama species are being evaluated, and selections of Kentucky bluegrass are being studied for salt and drought stress.

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Report Information

Participants

Participants

Cheng, Zhiqiang - University of Hawaii at Manoa, DeFrank, Joseph - University of Hawaii at Manoa, Fei, Shui-Zhang - Iowa State University, Gold, Micah - Oregon State University, Johnston, William - Washington State University, Kellar, Matt - University of Hawaii at Manoa, Kowalewski, Alec - Oregon State University, Kreuser, Katherine - University of Nebraska, Kreuser, William - University of Nebraska, Leinauer, Bernd - New Mexico State University, Lindsey, AJ - University of Hawaii at Manoa, Qian, Yaling - Colorado State University, Serena, Matteo - New Mexico State University, Sevostianova, Elena - New Mexico State University, Sportelli, Mino- New Mexico State University, Umeda, Kai - University of Arizona, Wiecko, Greg - University of Guam

Brief Summary of Minutes

Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

Individual state reports were presented by attending delegates.  The status of the WERA011 group renewal was discussed.  Thanks to Drs. Amundsen, Cheng, and Johnson for spearheading the renewal effort and to all members for their input and support of the project.  The project was renewed prior to the annual meeting.  The group decided to host the WERA011 meeting in conjunction with the International Turfgrass Society meetings in New Brunswick, NJ, July 16-21, 2017.  As a group we have met individually in recent years but the benefit of coordinating with other regions was recognized.  It was suggested that a joint meeting be held with the Southern Turfgrass Regional group in 2018, pending.  Introduced during the 2016 meetings, the importance of regional distance-based instruction, training, and extension education collaborations was noted.  There are opportunities to work across state lines to develop cohesive educational/training workshops throughout the region.  The meeting concluded with tours of the University of Hawaii at Manoa turfgrass research station: “lights-out” non-chemical weed control and turf renovation, Hawaiian native grasses/plants for landscaping, Hawaiian Bocce on mini greens, and a trip to a sod farm.

Objective 1 - Develop improved turfgrass cultivars resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses important to the western states and identify genetic components conferring drought resistance and salinity tolerance to improve the efficiency of stress resistant germplasm identification and selection.

UCR: Baird. The use of warm-season grasses would benefit California, but their shorter growing season compared to cool-season grasses makes them less desirable by growers.  In coastal areas, water shortages and salinity of irrigation water are important issues.

UN: W. Kreuser. The primary focus of breeding efforts is on the development of turf-type buffalograss for its low water and fertility use.  Projects were also initiated to develop low-input bentgrass germplasm and turf-type blue grama cultivars.  Buffalograss seed dormancy is an issue for our seed producers and impacts seed quality.

ISU: Fei. A high-throughput tool is needed in grasses in order to test the role of specific genes and gene families in grasses.

Objective 2 - Exchange information on features and importance of newly developed cultivars and coordinate research to develop and evaluate optimal low-input management practices.

UA: Umeda.  Response of species to low water use is critical to Arizona and the southwest.  Performance of turfgrasses, native grasses, and other ground covers in the region is important when managed under drought or with salinated irrigation water.

UH: Cheng. Shade is an important part of landscapes, so new turfgrass varieties need to be tolerant of shate.

All delegates reported on the significance of regional cultivar performance.

Objective 3 - Develop, refine and disseminate sustainable turfgrass management protocols for turfgrass managers throughout the western United States

UA: Umeda.  Weed control is essential to minimize competition, particularly in reduced input management turfgrass systems.  In the southwest, overseeding is a common practice so research is needed to optimize overseeding methods in the region.

UH: Cheng. Weeds and disease are also issues in Hawaii.  The use of native plants, particularly in low input areas along highways is encouraged.

ISU: Fei. Evaluated other products applied to turf including the effects of paint and biostimulants

OSU: Kowalewski. Weeds and diseases are an issue in Oregon, particularly Microdochium patch and annual bluegrass are our biggest issues.

UCR: Baird. Optimal best management practices, products and application rates are important for turfgrass managers in California.

UN: W. Kreuser. We evaluated methods to minimize plant stress and optimize recovery from stress.  Coordinated studies to better understand host pest interactions.  Iron layer formation in USGA putting greens is becoming a widespread issue.

WSU: Johnston. Weeds and diseases are also issues in the Pacific Northwest.  Coordinated evaluation trials to optimize establishment.

Objective 4 - Coordinate reduced input turfgrass management practices

UA: Umeda.  Optimization of water use and irrigation are essential for turf managed in Arizona.

UH: Cheng. Alternative methods for pest control reduce pesticide loads.

WSU: Johnston. Alternative methods for weed control in seed production fields is needed.

OSU: Kowalewski. Alternative ground covers and optimized irrigation practices influence sustainability of turfgrass systems.

UCR: Baird. Alternative ground covers are also important in California.

Objective 5 - Assess environmental impacts of turf management

UA: Umeda.  Research is needed to understand impact of turf cultural practices on soils and turf performace. Turfgrasses can play an important role in mitigating pollutants.

UCR: Baird. We need a better understanding of actual water use in turfgrass systems.

Objective 6 - Communicate research results and promote sustainable practices to the public through workshops, conferences, websites, extension publications, social media, and research publications

UA: Umeda.  We need to have a better understanding and communicate the role of turf on our state’s economy.

OSU: Kowalewski. Coordinated research on the role of synthetic playing surfaces is needed.

UCR: Baird. Evaluation of products for home lawn market is important since there are a wealth of products available.

Accomplishments

<p><strong>Accomplishments</strong></p><br /> <p><strong><em>Objective 1 - Develop improved turfgrass cultivars resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses important to the western states and identify genetic components conferring drought resistance and salinity tolerance to improve the efficiency of stress resistant germplasm identification and selection.</em></strong></p><br /> <p>UCR: Baird. Breeding to improve bermudagrass, kikuyugrass, and zoysiagrass for winter color retention and drought tolerance.</p><br /> <p>UN: W. Kreuser. Used traditional field-based breeding and molecular breeding techniques to develop new cultivars and improved buffalograss germplasm with better turf quality, stand persistence, establishment rate.&nbsp; Also began developing turf-type blue grama and ornamental pearl millet.</p><br /> <p>ISU: Fei. Developed high-throughput gene silencing tools for the model grass species, <em>Brachypodium distachyon</em> and creeping bentgrass.</p><br /> <p>UCR: Baird. Evaluated use of groundcovers under deficit irrigation.&nbsp; Tested products to alleviate salinity on bermudagrass.&nbsp; Tested seed coatings used to optimize establishment of cool-season turfgrasses under saline irrigation.</p><br /> <p>UN: W. Kreuser. Resolved mechanisms of buffalograss seed dormancy and published results in HortScience.</p><br /> <p><strong><em>Objective 2 - Exchange information on features and importance of newly developed cultivars and coordinate research to develop and evaluate optimal low-input management practices.</em></strong></p><br /> <p>UA: Umeda.&nbsp; Evaluated the response of low maintenance bermudagrass and buffalograss to less than optimal irrigation using a Linear Irrigation (LIGA) system.&nbsp; Evaluated turf germplasm, low-input groundcovers, and native grass species for turfgrass replacement in the low desert. Coordinated bermudagrass fairways, zoysiagrass fairways, and bermudagrass, zoysiagrass and pasaplum greens NTEP trials.&nbsp; Studied the use of native grasses as secondary roughs and salinity tolerance of Paspalum and bermudagrass.</p><br /> <p>UH: Cheng. Evaluated shade tolerance of several new turf varieties.</p><br /> <p>UCR: Baird. Coordinated 11 NTEP turfgrass evaluation trials and nine additional industry sponsored cultivar evaluation trials.</p><br /> <p>ISU: Fei. Evaluated rhizomatous tall fescue in Iowa.</p><br /> <p>OSU: Kowalewski. Coordinated the NTEP Fine Fescue Test in Oregon.</p><br /> <p>UN: W. Kreuser.&nbsp; Coordinated three NTEP studies (tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, and low input cool-season species).&nbsp; Evaluated approximately 1,400 experimental buffalograss accessions for turf and production characteristics.</p><br /> <p><strong><em>Objective 3 - Develop, refine and disseminate sustainable turfgrass management protocols for turfgrass managers throughout the western United States</em></strong></p><br /> <p>UA: Umeda.&nbsp; Tested the use of plant growth regulators for post emergence control of <em>Poa annua</em> on golf course turf. Tested pre-emergence control of goosegrass.&nbsp; Coordinated overseeded fairway and rough turfgrass trials. Evaluated various forms of Lolium spp. and compared performance when overseeded on turfs maintained as fairways and roughs.</p><br /> <p>UH: Cheng. Tested native plant establishment along highway rights-of-way.&nbsp; Coordinated trials to test herbicide efficacy on golf courses and sports turf and studies to suppress bermudagrass in seashore paspalum turf.&nbsp; Conducted studies on golf courses to control leaf and sheath blight and take-all patch.</p><br /> <p>ISU: Fei. Tested the effects of paint on grass and soil on sports turf areas.&nbsp; Also evaluated biostimulants to assess their ability to promote turf health.</p><br /> <p>OSU: Kowalewski. Researched the ability to manage Microdochium Patch using non-traditional fungicides and evaluated the impact of sulfur, calcium source, and pH on the disease. Tested the effects of winter foot traffic on an annual bluegrass putting green and the effects of delayed mowing on Proxy efficacy to suppress annual bluegrass seed heads.</p><br /> <p>UCR: Baird. Studied the effects of Primo Maxx, Revolution, and fertilizer types on bermudagrass quality under deficit irrigation.&nbsp; Also evaluated Primo Maxx, Anuew, and SePro products on bermudagrass, seashore Paspalum, and Kikuyugrass. Coordinated several industry sponsored product evaluation trials, 12 weed control studies, three trials to evaluate nematode control, and four fungicide trials.</p><br /> <p>UN: W. Kreuser. Tested the use of strobilurin fungicides for secondary plant stress alleviation effects.&nbsp; Studied the cause of winter injury and identified ways to prevent winter desiccation and optimize recovery.&nbsp; Characterized the cause of iron layer formation in USGA putting greens.&nbsp; Studied the ecology and genetics of Yellow Nutsedge and evaluated tetraploid switchgrasses for resistance to phloem-feeding insects.</p><br /> <p><strong><em>Objective 4 - Coordinate reduced input turfgrass management practices</em></strong></p><br /> <p>UA: Umeda.&nbsp; Evaluated the use of low maintenance grasses for water conservation for Golf Course Roughs.&nbsp; Tested software to improve drip irrigation for landscape plants.</p><br /> <p>UH: Cheng. Tested the &ldquo;Lights out&rdquo; strategy of non-chemical turf renovation and weed/pest control.</p><br /> <p>WSU: Johnston. Tested no burn Kentucky bluegrass germplasm for seed production without open-field burning. Germplasm evaluation of Kentucky bluegrass for speed of germination since Kentucky bluegrass is typically very slow to germinate.&nbsp; Tested the use of biocontrol on annual bluegrass in fairway turf.&nbsp; Conducted snow mold trials on greens and fairways and studied methods to control thatch collapse disease.</p><br /> <p>OSU: Kowalewski. Investigating alternative irrigation strategies to improve sustainability in turfgrass.&nbsp; Evaluated low-maintenance ground covers for Pacific Northwest municipalities.</p><br /> <p>UCR: Baird. Evaluated Kurapia for use as a groundcover in California.</p><br /> <p><strong><em>Objective 5 - Assess environmental impacts of turf management</em></strong></p><br /> <p>UA: Umeda.&nbsp; Tested the effects of aerification, soil amendments, and applied Kc irrigation levels on soil salinity, sodicity and turfgrass performance.&nbsp; Began modelling for the control of airborne particulates in turfgrass systems.</p><br /> <p>UCR: Baird. Supported by a Lawn Institute Grant, began documenting water use for turfgrasses in the United States.</p><br /> <p><strong><em>Objective 6 - Communicate research results and promote sustainable practices to the public through workshops, conferences, websites, extension publications, social media, and research publications</em></strong></p><br /> <p>UA: Umeda.&nbsp; The contribution of the golf industry to the Arizona state economy is important and we should investigate the significance of the turf industry throughout the region.</p><br /> <p>ISU: Fei. Completed a major construction project in 2015 that includes over three acres of sports field areas, expanding our research and education programs in Iowa.</p><br /> <p>OSU: Kowalewski. Studied the life cycle and playability of natural and synthetic athletic turf surfaces.</p><br /> <p>UCR: Baird. Evaluated products for the home lawn market.</p><br /> <p>UN: W. Kreuser.&nbsp; Together our annual Nebraska field day and Turfgrass conference had more than 680 attendees.&nbsp; Additionally we have a strong twitter and facebook presence, distribute weekly facts on turf management (turf iNfo) during the growing season, and maintain a regular position on the Backyard Farmer TV program as turfgrass science experts, with approximately 20,000 viewers per episode.</p>

Publications

<p><strong>Publications:</strong></p><br /> <p>Amaradasa, B.S., and K. Amundsen. 2016. Characterization of defense-related genes of buffalograss challenged with the leaf spot pathogen <em>Curvularia inaequalis</em>. Frontiers in Plant Science DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2016.00715&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Amaradasa, B.S., D. Lakshman, K. Amundsen. 2015. AFLP fingerprinting for identification of infra-species groups of <em>Rhizoctonia solani</em> and <em>Waitea circinata</em>. J. Plant Pathol. Microb. 6(3):262. Doi: 10.4172/2157-7471.1000262</p><br /> <p>Bushman, S., K. Amundsen, S. Warnke, J. Robins, P. Johnson. 2016. Transcriptome Profiling of Kentucky bluegrass (<em>Poa pratensis</em> L.) Accessions in Response to Salt Stress. BMC Genomics 17:48. DOI: 10.1186/s12864-016-2379-x</p><br /> <p>Cheng, Z. 2016. Fungal disease take-all patch of turfgrass in Hawaii. Landscape Hawaii, March/April 2016: 12-13.</p><br /> <p>Cheng, Z. 2015. Leaf and sheath spot of turfgrass in Hawaii. Landscape Hawaii, September/October 2015: 25.</p><br /> <p>Donze-Reiner, T., B. Amaradasa, C. Caha, T. Heng-Moss, K. Amundsen. 2015.&nbsp; Molecular differentiation of gender in buffalograss. Crop Science 55:1827-1833.</p><br /> <p>Feng Y, Yin Y, Fei S. 2015. Down-regulation of BdBRI1, a putative brassinosteroid receptor gene produces a dwarf phenotype with enhanced drought tolerance in Brachypodium distachyon. Plant Science: 234:163-173</p><br /> <p>Ferguson, J. C., R.E.&nbsp; Gaussoin, JA Eastin and G. Kruger. 2016. Comparison of an ultra-low volume (ULV) sprayer against a conventional sprayer, for foliar fertiliser and fungicide applications in turfgrass." Journal of Plant Protection Research 56.1 (2016): 54-59.</p><br /> <p>Goatley, M., R. Maguire, A. Kowalewski and D. Linde. 2015. Utilizing Soil Tests in Nutrient Management for Sports Fields. The Safe Foundation. pg 1-8.</p><br /> <p>Grimshaw, A.L., B.M. Schwartz, P.L. Raymer, A.R. Kowalewski and T.L. Grey. 2015. Influence of soil type on nitrogen leaching of controlled release fertilizers. Florida State Horticultural Society. 127:181-184.</p><br /> <p><a href="http://link.springer.com/search?facet-author=%22Kyle+G.+Koch%22">Koch</a>, K., <a href="http://link.springer.com/search?facet-author=%22Nathan+Palmer%22">N. Palmer</a>, <a href="http://link.springer.com/search?facet-author=%22Mitch+Stamm%22">M. Stamm</a>, <a href="http://link.springer.com/search?facet-author=%22Jeff+D.+Bradshaw%22">J. Bradshaw</a>, <a href="http://link.springer.com/search?facet-author=%22Erin+Blankenship%22">E. Blankenship</a>, <a href="http://link.springer.com/search?facet-author=%22Lisa+M.+Baird%22">L. Baird</a>, <a href="http://link.springer.com/search?facet-author=%22Gautam+Sarath%22">G. Sarath</a>, and <a href="http://link.springer.com/search?facet-author=%22Tiffany+M.+Heng-Moss%22">T. Heng-Moss</a>.&nbsp; 2015.&nbsp; Characterization of Greenbug Feeding Behavior and Aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae) Host Preference in Relation to Resistant and Susceptible Tetraploid Switchgrass Populations. Bioenergy Research 8:165-174.</p><br /> <p>Kopec. D.M. and K. Umeda. Mowing Turfgrass in the Desert. Publ. Azl681. 2015.</p><br /> <p>Kopec. D.M. and K. Umeda. Overseeding winter grasses into Desert Turfs.. Publ. Azl683. 2015.</p><br /> <p>Kopec. D.M. Landscape Water Management Smartscape Study Guide for Arizona Landscape Professionals. (Eds. P.M. Paraskevopoulous &amp; K. Hahne) Chapter 4.1st Edition October 2015.</p><br /> <p>Kopec. D.M. Landscape Weed Control. Smartscape Study Guide for Arizona Landscape Professionals. (Eds. P.N. Paraskevopoulous &amp; K. Hahne). Chapter 10. 1st Edition October 2015.</p><br /> <p>Kowalewski, A.R., B.M. Schwartz, A.L. Grimshaw, D.G. Sullivan, and J.B. Peake. 2015. Correlations Between Bermudagrass Hybrid Morphology and Wear Tolerance. HortTechnology. 25(6):725-730.</p><br /> <p>Kowalewski, A.R., B.M. McDonald and C.M. Mattox. 2015. Evaluation of sulfur rates and calcium sources on Microdochium patch and Anthracnose of an annual bluegrass putting green in western Oregon, 2013 &ndash; 2014.&nbsp; Plant Disease Management Reports. 9:T034.</p><br /> <p>Kowalewski, A. G. Stahnke, T. Cook and R. Goss. 2015. Best Management Practices for Maintaining Sand-based, Natural Grass Athletic Fields. A Pacific Northwest Extension Publication (PNW676). pg 1-13.</p><br /> <p>Kowalewski, A. G. Stahnke, T. Cook and R. Goss. 2015 Best Management Practices for Construction of Sand-based Natural Grass Athletic Fields. A Pacific Northwest Extension Publication (PNW675). pg 1-13.</p><br /> <p>Li Y, Han L, Hao J, Fei S. 2015. <em>Agrobacterium tumefaciens</em> -mediated transformation of big bluestem (<em>Andropogon gerardii</em> Vitman). Journal of Plant Biotechnology 122:117-125.</p><br /> <p>Li, L., M.D. Sousek, K.L. Amundsen, Z.J. Reicher. 2016. Seeding date and bur treatment affect establishment success of dormant-seeded buffalograss. Agronomy Journal 109:1-6. doi:10. 213 4/ag ronj2016 .03.016 4</p><br /> <p>Mattox, C., A. Kowalewski and B. McDonald. 2015. Fungicide Alternative Management Practices for Microdochium Patch. TurfLine. September/October 2015. pg 24 and 25.</p><br /> <p>Mattox, C., A. Kowalewski, B. McDonald. 2015. Influence of Winter Fertility on Microdochium nivale. Golf Dom. 71(4):33.&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Mattox, C., A. Kowalewski, B. McDonald. 2015. Fungicide Alternative Management Practices for Microdochium Patch. Golf Course Management. 83(3):99. Retrieved March 3, 2015. <a href="http://gcmdigital.gcsaa.org/i/467557/110">http://gcmdigital.gcsaa.org/i/467557/110</a>.</p><br /> <p>McDonald, B.W., C.M. Mattox, D.K. Mosdell and A.R. Kowalewski. 2015. Effects of Spray Nozzle and Fungicide Mobility on Control of Microdochium Patch on an Annual Bluegrass Putting Green. Golf Dom. September 2015. pg 43.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br /> <p>Merrick P and Fei S 2015. Regeneration and genetic transformation in switchgrass Journal of Integrative Agriculture. 14:483-493</p><br /> <p>Palmer, N., T. Donze-Reiner, D. Horvath, T. Heng-Moss, B. Waters, C. Tobias and G. Sarath. 2015.&nbsp; Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L) flag leaf transcriptomes reveal molecular signatures of leaf development, senescence, and mineral dynamics. Functional and Integrative Genomics 15:1-16.</p><br /> <p>Ramm, C., M. Wachholtz, K. Amundsen, T. Donze, T. Heng-Moss, P. Twigg, G. Sarath, and F. Baxendale.&nbsp; 2015.&nbsp; Transcriptional Profiling of Resistant and Susceptible Buffalograsses in Response to Blissus occiduus (Hemiptera: Blissidae) Feeding. Journal of Economic Entomology 108:1354-1362.</p><br /> <p>Ramm, C., A. Wayadande, L. Baird, R. Nandakumar, N. Madayiputhiya, K. Amundsen, T. Donze, f. Baxendale, G. Sarath, and T. Heng-Moss.&nbsp; 2015.&nbsp; Morphology and Proteome Characterization of the Salivary Glands of the Western Chinch Bug, Blissus occiduus (Hemiptera: Blissidae). Journal of Economic Entomology 108:2055-2064.</p><br /> <p>Schmid, C.A., R.E. Gaussoin, R.C. Shearman, M. Mamo and C.S. Wortmann. 2015.&nbsp; Cultivation Effects on Organic Matter Concentration and Infiltration Rates of Two Creeping Bentgrass (<em>Agrostis stolonifera</em> L.) Putting Greens. Applied Turfgrass Science&nbsp; doi:10.2134/ATS-2014-0032-RS</p>

Impact Statements

1. Several WERA11 members are actively improving species not previously used as turfgrass and improvements to already widely used species that have lower water requirements and increased biotic and abiotic stress tolerance. New varieties of the native buffalograss have been released, selections of native grama species are being evaluated, and selections of Kentucky bluegrass are being studied for salt and drought stress.

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