by
Shane Conroy
| Dec 20, 2018
The Wisconsin GCSA hosted the 53rd Annual Turf Symposium, with this year's theme titled: Getting Back to the Basics. The event recently has been held annually at the American Club in Kohler, Wis. and is one of the can't miss events on the WGCSA calendar. This event typically draws roughly 150 members across multiple chapters each year. The event kicked off with the WGCSA Annual Meeting, where Josh LePine, CGCS, moved from the vice president role to the presidency. Josh also heads the Wisconsin BMP committee and is a GCSAA Grassroots Ambassador. Congratulations, Josh!
Along with multiple networking opportunities throughout the two days, the event also brings some of the best education to America's Dairyland; this year was no exception. Along with Dr. Paul Koch presenting on dollar spot and Brian Mavis discussing the intricacies of topdressing, aeration and soil testing, the first day also featured Greg Turner examining reel grinding and Dennis Hurley analyzing drainage and implementing proper installation techniques.
Dr. Frank Rossi of Cornell University opened up the second day with the keynote speech. Dr. Rossi discussed the importance of utilizing best management practices at each facility and emphasized how superintendents are leaders in environmental stewardship; it was fantastic to see Dr. Rossi back in the Badger State. Dr. Rick Latin followed Dr. Rossi bringing attention to fungicide scheduling with Hazeltine National Golf Club superintendent Chris Tritabaugh presenting on the misconceptions and benefits of measuring clipping volume.
The afternoon provided an interactive panel featuring golf course superintendents Scott Anthes, Patrick Reuteman and Garrett Luck. Following the panel, USGA Central Region Director Bob Vavrek gave a year-in-review of one of the more difficult growing seasons. Hats off to the WGCSA education committee on hitting another Symposium home run.