Historic Collaboration - NTA and PNWSTMA Join Forces

The Pacific Northwest Sports Turf Managers Assocation, representing sportsfield managers throughout Oregon, Washington State and Idaho, and the Northwest Turfgrass Association, supporting golf course superintendents and turf research within similar boundaries, have reached a dual membership agreement and have committed to work together to enhance both industry sectors.

In a joint statement from Tim Werner, President of the PNWSTMA and Steve Link, President of the NTA, the two leaders agreed, "Our two associations have a long history together … just not much of a recent history.  We’ve decided to change that.  The two associations used to do this on a regular basis, but drifted apart more than 20 years ago. It’s time to get back together."

The closely tied associations will to work together to share educational opportunities and research knowledge to ensure their respective clients have the best, most economical playing conditions possible. All the while, the two associations will work together to maintain their roles as stewards of the environment and continue to tout the benefits of healthy turfgrass for humans and wildlife alike.

Members of the PNWSTMA can become associate members of the NTA for $20 a year. In that role, PNWSTMA members can play a role in determining how the NTA divides its research/education resources, which average $50,000 a year. Issues and concerns of PNWSTMA members that have been ignored because of lack of funds can now be put in front of university researchers for study. For $60 a year, PNWSTMA members can become regular members of the NTA and can be voted to the Board and hold offices.

Moving forward, events will now be geared to be inclusive of both associations. For example, the recent NTA Conference at Suncadia on Oct. 1-3 planned an education track geared toward sports turf and in reciprocation, the PNWSTMA Fall Field Day will add attractions for NTA members.

Both presidents concluded, "All in all, it’s a partnership that should make everyone in the Northwest more aware of their partners in the turfgrass community and more knowledgeable as well."