2016 Turfgrass Research Contributors

The turgrass research funding year begins with our annual conference and trade show.  At that time, we receive contributions from allied organizations like the BC Golf Superintendents Association and Kwantlen University Turf Club along with revenues generated from our Silent Auction and other fundraisers.

Every WCTA member contributes too!  Unique to our association, 10% of member dues go directly toward research project funding right off the top.

Money raised this year will be directed toward turf research projects next year.  Where the dollars go is decided by the research committee based on a carefully developed list of turf management industry priorities (see below).  

Sincere thanks must go to the organizations, companies and individuals who have made generous contributions to turf research through both donations and supporting events and functions. 

2016 Silent Auction - $5211
Kwantlen University Turfclub raffle proceeds - $4010
BCGSA Annual contribution - $1250
Irrigation Association - $150
Kwantlen University - $150
Olds College - $150
Jeff Hoyem - $100

In total for 2016, we raised $23,945, not too far under our goal of $25,000.  We'll make it next year!

We would like to take this opportunity to thank those who serve tirelessly on our Research Committee:  

Peter Sorokovsky - City of Burnaby (Chair)
David Davidson - Kwantlen Polytechnic University
David Duncan - THP Co. (WCTA Past President)
David Woodske - BC Ministry of Agriculture
Dr. Brian Holl - Lamorna Enterprises
Ladd Legeyt - Agrium Advanced Technologies (Industry Representative) 
Jim Ross - Prairie Turfgrass Research Centre (retired) 
Dave Kennedy - Vancouver Golf Club (Northwest Turfgrass Association Representative)

Current Turfgrass Research Priorities:

• Nutrient and fertility management, best management practices
• Soil and root-zone management, best management practices
• Evaluation of alternatives to pesticides
• Irrigation and water use issues (water quality and reducing water usage)
• Investigations into the biology, ecology and management of current and emerging pests
• Alternative cultivar and species for new turf construction, integration and conversion into existing turf areas
• Species/cultivar evaluation and improved management practices for areas of heavy traffic and wear tolerance