Cranfield join forces with the National Turfgrass Foundation

Expansion of National Turfgrass Foundation Conference Programme

By Editor

Following the success of last November's National Turfgrass Foundation Conference at Southport, the Foundation have again joined forces with Cranfield University at Silsoe to produce an even bigger event with a greater diversity of topics and speakers.

This year's 'In Pursuit of Excellence' Conference will again be held at the Southport Theatre and Floral Hall Complex, and will run from 3rd to 6th November 2003 inclusive.

Martyn Jones (Right) and Louise Clegg, founders of the NTF and organisers of the Conference announced that, "The Conference has been

Golf course managers, stadium managers, greenkeepers, Groundsmen, researchers and college lecturers who wish to keep abreast of the latest developments will receive up-to-date information from internationally renowned researchers, agronomists and educators from the UK, continental Europe, and the USA." This is the largest programme to date and will feature 38 speakers, sharing their vast knowledge and experience on 43 topics.

Something for everyone and at an affordable price is definitely the theme for the event. With an impressive line up of speakers from a range of European countries and the USA, the conference should prove to be a winner with a wide range of turf managers.

Presentations cover a diverse range of subjects, including recent research conducted at Newcastle upon Tyne University into enhancing drainage rates by the use of electrokinetic geosynthetics, and details of a UK golf green construction specification. The effects of biostimulants on soil microbiology and composting as a management tool are other highly topical subjects. Maximising green speed whilst minimising damage, and root zone/topdressing compatibility will be of particular interest to some greenkeepers.

Martyn went on to say, " Those who have attended similar programmes will be aware of the tremendous knowledge that can be gained, not only directly from the presentations but also from socialising with the speakers and fellow delegates during out-of-conference hours.

Greenkeepers will also have a marvellous opportunity to discuss aspects of 'Golf Greenkeeping throughout the World'. A panel of course managers, superintendents and greenkeepers from numerous countries in Europe and North America will be talking of their experiences in different climatic zones; with contrasting budgets; and varying legislative constraints".

The Conference and its contents have received accreditation from leading bodies such as BIGGA (3 CPD Credits per day), BASIS (16 points comprising 6 Crop Protection, 6 Environmental, 2 Personal Development and 2 Plant Nutrition) and GCSAA (1.0 PDU credits). These accreditations enhance the experience and add even more reward to the knowledge gained from attending the event.

For a free brochure or further details of the Conference and accommodation contact Martyn Jones on Tel. +44 (0)1995 670675 or Louise Clegg on +44 (0)7879015921 or email NTFoundation@aol.com.