This week sees myself, along with my colleague, Steve Gibbs editor of our sister title for the independent dealer network, Service Dealer, in attendance at BIGGA’s BTME event in Harrogate.
As always, it is essential that we visit these trade shows as it allows us the opportunity to meet up and network with all the key drivers, practitioners and providers of machinery, products and services that are essential to help maintain and preserve our important parks, public open spaces, sports facilities – all vital community assets.
I believe the modern-day turf professional requires a diverse set of skills to effectively perform their job. These skills span technical, interpersonal, and organisational areas.
Primarily they need to understand plant biology, soil types, and proper plant care. Also knowledge of landscaping techniques, including planting, pruning, and fertilising regimes is important.
A proficiency in operating various grounds maintenance equipment such as lawnmowers, trimmers, blowers, and irrigation systems will also be required. As will the ability to perform routine maintenance on machinery and equipment.
They also need to log, record and measure performance and health of their habitats, playing surfaces and staff. They also must be aware and adhere to safety protocols and procedures to ensure a secure working environment for themselves and any fellow workers.
Knowledge of proper handling and disposal of chemicals and pesticides will be needed – plus the ability to identify and address issues related to plant health, pest control, and landscaping challenges.
They also need to be effective and efficient in scheduling and prioritisation of tasks to ensure specific jobs are done to meet client expectations and fixture lists. And have the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines.
It goes without saying that having the ability to provide clear instructions and share information about grounds maintenance activities is essential. As is having effective communication with team members, supervisors, and other relevant stakeholders.
These turf managers also need to be aware of changing climatic conditions and weather fronts. This will allow them to plan and be prepared for any eventuality that may inconvenience their scheduled working regimes.
These skills collectively contribute to the successful upkeep and enhancement of outdoor spaces in various settings, including residential, commercial, or recreational areas.
Meeting up and networking with fellow professionals at events like BTME allows turf professionals to share ideas and to keep up to date with changing practises and current legislation.
The show continues to attract a wealth of experienced turf professionals from all over the world and has for many years been a rewarding experience for all those attending. Both Steve and I look forward to meeting many of you during the three days of the show.
Coping with the weather
Many greenkeepers at this time of the year will be certainly keeping an eye on the changing weather fronts though. The greenkeepers up in the north are more likely to be dealing with cold icy and snowy conditions it seems, whereas perhaps those in the Midlands and South maybe dealing with floods and heavy deluges of rain.
However, whatever the weather, greenkeepers will be busy carrying out many of their winter works programmes that generally sees refurbishment works out on the course such as ditch clearing, bunker repairs, tree maintenance operations, shrub clearance, drainage works and maybe some new construction works. A busy time for many greenkeepers.
As for me, I have been busy trialling some new EGO and STHIL equipment and will be publishing my thoughts on these products in the coming weeks.
I also want to start visiting some more golf courses again this year. So if you are interested in having me coming to see you, then drop me an email at laurence@turfpro.co.uk and I’ll look forward to seeing you during the coming months.
