AGS | Turf Hub Podcast

In this episode of the Agrovista Amenity Turfhub Podcast, host Josh Thomason sits down with molecular biologist Dr. Deborah Cox to unravel one of the most under-discussed yet significant aspects of sportsturf management: nematodes. Although these microscopic roundworms typically go unnoticed, their influence on turf health is profound some species can enhance soil quality and nutrient cycling, while parasitic varieties can undermine even the most diligently maintained grass surfaces.Together, Josh and Debs explore how to recognize common parasitic nematodes, the differences between endo- and ecto-parasitic types, and the importance of proper soil testing. You'll learn about the typical symptoms of a nematode infestation, practical turf management strategies, and how factors like climate and venue type (stadium vs. golf course) can shape nematode populations.

Join us in this insightful episode of the Agrovista Amenity Turfhub Podcast as we explore Microdochium Patch, a prevalent disease impacting sports turf playing surfaces. Host Joshua Thomason welcomes Deborah Cox, a molecular biologist specializing in turf disease management. Deborah brings her extensive expertise to the table, offering practical advice and strategies for diagnosing and identifying this turfgrass disease. Josh discusses the cultural practices that can be implemented to reduce the virulence of the disease, along with the non-fungicidal and fungicidal options that can be used.

In this episode , Matt, a life long Swindon Town fan and now head groundsman talks us through the summers renovations at The County Ground. We discuss how he got into the industry, his career highs so far and find out more about his approach to maintaining top class playing surfaces in a stadium environment. CPD code  CP/139437/2425/k

Join us in this insightful episode of the Agrovista Amenity Turfhub Podcast as we explore Anthracnose, a prevalent disease impacting sportsturf playing surfaces. Host Joshua Thomason welcomes Deborah Cox, a molecular biologist specialising in turf disease management. Deborah brings her extensive expertise to the table, offering practical advice and strategies for diagnosing and treating Anthracnose. Additionally, James Braithwaite, has been working in the industry for over 30 years and is Golf Course Manager at Long Ashton Golf Club, he sits down with Joshua and shares the best management practices he uses to keep Anthracnose under control throughout the season. With a bonus insight from Richard Ponsford, Course Manager at Clevedon Golf Course; Richard gives his invaluable first hand experience in dealing with Anthracnose. Don't forget to log your CPD point. CPD point ref: CP/139437/2425/k

Inspiring the future generation - The GMA's NextGen is a group of talented young grounds professionals representing the grounds management industry as ambassadors for the GMA with the aim of inspiring young people to join the sector. In this episode, ambassadors Jack Langley (Bristol City) Beth Gibbs (Wellington School) and Louise Saunders (Premier Sports Surfaces) talk to us about their aims and objectives to promote the next generation of grounds professionals. Workforce development has become increasingly important over recent years, with research revealing that 20% of grounds staff could potentially leave the sector over coming years due to an ageing workforce, with two in five grounds professionals being over the age of 50. The GMA's NextGen ambassador group are on a mission to change this trend by targeting young people, including those still at school and those at the start of their careers, and introducing them to the world of careers that can be found in grounds management.

Sean talks us through wicket preperation for the up and coming England one day international. Starting from 10 days out, we talk through the process, day by day and through the big match. Sean is one of the countries leading cricket groundsmen , he has wealth of knowledge that fortunately for us he is happy to share. A must listen for all grounds staff, not just those with an interest in the 'dark arts'. Basis number for CPD points: CP/138923/2425/k

Ep31 - "Sustainability Guidelines for Golf Course Condition & Playability" hosted by Joshua Thomason with guest Dr. Stewart Brown, a Senior Lecturer in Landscape & Sportsturf Management. The episode focuses on sustainable practices in golf course management, highlighting the R&A Golf Course 2030 initiative. Key segments include aligning golf products with market needs, embracing natural course conditions, managing player expectations, and meeting standards for different golfer profiles. The episode concludes with a recap and further resources on sustainable golf course management. Links https://www.randa.org/sustainability/research-and-innovation Golf Course Condition & Playability Study Golf Course Condition & Playability Template X - @Advancegrass X - @AGS_JRT X - @MyerscoughColl Design - https://booyeacreative.com/ Music - Artist Spencer Flay, Song Unbreakable https://www.spencerflay.com/

Ep30 - The "Turfhub Podcast" episode featuring William Boogaarts in conversation with Joshua Thomason discusses critical issues in turfgrass management, focusing on sustainable practices and adapting to changing chemical legislation. Boogaarts shares his greenkeeping journey, his evolved philosophy, and how his workplace, De Enk Groen & Golf, is pioneering sustainability. The episode delves into the impact of Holland's stringent chemical regulations on greenkeeping strategies and innovative responses. It explores market trends, differences between managing turf for golf and football, and the balance between reducing chemicals and maintaining quality. We highlight biological control methods for diseases and the role of TurfTroniq in advancing turfgrass management. The conversation also touches on preparing for future technological shifts and climate impacts X - @Advancegrass X - @AGS_JRT Design - https://booyeacreative.com/ Music - Artist Spencer Flay, Song Unbreakable https://www.spencerflay.com/

Ep29 - The Turf Hubs first live episode, recorded infront of a full house at Ashton Gate, home of Bristol City & Bears. The theme is turf management in a sustainable world. Joe Hendy kicks off with 'The Wonders of Grass' incorporating origins, photosynthesis, light and temperature requirements. Sam Honeyborne discusses 'The Value of 'true' Organic Fertilisers. In this very informative section, Sam covers the basics of fertiliser, the value of composted organics, soil microbes, sustane, nematodes and more. Josh Thomason looks into the rise of non fungicidal solutions. Looking into microbial applications, specific diseases, grass plant selection and non fungicidal best practice options. Grey leaf spot also comes uner the microscope. Special guest speaker Dan Sparks is our final contributor. Group Grounds Manager at Ashton Gate, Dan gives us an excellent insight into the trials and tibulations he comes up against managing the the Turf at BS3. Its Dual use, hosting Bristol City aswell as Bristol Bears and did we mention its also a concert venue! a fascinating insight, covering renovations, pitch constructions, surface selections and much much more! Joe Hendy: (from start) Sam Honeyborne: (23mins 30secs) Josh Thomasson: (54mins) Dan Sparks: (1hr 25mins) Basis CPD Points - CP/131857/2324/k Mycorhizzae - https://youtu.be/v88gbtKBTv4?si=WN95qX4Ge6-WTv7k Daily Light Integral - https://asianturfgrass.shinyapps.io/global_dli/ Socials, X - @DanielGSparks X - @Advancegrass X - @joeags1 X - @AGS_JRT Design - https://booyeacreative.com/ Music - Artist Spencer Flay, Song Unbreakable https://www.spencerflay.com/

Mark is a Wiltshire lad who took the gamble to leave the green green grass of home, moving over the Severn Bridge to take a head greenkeeping opportunity in Abergavenny - and he hasn't looked back. The relocation has gone well, family have settled and Mark has set about putting his thumb print on The Monmouthshire Golf Club. Mark has a progressive view on greenkpeeping, gathering and using data to help aid efficiency and decision making out on the course. We discuss clip volumes, growth degree days, compost teas and the use of social media - some of you may you have noticed. An easy listen, where we also hit vital statistics, favourite hole, whats in the shed, favourite bit of kit and needing that bigger boat! Basis CPD Points - CP/123021/2223/k Socials, Mark Simmons - @marksim93794378 Monmouthshire GC - @monmouthshireGC Joe Hendy AGS - @joeags1 Instagram - mark.simmons324 Facebook - Monmouthshire Golf Club Design - https://booyeacreative.com/ Music - Artist Spencer Flay, Song Unbreakable https://www.spencerflay.com/

On this months podcast we are joined by the one and only Keith - USA technical Sales manager and International Technical Sales manager for DPH Biologicals. With over 30 years of experience, Keith takes us through the important of low salt index growth products, creating healthy soils, rhizobacteria technology, disease defenses and the future of turf management. This is an extremely well timed podcast with the legislated changes in chemical applications and gives a great overview of technology and biological products that are available.

We celebrate Groundsweek by Deborah Cox joining us on the Turf Hub Podcast. Deb provides the amenity industry with scientific support. Deb, talks through nematodes, soil biology, grey leaf spot and other hot topics. Packed with golden nuggets of information – a must listen!

S3,Ep2 - Dr David Greenshields commercial manager at Barenbrug speaks with Joe Hendy seed product and area sales manager, AGS. It's a niche area of expertise, David has a Master's degree in Environmental Biology and a PhD in Plant Genetics and has served 15 years at one of the UK's largest seed producers in Barenbrug. Joe started in the industry in 1997 as a seed analyst and has 26 years experience, working alongside all major seed producers in the UK. Two guys with a passion for seed take a deep dive into grass seed selection for winter sports usage. We take a look at the BSPB Turfgrass seed book, the french equivilant (Geves List) and how their data can help make an informed seed selection choice. We discuss advances in breeding and research and look at cultivars that have a strong disease resistance profile, in particulair to grey leaf spot. CPD points are avaiable for listening and the code is in the pod. Joe@advancegrass.com dgreenshields@barenbrug.co.uk https://www.bspb.co.uk/turfgrass-list/ https://www.turfgrass-list.org/ Design - https://booyeacreative.com/ Music - Artist Spencer Flay, Song Unbreakable https://www.spencerflay.com/

With the 6 Nations around the corner, The Welsh Wizard talks life, dedication, determination and adversity with proud Head Groundsman, Lee Evans

Many of our leading turf managers in these current times have been involved in the Ohio State programme. AGS Turf hub was lucky enough to have Mike o'keefe discussing the development, opportunities and how to be a part of the ohio state programme.

S2,EP10 - Jason looks after two courses at Bramshaw G.C, in The New Forest, Hampshire. The Forest Course is Hampshires oldest (circa 1865) an 18 hole Heathland/Moorland type course situated in a SSSI site. The Manor Course was established some 100 years later and is a more mature parkland type course. Recorded in the Spring - i've only just found time to complete the edit. Don't let the running time deter you, this is a great listen to a very honest and knowledgable fella. Jason talks us through his management of the 2 sites & the challenges they present. As well as the staples, of whats in the shed, favourite hole, vital statistics , who packs the best lunch and much more.....enjoy!

S2,EP9 - Dr David Greenshields commercial manager at Barenbrug speaks with Joe Hendy seed product and area sales manager, AGS. It's a niche area of expertise, David has a Master's degree in Environmental Biology and a PhD in Plant Genetics and has served 15 years at one of the UK's largest seed producers in Barenbrug. Joe started in the industry in 1997 as a seed analyst and has 25 years experience, working alongside all major seed producers in the UK. Two guys with a 'strong seed game' discuss over-seeding options for all golf course scenarios. Golfs become a 365 day a year sport, what tools are in the modern turf managers armoury to help future-proof your course against modern demands. Fairways, walkways, pinch-points, tees, greens, we discuss them all. A great listen for anyone considering over-seeding and is interested in hearing what options are open to them.

S2,EP8 - Joe is a West Country lad, who has made the big step to relocate to Austria to become head greenkeeper at Diamond Club Ottenstein. The relocation has gone well, taking his knowledge, expertise and family with him. If you would like to know how they do it abroad, this is a really insightful listen! Finally a man managing creeping bentgrass in its favourable environment . Joe talks us through being introduced to increased feeding programmes, being closed for winter, learning the language (or not) and the importance of owning a cheese board! We also tackle vital statistics, favourite hole, whats in the shed, favourite bit of kit and all mainstay subjects of the turfhub podcast.

S2,EP7 - We revisit Richard, who kindly gives us an update on how the drought of 2022 is affecting Clevedon Golf Club. The struggles , strains and how he's planning on coming out the other side....

S2,EP6 - Sam is a Londoner who has relocated to Weston Super Mare in North Somerset, to become head greenkeeper at Worlebury Golf Club. Bringing his expertise, knowledge and family with him. The relocation has gone well, but the same can't be said for his leather jacket problem - so far. Sam talks openly about the problem he's faced and talks about all the things he's trying to resolve them. A great listen, where we also hit vital statistics, favourite hole, whats in the shed, favourite bit of kit and what to do when faced with confrontation!

The podcast on tour continues into Hampshire, as Lee gives us sneaky peek over the neighbours fence, as he talks all things Wellow GC. 27 holes, 3 courses (of 9) set in the New Forest - it's a cracking listen. We hit vital statistics, higher or lower, favourite hole, whats in the shed, favourite bit of kit and much more.

A year into the job at Painswick, Adam tells us how he looks after the course, as the soul greenkeeper. It's our first pod where the same man has both the best and worst lunches! Adam talks vital statistics, higher or lower, favourite hole, whats in the shed and his favourite bits of kit. We talk projects, practices, dream holes and more in this behind the scenes look with the one man greenkeeping machine!

Following some extensive bunker work & recent award of the environmental project of the year award, Richard & Matt talk bunkers and course ecology. Alongside our usual segments, vital statistics, favourite hole, whats in the shed and their favourite bits of kit. We talk projects, practices, dream holes and more in this insightful behind the scenes look at Cirencester G.C ......and of course discover who brings in the worst lunches!

The podcast on tour continues in the south west as Neil gives us sneaky peek over the neighbours fence as he talks all things Trevose. Vital statistics, favourite hole, whats in the shed and his favourite bit of kit (warning it isn't a procore). We talk projects, practices, dream holes and more in this cracking insight into one of Cornwalls coastal gems ......and of course discover who brings in the worst lunches!

Ben talks Joe through his course preparation for the ‘greatest show on turf', the Cheltenham Festival. Everything you could ever wish to know, laid bare. The pair talk about the difference in courses, fences, hurdles, horses, the going and just why the stick is mightier than the sword. It's a must for any grounds or horse enthusiast, plus anyone who might be looking to get the upper hand with their bookie!

Dans talks Newquay course practices, leatherjackets, ecology, the resurgence of the Cornish Chuff, vital statistics, what's in the shed, favourite hole and more. As Joe and Neil take the turf hub on tour of the West Country.

Turf Pro Editor and top industry Journalist Laurence Gale speaks to Joe Hendy about the state of the industry, what's great, what's not so great. Places he's been, changes he's seen, in a career spanning some 40 years.

In this podcast, Matt le Brun speaks with Geoff Webb, CEO at the GMA. Geoff is responsible for all aspects of GMA business and has been engaged in a modernisation programme since he started with the GMA in 2005. Geoff was previously employed by the Football Foundation as head of grassroots in January 2001, he was then promoted to director of facilities and stadia development in January 2003, a role that saw him develop the grassroots facilities and football stadia grant aid programme.

Rob talks links golf, fescue domination, vital statistics, favourite hole, machinery and more as we take the turf hub on tour in the West Country.

Former BIGGA Chairman Chris Sealey, talks Opens, Ryder cups and Chippenham course practices. Vitals statistics, favourite hole, machinery, words of wisdom and the love of his life – Bristol Rovers (sorry Pat!)

In this podcast Mattt Le Brun speaks with Ben Corby - Sports Turf maintainance division for Desert Group Dubai. They talk through what steps Ben made through his career to achieve leading roles in various international venues. The benefits of the Ohio state programme, the opportunities available and the benefits/challenges of working with warm season grasses.

A great discussion with Jim Mckenzie from a working Class Clydebank up bringing to becoming the Director of Golf Courses for the 2010 Ryder cup Matches

Matt and Wes discuss where Wes' innovative nature comes from, what he enjoys about the industry and the messages he aims to convey across the lower league sector of the Grounds industry.

Adam talks courses old and new. Vital statistics, favourite holes, course practices, machinery, staff, adapting to the pandemic and all things golf.

Mike talks all things golf. Vital statistics, favourite hole, adapting to the pandemic, machinery,words of wisdom, what makes him tick and Kev

Picking up where they left off, Matt and Jim talk about work ethic, knowledge, the time and dedication Jim's Team display day in day out and what Jim has achieved across his career, looking forward to what he has planned for the future.

Chris opens up about the technical aspects behind hosting the masters and what the golf industry can take from the event to their own courses. The changes and experience he continues to lead at the Stunning Hillside GC and the future beneficial changes of technology.

Richard talks all things golf. Working a members course, the open, euro pro preparation, vital statistics, his favourite hole, what make him tick and cups of tea.

Scott and Dean discuss their pathways into the industry from a young age. How they have progressed in the industry and the influences that they have had along the way. Sharing their stories from childhood competiveness and the path ways they have taken in their career progression

Sean talks all things cricket. Renovations, match preparation & working within the pandemic. Coping with stress, the groundsman's network, checking the weather and what makes him tick

Jim talks about his work ethic, knowledge, the time and dedication he and his Team display day in day out and what he has achieved across his career, looking forward to what he has planned for the future.