Turfgrass Genetic Gain and Its Effects on Modern Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Course Summary:

This course will explain the recent genetic advancements in the turfgrass industry and how to take advantage of these genetic gains in integrated pest management (IPM). The discussion will begin with a background on genetic advancement, the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP), and the key turfgrass traits for developing a useful cultivar. The course will show how the characteristics of new turfgrass varieties impact modern IPM and how to use this data to create strategies for pest management. The course will conclude with information about future research and will prepare you to have a voice in the turfgrass cultivation process as an industry professional.

About the Instructor:

Micah Gould is the Market Development Manager, Professional Divisions at Barenbrug USA. He focuses on extension and education while providing technical turfgrass management services surrounding grass seed establishment and beyond. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in turfgrass management at Oregon State with an emphasis on integrated pest management, working with Oregon State extension agents and performing studies on annual bluegrass putting greens for both public and private golf course organizations. Before transitioning to the grass seed industry as a product manager, Micah worked in the golf course industry as an assistant superintendent. Today, he is testing new products and working with end-users of all turf sectors. In his free time, Micah enjoys landscaping, off-roading in his Toyota 4Runner, and teaching his young nephews how to swing a golf club.