Presenter: B.K. Browne, SpeakSport

Most operators are making decisions with only a fraction of the information already flowing through their business every day. Every unanswered call, tee sheet pattern, booking drop-off, and missed upsell opportunity represents valuable operational intelligence. The challenge is not a lack of data—it is the ability to see and utilize it in real time.

This session goes beyond AI basics to explore how modern artificial intelligence tools are surfacing operational insights that operators have never had access to before, and what early adopters in the golf industry are already doing with this information.

Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of where AI-driven operations are headed, what the competitive landscape may look like in the near future, and practical steps they can take today to transform hidden data into smarter business decisions.

Presenter: Michael Lee, GCSAA

The intersection of golf and government is often far more significant than most realize. Land use, water use, inputs, landscaping equipment, and labor are all regulated to one degree or another at the local, state, and federal levels—and those regulations are constantly evolving.

As policymakers consider changes that affect the golf industry, it is increasingly important that they understand the many economic, environmental, and community benefits golf courses provide.

Join Michael Lee of GCSAA for an update on the latest legislative and regulatory developments impacting golf course management, along with an overview of GCSAA’s efforts to advocate for positive policy outcomes on behalf of the industry.

Presenter: Gregg Munshaw

Maintaining high-quality ballfields does not always require larger budgets. This session will explore practical, cost-effective strategies for maximizing field performance while making the most of available resources.

Attendees will learn how to prioritize inputs, optimize maintenance practices, and identify products and programs that provide the greatest return on investment.

Through real-world examples and actionable recommendations, participants will gain insight into improving field playability, safety, and aesthetics while managing costs effectively.

Discover how thoughtful decision-making and strategic resource allocation can help every maintenance dollar go further.

Presenter: Bryan Hopkins

Learn how modern, data-driven turfgrass management practices can enhance playing conditions and long-term turf resilience on golf courses and sports fields.

This session will explore integrated approaches to nutrient management, water conservation, and cultural practices that support healthier, more sustainable turfgrass systems.

Real-world examples will demonstrate how best management practices can improve turfgrass quality while minimizing resource use and reducing the risks associated with annual bluegrass (Poa annua) and turfgrass diseases.

Presenter: Josh Tapp, GCSAA

As regulatory pressure surrounding water, nutrient, and pesticide use continues to increase, Best Management Practices (BMPs) are becoming essential tools for documenting, demonstrating, and validating responsible golf course management practices.

This session will highlight the growing importance of BMPs, including current adoption efforts and future BMP validation initiatives. Attendees will be guided through the streamlined BMP editing and adoption process, learning how simple it can be to complete, customize, and update a facility BMP manual.

The discussion will also explore how strong BMP implementation and communication can strengthen advocacy efforts, help protect access to limited resources, and ensure that golf—not outside voices—shapes the future reputation and credibility of the game.

Participants are encouraged to bring their phone, along with their GCSAA username and password, to actively participate during the session and potentially complete their BMP adoption before the presentation concludes.

Presenter: Brad Jakubowski

Preparing your budget can be a daunting task, especially if this is your first budget or if you are starting at a new course and all you have to work with is the past couple of years of numbers.

This interactive seminar focuses on learning the different types of budgets, line items and percentages of needs, how to identify concern areas, and how to project your financial needs for future budgets.

We will work on an “active” budgeting scenario during the seminar, so bring your thinking caps with you!

Presenter: Shawn Emerson

A strong personal brand is not about self-promotion—it is about building trust, creating consistency, and developing a reputation that others want to be part of.

The most successful leaders create environments where individuals feel connected to a larger mission, and that culture becomes the foundation for both professional growth and personal success.

This session will explore how a personal brand can evolve into a leadership platform that attracts motivated individuals, strengthens team culture, and fosters a sense of shared purpose and accountability.

Attendees will learn how developing a strong internal culture and an authentic external network can drive long-term success for individuals, teams, and organizations alike.

Presenter: David Hardesty, CapillaryFlow

CapillaryFlow is an engineered drainage technology company that provides high-performance moisture and water management solutions for sports fields and golf courses. Its patented Capillary Material system moves excess water away from the playing surface while maintaining consistent moisture within the rootzone, helping surfaces drain quickly without becoming dry, unstable, or unplayable.

The result is safer, more consistent playing conditions and significantly reduced downtime after rain events. Used at premier stadiums, training facilities, and golf courses around the world, CapillaryFlow systems help sports field managers reduce washouts, improve surface stability, and lower long-term maintenance demands.

By balancing rapid drainage with moisture retention, CapillaryFlow delivers a durable and sustainable solution that supports field performance, player safety, and efficient facility management.

Presenter: Gerald Henry, Ph.D.

Golf cart and player traffic, facility age, and soil texture all influence critical plant and soil characteristics such as compaction, surface hardness, water infiltration, and root development. When these factors are compromised, turf performance and overall system health can decline, making aerification an essential management practice.

This session will explore the impact of wear and traffic on plant and soil health, compare traditional and emerging aerification technologies, and examine site-specific aerification strategies for golf courses and athletic fields. Attendees will also learn how aerification can enhance soil moisture management through wetting agent programs and influence both pre- and post-emergent herbicide performance. The discussion will combine practical applications with research-based findings to help turf managers maximize the effectiveness of their aerification programs.

Presenter: Ben Gibson

Building a strong safety culture requires more than policies and procedures—it requires engagement, ownership, and participation from the entire team.

In this session, Ben Gibson will explore the underlying factors that determine why some safety systems succeed while others fail. Attendees will gain insight into the behaviors, communication strategies, and leadership practices that help create lasting safety improvements.

Moving beyond simply “ticking the boxes,” this presentation will focus on developing a team-led safety culture that empowers employees, increases accountability, and strengthens every aspect of an operation.

Participants will leave with practical ideas for fostering a workplace where safety becomes a shared responsibility and an integral part of organizational success.

Presenter: Derek McKee

This session will explore the evolving landscape of athletic facility planning and design, including advancements in layouts, materials, safety standards, and performance-driven solutions.

Drawing from Verde Design’s experience designing facilities ranging from youth and high school campuses to NCAA Division I and professional-level venues, the presentation will highlight both the shared principles and unique considerations that influence projects at every level of play.

The session will cover a variety of facility types, including field sports, baseball and softball complexes, and hardcourt environments. Attendees will gain insight into current industry trends related to synthetic and natural surfacing systems, prefabricated athletic components, fencing and netting solutions, athlete safety considerations, and emerging technologies shaping modern sports facilities.

The presentation will also examine how performance expectations, maintenance demands, and safety requirements continue to influence design decisions across today’s athletic environments.

Presenter: Matt Welliver

This dynamic session explores how golf facilities can transition from simply riding the wave of golf’s recent growth to proactively cultivating sustainable, long-term revenue.

Attendees will discover actionable strategies to prevent cancellations, optimize tee sheet utilization, and engage a diverse customer base throughout every stage of the golfer journey. The session will provide practical insights to help operators drive demand, strengthen customer relationships, and maximize revenue opportunities both on and off the course.

Presenter: Brad Jakubowski

Weather is a critical component of a turf manager’s daily responsibilities. Turf managers can make better management decisions and provide consistent field conditions by better understanding weather patterns and concepts.

Attendees will learn how to proficiently integrate weather data, maps, and forecasts into their daily management routine to provide the best playing conditions possible. El Niño and La Niña and their effects on annual weather will be discussed, and we will evaluate a variety of weather apps and websites.

Presenter: Pat Gross, Pat Gross Turf Solutions, LLC

Pat shares the story of San Luis Obispo Country Club, where a fire tore through the maintenance facility in May 2000, and the lessons that can be learned from the experience.

This session will explore the importance of disaster preparedness, emergency response planning, and the steps golf facilities can take to minimize disruption when unexpected events occur.

Attendees will also gain insights into working with neighboring properties, communicating effectively with the media, and managing stakeholder expectations during emergency situations.

Presenter: Heather Schapals

This session will provide a practical framework for developing an equipment performance plan for golf course facilities. Attendees will learn how a structured approach to equipment management can improve performance, extend equipment life, and support overall course maintenance goals.

Topics will include equipment maintenance standards, recordkeeping best practices, reel maintenance programs, and the critical role that training and continuing education play in developing skilled equipment technicians.

Presenter: Marc Snyder, SEPRO

This technical education session is designed for golf course superintendents and turf professionals looking for practical ways to simplify their plant growth regulator (PGR) programs. Drawing on his 44-year career as a superintendent, most recently at Desert Mountain Club in Scottsdale, and three years with SEPRO Land, Marc Snyder will begin with some of the career lessons he has learned along the way before turning to PGR comparisons and programs.

The session will focus on how superintendents can use PGRs to dial in growth, reduce clippings, and maintain even, predictable playing surfaces across greens, tees, and fairways.

Marc will walk through head-to-head product comparisons, including Cutless vs. Legacy, Legacy vs. Musketeer, and Cutless vs. Anuew, along with Poa annua suppression strategies, PoaCure follow-up programs, and season-long application schedules for bentgrass and bermudagrass greens and fairways and zoysiagrass fairways.

The goal is to reduce mowing, improve turf quality and color, and keep growth under control without overcomplicating PGR programs.

Presenter: Dave Gossman, Atwater High School (CA) Agriculture Department

Exposing high school students to the turfgrass and sports field management profession through relevant, industry-aligned curriculum and hands-on application of technical skills creates a win-win for students, schools, and the industry. These programs not only build career awareness and workforce readiness, but also help cultivate the next generation of qualified employees and future leaders in the profession.

This presentation will showcase Atwater High School’s Turfgrass and Sports Field Management course, provide resources and practical ideas for expanding similar programs within state and national high school agriculture pathways, and examine current trends in creating stronger connections between students and careers in the turfgrass and sports field management industry.

Presenter: Blake Jirges

Player development can be one of the most impactful and profitable areas of a golf operation when approached with a clear business strategy. In this session, Blake Jirges, PGA, will share the systems, processes, and leadership decisions that helped grow the coaching business at Coto de Caza Golf & Racquet Club from approximately $160,000 to nearly $1 million annually in just five years.

Attendees will learn practical strategies for building a sustainable coaching program that enhances the player experience while generating meaningful revenue for the facility.

Topics will include program packaging, student retention, creating structured player development pathways, effective marketing techniques, and developing recurring revenue streams.

Designed for golf professionals seeking real-world solutions, this session will provide actionable ideas that can be implemented immediately to grow both coaching impact and business performance.

Presenter: Amanda Folck

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a valuable tool for athletic field management, but many turf managers are unsure where to begin.

This presentation will define IPM and compare it to Best Management Practices (BMPs). Attendees will learn how inventories of pesticides, equipment, and other resources can serve as the foundation for building an effective IPM plan.

Using real-world examples, the session will demonstrate how to apply IPM principles by evaluating field conditions, available resources, and surrounding environments to make informed management decisions.

Participants will leave with practical strategies for implementing the key components of an IPM program at their own athletic facilities, whether managing natural or synthetic turf systems.

Presenter: Tony Chavez

Simply talking about golf or sports fields is not enough to stand out in today’s increasingly crowded podcast landscape. This session will explore the key elements of building a successful podcast that drives audience engagement, delivers educational value, and creates long-term growth opportunities.

Attendees will learn strategies for niche targeting, audience retention, and monetization, while exploring the importance of consistency and developing a clear content focus. Topics will include identifying a unique niche, such as competitive amateur golf, mental performance, golf course management, or sports field operations, and creating content that attracts and retains a dedicated audience.

Presenter: Alan Thomson

Hybrid grass surfaces are an innovative solution that combines natural grass with synthetic fibers to create a stronger, more durable playing surface. These systems are designed to enhance the performance and longevity of natural turf while maintaining the look, feel, and playing characteristics that athletes prefer.

By reinforcing the root zone and improving surface stability, hybrid grass can withstand higher levels of use and adverse weather conditions compared to traditional natural grass surfaces.

This presentation explores where hybrid grass surfaces are being used across the sports industry and examines the growing adoption of this technology. It highlights sports currently utilizing hybrid turf, including football, soccer, and other field-based sports, while analyzing the trends driving its increased popularity.

Attendees will gain insight into the factors influencing adoption, including performance requirements, maintenance considerations, and the need for year-round playability.

Presenter: Gerald Henry, Ph.D.

Performance testing of sports fields is essential for quantifying surface characteristics such as hardness and traction. Historically, these evaluations have relied on hand-held, mobile, and robotic devices to assess field playability. Recent advances in wearable inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor technology now allow researchers to examine athlete-surface interactions directly using human athletes in both field and laboratory environments.

This session will highlight current research from the University of Georgia that demonstrates the capabilities of this emerging technology. Attendees will learn about projects evaluating different playing surfaces, soil profiles, wear and traffic stress, and the effects of cultural management practices on athlete-surface interactions, performance, and injury potential.

Presenter: Allison George, Toad Valley Golf Course

Is new technology, marketing, and the drive to do more with less leaving you feeling overwhelmed? This session will explore practical strategies for improving internal communication, strengthening teamwork, and keeping operations running smoothly in an increasingly fast-paced environment.

Allison will share how she keeps her team organized while embracing new technologies and staying current on the evolving role of artificial intelligence in workplace productivity.

Attendees will gain insights into communication tools, organizational systems, and technology solutions that can help improve efficiency, foster collaboration, and keep the back office moving forward.

Presenter: Ben Gibson

Leadership extends far beyond simply telling people what to do. Effective leaders create environments where teams are aligned around shared goals, celebrate successes together, and hold one another accountable for results.

This session will explore practical leadership strategies for building trust, strengthening communication, and developing a culture of high performance and engagement.

Attendees will learn how investing in their people can improve quality, increase staff retention, and create a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to succeed.

Discover how positive influence and strong leadership can help build a safe, rewarding, and productive environment where people want to work.

Presenter: Robert Hertzing

Golf course renovations have become increasingly complex, expensive, and high-stakes, requiring far more than great design ideas and good intentions. From aging infrastructure and irrigation replacement to member expectations, permitting challenges, contractor coordination, and budget management, today’s projects demand strategic leadership and disciplined execution.

This session provides club leaders with a practical roadmap for navigating successful golf course renovations from concept through completion. Drawing on real-world project experience from clubs across the country, attendees will gain insight into identifying project drivers, building the right consultant and contractor team, establishing realistic budgets and schedules, managing permitting and regulatory hurdles, and communicating effectively with stakeholders throughout the process.

Focusing on the operational and leadership aspects of renovation projects—not just construction—this presentation will offer actionable strategies to avoid common pitfalls, improve decision-making, align teams and expectations, and position clubs for long-term success.

Participants will leave with practical tools to help minimize disruption, reduce delays, avoid costly mistakes, and achieve successful project outcomes.

Presenter: TBD

Trees are among the most valuable and visible assets on a golf course, influencing aesthetics, playability, environmental benefits, and long-term property value. Effective tree management requires planning throughout the entire lifecycle of the tree—from selection and planting to maintenance, risk management, and eventual replacement.

This session will provide an overview of species selection, nursery stock evaluation, proper planting techniques, early establishment practices, pruning standards, and plant health care programs designed to maximize tree performance and longevity.

Attendees will also learn about risk assessment, succession planning, and end-of-life management strategies that help maintain course character while addressing safety and operational concerns.

Because every golf course has unique challenges and objectives, the presentation will include ample opportunity for discussion, allowing participants to explore solutions specific to their facilities.

Presenter: Forrest Richardson

When discussing pace of play, words like “fast,” “faster,” and “hurry” often dominate the conversation. But is speed alone really the answer?

In this thought-provoking session, golf course architect Forrest Richardson will challenge common assumptions about pace of play and explore how golf course design plays a critical role in creating better course flow and reducing delays.

Drawing on decades of experience and lessons learned from the late Bill Yates—often referred to as “The Guru of Pace of Play”—Richardson will uncover some of the most common myths surrounding the game’s most frequent complaint.

Attendees will gain a new perspective on the five key factors that contribute to poor pace of play and learn practical ways superintendents, managers, committee members, and owners can help create a smoother, more enjoyable experience for golfers.

Presenter: Corey Angelo

Understanding the physical properties of a putting green is critical to managing performance, playability, and long-term sustainability.

This session will provide a detailed overview of the physical laboratory tests available today, including particle size distribution, bulk density, porosity, infiltration, moisture retention, and organic matter analysis.

Special attention will be given to the USGA 2-4-6 Organic Matter (2-4-6 OM) methodology, how the data should be interpreted, and how superintendents can use these results to make informed management decisions for their greens.

Presenter: Fred Yelverton, Ph.D.

Poa annua is one of the most problematic weeds on recreational turf worldwide. Found at virtually any mowing height, it is a highly diverse species with significant genetic variability, making it particularly prone to developing herbicide resistance. Effective management programs must incorporate multiple modes of action to improve control and help reduce the likelihood of resistance development.

This comprehensive session will examine the factors that contribute to Poa annua infestations in California, including compaction, poor drainage, and thin turfgrass stands. Attendees will learn about effective management strategies and herbicide programs designed to control Poa annua while supporting long-term resistance prevention and overall turf health.

Presenter: Nikki Prichard

There is great value in developing innovative activities and programs at the golf course and seeing those ideas come to life. This session will explore how creative programming can enhance the golfer experience, increase participation, and create new revenue opportunities for facilities.

Attendees will learn best practices for program planning and execution, including evaluating cost-to-value relationships, increasing golfer participation, developing revenue opportunities, and measuring program success.

The discussion will also focus on strategies for gaining buy-in from staff and stakeholders, helping ensure that new ideas receive the support needed for successful implementation. Participants will leave with practical tools and insights to help turn innovative concepts into impactful programs.

Presenter: Dr. James Cronk

This comprehensive session focuses on optimizing food and beverage (F&B) operations in club settings, covering critical areas that impact profitability and customer/member satisfaction. Attendees will gain insights into effective budgeting, menu engineering, labor management, industry trends, and essential key performance indicators (KPIs) for operational success.

Designed for general managers and F&B leaders looking to improve department performance, the session provides practical strategies to balance financial objectives with service quality. Participants will leave equipped with best practices to refresh their F&B operations and create positive outcomes for customers, members, guests, staff, and organizational leadership.

Presenter: Emily Braithwaite

Plant-parasitic nematodes are an often-overlooked factor contributing to putting green decline and inconsistent turf performance. This session will provide an overview of nematode biology and feeding behavior, helping turf managers better understand the role these microscopic pests can play in turfgrass health.

Attendees will learn to recognize common symptoms of nematode stress and how to distinguish them from other biotic and abiotic issues that can affect putting greens and cool-season turf systems.

Best practices for collecting and submitting soil samples for nematode analysis will be discussed, along with guidance on interpreting laboratory results and determining when nematodes are likely contributing to turf performance problems.

The presentation will also cover integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, including cultural, biological, and chemical approaches for managing nematodes and maintaining healthy, resilient turfgrass.

Presenter: Don Thornburgh

This session will offer golf course and sports field managers practical guidance on how to utilize organic and biostimulant products to enhance the success of construction, grow-in, and routine maintenance programs.

Attendees will learn how to compare products available in the marketplace by reviewing material safety data sheets (MSDS) and product labels, helping ensure they select the most appropriate products for their specific situations and management objectives.

The discussion will also explore how these concepts can be incorporated into a facility’s Best Management Practices (BMPs), while examining the short- and long-term benefits organic and biostimulant products can provide to turf performance, soil health, and overall facility management.

Presenter: Bryan Hopkins

Soil science can seem complex, but the principles that matter most for golf and sports turf management are straightforward and highly practical.

This session translates key soil science concepts into real-world applications for managing and improving sports surfaces. Topics will include soil chemistry, such as nutrition, pH, and salinity; soil physics, including drainage and surface stability; and soil biology and its role in turf performance.

Through case studies and practical examples, attendees will gain a better understanding of how soil conditions influence turf quality and playability, along with specific recommendations that can be applied at their own facilities.

Presenter: Craig Zellers

Water management continues to be one of the most important challenges facing golf course and sports turf facilities. This session will provide an overview of the latest irrigation technologies and how they can be used to improve efficiency, performance, and long-term sustainability.

Topics will include two-wire control systems, HDPE pipe, drone technology, modern irrigation design methods, and the use of GPS technology for construction projects and daily turf maintenance operations. Attendees will also gain insight into irrigation renovation planning and associated project costs.

The presentation will further examine current and emerging water trends throughout Southern California and the Southwest, including evolving water regulations, turf rebate programs, and changing expectations for commercial water users.

Participants will leave with a better understanding of both the technologies shaping modern irrigation management and the regulatory landscape influencing future water use decisions.

Presenter: Richard Stiftinger

Sports tourism continues to be one of the fastest-growing segments of the travel and recreation industry, creating significant economic opportunities for golf facilities, sports complexes, municipalities, and destination marketers. This session will explore the distinct eras of sports tourism, the current state of the industry, and the key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping its next evolution.

Attendees will gain valuable insight into how sporting events—from youth tournaments and amateur competitions to premier golf events and major regional and national championships—drive visitor spending, enhance community engagement, and influence facility development and investment decisions.

The presentation will examine how the sports tourism landscape has evolved over time, how destinations are adapting to changing participant and traveler expectations, and what factors will define the industry’s future growth.

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the evolving sports tourism market and how communities across the country are positioning their facilities, amenities, and destinations for long-term success in an increasingly competitive environment.

Presenter: Brad Jakubowski

This session will explore practical strategies for maintaining safe, playable, and sustainable athletic fields with limited resources. Through real-world examples and discussion, participants will learn how to build effective volunteer teams, manage budgets, address common maintenance challenges, and create long-term sustainability plans.

Topics include volunteer engagement, communication, facility management, financial planning, and leadership succession. Attendees will leave with practical ideas they can immediately apply to strengthen their field maintenance programs and community partnerships.

Presenter: Pawel Petelewicz, Ph.D.

Turfgrass managers operate under two conflicting pressures: the expectation to deliver weed-free surfaces that meet high aesthetic and functional standards, and increasing scrutiny and regulatory constraints surrounding herbicide use.

This presentation will explore how AI-guided targeted spraying technologies are redefining herbicide applications in turfgrass management. Attendees will gain an understanding of how these systems work, their potential benefits and limitations, operational trade-offs, and practical considerations for incorporating them into integrated weed management (IWM) programs.

Presenter: Corey Angelo

Soil test reports are filled with numbers, ratios, and recommendations, but understanding what those results actually mean can be challenging.

This interactive, classroom-style session will take a practical, non-technical approach to soil, water, and plant tissue testing. Using real-world examples, attendees will learn how laboratory data can be interpreted and applied to everyday turf management decisions.

Common soil chemistry concepts, testing methodologies, and management recommendations will be discussed, along with frequent misconceptions that can lead to unnecessary inputs or ineffective management practices.

Attendees are encouraged to bring questions and soil, water, or tissue test results for discussion as the group works through real-world challenges and practical solutions.

Presenter: Jeffrey Danner, Pangaea Golf Architecture

Golf course master planning is widely discussed but often misunderstood. The term itself is frequently associated with something that must be approved—a vote to be won—rather than a discovery process that helps clubs better understand their course, infrastructure, and long-term priorities.

This session explores why some master planning efforts struggle while others move forward with broad support, and how a thoughtful planning process can help clubs avoid common pitfalls.

Drawing on real-world planning experiences, the discussion will examine the sequencing, engagement, and analytical steps that help clubs prepare for master planning and avoid the challenges that often derail it.

Presenter: Robin Shelton, Newport Beach Country Club

This session explores how the greatest performing teams in history sustained motivation, built trust, and achieved extraordinary results.

Drawing on leadership lessons from elite teams, attendees will discover practical strategies for energizing people, fostering accountability, and creating a culture where individuals consistently elevate one another’s performance.

Participants will leave with actionable insights to help build stronger teams, inspire greater engagement, and create an environment where people work together to exceed expectations and achieve exceptional results.

Presenter: Priti Saxena

Bermudagrass is the most widely used warm-season turfgrass in the southern and transition zones of the United States. As water scarcity becomes an increasing concern, turf managers are seeking drought-tolerant cultivars and more efficient irrigation methods to maintain high-quality playing surfaces.

This session will highlight research conducted at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona’s Center for Turfgrass Irrigation Landscape Technology (CTILT) focused on ‘Tahoma 31’ bermudagrass, a cultivar recognized for its strong performance characteristics and reduced water requirements.

The study examines how different irrigation methods influence the performance of ‘Tahoma 31’ bermudagrass under regular golf cart traffic stress, providing valuable insight into the interaction between irrigation practices and turf durability.

As California continues to face drought conditions and water-use restrictions, this research may help golf courses, parks, athletic fields, and landscape managers identify irrigation strategies that conserve water while maintaining healthy, high-performing turfgrass.

Presenter: Miranda Robinson, TerraRad Tech AG

turfRad is an innovative turf assessment platform that delivers rapid, high-resolution subsurface moisture data, providing insight into rootzone and soil variability that are often invisible to the naked eye.

This session will explore how subsurface moisture data can help managers identify emerging issues before symptoms appear, better understand variability across their turf areas, and make more informed irrigation decisions based on actual field conditions rather than visual observations alone.

Attendees will learn how turfRad measurements can be integrated into routine turf management programs to monitor moisture distribution, evaluate irrigation effectiveness, optimize water use, and improve consistency across managed turf areas.

Real-world examples will demonstrate how objective subsurface moisture data can complement traditional scouting practices, helping turf professionals make educated irrigation decisions while enhancing turf quality, sustainability, and long-term performance.

Presenter: Charles “Chas” Schmid, Oregon State University

Oregon State University’s turfgrass research program places a strong emphasis on eco-lawns, reducing water consumption, and mitigating Pacific Northwest fungal diseases such as Microdochium patch.

Current research trials include alternative putting green maintenance strategies and the evaluation of glyphosate-tolerant turfgrass varieties.

Join Charles “Chas” Schmid as he shares findings from these important research initiatives and discusses their practical applications for turfgrass managers seeking to improve sustainability, efficiency, and turf performance.

Presenter: Zac Reicher

Research has shown that putting greens are often affected by a complex of root pathogens that interact to weaken turfgrass and reduce root health. These challenges can be especially severe when combined with other stresses such as heat, drought, traffic, shade, and low growth conditions.

This session will explore the latest research on root-infecting pathogens, including pathogenic nematodes, Pythium species, and ectotrophic fungi such as take-all root rot, summer patch, and spring dead spot.

Attendees will learn how advances in pathogen monitoring and soil temperature tracking have improved preventive management strategies, including the timing of fungicide applications before visible symptoms develop.

The presentation will also discuss the biology of key root pathogens found in California and examine integrated management approaches that combine cultural practices with targeted chemical controls to reduce damage and improve turf resilience.

Presenter: James H. Baird

Turfgrass programs in academia are declining throughout much of the country, particularly in the western United States. This session will explore the history, importance, and future of turfgrass teaching, research, and extension efforts in California and across the West.

Dr. Baird will discuss the significant role the University of California, Riverside (UCR) has played in advancing turfgrass science and education, while highlighting current initiatives and future opportunities for the industry.

The presentation will showcase UCR research related to water conservation, including turfgrass breeding efforts, product evaluation programs, and management strategies designed to improve water-use efficiency.

Attendees will also learn about ongoing research focused on addressing critical turfgrass pest challenges affecting California, the western region, and turf managers nationwide.

Presenter: Ed Winiecki

Success doesn’t always require new tools, larger budgets, or outside consultants. Often, the most valuable resources are already within your organization, your facility, and your team.

This session explores how to identify, leverage, and maximize the knowledge, experience, and talents that already exist within your operation. Attendees will learn how to uncover hidden resources, tap into the expertise of colleagues and peers, and create a culture of continuous learning, creativity, and collaboration.

Through practical examples and proven strategies, participants will gain ideas for making the most of existing resources, implementing best practices, and empowering team members to contribute to organizational success.

Presenter: Christian Baldwin, Aquatrols

Managing sports turf requires a delicate balance of soil physics and water dynamics. This presentation offers an overview of how physical soil characteristics dictate moisture movement and retention, and how modern surfactant technologies can be leveraged to optimize field performance.

The session will explore common challenges of turf water management—including surface tension, localized dry spot (LDS), and non-uniform wetting—and practical, big-picture strategies to overcome them. The presentation will also expand to synthetic surfaces, including how specialized chemistry can be utilized for infill stabilization, static control, and comprehensive playability management across all field types.

By the end of this session, attendees will be able to:

• Decode Surfactant Chemistry: Gain a broad understanding of how different surfactant classes work to mitigate hydrophobicity and surface tension.
• Optimize Field Consistency: Learn how to select and schedule surfactant programs to achieve uniform volumetric water content across diverse playing surfaces.
• Apply Evidence-Based Practices: Utilize insights from recent university trials to justify surfactant ROI and understand how static-reduction technologies manage infill migration and playability on synthetic fields.

Presenter: Josh Heptig, Director of Golf Operations, San Luis Obispo County; President, California Golf Course Owners Association

Josh Heptig has a passion for delivering premium customer service without a premium budget.

In this session, Josh will share his insights on taking care of customers, creating an atmosphere of fun, and building a positive culture that keeps golfers coming back.

Attendees will learn practical strategies for enhancing the customer experience, gaining buy-in from their team, and delivering exceptional service regardless of facility size or resources.

Presenter: Gregg Munshaw, Ph.D.

Healthy soil is the foundation for sustainable turf and future-ready sports field management. This session will explore practical strategies for improving soil health while reducing inputs such as water, fertilizer, and pesticides.

Attendees will learn how soil structure, biological activity, and management practices interact to enhance turf resilience, support Best Management Practices (BMPs), and contribute to long-term sustainability goals.

The discussion will separate fact from hype, evaluate common soil health products and practices, and provide guidance for developing a long-term management plan that puts soil health at the center of athletic field performance and sustainability.

Presenters: Del Ratcliffe, Pinnacle Golf Properties; and Kyle Rickman, American Golf Corporation

Guided by leaders of two of the most successful golf course management companies in the country, explore how courses are moving beyond basic technology to integrate artificial intelligence into agronomy, tee sheet optimization, and customer service operations.

This session will provide operators with actionable frameworks to reduce labor costs, boost profitability, and elevate the golfer experience. Panelists include Del Ratcliffe, owner of Pinnacle Golf Properties and creator of CourseRev.ai, and Kyle Rickman, President and Chief Operating Officer of American Golf Corporation.

Presenters: Eric Blanton, DuraEdge Products, and Clay Wood, Legends Global Oakland

This session provides a practical overview of baseball field dirt maintenance, focusing on the three most critical playing surfaces: the pitcher’s mound, home plate area, and infield dirt.

Attendees will learn how proper moisture management, dragging techniques, grading, packing, and daily maintenance routines contribute to player safety, field playability, and overall field appearance. Common problem areas—including lips, holes, low spots, and inconsistent footing—will be discussed, along with proven methods for repair and prevention.

Special emphasis will be placed on mound and batter’s box repair, clay management, tarp usage, and selecting the appropriate materials for different levels of play.

Participants will gain practical knowledge of routine maintenance schedules, weather response strategies, and best practices for maintaining consistent infield dirt surfaces throughout the season.

Designed for groundskeepers, coaches, parks staff, and volunteers, this presentation offers actionable techniques for maintaining safe, high-quality baseball and softball facilities.

Presenters: Andy Magnasco, Carmel Valley Ranch; other panelists TBA

Hear the stories of superintendents doing impressive things and overseeing exciting activities at their facilities that go well beyond caring for turfgrass.

Panelists will share how they manage unique responsibilities, programs, and amenities that enhance the value and character of their properties. Featured panelist Andy Magnasco of Carmel Valley Ranch oversees the property’s sprawling lavender fields, working vineyard, and 73 olive trees in addition to the golf course and grounds.

Additional panelists will be announced as the program develops.

Presenters: Barry Gardner, Jamie Mehringer, and Joey Stevenson

Effective budgeting is essential for maintaining high-quality sports turf facilities and successfully planning for future improvements. This session will provide practical strategies for developing budgets that support both day-to-day operations and long-term capital investments.

Attendees will learn how to prioritize projects, build compelling business cases for facility improvements, and create financial plans that align operational needs with organizational goals.

The presentation will also focus on communicating effectively with financial decision-makers, administrators, and stakeholders to secure funding, gain support for major projects, and demonstrate the value of investing in sports turf facilities.

Participants will leave with actionable tools and techniques to strengthen budgeting processes, improve financial advocacy efforts, and position their facilities for long-term success.

Presenters: Brad Snavely and Scott Furtak, STS Turf

Building an effective nutrient management program requires more than simply reacting to soil and tissue test results. By considering factors such as soil conditions, water quality, weather patterns, site-specific characteristics, and seasonal timing, turf managers can develop proactive strategies that support long-term turf health and performance.

This session will provide an overview of the various testing tools available to turf managers and discuss how to interpret and integrate that information into a comprehensive nutrient management plan.

Topics will include exchangeable soil testing, soluble nutrient data, CO₂ evolution, mineralizable nitrogen and phosphorus, soil health scoring, conversion factors, water quality analysis, tissue testing, and genome testing.

Presenters will also discuss the foundational elements that support sound nutrient management, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing light, air, and water as key drivers of healthy turfgrass systems.

Presenters: Katie Prendergast, Arizona Alliance for Golf; Craig Kessler, California Alliance for Golf; and Michael Lee, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America

Advocacy plays a critical role in shaping the future of the golf industry at the local, state, and federal levels. From water policy and environmental regulation to taxation, labor, land use, and public perception, decisions made by policymakers directly impact golf course operations, business viability, and long-term industry sustainability.

This panel will explore the importance of coordinated industry engagement and how golf professionals, course owners, agronomists, vendors, and allied stakeholders can work together to build relationships with elected officials and influence policy outcomes.

Discussion topics will include current legislative and regulatory challenges, successful advocacy strategies, coalition building, real-life examples of advocacy in action, and the role individuals and organizations can play in advancing and protecting the future of the game.

Presenters: Jamie Mehringer and Joey Stevenson

Major facility projects and high-profile events require careful planning, strategic decision-making, and a clear understanding of how to manage resources effectively. In this session, Jamie Mehringer and Joey Stevenson will provide a behind-the-scenes look at two unique field management challenges: hosting the Little League Baseball and Softball World Series and completing a full-scale renovation of Victory Field.

Attendees will gain insight into the complex process of transitioning a venue from the Little League Softball World Series to the Little League Baseball World Series while maintaining the exceptional playing conditions and presentation standards expected by ESPN and a global audience.

The presentation will also explore the renovation of Victory Field, originally constructed in 1996, and discuss what “end of useful life” means for a professional playing surface. Topics will include planning and executing a complete field reconstruction, from subgrade preparation and drainage systems to rootzone construction, irrigation infrastructure, and turf establishment.

Participants will leave with valuable lessons in project planning, resource management, and strategic investment that can be applied to facility improvements of all sizes.

Presenters: Gerald Henry, Ph.D., University of Georgia, and Pawel Petelewicz, Ph.D., University of Florida

Weeds can negatively impact sports field performance by disrupting surface uniformity, reducing playability, shortening field longevity, and creating potential safety concerns for athletes.

This session will explore Integrated Weed Management (IWM), a comprehensive and proactive approach to maintaining high-quality turfgrass while minimizing weed pressure and reducing reliance on chemical herbicides alone.

Attendees will learn how cultural, mechanical, and biological management practices can be combined to improve turfgrass vigor, allowing healthy turf to out-compete weeds. The presenters will also discuss how herbicides can be strategically integrated with cultural practices to improve effectiveness and manage herbicide resistance.

Emphasis will be placed on continuous monitoring, accurate weed identification, and long-term strategies for reducing the weed seed bank. The presentation will focus on practical control measures for managing problematic annual and perennial weeds commonly found on sports fields.

Presenters: Jake Gordon, Ross Liggett, John McNair, and Matt Welliver

Equip your municipal golf operation for long-term financial stability and community impact. This session provides public operators with essential, data-driven frameworks to help justify budgets, optimize green fee strategies, and improve operational efficiency.

Attendees will learn how to leverage national and regional benchmarks to measure success, demonstrate community value, and strengthen financial performance. The discussion will also explore emerging technologies and what artificial intelligence may hold for the future of municipal golf operations.

Presenters: Cary Bickler, Cary Bickler Golf Course Design; Brian Curley, Schmidt-Curley Design; John Fought, John Fought Design; and Hunki Yun, American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA)

Listen to thoughts from the architects behind three high-profile Southern California golf course renovation projects and hear the highlights, challenges, lessons learned, and ways to avoid costly mistakes.

John Fought, ASGCA, will share his experience with Indian Wells Golf Resort; Cary Bickler, ASGCA, will detail the renovation of The Springs Golf Club; and Brian Curley, ASGCA, will discuss the Pelican Hill renovation.

Presenters: Michael Gainey and Ed Winiecki

In this session, we will explore the three critical pillars of effective team building. Learn how to look past the resume to spot the right candidates, implement training frameworks that empower your team members, and design impactful programs that accelerate productivity.

We will dive into strategies for building a supportive environment that fosters long-term loyalty in a competitive job market, keeping your best assets from walking out the door.

Presenters: Nikki Gatch, Southern California PGA; Katie Prendergast, Arizona Alliance for Golf; and Tamara Sabella, Greenway Golf/Corica Park Golf Course

Just as the game of golf is experiencing impressive growth among girls and women, the business of golf is led by dynamic, influential, accomplished, and visionary women.

Hear their perspectives on the game and learn about their professional journeys, leadership experiences, and the opportunities and challenges they have encountered along the way.

Panelists include Nikki Gatch of the Southern California PGA, Katie Prendergast of the Arizona Alliance for Golf, and Tamara Sabella of Greenway Golf/Corica Park Golf Course.

Presenters: Zeb Welborn, Welborn Media; Alex LaRoche, CourseCo; Amy Spittle, Century Golf; Kelsie Horner, Golf Course Industry magazine; and other golf industry social media experts

The golf social media landscape continues to evolve, and savvy owners and operators are keeping pace by leveraging social media to build their brand, attract attention, engage golfers, and increase profitability.

Led by Zeb Welborn of Welborn Media, this panel will feature Alex LaRoche of CourseCo, Amy Spittle of Century Golf, Kelsie Horner of Golf Course Industry magazine, and other golf industry social media experts who have successfully used digital platforms to grow audiences, strengthen customer relationships, and drive business results.

Attendees will gain practical insights into current social media trends, content strategies, audience engagement, and ways to maximize the impact of social media marketing efforts.

Presenters: Azucena Maldonado, Latina Golfers Association; David Sams, City of San Leandro; and Andrew Szunyog, National Links Trust

With the surge in golf’s popularity has come a focus on maintaining the game’s momentum and finding ways to supplement revenue from rounds.

Hear strategies for increasing revenues by attracting underrepresented communities and creating non-golf programs from three golf industry leaders.

Panelists include Azucena Maldonado of the Latina Golfers Association, David Sams of the City of San Leandro, and Andrew Szunyog of National Links Trust, who will share insights and real-world examples of how facilities can strengthen community connections while expanding participation and revenue opportunities.

Moderator: Jay Karen, NGCOA

Presenters: Rhett Evans, GCSAA; Jay Karen, NGCOA; Mark Mungeam, ASGCA; Paula Sliefert, SFMA; Chris Kulinski, PGA, PGA of America

Hear from executives of the major national golf and sports field organizations. What is the state of the golf and sports field industries? What are the biggest challenges currently and on the horizon? How can local and state organizations engage more effectively with their national counterparts?

This panel will provide insights into the trends, opportunities, and issues shaping the future of golf and sports field management from a national perspective.

Confirmed panelists include Rhett Evans (GCSAA), Jay Karen (NGCOA), Mark Mungeam (ASGCA), Paula Sliefert (SFMA), and Chris Kulinski, PGA (PGA of America).

Presenters: James Davenport and Anthony Leone, Southern California PGA

PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is the flagship military program of the PGA of America REACH Foundation and uses the game of golf to enhance the physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being of veterans, active-duty military personnel, reservists, and National Guard members.

This session will provide an overview of the PGA HOPE program, which introduces participants to golf through a developmental six-week curriculum led by PGA and LPGA professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency. Thanks to support from the PGA of America REACH Foundation and PGA Section Foundations, the program is offered at no cost to participants.

Attendees will learn how PGA HOPE has become an important therapeutic and community-building resource, supported by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which enables VA doctors and staff to refer veterans to the program.

The presentation will highlight the program’s impact, success stories, and the ways golf can serve as a powerful tool for improving health, fostering connection, and helping veterans thrive.

Presenter: Hugh Smith, Jr.

Gain insights into growth-of-the-game initiatives and employee development programs from representatives of Youth on Course and other successful golf-related organizations. Attendees will learn how these programs are creating new pathways into the game, developing future industry leaders, and supporting long-term participation and workforce growth.

The discussion will highlight innovative approaches to player engagement, career development, mentorship, and workforce recruitment, while showcasing programs that are making a meaningful impact on the future of the golf industry.

Moderator: Judd Spicer

Social media has transformed how golfers, facilities, brands, and industry professionals connect with audiences. From course showcases and instructional content to product reviews and tournament coverage, influencers are playing an increasingly important role in shaping perceptions and driving engagement across the golf industry.

This session explores the rise of golf-focused social media influencers and the impact they have on consumer behavior, facility promotion, and industry trends. Attendees will hear from content creators, marketing professionals, and industry leaders who have successfully leveraged social platforms to grow audiences, build brands, and create meaningful connections with golfers.

Moderator: Jay Karen

Presenters: Lee Finkel, CourseCo; Jeff Jensen, GCSAA; and Craig Kessler, California Alliance for Golf

This panel discussion will address some of the key existential challenges (“storm clouds”) facing golf courses today. Panelists with decades of experience and industry insight will examine threats to the game’s long-term sustainability, including challenges to golf’s use of land in urban and suburban communities, Colorado River Basin and water-related concerns, and the industry’s ability to maintain recent participation and financial success as economic conditions evolve.

Attendees will gain perspective on the major issues shaping the future of golf and learn how industry leaders are working to navigate these challenges while protecting the value and relevance of the game.

Moderator: Jeff Jensen, GCSAA

Presenters: Jon Christenson, JC Golf; Patrick Parkins, TPC Summerlin; and Elliot Weber, Alisal Ranch

Today’s golf course superintendent is far more than a turfgrass expert. The modern superintendent must navigate a complex landscape that includes agronomic performance, budget management, environmental regulations, labor challenges, technology adoption, and ever-increasing expectations from golfers, club leadership, and ownership.

This session explores the evolving role of the golf course superintendent and the skills required to succeed in today’s demanding environment.

Attendees will gain insights into balancing course conditioning goals with financial realities, maintaining regulatory compliance while protecting natural resources, and effectively communicating with stakeholders to align expectations and drive success.

Through real-world examples and practical strategies, panelists will discuss how superintendents can lead their teams, make data-driven decisions, manage risk, and position themselves as key contributors to the overall success of their facilities.

Presenters: Bruce Charlton, Robert Trent Jones II Golf Course Architects, and Damian Pascuzzo, Pascuzzo & Pate

There’s never been a better time to renovate your course. Besides infrastructure upgrades, owners and managers should consider design changes that improve the golfer experience and invest in the long-term health of the facility.

ASGCA members Bruce Charlton and Damian Pascuzzo will take you through the elements that make sense in today’s golf landscape and meet the expectations of the next generation of golfers, including:

• Designs for a wider array of players
• The right way to add forward tees and serve all your golfers
• How design changes can help reduce costs
• What today’s golfers expect in quality practice facilities
• Adding opportunities for new revenue sources beyond green fees

Presenters: Rock Lucas, Charwood Golf Club; and Del Ratcliffe, Pinnacle Golf Properties and CourseRev.ai

If you haven’t yet met Del Ratcliffe of Pinnacle Golf Properties and CourseRev.ai or Rock Lucas of Charwood Golf Club, you are missing out.

These good ol’ Southern boys know a thing or two about owning and managing golf courses. Between them, they own and/or operate more than 40 golf courses and bring decades of experience, insight, and real-world perspective to the conversation.

In this interactive session, attendees are encouraged to ask questions, listen in on their playful banter, and enjoy a lively discussion while learning practical tips and strategies for successful golf course management.

Presenters: Paula Sliefert and Ava Veith

Whether you have a job or career, navigating transitions in your professional journey is crucial. If you are at the beginning, middle, or end of your path, change is inevitable. This change can either happen to you, or you can proactively manage your situation.

Ava and Paula will share their personal experiences with career transitions, offering insights on how they navigated change while staying open to new opportunities. Their responses to changes shaped their positive attitudes throughout their journeys.

Ava will touch on insights gained while transitioning from a Division I student-athlete to a full-time graduate student, and how she has learned to confidently pursue her goals while redefining success beyond the playing field.

Paula will share her inspiring journey of transitioning between industries, navigating a company restructuring, and securing roles that not only showcase her strengths, but also align with her current stage in life.

Presenters: Nick Christians, Ph.D., and Quincy Law, Ph.D., Iowa State University

A thorough understanding of turfgrass mathematics will aid in topdressing, irrigation, fertilization, pesticide application, and economics.

This presentation will work through common turfgrass calculations using both the proportional method and dimensional analysis.

Participants will solve a series of applied turfgrass math problems to link and build on concepts, including area, volume, fertilizers, and pesticides.

Presenters: Brad Snavely and Scott Furtak, STS Turf

Water is the single largest input in most turfgrass management programs, yet its impact on soil chemistry, nutrient availability, and long-term turf performance is often underestimated.

Drawing on more than 50 years of combined evaluation experience, this session will explore how to quantify irrigation inputs, apply conversion factors, and calculate the influence of water constituents on nutrient and amendment programs.

Attendees will learn how proactive water analysis and management can help break the cycle of repeatedly testing soils and reacting to problems after they occur. The presenters will share strategies first developed more than 25 years ago when sports turf managers began using recycled water and explain how those methods have evolved to support modern nutrient management and soil balancing programs.

Additional discussion will focus on common water quality challenges, including highly purified water that can contribute to nutrient stripping, as well as constituent-laden water that may create long-term soil and turf issues during extended dry periods.

Presenters: Andrew Szunyog, National Links Trust; Lee Finkel, CourseCo; Scott Scozzola, American Golf; and Josh Heptig, County of San Luis Obispo Parks and Recreation Department

Municipal golf courses are essential community hubs that provide accessible recreation, preserve green space, and support local economies.

This session explores how municipal golf facilities bridge the gap between public health, environmental sustainability, and financial viability, demonstrating the important role they play in communities across the country.

Panelists will discuss the value municipal golf courses provide, the challenges they face, and why continued investment in municipal golf is vital to the future of the game.

Presenters: Jamie Mehringer, Advanced Turf Solutions, and Joey Stevenson, Indianapolis Indians at Victory Field

Does work/life balance actually exist in real life? This engaging discussion will explore the challenges professionals face in balancing career demands, personal commitments, and long-term well-being.

Drawing from their experiences in professional sports turf management and Minor League Baseball, Jamie Mehringer and Joey Stevenson will share real-world stories about navigating career growth, adapting to industry changes, and finding sustainable approaches to success.

The session will also examine the value of mentorship, professional relationships, and personal development in helping individuals manage the day-to-day demands of their careers.

Attendees will leave with practical insights and a renewed perspective on finding the balance that works best for them, recognizing that long-term success is often built through small, meaningful victories along the way.