Precision Turfgrass Management

Precision Agriculture evolved as a means to facilitate site-specific management in contrast to uniform whole-field management. Precision Turfgrass Management, similar to PA, must evolve into a more site-specific management approach that supports sustainable practices and enhanced efficiency of inputs. A project by UGA crop and soil scientists involves developing the foundational PTM equipment, techniques and other protocols for improved efficiency of imput application as related to water, cultivation, fertilization and salinity control. PTM is not confined to golf courses but the U.S. Golf Association agronomist summarized the possibilities. He said, “The conclusion is that in the not-too-distant future, golf courses superintendents are going to base the application of course inputs -- including water, fertilizer, and cultural practices such as aeration, and soil salinity management -- on computer generated, color-coded maps that reflect thousands, if not millions of data points. This is going to happen because societal pressure and government-imposed mandates will incrementally improve a property's resource management. And it is going to happen because conservation of resources, without altering the end product to the golfer, will be better for the business of golf.”