Golf Course Superintendents’ Knowledge of Variability within Fairways

Abstract

Precision turfgrass management (PTM) relies heavily on mapping technologies (e.g. drones, GPS-equipped sensor devices) for identifying variability within turfgrass systems to implement variable rate or site-specific applications that can reduce management inputs. Despite recent advancements of mapping technologies in turfgrass, a number of factors have inhibited widespread adoption amongst managers; for example, cost and training associated with obtaining, analyzing, and interpreting spatial data. While focus continues towards improving mapping technologies, turfgrass managers’ knowledge of variability may be an overlooked and underutilized tool for PTM. Demonstrating the extent of knowledge that turfgrass managers encompass regarding variability, and how they can apply this knowledge to management practices, could offer a practical, low cost starting point for PTM implementation.