Alabama Turfgrass Association | Fall 2025
This issue covers minimizing spring dead spot. Also spotlights ATA member Drew Charcandy and previews the Deep South Turf Expo.
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Departments
From the President’s PenATA Annual SponsorsNews from ATA
This year’s Lawn and Landscape Workshop was held on August 27, at the Richard Beard Building Auditorium in Montgomery. The ATA was glad to welcome Agricultural Commissioner, Rick Pate, who gave a welcome to our members and presented with Updates...
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October 28 – 30, 2025 | Mississippi Coast Convention Center – Biloxi, MS
This regional show is designed exclusively for the turf manager including Golf Course Superintendents, Sports Field Managers (Institutions, Universities, Park and Recreation), Lawn Care Operators, Landscapers, Sod Producers, Grounds Managers and Right of Way Professionals
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Emily White, a Junior at Auburn University and Copeland Sherrill who is studying turf management at East Mississippi Community College are ATA’s 2026 Legacy Scholarship recipients.
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Todd Daniel (Park and Rec), Pearson Lowery (Golf) and Costa Marinakis Sr. (Lawn Care) have joined the ATA’s 2026 Board of Directors.
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Assistant Director of Athletic Fields | University of Alabama
Drew Charcandy grew up in Helena, AL and graduated from Thompson High School. He became involved in the turf industry while he was in high school, working for Helena Parks and Recreation. He found the job very satisfying. “I enjoyed...
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By M. Aaron Tucker, Assistant Professor, Auburn University | and Wendell J. Hutchens, Assistant Professor, University of Arkansas
Understanding pathogen biology, the disease cycle, and optimal application timing is essential for managing SDS. Continued research is uncovering pathogen-specific responses to cultural and chemical strategies, offering promising avenues for more refined and effective control.
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By Scott McElroy – Professor, Gracie Cotter – Graduate Research Assistant and Debra Smitherman – Graduate Research Assistant | Auburn University
Carotenoid-inhibiting herbicides are valuable in turfgrass management. There are two carotenoid inhibitors available – Tenacity (mesotrione) and Pylex (topramezone).
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By David Held, Ph.D. | Auburn University Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology
Managing chinch bugs is not impossible, but damage can occur more rapidly and extensively than most other turfgrass pests. This article outlines the key factors (proper diagnosis, understanding inputs) needed to be successful. If you apply these ideas, you will...
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