Madison, Wis. will serve as the backdrop for the 2007 Turfgrass Producers International (TPI) Summer Convention & Field Days scheduled July 23-27. What makes this year’s Field Days event especially unique is the fact that TPI joined forces with the Midwest Sod Council and the Wisconsin Turfgrass Association to make the Field Days an expanded learning opportunity. Kirk Hunter, TPI’s executive director commented, “The cooperative interaction and planning between TPI, MSC and WTA has created a synergy that is sure to make this year’s Field Days in Madison a ‘must attend’ event that will benefit attending turfgrass producers from around the world.”
Hunter went on to add, “Another benefit of this year’s Field Days is the fact that it is being held at the O.J. Noer Turfgrass Research & Education Facility in nearby Verona, Wisconsin. The O.J. Noer station has 13 acres devoted solely to turfgrass research plots and attendees can expect approximately 100 exhibitors demonstrating their latest products, services or equipment. Attendees will also have an opportunity to participate in guided tours of the more than 80 research plots.”
The week’s events will include equipment and product demonstrations, a wide range of exhibits, an educational symposium, TPI’s annual business meeting, tours, social events and The Lawn Institute Memorial Golf Tournament, (a popular fundraiser for turfgrass research and education).
Scheduled tours include Wisconsin’s scenic House on the Rock and a Madison City tour that will include visits to the State Capitol, Olbrich Botanical Gardens and the Overture Center of the Arts.
The TPI Symposium will feature leading turfgrass specialists who will address a variety of topics including but not limited to: “Weed Control Options for Commercial Turfgrass Sod Production,” “Heat Tolerant Bluegrass – A New Option for Turfgrass Sod Production?,” and “Environmental Impact of Lawns: Science & Perception.”
Among the scheduled speakers are Chris Williamson (University of Wisconsin), Ron Calhoun (Michigan State University), Travis Teuton (University of Missouri) and John Stier (University of Wisconsin).
Also scheduled to speak is award winning Ag Broadcaster, Max Armstrong of WGN Radio Chicago and host of the nationally syndicated radio show, “Farming America”. Max will discuss the “Economic Forecast of the Agricultural Industry”. TPI’s summer banquet will take place at the Tommy Barlett Water Show in scenic Wisconsin Dells.
Additional information and registration forms are available online at TPI’s Web site (www.TurfGrassSod.org ). Anyone interested in receiving additional exhibitor or attendee information should contact TPI at 800/405-8873 or 847/649-5555 or e-mail kbutler@TurfGrassSod.org