For those interested in pursuing a potential career in turfgrass management, or experienced industry professionals seeking supplemental education, the University of Tennessee is launching the UT Certified Lawn Care Professional Program.
Despite its name, this introductory-level online program is designed for anyone interested in golf turf, sports turf and lawncare management. It is targeted toward everyone from industry newcomers to experienced turfgrass professionals seeking supplemental education.
"The course content takes a from-the-ground-up approach to introducing and exploring the world of turfgrass," said UT extension specialist Anna Duncan. "For new or prospective turfgrass professionals, this will provide a strong foundation of knowledge that will prepare them for a successful start in their career and to be an effective member of a turfgrass management team. For more experienced folks, this course may provide an opportunity to explore the concepts of variety selection, pest management, and others in a new or more in-depth way."
The course is taught by University of Tennessee faculty and staff, and is entirely online so students can learn at their own pace.
"This course utilizes the research of the UT turfgrass team and delivers those findings and recommendations in an approachable, digestible way," Duncan said. "Course topics are taught through short, engaging videos and written materials."
Topics that are covered include:
• Introduction to UT Extension
• Turfgrass Identification
• Turfgrass Selection
• Soil Fertility
• Water Management
• Planting and Establishment
• Turfgrass Weeds
• Turfgrass Diseases
• Turfgrass Insect Pests
• Integrated Pest Management
• Maintenance and Operation of Turfgrass Equipment
Instructors include: Jim Brosnan, Ph.D., John Sorochan, Ph.D., Brandon Horvath, Ph.D., Tom Samples, Ph.D., Natalie Bumgarner, Ph.D., Christopher Cooper, Ph.D., Kyley Dickinson, Ph.D., Anna Duncan, Justin Stefanski, Mitchell Mote, Taylor Reeder, Seth Whitehouse, Jason Garrett, Tyler Carr, Ben Pritchaerd and Jose Vargas.
Click here to register.
A Spanish-language version will be available later this year.