Virginia Tech, in conjunction with Virginia Turfgrass Council, hosted their annual Turfgrass Field Day on Thursday June 27. 

Approximately 100 turfgrass professionals and enthusiasts braved the heat and humidity to come and learn how to incorporate cutting-edge research into their field management. 

"The importance of our research is growing each year with both industry professionals and elected officials," said Tom Tracy, excutive director of the Virginia Turfgrass Counsil. 

Jill Eyler, Chief of Staff to Senator Bill DeSteph, attended to learn more about the Hampton Roads AREC and to express appreciation for distributing pollinator seeds to members of the General Assembly.

The day started off with a guided tour of the research plots. Presentations by Virginia Tech’s faculty emphasized the practical applications of their studies on turfgrass breeding, pest management, disease control and sustainable practices.

The rain held out just long enough for attendees to make their way inside for the classroom instruction. The second half of the field day did not dampen the enthusiasm for this collaborative learning opportunity

Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) agents and Virginia Tech faculty spoke on regulations and best management practices for safety and sustainability. Attendees also had the opportunity to discuss questions directly with researchers. 

“We aren’t here to give you a hard time, our goal is to support our growers and work as a team,” said VCE agent Nikita Higgins. 

Thank you to all who attended this event to learn how we can best support turfgrass.