Get To Know Your Local Turf Orginizations

In 1982 the Wisconsin Sod Farmers Association led a group into the development of an organization that could serve turf related professionals with insight and education into the turf industry. This organization would go on to be known as the Wisconsin Turfgrass Association (WTA).

The WTA is a non profit organization that provides industry professionals with information and knowledge from UW-Madison College of Agricultural Life Sciences. The research conducted takes place at the OJ Noer Turfgrass Research and Education facility which was built in 1992. The funds for the construction of the facility were raised by the WTA and UW Foundation. It is here that researchers explore everything from mowing practices to pest control and even take calls from homeowners looking for the answers to turf related questions.

The mission of the Wisconsin Turfgrass Association is to support turfgrass research and education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This includes funding of programs in turfgrass management and allied disciplines that enhance the understanding and general knowledge of the art and science of maintaining turfgrass. That is the mission as stated by the organization itself.

With an estimated 300,000 acres in Wisconsin, turfgrass has become the fifth largest crop in the state. WTA has done an excellent job at promoting the green industry by funding functions such as the Educational Programs Turfgrass Field Day and WI Turfgrass and Greenscape Expo. These events provide turfgrass professionals the opportunity to become students again and learn the most recent research and latest breakthroughs in the industry.

Whether your in the turf industry or just have self pride in maintaining your homelawn, I recommend familiarizing yourself with the Wisconsin Turfgrass Association.