About National turfgrass federation
The National Turfgrass Federation (NTF) is a non-profit organization that has been dedicated to the advancement of turfgrass science and technology since its inception. The NTF is committed to promoting the use of turfgrass for recreational, aesthetic, and environmental purposes. The organization's primary goal is to provide information on the latest research and development in turfgrass science.
The NTF Home Page provides access to a wealth of information on national cultivar testing for all major turfgrass species. This testing program, known as the National Turf Evaluation Program (NTEP), evaluates new varieties of grasses for their adaptability, disease resistance, drought tolerance, and overall performance under different environmental conditions.
The NTEP program was established in 1981 by a group of researchers from various universities across the United States. Since then, it has become one of the most comprehensive cultivar evaluation programs in the world. The program evaluates over 5000 plots annually at more than 30 locations across North America.
The results from these evaluations are used by seed companies, sod producers, golf course superintendents, landscapers and other professionals involved in turf management to make informed decisions about which grass varieties are best suited for their specific needs.
In addition to providing access to NTEP results through its website, the NTF also offers educational resources such as webinars and workshops on topics related to turf management. These resources are designed for professionals working in various sectors including sports fields management; golf course maintenance; lawn care services; parks & recreation departments; landscape design & installation firms among others.
One key area where NTF has made significant contributions is sustainability practices within the industry. With growing concerns about water conservation and environmental impact associated with traditional lawn care practices such as fertilization or pesticide application - there's an increasing need for sustainable solutions that can help reduce water usage while maintaining healthy lawns or sports fields.
To address this issue, NTF has partnered with other organizations to develop best practices for sustainable turf management. These practices include the use of drought-tolerant grasses, integrated pest management, and soil health improvement techniques.
The NTF is also involved in advocacy efforts aimed at promoting the benefits of turfgrass to policymakers and the general public. The organization works closely with government agencies, industry associations, and other stakeholders to ensure that turfgrass remains a viable option for recreational and environmental purposes.
In conclusion, the National Turfgrass Federation is an essential resource for anyone involved in turf management. Its commitment to research and education has helped advance the science of turfgrass while promoting sustainable practices within the industry. With its extensive database of cultivar testing results and educational resources - it's no wonder why NTF is considered a leading authority on all things related to turfgrass science.
turfresearch.org
