Equity, Data, and the Future of Sports Facilities
Release Date: 05/08/2025
Equity, Data, and the Future of Sports Facilities
Cornell Clippings Podcast
What makes a great playing field—and who gets to decide? In this episode, we dive into the often-overlooked world of sports field management with Dr. Chase Straw, Assistant Professor of Soil and Crop Sciences at Texas A&M. We explore the unequal access to youth sports facilities, the health benefits of participation, and how data and mapping tools can drive more equitable investment. From the environmental tradeoffs of synthetic turf to the pivotal role field managers can play in facility planning, this conversation unpacks how interdisciplinary research and better decision-making can...
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Bermuda grass in Changing Climates
Cornell Clippings Podcast
Bermuda grass is creeping north. Nebraska Extension Turfgrass Specialist Roch Gaussoin joins the podcast to share an update on Bermuda research becoming a viable solution across the Midwest. He explains how to maintain turf in shifting climates, compares seed costs, and discusses why Bermuda is often preferred over Zoysia for its superior recovery and growth potential. Stay Informed with Cornell Turfgrass: For more insights, research-backed strategies, and the latest turf management updates, visit . Stay connected and join the conversation—follow Cornell...
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What Do Golfers Really Want from the Game?
Cornell Clippings Podcast
While distance and lightning-fast greens might sound ideal, most golfers prioritize smooth surfaces, even lies, and good company. In this episode, we unpack new research from Myers College and the University of Copenhagen that explores how age, skill level, and geography shape what players value most—and what it means for course design and management. Stay Informed with Cornell Turfgrass: For more insights, research-backed strategies, and the latest turf management updates, visit . Stay connected and join the conversation—follow Cornell Turfgrass on , ,...
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Agronomy at the Masters: Augusta National Golf Club
Cornell Clippings Podcast
It’s Masters week, and this episode breaks down the mystery behind Augusta National’s putting green speeds and agronomy, comparing official mowing heights with real-world performance. We explore the specialized mowers used for flawless transitions and dive into USGA data on how mowing direction influences ball rollout. Stay Informed with Cornell Turfgrass: For more insights, research-backed strategies, and the latest turf management updates, visit . Stay connected and join the conversation—follow Cornell Turfgrass on , , and for expert advice,...
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Garden State Turf
Cornell Clippings Podcast
Did you know turf grass covers 20% of New Jersey? Discover why turf plays such a significant role in the Northeast’s landscape and environmental management strategies. Stay Informed with Cornell Turfgrass: For more insights, research-backed strategies, and the latest turf management updates, visit . Stay connected and join the conversation—follow Cornell Turfgrass on , , and for expert advice, live discussions, and educational content throughout the growing season.
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Developing Relationships with Parks and Coaches
Cornell Clippings Podcast
Renovating local parks requires more than just an engineer developed plan, rather a turf scientist to development local sports fields. Learn how the Cornell Turfgrass team revitalized Ithaca’s Cass Park field by collaborating with athletic directors and coaches to manage field usage. Hear practical advice on balancing resources, planning renovations, and labor considerations that are often overlooked. Stay Informed with Cornell Turfgrass: For more insights, research-backed strategies, and the latest turf management updates, visit . Stay connected and join the...
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Managing Fertilizer Inputs As Spring Approaches
Cornell Clippings Podcast
Rebuilding damaged turf areas requires strategic inputs. Learn how to use starter fertilizers, nitrogen applications, and consistent watering to reestablish growth. This episode provides practical advice on recovering winter-damaged spots and understanding what areas can bounce back with the right care. Stay Informed with Cornell Turfgrass: For more insights, research-backed strategies, and the latest turf management updates, visit . Stay connected and join the conversation—follow Cornell Turfgrass on , , and for expert advice, live...
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Pick Up Sticks: First Steps in Spring Lawn Prep
Cornell Clippings Podcast
March is the perfect time to prepare your lawn for the growing season. Discover how microclimates caused by pavement and buildings impact grass health and weed growth. This episode offers a guide to creating a spring maintenance checklist, tackling problem areas, and setting up your lawn for success. Stay Informed with Cornell Turfgrass: For more insights, research-backed strategies, and the latest turf management updates, visit . Stay connected and join the conversation—follow Cornell Turfgrass on , , and for expert advice, live discussions, and educational...
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Warming Up Golf Surfaces & Managing Winter Injury
Cornell Clippings Podcast
Dr. Kevin Frank of Michigan State University shares expert insights on preventing and recovering from winter injury on golf courses. Discover how soil temperature monitoring, protective covers, and turf pigments can be used. Plus, explore the benefits and drawbacks of using black sand for heat retention and effective strategies for re-establishing damaged greens. Stay Informed with Cornell Turfgrass: For more insights, research-backed strategies, and the latest turf management updates, visit . Stay connected and join the conversation—follow Cornell Turfgrass on , , and for expert...
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Growing Degree Days in Turf 101
Cornell Clippings Podcast
Growing degree days (GDDs) are critical for golf managers to predict plant growth and plan seasonal maintenance. This episode features a climate expert, Dr. Art DeGaetano, from Cornell’s Northeast Climate Center discussing how temperature fluctuations influence grass response, helping managers fine-tune turf care strategies for optimal results. Stay Informed with Cornell Turfgrass: For more insights, research-backed strategies, and the latest turf management updates, visit . Stay connected and join the conversation—follow Cornell Turfgrass on , , and for expert advice, live...
info_outlineWhat makes a great playing field—and who gets to decide? In this episode, we dive into the often-overlooked world of sports field management with Dr. Chase Straw, Assistant Professor of Soil and Crop Sciences at Texas A&M. We explore the unequal access to youth sports facilities, the health benefits of participation, and how data and mapping tools can drive more equitable investment. From the environmental tradeoffs of synthetic turf to the pivotal role field managers can play in facility planning, this conversation unpacks how interdisciplinary research and better decision-making can create greener, fairer play for everyone.
Stay Informed with Cornell Turfgrass: For more insights, research-backed strategies, and the latest turf management updates, visit turf.cals.cornell.edu.
Stay connected and join the conversation—follow Cornell Turfgrass on YouTube, Facebook, and X for expert advice, live discussions, and educational content throughout the growing season.