Dr. Michael Maurer was recruited by the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources to instruct the Turf Grass Culture and Management class. Many students who participate in the class are agriculture majors, however turf grass management can appeal to a variety of students.

This career path can not only be used for golf course superintendents, it can be used in a diverse group of jobs. This job could appeal to students with job interests ranging from sales to coaching. Salesmen of turf grass equipment can advance their career from this experience. They will be able to understand the uses of the equipment and use this knowledge to direct their customers to the proper equipment more efficiently.

Students interested in coaching sports could benefit from this class because it would provide a background in turf grasses and the knowledge to treat the grass where students play sports.

"Some high school coaches take responsibility for the field management which they coach on," Maurer said. "These students who wish to be coaches could fill their science requirement with turf management."

Although this class is not available every semester, many students could benefit from the knowledge. Turf grass management could attract people interested in parks and recreation careers to help with handling rangeland. Cemeteries use turf grass on their facilities. The cemetery groundskeeper would use turf grass management techniques on a daily basis.

Maurer would like to perform research watering practices focusing on water quality and quantity on grass. With more research, a more drought tolerant turf grass could possibly reduce watering among golf courses and throughout West Texas. He believes there should be a concern for the resources available within the area and hopes he can contribute to the process.

There are approximately 12 students currently enrolled in the program; however, Maurer hopes to see the number of students grow with time. The program has been in effect for a couple of years. It is increasing in number every semester.

The program has created a club for students interested in turf management. Nathan Neuman, senior plant and soil science major, is one of the founders of the Turf Grass Club.

"We are trying to promote the turf grass profession and show the opportunities available in turf grass," Neuman said.

The club is designed to research and promote different types of grass for turf purposes. The club was started four years ago and Neuman currently serves as the president. Neuman has enjoyed playing golf for many years and decided to choose a career path thatwas golf related. He has found turf management to fulfill this desire.

Club meetings are held at the beginning of each month. During these meetings a variety of speakers inform students of job opportunities as well as uses and practices within turf management.

In September 2000, the first Tech Turf Open was held. This golf tournament was played at Meadow Brooks Golf Course and was a fundraiser for the club. The tournament was open to the public and provided exposure for the program. The club hopes to have a tournament every semester.

Maurer is positive about the program as well as its growth. He also appreciates the support from people in the program.

"The community and people in the turf grass arena have been very supportive of the program. The local superintendents are happy to have us here," Maurer said.