Some Delaware Nutrient Management Program certified turfgrass managers find it difficult to maintain nutrient management and pesticide certifications, though 66 DE nutrient management continuing education credits (CEUs) were available in turfgrass or ornamentals in 2016 and 57 in 2017. The number of DE nutrient management credits offered for turf and ornamental programs is in line with poultry credits, yet many turfgrass managers apply for CEUs for out-of-state programs. Often, these programs are not pre-approved in Delaware. There is a need for more programs offering CEUs in Delaware.

RESPONSE

The Turfgrass Management Short Course was offered in each county in 2018 to those who feel challenged to obtain continuing education credits. Erik Ervin and Amy Shober presented from New Castle County; Jarrod Miller presented from Sussex County with the locations linked through Zoom Video Conferencing. The final program was offered in Kent County in December. Topics included turfgrass selection, weed control, soil testing, and seasonal fertility needs. Delaware, Maryland and New Jersey credits were offered for nutrient management and pesticide certifications.

IMPACT

Attendance for the three programs was 68 with 87% (59/68) completing the evaluation. Respondents reported managing 2,100 acres of turfgrass, representing 5.6% of Delaware’s 37,600 acres of turfgrass. Participants were asked if they learned anything new.

94% (56/59) learned something new about turfgrass selection
100% (59/59) learned something new about weed control programs
81% (48/59) learned something new about soil testing
89% (53/59) learned something new about seasonal fertility needs

Participants were asked if they would implement or change a practice based on the information they learned.

76% (45/59) will implement or change their turfgrass selections
83% (49/59) will implement or change their weed control program
71% (42/59) will implement or change their soil-testing program
83% (49/59) will implement or change their spring and summer fertility programs

Recognition of sponsors: Delaware Nutrient Management Commission provides funding to support Nutrient Management Program salary and funds to cover travel and supplies.