University of Wisconsin - Extension

Madison - If you long for a great lawn, you are invited to learn how the experts keep grass beautiful and healthy at the Homeowner Turf Field Day, Aug. 16 at the O.J. Noer Turfgrass Research and Educational Facility southwest of Madison.

University of Wisconsin-Extension/Madison turfgrass specialist John C. Stier and faculty from the University of Wisconsin departments of soils, plant pathology, entomology, agronomy and horticulture, as well as the agricultural research stations will be on hand from noon to 4 p. m. to make presentations and answer questions. They will cover a variety of topics, including:

• Weeds

• Establishing and renovating lawns

• Fertility

• Fertilization

• Grass types

• Soil sampling

• Run-off

• Back yard prairies

• Ornamental grasses

• Lawn diseases

Participants who have a particular turf problem can bring in a sample for diagnosis, Stier said. The afternoon program also includes tours of the Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary at University Ridge Golf Course. Tours will leave from the Noer facility at noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. The event is free and people may come and go at any time during the afternoon.

The O.J. Noer Center is a unique agricultural research station, with 13 acres devoted solely to grass. Turfgrass specialists work with people who maintain turf for sports fields, golf courses, parks, and other public spaces as well as with homeowners. It is located at 2502 Highway M. To find it, take Mineral Point Road to Highway M, then turn south and travel about three miles.

University of Wisconsin-Extension and UW-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences sponsor this event. For more information, please call 608-845-6536.