From lawns, parks and roadsides to golf courses and athletic fields, turfgrass plays a vital ecological and economic role in our state. Each year new golf courses, sod farms and athletic fields are being developed in the state. The new gaming industry in the state has created a tremendous need in this area.
Commercial turf improves our quality of life in many ways.
Well managed turf provides a pleasing look while reducing sun glare, noise and summer heat. It also improves our environment by contributing to the oxygen cycle, purifying the air and filtering water. It also reduces athletic injuries, compresses to artificial surfaces, while providing for outstanding characteristics to play sports such as golf, football, baseball and soccer in Mississippi. Thick thatch layers in turf provide a uniform, protective home environment for many pests such as insects and mites. When such pests occur, turf managers should consider three major control methods including cultural, biological and chemical control in their IPM program.