Everyday Education

Each year we welcome a couple of turfgrass interns studying from schools around the country. This year we have Justin from Kirkwood Community College, Iowa and Alek from Michigan State University. They get involved in almost every aspect of the operation.

First they learn the property and become familiar with the grounds. From there they are involved with the various mowers, rollers and other turf equipment. Playing the golf course is important so they can see how the course plays so they can set up the golf course appropriately. Next they graduate to cultural practices such as aerification, topdress, verticutting and venting. We spend a lot of time training them on fertilizer and pesticide applications. It is most important to understand how to use each product safely and efficiently. 

They both offer different skills and experiences to the staff, but overall they are here to learn as they hope to become a golf course Superintendent someday. Through the season they are also involved with small projects. 

One of the great advantages to an internship in Colorado is that they can learn a lot about irrigation. By the time the fall semester rolls around these guys are experts with a hose!