b'Why Seed Experts Make theROD COCKERLINEVP SALES, NEXEEDGolf Experience Better rcockerline@nexeed.ca @NexeedIncnexeed.caTO THE PASSINGobserver, grassa great help in selecting varieties.more or less all looks the same. Paying attention to detail. But when it comes to a golf course,We have in-depth discussions with theres more than just colour toseed companies about soil com- Lessons from Brad: Good consider.position, site-specific conditions Seed developers have firsthandand salinity levels. This allows usLeadership is Contagiousexperience with the challenges andto narrow down our choices and conditions specific to their region,choose turfgrass varieties thatIN THE WORLD OFbusiness, good leadership has a providing valuable insights. Bythrive in the unique environmentalcontagious effect that spreads fast, encouraging people leveraging their expertise, I canfactors of each golf course. Theirto raise the bar for themselves. I have personally wit-make tailored decisions that suitguidance minimizes potentialnessed this, thanks to two people who have had a big the unique characteristics of eachissues and maximizes turf perfor- impact on me: our founder, the late Brad Plummer, golf course we develop in differentmance. and Ryan Floyde, our Alberta territory manager.regions of the U.S.In the past, we experimentedBrad had a unique way of instilling in us the When collaborating with turfwith combining different varieties,importance of doing whats right and being account-developers like DLF, we discussand we could visibly see the differ- able. He would never hesitate to jump in his truck our specific concerns and issues.ences between them. This experi- and drive a long distance to make something right. Choosing the right species/ ence made me value consistency inOne instance stands out in my memory where variety. Whether its combatinggolf course conditions. Brads influence on Ryan became apparent. It summer diseases in a hot regionLooking back, the varietyinvolved a delivery mistake that threatened to disrupt or addressing winter diseases inmixing scenario made me realizea crucial installation. The mix-up seemed insur-a colder climate, their experiencethat there are numerous exter- mountable, with our millwrights and electricians with different grass varieties is cru- nal factors, such as maintenanceon-site and time ticking away. Ryan stepped in.cial in identifying the best options.practices, watering, soil types, andRyan recognized that the solution lay a few Their recommendations ensuremore, that can affect the out- hundred kilometres away with a supplier who had that we select turfgrass varietiescome. By reducing the number ofthe component we needed. Without hesitation, he with a proven track record in simi- varieties used, I aim to minimizetook charge, making arrangements and even offering lar conditions, effectively defend- potential issues. to cover any incurred expenses. His problem-solving ing against prevalent diseases, andAdditionally, when workingapproach was truly impressive.provide seed variety recommenda- with bentgrass greens in the south- Within hours, Ryan obtained the required part tions that will be sustainable forwestern region, we initially focusedand promptly returned. What could have been a dis-the chosen region.heavily on drought and heat toler- astrous problem transformed into a resolved situation, DLFs Scott DeBolts vastance. However, we overlooked thewith the customer up and running in no time.knowledge and experience in theimportance of maintaining winterRyans commitment to delivering exceptional field of seed propagation has beenactivity in those climates. service showcased the contagious influence of Brads This realization has nowapproach. Ryan later said to me, I got to do what become an integral part of theBrad would have done.selection process, ensuring that weWhile we have eagerly embraced technological consider a grasss ability to remainadvancements in seed processing (like colour sorting), active during the winter monthsour commitment to personal connections remains alongside its tolerance to droughtthe foundation of our business. We believe in being and heat. physically present, establishing genuine relationships, and providing exceptional service. This commitment, inherited from Brads legacy, lies at the core of our approach.The spirit has shaped our company culture. It ROSS LAUBSCHER serves as a constant reminder of the importance of DIRECTOR OF AGRONOMY, doing whats right, going above and beyond and striv-BLACK DESERT RESORT ing for greatness. As we carry Brads legacy forward, ross@blackdesertresort.com we embrace new technologies and approaches while@BlackDesertUT staying grounded in the values that have defined our blackdesertresort.com success for the past three decades.20GERMINATION.CASEPTEMBER 2023'