b'Micrologicals: Small in SizeROSS LAUBSCHERAGRONOMY DIRECTOR, but Giant in ImpactREEF PRIVATE EQUITYross@blackdesertresort.comTHE SHIFT OVERthe last fewthem less suitable for large volume generations towards large-scalesupply chains. This opens an oppor-agriculture has brought immensetunity for smaller companies like us productivity benefits but someto embrace a unique market position. Seed Experts Help Givecumulative degenerative effects onIn fact, smaller-scale companies have soil health too. One way to addressa critical role in bringing microbio-the Best Golf Experience some of sizing ups spinoff impacts islogicals to agriculture, as they bring by increasing our focus on the micro- fresh perspectives, agile decision-TO THE PASSINGobserver, grass more or lessend of the spectrum.making, and efficient operations to all looks the same. But when it comes to a golfMicrobiologicals include a diversedevelopment and production. These course, theres more than just color to consider.group of bacteria and fungi that cantraits allow companies like us to tap Grass is to a golf course what a foundation is to ahave a significant beneficial impact oninto untapped opportunities, foster house.Seed developers have firsthand experiencecrop health and production. Humansinnovation and unlock the immense with the challenges and conditions specific to theirhave been intentionally applyingpotential of microbiologicals. region, providing valuable insights. By leveragingmicrobiologicals for generationsIntroducing microbiologicals their expertise, I can make tailored decisions that(think Rhizobia, which farmers havecomes with its own challenges. Soil suit the unique characteristics of each golf courseappreciated for its nitrogen fixationhosts a complex and interconnected we develop in different regions of the U.S.since the late 1800s). Microbiologicalscommunity of organisms, and any When collaborating with turf developers likehave broad applications, from biofer- change can have ripple effects DLF, we discuss our specific concerns and issues.tilizers to biopesticides and more.throughout the microbiome. Ensuring So what are those unique needs? Some, like Bacillus subtilis, cross theconsistent quality and viable prod-Choosing the right species/variety. Whetherboundaries between categories,ucts is key for efficacy. Consequently, its combating summer diseases in a hot region oroffering benefit in multiple applica- microbiologicals face rigorous regula-addressing winter diseases in a colder climate, theirtions. We expect that some group- tory scrutiny, making it difficult to experience with different grass varieties is crucial inings will offer even greater benefitsachieve approval for their use in crop identifying the best options.when suitably combined.production.Paying attention to detail. We have in-depthUnlike other biostimulants thatBringing microbiologicals to discussions about soil composition, site-specifichave a short-term impact on plants,market is undoubtedly a challenging conditions and salinity levels with seed companies.microbiologicals, as living organisms,endeavor. It requires cutting-edge This meticulous approach allows us to narrowhave a longer-term effect, workingscientific capabilities, adept regulatory down our choices and choose turfgrass varietiesthroughout a plants lifecycle and atnavigation, and above all, unwavering that thrive in the unique environmental factors ofthe soil health level too. This distinc- dedication to innovation. The invest-each golf course.tion sets microbiologicals apart andment and effort involved though are There are numerous factors involved in thehighlights their huge potential forworthwhile: these tiny organisms offer selection process, and its challenging to pinpointsustainable agricultural practices.unique and long-term benefits to soil a single right or wrong decision due to the manyThe pursuit of microbiologicals ishealth, crop health and production. external variables at play.not a priority for ags multinationals. In the past, we experimented with combiningThese companies rely on complex, different varieties, and we could visibly see thescalable supply chains to meet pro-differences between them. This experience madeduction demands. As living entities, me value consistency in golf course conditions,microbiologicals pose challenges in as it is a crucial measure of quality. Looking back,storage and transportation, making the variety mixing scenario made me realize that there are numerous factors, such as maintenance practices, watering and soil types, that can affect the outcome. This realization has now become an integralSIMON WATTpart of the selection process, ensuring that we con-CHIEF TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION sider a grasss ability to remain active during theOFFICER, ACTIVATE AG LABSwinter months alongside its tolerance to droughtsimon@activateaglabs.comand heat. activateaglabs.comSEPTEMBER 2023 SEEDWORLD.COM /41'