OTA April Meeting Recap - 2025

Our April Ozark Turf Association meeting, sponsored by Harrell’s, was well attended with 38 members participating in our educational event. Dr. Xi Xiong from the University of Missouri presented information on the history of billbugs in Missouri along with research on the best control methods.

Prior to Dr. Xiong’s presentation, members were treated with a wonderful breakfast buffet, put together by the staff at Osage National Golf Resort, with many of the following favorites, eggs, sausage, bacon, and sausage gravy and biscuits

After the education event, members headed out to play the Mountain and Links nines of Osage National, and after prizes were handed out, some of the members went to check out the renovations of the River nine. Host superintendent Jeff Sommerer and his staff had the course in great condition for our golfers.

Results are as follows:

Proximity winners were,

Mountain # 2 sponsored by Brandt - Matt Strong from VanWall Equipment

Mountain # 4 sponsored by Harrell’s - Chuck Ermisch from Ermisch Golf Architecture

Links # 4 sponsored by SiteOne - Paul Lewis, Golf Course Superintendent, L. A. Nickell G.C. City of Columbia

Links # 8 sponsored by GreensPro - Les Lents staff at The Oaks, Margaritaville Resort

Scramble Team Results:

With a score of 61 - Team Margaritaville, Superintendent Jay Ballad, staff members Les Lents, Spencer Melville, and Chuck Sharamito.

2nd place with a score 64 - Jed Spencer with Harrell’s, Joey Roberts, superintendent, Holiday Hills, Cody Gray, superintendent at Carthage G.C. and his assistant, Ryan McInerney.

3rd place with a score of 67 - Brad Seidt, golf course superintendent at Lake Valley Golf Club, his assistant Chris Smith, along with Austen Gearhart with Advanced Turf Solutions.

Individual Results paid out two flights, 3 places:

First flight -

1st place - Aaron Borland with a 76

2nd place - Randy Robinson with an 81 - Central Region GCSAA representative

3rd place - Travis Thompson with an 82 - assistant superintendent The Oaks at Margaritaville

Second fight -

1st place breaking a tie using the scorecard, Kolby Armbruster golf course superintendent Ledgestone Country Club with an 85

2nd place with an 85, Russel Cole, Kansas Golf and Turf

3rd place with an 89, Tyler Cook, assistant superintendent L.A. Nickell.

Low Net was Melvin Waldron III, CGCS, superintendent at Horton Smith Golf Course who took advantage of his high handicap and breaking a scorecard tie finished with a net score of 74.

Thanks again to our host Superintendent Jeff Sommerer and all of the staff at Osage National Golf Resort, Jed Spencer and sponsor Harrell’s, and Dr. Xi Xiong for our education presentation.

OTA Facilities Participate in Rounds4Reserch.

The Ozark Turf Association is participating in the Rounds 4 Research golf auction this week.  A portion of the proceeds for this year’s auction are earmarked for our recent donation of $750 to support the turf research farm at the University of Missouri.  Other funds disbursement will be discussed by the OTA board. 

The auction runs from Monday April 21 until Sunday April 27.  Visit the auction site www.rounds4research.com  to bid on our chapter’s courses or courses throughout the country.

Ozark Turf Association member facilities participating in the auction this year include:

Crestwood Country Club – Jeremy Zinter, Superintendent

Located in Pittsburgh Kansas, Crestwood is an 18-hole championship course and range. Site of many Border War Matches between the OTA and Kansas GCSAA affiliated chapters.  

Highland Springs Country Club – Jonathan Prange CGCS, Superintendent:

Play where the pros play at Highland Springs Country Club, the only home of the Price Cutter Charity Championship, one of the original events on the Korn Ferry Tour, when the tour started as the Ben Hogan tour. 

Holiday Hills Golf Resort – Joey Roberts, Golf Course Superintendent

Holiday Hills – oldest golf resort in Branson Missouri, visit the historic course.

Ledgestone Country Club – Kolby Armbuster, Superintendent:

Visit the number 7 rated course you can play in Missouri, located in Branson, with lodging available on site. 

Shadow Valley Country Club – Ethan Charles, Superintendent:

Shadow Valley Country Club is a premier golf course and country club in Northwest Arkansas.

Springfield Golf and Country Club – Bryan Simmons, Superintendent

Springfield Golf and Country Club is in Springfield MO, 18-hole championship course.

The Ozark Turf Association board thanks these superintendents and their facilities for donating rounds to help fund research. 

Make sure to make your bids on these rounds!

OTA Member achieves Class A Status from GCSAA

The Ozark Turf Association congratulates OTA member, Jeremy A Zinter, GCSAA golf course superintendent at Crestwood Country Club, Pittsburg, KS, who has achieved Class A membership status by meeting the standards established by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).

Jeremy A Zinter has been the superintendent at Crestwood Country Club and an Ozark Turf Association member since 4/1/2024.  For more information, contact Jeremy A Zinter at 9186984599 or grounds@crestwoodcountryclub.com.

GCSAA Class A membership is awarded to members who are currently employed as a golf course superintendent and have met specific requirements in the following categories: formal education, a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education and at least three years of experience as a golf course superintendent. To demonstrate environmental stewardship, Class A members have either provided proof of a valid pesticide application license or have passed the GCSAA Integrated Pest Management examination.

GCSAA Class A status is the preferred membership class of the association and is a standard for the golf course management profession. Golf facilities employ GCSAA members because of their focus on overall facility success. This is because they understand what constitutes an enjoyable experience for the golfer and what it takes to make a facility financially successful.

GCSAA is a leading golf organization and has as its focus golf course management. Since 1926, GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the United States and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to more than 21,000 members in more than 72 countries. GCSAA’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org.

The Ozark Turf Association is an affiliated chapter of GCSAA, covering parts from Central Missouri, down through Springfield and Branson, west to the Joplin area, with members also in Northwest Arkansas and Eastern Kansas.  They are headquartered in Battlefield MO.  Visit the Ozark Turf Association at www.ozarkgcsa.org

OTA Members Attend GCSAA Chapter Leadership/Executive Symposium

The GCSAA leadership symposium brought together leaders of 33 of the 94 chapters located across the country. The Ozark Turf Association was represented by Vice President Kolby Armbruster, golf course superintendent at Ledgestone Country Club, and Secretary/Treasurer, Melvin Waldron III, CGCS, golf course superintendent at Horton Smith Golf Course, who also serves as the chapter’s volunteer executive director.  

Two days of networking, leadership seminars, and breakout sessions had the room buzzing.  Items discussed varied from communication and marketing of our chapter, event and fundraising activities, Rounds 4 Research, and getting involved in local FFA chapters.  One leadership seminar discussed the Predictive Index, a workplace assessment tool that measures behavioral drives and cognitive ability, helping organizations understand people and teams, improve talent management, and make better hiring and development decisions.  Another leadership seminar discussed building successful teams and a deep dive into motivators and communication. 

During the breakout session of chapter leaders, attended by Kolby, emphasis was put on developing a board orientation program.  Most people do not get involved because of the perceived time commitment.  But the common theme was that once people do get involved, they quickly realize the time commitment typically isn’t as much as previously thought.  Other items discussed were the importance of establishing committees (education, fundraising, etc), developing succession plans for board members, and recruiting tactics for new board members.

During the breakout session for chapter executives, attended by Mel, most of the discussions were how chapters were setting up meetings, working to keep meetings affordable by creating dialog to get the best deals.  Some chapters found success in getting free golf by looking at private clubs, who were not losing tee time revenue and enticing them with spending more on food and beverages. They were seeing an increase in attendance by going to facilities that members usually would not normally be visiting.  There were also discussions on looking at different types of events, bowling was a popular one, as was attending minor league sporting events and other events geared towards families.      

Overall, the symposium was a great event.  It also provided a networking event on the second evening with our Central Plains Region representative, Randy Robinson, as six chapters from the Central Plains Region were represented.

If anyone hasn’t stopped in at Lawrence to see the headquarters, it’s worth the stop, if passing through.

Paxton Completes EMCP Level 1

Mark Paxton, Equipment Manager for Highland Springs Country Club, home of the Korn Ferry Price Cutter Charity Championship, has completed Level 1 of the Equipment Management Certificate Program, (EMCP).  The program managed by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) provides training and skills recognition for golf course equipment managers. 

Mark was alerted to the program by Diana Kern, Senior Manager of CTEM Certification and Certificate Programs at GCSAA, when Mark attended the Ozark Turf Association Equipment Managers meeting held last October at Big Cedar Golf Resort.  Mark joined GCSAA at that meeting and started working on Level 1 of the EMCP.  His next step will be to complete Level 2 of the EMCP program and eventually become a Certified Turf Equipment Manager (CTEM).  Mark was supported in his efforts by his Golf Course Superintendent at Highland Springs, Johnathan Prange, CGCS.

The Equipment Management Certificate Program Level 1 is a series of exams designed to demonstrate proficiency in key competency areas related to turf equipment. This certificate program is available to any and all turf equipment technicians regardless of whether you work for a golf course.

The program is made up of eight exams covering the key competency areas of:

• cutting units

• drivetrain systems

• electrical systems

• engine technology

• hydraulic systems

• metalworking and fabrication

• spray systems

• fundamentals of turfgrass operations

For other OTA equipment managers interested in the GCSAA EMCP and eventually earning CTEM status, contact Diana at GCSAA and plan to attend the 2025 OTA Equipment Manager/Assistant Superintendent meeting to be held in October at Big Cedar Golf Resort, presented by VanWall Golf Equipment, the John Deere distributor for our area.   

Results of the 2025 OTA Bowling Meeting

The Ozark Turf Association held their annual bowling meeting on a cold sunny day last Friday at Enterprise Park Lanes, the lanes that the pros bowl on. 

First place in the 9-pin no tap was Greg Nichols, assistant superintendent at Schifferdecker Golf Course rolling a 705.  Second place went to Joey Roberts, superintendent at Holiday Hills Golf Resort with a 642, and third place went to Barry Siems of Precision Turf Products bowling a 591.

The winning team consisted of Gary Nichols, OTA President, Jonathan Prange, CGCS superintendent at Highland Springs Country Club, OTA Vice President, Kolby Armburster, superintendent at Ledgeston Country Club, Sam Richart, superintendent Fremont Hills Country Club, and Tyler Fishel of GreensPro.

The most improved bowler this year was Jon Prange, who had an 111 average from previous seasons of bowling, who this year rolled games of 220, 177, and 152.  In golf, that’s called sandbagging, I don’t know what they call it in bowling. There were a few scores where bowlers were nowhere near their averages, which seems common when most of us bowl only once a year.

We also recognized outgoing OTA President Maron Towse, superintendent at Schifferdecker Golf Course. 

Thanks go out to the staff at Enterprise Park Lanes for hosting us for another year. 

OTA Holds Education Day and Annual Meeting

On January 21, 2025, Ozark Turf Association members gather at Highland Springs Country Club to listen to quality education, meet with vendor partners and network at their annual education day sponsored by VanWall Equipment.

Registration started early after which attendees could grab coffee and pastries and meet with our many vendor partners. 

OTA President Maron Towse welcomed everyone and introduced our first speaker, Chuck Ermisch of Ermisch Golf Course Architecture, who’s topic, “Golf Architect, Artist or Advocate”.  Chuck spoke on how the golf architect could be a great advocate to the superintendent, by communicating reasons when designing to avoid creating maintenance issues. 

Our second presentation was on “Managing Winterkill and Spring Dead Spot”, which seemed appropriate with the outside temperature in the single digits.  Dr. Mingying Xiang, Assistant Professor from Oklahoma State, and Dr. Wendall Hutchens, Assistant Professor from the University of Arkansas, presented their portion of the GCSAA Conference class to the OTA members.  They provided information and research to help combat these issues. 

After their presentation, the attendees enjoyed a hot buffet lunch sponsored by Precision Turf Products. 

After lunch, members had some more time to visit with our vendor partners.  We thank our vendor partners who took the time to travel and meet with members, they included, VanWall Equipment, Precision Turf Products, SiteOne, Redexim Turf Products, Kansas Golf and Turf, The Andersons, Envu, Harrell’s, Syngenta, Professional Turf Products, GreensPro, Reinders, BWI, and Clear Creek Golf Cars and Utility Vehicles. 

After the lunch break, we had some GCSAA updates from Randy Robinson, GCSAA Central Plains Representative.  He gave us updates on GCSAA programs that are coming, such as training and retention programs to help keep skilled crew members.  He also talked about how GCSAA programs that chapters can take advantage of like First Green and FFA to reach out to students that might spark an interest in becoming part of the industry.  He also congratulated Chris Berry, an assistant superintendent at Highland Springs for completing his Assistant Superintendent Certificate Series, administered by GCSAA.

After Randy spoke the Ozark Turf Association held their annual meeting. After the meeting was called to order, the 2024 minutes and the Secretary/Treasurer report were read and approved by the members. 

Elections followed with Jonathan Prange, CGCS, golf course superintendent at Highland Springs Country Club was elected to serve as President of the OTA, Kolby Armbruster, golf course superintendent at Ledgestone Country Club was elected to serve as Vice President, Melvin Waldron III, CGCS, golf course superintendent at Horton Smith Golf Course was retained as the OTA Secretary/Treasurer.  Bryan Simmons, golf course superintendent at Springfield Golf and Country Club was elected to a 3-year term of director and joins Brad Seidt, golf course superintendent at Lake Valley Golf and Country Club and Chad Hoerschgen, golf course superintendent at Millwood Golf and Racquet Club on the board.  Barry Siems of Precision Turf Products and Mark Slaughter of GreensPro remain on the board as industry liaisons.  Maron Towes of Schifferdecker Golf Course moves to the position of Past President and Mike Irvine of Springfield-Greene County Park Board retires from the OTA board.    

OTA Member Completes GCSAA ASCS

Christoppher Berry, the second assistant golf course superintendent at Highland Springs Country Club completed the Assistant Superintendent Certificate Series (ASCS) administered by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) sponsored by John Deere.

Christopher’s career started at 15 working at a small nursery before transitioning to the golf industry, going to work at Tokatee Golf Club in Blue River Oregon.  There he was introduced to various roles from grounds crew, irrigation technician, equipment manager assistant, to eventually the second assistant superintendent.  While working at Tokatee, Christopher attended Walla Walla Community College and graduated with an AS in Turf Management and Aquatics Certification from Penn State. 

After eight years, Christopher transitioned back into the landscape industry, working for a landscape construction firm as an assistant manager, where he gained valuable insights into time management, business operations, and financial planning.  He eventually went on to own his own landscape construction company, before returning to Springfield Missouri where Christopher had spent some of his early childhood. 

After arriving back in Springfield, Christopher worked for a couple of landscape companies before the golf industry lured him back in, when Johnathan Prange, CGCS, golf course superintendent at Highland Springs hired Christopher in the open second assistant position.  After getting back into the golf business, Christopher discovered the opportunity to enhance his expertise through the GCSAA ASCS program, where he diligently worked to complete, with the approval of Highland Springs and more importantly the support of his wife of 20 years and their three children.

For more information on the ASCS, contact GCSAA or our GCSAA Central Section Field Representative Randy Robinson.     

Photo: Randy Robinson on the left, Christopher Berry on the right. Photo credit Melvin Waldron

OTA Member Receives Melrose Equipment Management Experience

Ozark Turf Association member, Brenton Daniels, Equipment Manager at Ozark National, Big Cedar Lodge, will be attending the 2025 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show through Melrose Equipment Management Experience.

There are two programs, one the Melrose Leadership Academy for golf course superintendents and the Equipment Management Experience for Equipment Managers.  The programs provide valuable learning experiences, professional development, networking and educational opportunities for superintendents and equipment managers and, in turn, improve the future of the golf course management industry.

Melrose Equipment Management Experience provides professional development for GCSAA equipment manager members. Both programs are administered through the GCSAA Foundation, the philanthropic organization of GCSAA.

Congratulations to Brenton, the OTA is proud to have representation at the show.

Ozark Turf Association Members Recognized for Field of the Year

The Sports Field Management Association and the Springfield Cardinals have announced that Hammons Field, the home of the Springfield Cardinals, the double AA affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, and Missouri State Bears, an NCAA Division I university baseball team, has been named 2024 Professional Baseball Field of the Year.  The SFMA Field of the Year honor is awarded to the best natural grass field among all 120 teams across all levels of affiliated Minor League Baseball. 

OTA Members Derek Edwards, Director of Field and Stadium Operations and Nathan Strait, Manager of Field Operations, received their award at the Sports Field Management Association Conference in Palm Springs California on Thursday night January 16th.

This award is the crowning achievement to their numerus other awards, being recognized by SFMA as the Double AA Field of the Year seven times (2008, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019) and Texas League Field of the Year 11 times. (2007, 2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019).

The OTA congratulates our members Derek and Nathan for recognition of their hard work, skills and dedication to their craft.

Hammons Field is owned by the City of Springfield.   

Dereck on the left and Nathan on the right

2025 OTA Membership and Partner Plans

The Ozark Turf Association has shared their 2025 membership dues and partnership plans by email and on the website.

Membership dues remain the same, $50 for superintendents, $30 for assistants, equipment managers and other staff members.  It is also $30 for associate members, those interested in or growing turfgrass in other industries. 

Vendor memberships are $60 for an individual or $100 for all people working for that company. 

There is a Prepaid meeting plan that offers a discount for attending the April, June, September (Championship), December (Christmas Party x 2) and the 2026 Education/Annual Meeting.  We can prorate that for those employers who like their staff to attend education/network meetings, by not including the December meeting.

Vendors, please check out the partner plan.  There are various opportunities to partner with the OTA and promote your company, no matter the size of your budget.  Partnership opportunities for meetings and prizes will be available first come first serve starting Tuesday January 7, via email.  Time stamp will determine order.  The gold and silver partnerships include memberships with the other benefits.

To see what’s available, go to the about us button on the website and click on the membership button.  Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions. 

Ozark Turf Association Christmas Party

The 2024 Ozark Turf Association Christmas Party sponsored by Professional Turf Products was held at Millwood Golf and Racquet Club, where the guest were treated to assorted crostini’s during the social hour.  All three options were good, but the Bang Bang Shrimp seemed to be everyone’s favorite. 

After the social hour, the main buffet was set up with filet and chicken roulade, roasted carrots and risotto for sides, a salad and rolls.  Dessert featured New York Style Cheesecake and Chocolate cake, both delicious.

For the evening’s entertainment Millwood set up a game of trivia with the main theme being Christmas with categories in music, food, sports, movies and pop culture.  Names were dawn out of a hat to make up the four teams.  A fun contest ensued, with team 1 and 2 taking early leads, but the timely use of the -1 mulligans, used against team 1 by team 2 and 4, and used against team 2 by team 1 and 3, set both teams back.  Team 3 on the strength of consistent rounds landed in the finals against Team 4, which secured the top spot after a strong final round answering Christmas movie trivia.  Team 3 won the head-to-head contest.

Members of the winning team received $50 gift cards, winning team members were Katie Armbruster, Sara Gearhart, Michelle Prang, Paula Slaughter, Mark Slaughter of GreensPro, Matt Strong of VanWall Equipment, and OTA President Maron Towse of Schifferdecker Golf Course. 

The second-place team won $25 gift cards, and were represented by Tyler Fischel of GreensPro, Stacy Hoerschgen, Chad Hoerschgen of Millwood, Sam Richart of Fremont Hills C.C., Maura Towse, Cindy Waldron, Beth Zinter, and Melvin Waldron, Horton Smith Golf Course, who tried to stay out of his teammate’s way. 

A great time was had by all as OTA members came together to celebrate the holiday season.  Thanks go to Millwood superintendent Chad Hoerschgen for hosting our event and the Millwood staff for an enjoyable evening.  We’re already planning next year’s event to be hosted by Kolby Armbruster at Ledgestone Country Club. 

OTA's Chippy Is on The GCSAA Calendar

Another Ozark Turf Association dog has found their way onto the GCSAA Lebanon calendar, this for the 2025 calendar.  Chippy joins past calendar stars Ozark and Zelda.

Chippy (at the time of photo) is a 15-week-old full-blooded Dalmatian puppy.  Chippy calls Holiday Hills Resort and Golf Club home.  Chippy loves to ride in the Gator and closely check the course with his father, OTA member and Holiday Hills Superintendent Joey Roberts.  After the course inspection, Chippy gets a snack and nap for a job well done.

For those attending the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show, make sure to swing by the Lebanon booth, and vote for Chippy! 

OTA Holds Equipment Managers Meeting

The Ozark Turf Association held its first equipment managers meeting for their members on October 23, at Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale Missouri.  The meeting was sponsored by VanWall Equipment along with a GCSAA education grant provided by ClubProcure.  We had 38 equipment managers, assistant superintendents, and superintendents attend.

Diana Kern, GCSAA Sr. Manager, CTEM Certification and Certificate Programs, explained the benefits of GCSAA membership for equipment managers, the continuing education platforms which would help equipment managers obtain if they so choose to, certificates from the Equipment Manager Certificate Programs.  Then she explained the process of obtaining CTEM, Certified Turf Equipment Manager status, and how it benefits the equipment manager and their facility.  

Our main speaker was Mike Rollins from SIP corporation, who gave his presentation “Cutline is King” a presentation that he has given at GCSAA conferences and to local GCSAA affiliated chapters many times.  He spoke about the importance of cutting units being parallel and measuring all points.  After his presentation the 38 attendees had a great BBQ lunch and were able to network. 

Thanks goes to Clinton McKee CTEM, Equipment Manager at Big Cedar for getting Mike to speak at our meeting, and Bubba Wright, Director of Agronomy at Big Cedar and Jeff Steen, CGCS VP of golf at Big Cedar for hosting our meeting.

With the success of this meeting, we expect the OTA Board to support equipment manager meetings in the future.   

Ozark Turf Association wins the 2024 Border War

OTA Border War Recap

The 2024 Border War meeting between the Kansas Golf Course Superintendents chapter and the Ozark Turf Association chapter was held at Hidden Valley Golf Links on day one and Rivercut Golf Course on day two.  Meeting sponsors were SiteOne and Hunter Golf Irrigation. 

On a beautiful October day, the group played a two-person best ball event.  Prizes were awarded in three flights.

In the championship flight, first place went to Maron Towse golf course superintendent at Schifferdecker Golf Course in Joplin and his partner Arron Copeland, they shot a 69.  In second place with a 70 was Mike Irvine, golf facilities supervisor at City of Springfield-Greene County Park Board, and Scott Welsh, golf course superintendent at Bill and Payne Stweart Golf Course.  In third place, with a 71 was Barry Siems, owner of Precision Turf Products and Shawn Spann, with Harrell’s. 

In the first flight, first place went to Matt Strong and Richard Shumate of VanWall Equipment with a score of 77, second place with a score of 78 was Mark Wendler, Ava Country Club and Tyler Fishel with GreensPro, third place was Charlie Thompson, Willow Brook Golf Course and Randy Robinson, GCSAA Central Field Representative, shooting a 78 also.

In the second flight the results were as follow; Russell Cole of Kansas Golf and Turf with Jason Judd, from Ameriturf came in first place with a score of 80, in second place with a score of 81 was Toby Burkhart VP of agronomy with Maxim Golf Solutions and Brian Bauer, golf course superintendent at  Neosho Golf Course, in third place with an 82 was Darrell Easley, superintendent at Windmill Ridge, and Conrad Pennkuk with Syngenta. 

Winner of the proximities were:

Hole # 3 sponsored by Brandt – Jim Pyle, retired.

Hole # 5 sponsored by Precision Turf Products -  Ethan Godderz, assistant superintendent Allen County Country Club

Hole # 11 sponsored by Precision Turf Products – Jason Hallam, Hunter Irrigation

Hole # 16 sponsored by VanWall Equipment – Mark Wendler, Ava County Club

During play golfers stopped by the Doggy Style food truck to try the many different hot dog combinations on the menu, thanks go to Professional Turf Products for providing lunch.

After scores were tabulated and prizes given out, the Horse Race began with 16 teams vying for the traveling trophy along with trophies for the winners, which were reminiscent of a trophy from a famous movie.  As teams were eliminated it came down to the tough par 5 sixth hole.  Mark Slaughter of GreensPro and Jeff Sommerer superintendent at Osage National, outlasted Toby Burkhart and Brian Bauer to bring the trophy back home to the Ozarks, where it currently resides at the OTA World Headquarters. 

After golf, we were treated to BBQ catered in from local favorite, “Getting Basted” with pulled park, sliced brisket, baked beans and coleslaw, courtesy of Kansas Golf and Turf.

Day two was another beautiful day in the Ozarks where the teams played in a 4-man scramble format at Rivercut Golf Course.  Coffee and pastries awaited golfers’ arrival thanks to Rivercut and the Ozark Turf Association. 

Winning first place in the championship flight was the team of Barry Siems, Shawn Spann, Russell Cole and Jed Spencer, (Harrell’s) with a score of 57. Second place with a score of 58 was Scott Welsh, Mike Irvine, Brad Seidt, (superintendent at Lake Valley Golf Club) and Brad Gray (Professional Turf Products).  In third place was the team of Maron Towse, Aaron Borland, Chris Rice (superintendent at Salina Country Club), and Eric Pickrell (Reinders), with a score of 58. 

First place in A flight with a score of 61, was Richard Shumate, Matt Strong, Jason Judd, and Jordan Eyster (Viridity Golf Construction and Landscape).  Second place was the 4.5-man team (although there is some question that the team did not benefit having to drag that fifth person around the golf course) of Mark Slaughter, Jeff Sommerer, LC Lacy, (superintendent Allen County Country Club) Ethan Godderz, and fifth-wheel, Melvin Waldron, (Horton Smith Golf Course), with a score of 62.  In third place with a score of 64 was the team of Randy Robinson, Charlie Thompson, Toby Burkhart and Brian Bauer. 

Proximity winners were as follows:

Hole # 2 sponsored by Brandt – Toby Burkhart

Hole # 6 sponsored by Precision Turf Products – Dustin “Duck” Buckner, assistant superintendent, Hidden Valley Golf Links

Hole # 15 sponsored by Precision Turf Products – LC Lacy

Hole # 17 sponsored by VanWall Equipment – Jim Pyle

We thank our hosts Adam Camp, golf course superintendent at Hidden Valley Golf Links and Mike Irvine golf facilities supervisor for City of Springfield – Greene County Park Board for hosting at Rivercut. 

Thanks again to our title sponsors SiteOne and Hunter Golf Irrigation

Lunch sponsor Professional Turf Products

Dinner sponsor Kansas Golf and Turf

Proximity sponsors Bradt, Precision Turf Products and VanWall.

A great time was had by all!  We’re looking forward to 2026. 

Ozark Turf Association Member Achieves Class A Status with GCSAA

Ozark Turf Association member, Benjamin L McCurry, Golf Course Superintendent at Ozark National Golf Course at Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale, Missouri, achieved Class A status this past month with the Golf Course Superintendent Association of America (GCSAA).  Benjamin was recognized in the September 2024 issue of Golf Course Management magazine. The OTA congratulates Benjamin on his achievement.

For members looking to earn Class A status, it consists of a combination of formal education, experience as a golf course superintendent, continuing education and providing proof of a valid pesticide license or passing the GCSAA IPM Exam. Class A membership demonstrates a personal commitment to lifelong learning, environmental stewardship and elevating the golf course management profession. It also shows employers that their achievements and competencies are documented and validated. For those looking to pursue Class A status, reach out to Randy Robinson, Central Field Representative at GCSAA.

Armbruster Wins OTA Championship

Kolby Armbruster, Golf Course Superintendent at Ledgestone Country Club won the 2024 Ozark Turf Association Championships, presented by Clear Creek Golf Cars and Utility Vehicles in partnership with Club Car.

Armbruster fired a 76 at The Golf Club at Deer Chase in Linn Creek MO, by hitting irons off the tee to keep the ball in play. 

Second place in the Championship flight with a 77 was former three-time champion, Tom Russell, golf course superintendent at Triple Creek Golf Course, beating Randy Robinson, our GCSAA Field Representative, on a scorecard playoff. 

The second flight was won after a scorecard playoff, by Eddie Roach Jr., CGCS of SiteOne Supply, as he edged out Travis Thompson, assistant golf course superintendent at Margaritaville Resort, both shooting 84’s.  Third place in second flight was Conner Antonetti, assistant superintendent at Hickory Hills Country Club. 

The net flight winner was Jonathan Prange, CGCS, golf course superintendent at Highland Springs Country Club with a 70.

In the team scramble division, Team Maxim which consisted of Toby Burkhart, Senior VP of Agronomy at Maxim Golf Solutions, Jeff Adams, golf course superintendent at Frank E. Peters Golf Course, Brian Bauer. golf course superintendent at Neosho Golf Club, and Nic Mitchell territory manager with Corteva, came in first place with a 60. 

In second place with a score of 62 was the team from Osage National led by golf course superintendent Jeff Sommerer and his crew of Brett Randel, Eugene Jesse, and Cole Thomas.

Winning the proximity closest to the pin prizes were as followed:

Hole # 3 sponsored by Clear Creek Golf Cars and Utility Vehicles was Derek Edwards, operations manager of the Springfield Cardinals, AA affiliate of St. Louis.14

Hole # 8 sponsored by Brandt was Travis Thompson.

Hole # 12 sponsored by GreensPro was Tom Russell

Hole # 14 sponsored by Harrell’s was Jeff Adams

Hole # 16 sponsored by VanWall Equipment was Barry Siems, owner of Precision Turf Products. 

Prior to play we were treated to a pulled pork lunch with all the fixings, sponsored by GreensPro. 

Thanks go to Deer Chase superintendent Bret Dulworth and his crew for hosting our event and providing us with a championship venue and conditions.

We also would like to thank Clear Creek Brian Cheever and Joey Johnson for sponsoring the event for the 9th year and for visiting with the players.

We’re looking forward to next year!

Ozark Turf Association Family Fun Night

The Ozark Turf Association held their annual Family Fun Night with the Springfield Cardinals on Friday August 9th, a Fireworks Friday sponsored by Syngenta.

The game featured the Springfield Cardinals, the AA affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals and the San Antonio Mission, the AA affiliate of the San Diego Padres, both in the long running Texas League.  While the Missions won the game 9-0 and we did not see the rally skunk from last year, we did get to admire the handy work of OTA members Nathan Strait field manager, and Derek Edwards operations manager.    

Our OTA family had seats in the home plate dugout deck where we dined (ok some of us grazed) on hot dogs, brats, and the fan favorite chicken strips, along with nacho chips and cheese, popcorn, and cookies.  We had soda and adult beverages to wash everything down.  After the game we watched the famous Friday Night Firework show.

This is one of the OTA events that is a favorite, as our families can catch up with each other during the busy summer, before we head into the home stretch of our season and the kids go off to school.  The 2025 Cardinal schedule is already out, so we will be planning this event for next year.    

Ozark Turf Association Receives Record Amount from Rounds 4 Research Participation

The Ozark Turf Association received $1,636 dollars from their participation in the 2024 GCSAA Rounds 4 Research auction. 

This was a record setting year for both the OTA and GCSAA, where $680,000 was raised by GCSAA affiliated chapters.

The OTA Board has earmarked $1,500 of the amount raised to pay for their portion of the GCSAA Chapter Cooperative research project being conducted at the University of Arkansas, under the direction of Wendell Hutchens, PhD.  The research project is; “Comparing wetting agent application strategies for efficacy and longevity in sand-based putting greens,”

We have joined with the Mississippi Valley Golf Course Superintendent Chapter, the Arkansas Golf Course Superintendent Chapter, the North Texas Superintendent Chapter and GCSAA to provide funds for this research.

We thank the following superintendents and their golf facilities for participating in the auction.

Crestwood Country Club – Jermery Zinter, Superintendent.

Highland Springs Country Club – Jonathan Prange, CGCS, Superintendent.

Ledgestone Country Club – Kolby Armbruster, Superintendent (2 rounds).

Shadow Balley Country Club – Ethan Charles, Superintendent (2 rounds).

Whispering Oaks Golf Course – Kevin Taylor, Superintendent.

Plans are already underway for the 2025 auction, with the dates set for April 21 – 27, 2025.  We hope more of our members will participate.  Funds will be earmarked to support turf research, assist with scholarships, and provide educational speakers and events for members. 

Reinders Joins the OTA as a Gold Partner for 2024

Reinders, Inc. is a family-owned, regional distribution company headquartered in Sussex, Wisconsin. The company's roots run deep - tracing back to a general store, founded in 1866 in Elm Grove, Wisconsin. Today, Reinders offers res/com irrigation, chemicals, seed, turf supply, tools, Winter and Outdoor Living products.  Reinders has joined as a Gold Partner with the Ozark Turf Association for 2024.

We thank Reinders for supporting our members, helping provide education and networking opportunities. 

Please thank Eric Pickrell, territory manager, the next time you see him.

Gold Partnerships include the company logo on our meeting banner for the year, along with the company logo w/link to their website on our website.  It also includes a team and tee sign at our scholarship and research outing.