OCG - Sports Turf Management

South Carolina Standards:  (List the standards students are expected to master in this course)

UNIT A   Developing Leadership Skills in Agriculture

Lesson 1. Planning and Organizing an FFA Meeting

Student Learning Objectives:. Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Explain how to plan a meeting and develop the order of business.
2. Describe how to set up the meeting room.
3. Explain the parliamentary procedure used in an FFA meeting.

Lesson 2. Developing an Awareness for Your Community

Student Learning Objectives:. Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Describe the meaning and importance of community service.
2. List and identify community service organizations.
3. Explain how FFA members can be involved with community

    improvement and development.             

Lesson 3. State FFA Degree

Student Learning Objectives:. Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. List the requirements for the State FFA Degree.
2. Explain how a FFA member can obtain the State FFA Degree.

 

UNIT B   Supervised Experience in Agriculture

                        Lesson 1. Keeping and Using SAE Records

Student Learning Objectives: Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Explain how SAE records are organized.
2. Identify the procedures to making entries in the SAE records.
3. Explain how to summarize and analyze the SAE records.

                        Lesson 2. Making Long Range Plans for Expanding SAE Programs

Student Learning Objective: Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

:                                   1. Identify the factors that should be considered in expanding an SAE program.

2. Explain how placement and ownership SAE programs may be expanded.

 

UNIT C         The Sports Turf  Industry

Lesson 1— Career Opportunities in Sports Turf

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Identify the career opportunities in the sports turf industry.
2. Be able to describe the job responsibility of any sports turf crew member.
3. Understand the training requirement to be a professional in the field of sports turf.
4. Use the web site: www.greenindustry.com.

Lesson 2— Types of Sports Fields and Management

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Identify the three main types of sports fields.
2. Explain the three critical features in sports field management.
3. Describe the dimensions of a football field, baseball field, and soccer field.

Lesson 3 — The Turfgrasses Used for Sports Fields and the Management

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Identify the four major turfgrasses used for sports fields.
2. Learn to describe the major characteristics of each sports turfgrass.
3. Understand the use of different turfgrasses for different sports fields.

 

UNIT D                      Sports Field Construction

Lesson 1— Establishment

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Identify three basic types of sports field construction
2. List the steps needed for establishing or renovating a field.
3. Identify some specific aspects of construction needs for football, soccer, baseball and softball fields.
4. Explain how a sports field should be prepared for planting.
5. Describe the methods used to establish sports field turfgrasses.
6. Explain why cool and warm season grasses should be established at certain times of year.
7. Properly read a label to ensure that you are purchasing the highest quality seed, sod and sprigs.
8. Calculate an area and the amount of seed and fertilizer needed for a sports field.
9. Use a rotary spreader and a drop spreader.

Lesson 2— Use a Surveyor’s Level

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Identify all the equipment used in this surveying activity.
2. Correctly set up a tripod for mounting an instrument.
3. Securely and correctly mount a survey instrument on the tripod.
4. Level the instrument.
5. Accurately read a leveling rod using the instrument.
6. Layout and flag a course to survey.

Lesson 3— Laying Out the Sports Field 

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. layout a 3-4-5 triangle.
2. Use an automatic level, plumb bob, measuring tape and leveling rod to locate corners of a sports field.

Lesson 4— Determine Size and Slope of the Sports Field 

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. List the officially recommended dimensions of a high school soccer field, football field and baseball field
2. Using a tape measure, measure the dimensions of your high school athletic fields.
3. Using a leveling rod and automatic level determine if the fields are properly graded for the best

drainage results.

 

UNIT E         Turf Care Practices

Lesson 1— Fertilizing  

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1.   Describe the types of fertilizers used on sports fields.
2. List 13 nutrients required by turfgrasses.
3. Describe the basic fertilization process for sports fields.
4. Explain the parts of a fertilizer label.
5. List the characteristics of fast release and slow release fertilizer.
6. Explain how to avoid fertilizer burn on turfgrasses.
7. Explain the pros and cons of fertilizer / pesticide combinations.
8. Calibrate and use both rotary and drop type spreaders.
9. Make calculations necessary to buy and apply fertilizers.

 

Lesson 2— Watering  

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

                                    1,  Discuss how turfgrasses utilize water.

2. List the factors that must be considered when planning a turfgrass irrigation program
3. Identify the visual symptoms exhibited by turfgrasses under water stress.
4. Identify methods to measure soil water content.
5. Explain how pan evaporation measurements can be used to determine irrigation amounts.
6. Test an irrigation system to determine its delivery rate and distribution uniformity.
7. Explain the differences in the drought resistance of various turfgrasses.

Lesson 3— Mowing

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1.   Explain how the physiology and growth of turfgrasses are affected by                                       mowing.
2. List the factors that determine the best cutting heights for turfgrasses on sports fields.
3. Explain how the one-third rule is used for mowing frequency.
4. Explain how sports fields are striped to create attractive patterns.
5. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of reel and rotary mowers.
6. Identify the common growth regulators used on turfgrasses and their advantages and disadvantages.

Lesson 4— Managing Soil Compaction and Thatch Build up

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1.   List the reasons that cause soil compaction of a sports field.
2. Define the ideal soil composition by volume.
3. Describe the most effective soil cultivation methods.
4. List main reasons causing a sports field to have a thick thatch layer.
5. List the main methods used to control thatch.
6. Explain the process of topdressing and why it is beneficial.

Lesson 5— Special Management Practices

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1.   Mark off the boundaries of basic sports playing fields.
2. Maintain skinned surfaces on baseball / Softball fields.
3. Protect a field for non-sporting events.
4. Overseed a sports field.

 

UNIT F          Irrigation System Installation and Maintenance

Lesson 1— Laying Out a Sports Field for Irrigation

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. After being given the gallons per minute (GPM) flow rate, water pressure (PSI), and field

dimensions, the student will use a catalog to select the type and then determine the number of sprinklers necessary to water the entire area.

2. Using the above information, the student will make a scale drawing that clearly shows the following:

- the location of the incoming water line.

- the dimensions and proportional size of the field.

- the irrigation supply line connected to the

  incoming water line.

- the irrigation lateral lines.

- the location of the sprinklers on the laterals.

3. Give 4 reasons why you selected the sprinkler you chose.
4. Locate the main water line on the actual field.
5. Layout with flags, tape measure, and/or auto level, the main supply line 6 feet from the outside edge of the field.
6. Layout with flags, tape measure, and/or auto level, the irrigation laterals.
7. Layout the sprinklers along the laterals with flags and a tape measure.

Lesson 2— Planning for Irrigation

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. determine what questions should be asked of the local utility companies and municipal

       authorities regarding home irrigation installation.

2.     visit the site and determine:

- flow rate of the water system

- pressure of the water system

- location of the water meter

- slope of the property

Lesson 3— Sketching the Layout

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1.   Visit a site and sketch a 2 dimensional layout of the property.
2. Take accurate measurements regarding size and location of beds, trees, shrubs, building, sidewalks, driveways etc.
3. Using the sketch and measurements, develop an accurate and clear layout of the site, showing all points that need consideration regarding the irrigation system.

Lesson 4— Selecting the Irrigation System

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1.   Determine the best irrigation system for a given lawn or landscape.
2. Determine the number and type of sprinklers to use for complete coverage.
3. Give reasons for selecting a particular brand of system.
4. Give reasons for selecting the controller and sprinklers for the system.

Lesson 5— The Electrical System

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Connect the field wires to a valve solenoid following manufacturer’s specifications.
2. Connect 120 volt power to a low voltage transformer to operate a doorbell.
3. Connect a single pole light switch to a light to aid in understanding the flow of electricity.
4. Identify wire sizes by reading the plastic wire coatings.
5. Identify the U.L. on electrical supplies.

Lesson 6— The Plumbing System

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Cut pipe (of different types) to a specified length.
2. Properly join PVC pipe using the demonstrated solvent welding method.
3. Properly join PE pipe using PE pipe clamps or hose clamps.
4. Properly cut and thread galvanized steel pipe.
5. Properly cut and solder copper pipe.

                        Lesson 7— Programming an Irrigation Controller

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Program an irrigation controller to turn specified valves on and off at specified intervals.
2. Explain in detail how the field wires are connected to the controller, this includes the ground and the neutral.
3. Explain all the features of the controller and how each is programmed to work.
4. Demonstrate how to install the back up battery for the clock.
5. Demonstrate how to program the controller for calendar date, time of day and watering intervals.
6. Be able to explain their watering interval selection.

Lesson 8— Replacing the Irrigation Valve

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Locate the valves, carefully dig up the valve box, remove the valve (either by cutting it out if it is glued in place or by disassembly, if it is screwed together with threaded fittings).
2. Locate and carefully dig up valve boxes around valves that need to be replaced. Do this without damage to surrounding pipe.
3. Remove the valve either by cutting it out if it is glued in place or by disassembly if it is screwed together with threaded fittings.
4. Select correct valve for replacement.
5. Reinstall valve using PVC pipe and fittings.
6. test valve with full water pressure (must have zero water leaks).
7. Replace valve box and smooth all disturbed soil.
8. Clean and return tools to their proper location.

 

UNIT G          Turf Equipment and Maintenance

Lesson 1— Using a Grooming Tool

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Identify the various types of reel type mowers and where they are used.
2. Identify the proper safety practices to use when in the presence of or as an operator of a reel type mower.
3. List the proper maintenance procedures to use when operating a reel type mower.
4. Adjust the reel to bedknife setting on a reel type mower as recommended by manufacturer.

Lesson 2— Using Rotary Mowers

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Identify the various types of rotary mowers and where they are used.
2. Identify the proper safety practices to use when in the presence of or as an operator of a rotary mower.
3. List at least seven proper maintenance procedures a person should use as an operator of a rotary mower.

Lesson 3— Using the Boom Sprayer Correctly and Safely

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Identify the basic components of a boom sprayer used on sports fields.
2. List the three types of pesticides used on sports fields.
3. List five procedures to use when operating a boom sprayer on a sports field to assure proper application of the pesticide.
4. List the proper safety practices to use when applying pesticides with a boom sprayer on a sports field.
5. Identify the proper maintenance procedures the operator should use when operating a boom sprayer.
6. Use the proper procedure for calibrating a boom sprayer.
7. List four regulations of pesticides that are enforced by the FIFRA law.

 

UNIT H         Pest Management

Lesson 1— Sports turf Weeds and Controls

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Identify two grassy weeds and five broadleaf weeds.
2. Discuss how good turfgrass cultural practices help prevent weed infestation.
3. Describe the basic weed control used in managing sports turf.
4. Explain how herbicide classification relates to use.
5. Explain how to control broadleaf weeds and annual and perennial weedy grasses.
6. Outline a basic weed control program for sports fields.

Lesson 2— Turfgrass Diseases and Controls

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Identify five major turfgrass diseases: dollar spot, brown patch, pythium blight, snow molds,

     and spring dead spot

2. Describe the main disease control methods
3. Explain how to prevent turfgrass disease by cultural management
4. Describe the concept of pathological nematodes and control

Lesson 3— Turfgrass Insect Pests and Controls

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Describe the two major ways in which insects pests attack turfgrasses.
2. Identify five insect species that are serious pests of turfgrasses.
3. Describe the life cycle and characteristics of major turf insects: white grubs, cut worms, armyworms, chinch bugs, and mole crickets
4. Explain the main insect control methods.

 

UNIT I          Human Resources and Financial Management

Lesson 1— Human Resource Management

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. List the main aspects of human resource management in a Turfgrass operation.
2. Write a job announcement for an opening in a turfgrass business.

.                       Lesson 2— Employee Motivation

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. List three things that a turfgrass manager does to motivate the maintenance crew.
2. Describe basic motivational tactics.
3. List three challenging areas in people management.

            Lesson 3— Financial Management

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Describe the various types of records that are kept by a turf manager.
2. Explain how to prepare a budget plan.
3. Learn how to use computers in financial management.
4. Identify the major expenses in turfgrass management.
5. Describe the steps in a purchase process.
6. List four areas in which a turfgrass manager can save money.

Lesson 4— A Successful Interview

Student Objectives,  Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Prepare for a job interview.
2. Write a resume.
3. Write a cover letter.
4. Conduct a successful interview.

 

Unit J  Developing Communication Skills

Lesson 1—Introduction to Communication

Student Learning Objectives: Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Define communication and explain its purpose.
2. Identify the components of the communication process.
3. Identify the five different levels of communication.
4. Explain the barriers of successful communication.
5. Explain the relationship between communication and leadership.

Lesson 2—Organizing and Presenting a Persuasive Message

Student Learning Objectives: Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Explain the steps in preparing a persuasive message.
2. Describe delivery techniques in a persuasive message.

Lesson 3—Using Communication Skills In Appropriate Situations

Student Learning Objectives: Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Understand the role of communication skills in the workplace.
2. Understand how to present a problem to a supervisor.
3. Identify the techniques used in requesting information from a supervisor.
4. Explain the role of written communication in an agribusiness.

 

Unit K  Gaining Employment

Lesson 1—Developing Goals

Student Learning Objectives: Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Explain the process of goal setting.
2. Describe the terms and types of goals.
3. Explain some aspects of effective goals.

Lesson 2—Finding a Job

Student Learning Objectives. Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Describe information sources for job opportunities.
2. Develop a system to evaluate job openings.

Lesson 3—Applying for a Job

Student Learning Objectives. Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Explain how to research a job opportunity.
2. Describe two methods of applying for a job.
3. Identify the common types of information requested on a job application form.

Lesson 4—Writing a Résumé and Letter of Application

Student Learning Objectives. Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Explain the purpose of a résumé.
2. List the main items that should be included in a résumé.

            3. Describe the purpose of a letter of application and its primary elements.

Other Standards:  (List national or local standards students are expected to master in this course)

 

• AFNR National Standards
  • Cluster Skills
    • 08.01.01.a. Identify standard tools, equipment, and safety procedures related to a specific task.
    • 08.01.01.b. Set up/adjust tools and equipment related to complete a specific task.
    • 08.01.01.c.Use tools and equipment appropriately to complete a specific task.
  • Plant Systems
    • 03.02.04.a. Observe and record environmental conditions during the germination, growth and development of a crop.
    • 03.02.04.b. Monitor the progress of plantings and determine the need to adjust environmental conditions.
    • 03.03.03.b. Describe types of pesticide controls and formulations.
    • 03.03.03.c. Employ pest management strategies to manage pest populations, assess the effectiveness of the plan and adjust the plan as needed.
    • 03.03.04.a. Explain risks and benefits associated with the materials and methods used in plant pest management.
    • 03.03.04.b. Explain procedures for the safe handling, use and storage of pesticides.
  • Power, Structural, and Technical Systems
    • 04.04.01.b. Install and/or repair pipes and plumbing equipment and fixtures.
    • 04.04.01.c. Evaluate work products or samples for quality and efficiency of workmanship following architectural and mechanical plans.
    • 05.02.01.a. Recognize common electrical symbols.
    • 05.02.01.b. Read and design schematic drawings for an electrical control system.