Exchange of experience and knowledge has become a necessity

'Sports fields' study day June 15, 2023 (Beveren) great success

Being responsible for a soccer field or sports complex is no easy task these days. There is less and less time to get a field ready for next season, and expectations are getting higher and higher. Occasionally with fewer resources and budget, that too.

Hence the need for the exchange of experience and knowledge. So this was the purpose of this study day. No commercial fuss, just the exchange of experience and knowledge. And it was a success.

Importance of soil samples and water analysis

It was kicked off by Stan Deckers of the soil department of Belgium, who very expertly pointed out the importance of soil samples for the sports field manager. After all, it is the only way to gain insight into what is available in the soil, and thus adjust fertilization accordingly. Also examples of the importance of water analysis to be able to reduce certain problems in the turf to, for example, excess trace elements or the cause of excessive pH in the soil.

Increased efficiency and water conservation

Paul Dupas of ICL further discussed the boundary conditions of watering, timing and frequency to achieve increased efficiency for the grass while still saving water. In the context of climate change, there was also a sidestep to the possibilities with sunscreen of green color and how to apply it.

Sprinkler system

Using very clear diagrams and figures, Raf Bresseleers of Hydroplan explained what the professional can expect from an existing sprinkler system and what areas need improvement. Moreover, a lot of 'tips & tricks' were given to optimize the installation.

Weed pressure and pests

Then Ronny Lambrecht of Groenservice brought some slopes of how to deal with weed pressure and pests in a chemical-free way. There are possibilities but also quite a few limitations. Finally, there was the machine presentation and tour of the newly sown field of Beveren. All in all, a very successful study day, where the absentees were truly wrong.