NorthStar Skid Sprayer

The NorthStar® Skid Sprayer Item# 268177 from Northern® Tool + Equipment is designed for applying pesticides and other chemical sprays. It is powered by a 160cc Honda GX160 OHV engine that delivers up to 5 gallons per minute (GPM) with a pressure of 350 PSI.

The NorthStar Comet MC25 direct drive pump is made with anodized aluminum for maximum resistance to corrosion and maximum pressure. It keeps all of its moving parts in a complete oil bath and has industrial-duty ball bearings for durability.

The NorthStar tank features extra-thick walls that will not bulge or sag. This 100 gallon tank is UV-stabilized to reduce fading and other sun damage. It stands up to chemicals thanks to a special polymer known for its chemical resistance.

The skid sprayer has a heavy-duty 3/8″, 150′ hose with a gun that allows users to deliver the chemicals for the most effective pest control, even in hard-to-reach areas. Spray height is 30′. A Coxreel® manual rewind hose reel is included for easy access.

The NorthStar measures 54″ L x 40″ W x 34″ H. It features a large fill neck for easy filling, a rugged steel 2½” tub frame with skid for truck mounting, and an 8″ lance extension. This skid sprayer is not for use with any acid-type products.

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Study: Mixed Grass Could Help Combat Fall Armyworm

A simple change in the choice of grass varieties for many lawns in the United States could be a key tool for fending off fall armyworm infestations, according to new research. A new study on this topic was published on April 22, 2019 in the journal Environmental Entomology, a publication of Entomological Society of America. The study is titled: “Turfgrass Cultivar Diversity Provides Associational Resistance in the Absence of Pest Resistant Cultivars”.

The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a moth species that, in its larval form, can feed on more than 80 plant species, but its preferred hosts are grasses, ranging from crops like corn and sorghum to turfgrasses such as Bermuda grass or St. Augustinegrass. (Photo credit: Russ Ottens, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org, CC BY 3.0 US)

St. Augustinegrass (Stenotaphrum secundatum) is the most common turfgrass species in the southeastern United States, and it is typically planted with a single cultivar across an entire lawn. But multiple cultivated varieties, or cultivars, of St. Augustinegrass are commercially available, and landscape entomologists at the University of Florida and the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently sought to find out which, if any, of those cultivars offered natural resistance to the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), a caterpillar that commonly damages lawns.

Their tests found that none of the six common St. Augustinegrass cultivars rose above the rest in resisting fall armyworm infestation. But, when the cultivars were planted together in mixtures of two or four cultivars, it was a different story. The fall armyworm clearly preferred the single-cultivar plantings.

“We were most surprised by how clear the effect of cultivar diversity was on fall armyworm host selection and feeding,” says Ethan Doherty, biological scientist at the University of Florida’s Indian River Research & Education Center and lead author on the study. “The insects had a consistent preference for the cultivar monoculture plantings, and we saw that the effect of cultivar diversity became increasingly more pronounced as diversity increased from two to four cultivars. We didn’t expect such a clear result.”

Doherty conducted the research as part of his master’s degree studies with advisor Adam Dale, Ph.D., assistant professor of turfgrass and ornamental entomology at UF, and Robert Meagher, Ph.D., research entomologist at the USDA-Agricultural Research Service’s Center for Medical, Agricultural, and Veterinary Entomology.

To test the fall armyworms’ preference among single and multiple St. Augustinegrass cultivars, the researchers conducted a variety of tests. They fed groups of the caterpillars, or larvae, diets of single cultivars to compare the susceptibility of each cultivar to the insects. Then they fed the larvae mixed diets of grass clippings, one cultivar at a time but changing the cultivar every two days. In another test, they placed the larvae in enclosed plantings of one, two, or four cultivars, allowing them to choose among the cultivars in the plantings. In these tests, the larvae were measured for qualities such as weight, development rate, and survival rate.

In a pair of host-selection tests, the team built larger enclosures that each contained three different planting zones — one with a single cultivar, one with two, and one with four. Then they placed fall armyworm larvae or adults in the center of the enclosures and, for larvae, recorded the number that chose each option at various intervals over a period of three days and, for adults, recorded the number of egg masses laid in each planting after three days.

The results offered various indications of the fall armyworms’ preference for single-cultivar diets. In the test that placed the armyworms in plantings of one, two, or four cultivars, for instance, the larvae consumed an average of 52% of the single-cultivar plantings but only 47% and 40% of the two- and four-cultivar plantings, respectively. Similarly, in the test allowing the fall armyworms to choose among the options, the single-cultivar plantings attracted a significantly higher average number larvae than the two- or four-cultivar plantings.

St. Augustinegrass (Stenotaphrum secundatum) is the most common turfgrass species in the southeastern United States, and it is typically planted with a single cultivar across an entire lawn. But multiple cultivars, or cultivated varieties, of St. Augustinegrass are commercially available. A new study shows that, while no single St. Augustinegrass cultivar rises above the rest in resisting infestation by the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), mixing varieties may confer some benefits, as fall armyworms clearly preferred single-cultivar plantings in a series of lab tests. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Why these insects prefer the less diverse grass stands remains to be studied, though it falls in line with principles seen in other plant-insect interactions, Doherty says.

“Associational resistance is the idea that certain plants may confer resistance to neighboring susceptible plants. This is often framed as an insect-resistant plant preventing or deterring insect herbivores from feeding on adjacent susceptible plants,” Doherty says. “A related, broader concept, the resource concentration hypothesis, predicts that increasing plant diversity will reduce herbivore colonization, retention, and feeding. With no resistant cultivars among our tested grasses, our results suggest that plant diversity itself may create a more pest-resistant lawn… but do not elucidate a specific mechanism.”

With St. Augustinegrass and the fall armyworm both common in lawn settings, Doherty’s research has potential to open new avenues for integrated pest management in a variety of urban ecosystems, but he cautions that further research is necessary to investigate similar dynamics in other grass and pest species, as well as to elucidate the specific reasons why cultivar diversity in this case offered such benefits.

“We think that this study is a nice starting point that will set the stage for a series of future experiments,” he says. “Given the magnitude of warm-season turfgrasses in the southeastern U.S. and the monetary and environmental impact of insects, other pests, and their management, this approach could have several benefits. We are several steps from an industry-implemented practice but have generated momentum with additional experiments planned and underway.”

The article, “Turfgrass Cultivar Diversity Provides Associational Resistance in the Absence of Pest Resistant Cultivars,” is available for download at this link.

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Webinar: Why The Growth Of Propane Deserves Your Attention

Because of propane’s benefits and new developments to commercial landscaping equipment that can be powered by propane, more and more landscape contractors, grounds maintenance crews, and municipal departments are considering a switch to propane for their commercial landscaping needs.

View this free video webinar and learn how implementing propane in day-to-day operations can positively impact your business through reduced fuel costs, fewer emissions, and lower labor expenses.

Fill out the form below to view this free video webinar presented by Turf magazine and the Propane Education & Research Council.

Webinar: Why The Growth Of Propane Deserves Your Attention

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Bartlett Tree Experts Will Distribute 21,000 Trees For Arbor Day

This Friday, April 26, 2019, is Arbor Day and to celebrate Bartlett Tree Experts will give away 21,000 tree seedlings in communities across the U.S. These trees will be distributed as part of the Bartlett Legacy Tree Program, which has distributed over 310,000 seedlings since its inception five years ago.

Arborists hand out trees at Chicago’s Millennium Park.

The Legacy Tree Program, celebrating its fifth anniversary, was established by Bartlett Tree Experts in 2014 to support tree planting and stewardship in local communities through the annual distribution of seedlings in schools, at events, and to reforestation efforts. In 2019, a total of 75,000 trees will be distributed by Bartlett Tree Experts employees.  Nearly one-third of those seedlings will be handed out or planted as part of this year’s Arbor Day festivities, events and activities in a variety of locations.

“We encourage every one of our Arborist Representatives to distribute a minimum of 100 seedlings each year,” said Bartlett’s Patrick Franklin who manages the program. “Our Arborists decide how their trees will be distributed.  They love participating because they get to network and meet new people while also promoting the importance of tree planting.  It really has been an amazing way to bring trees and people together.”

With all of Bartlett’s 120+ offices participating in the program over the last five years, the seedlings have been given away in over 30 U.S. states, three Canadian provinces, and numerous locations in greater London in the United Kingdom as well as Dublin, Ireland.

In Massachusetts, students plant seedlings on their school grounds.

“To name a few, we’ve helped plant white oaks to restore the West Linn Savanna in Oregon and distributed thousands at the Philadelphia Flower Show with visitors returning to see us year after year. At one event, 300 seedlings were gone in only 45 minutes!” stated Franklin. “No matter where we are, people love receiving the trees and seeing we have a program in place to help the urban tree canopy.”

The tree seedlings include a variety of native species with the top three being dogwood, redbud, and swamp white oak. Species selection varies by geographic region with a focus on increasing the local diversity of native tree populations.    

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Curtis Industries ROPS Canopy

The Curtis Advantage Series is a universal ROPS canopy from Curtis Industries, LLC, an ISO 9001 certified company that designs and manufactures compact vehicle cab enclosure systems, attachments, and related accessories to enhance user comfort and productivity. Its pivot assembly mounts to straight or angled vehicle ROPS (universal rollover protection systems/structures), including compact and sub-compact tractors and zero turn motors.

The durable Curtis Advantage Series weighs less than 30 pounds and measures approximately 56″ long and 42″ wide at the back, tapering to 37″ in the front. It is constructed of 1/16″ aluminum with textured black powder-coat finish and protective plastic edge trim. The ROPS canopy features integrated steel handles, quick release latches, and self-centering blocks for ease of handling when attaching or removing the product.

The Curtis pivot mount system provides quick installation attaching to the vehicle 2-Post ROPS using two U-bolts. The ROPS canopy snaps into place on the pivot mount and allows for adjustable positioning—it slides 6″ forward or back and angles up to 36° to deliver maximum operator comfort. The canopy can also be reversed for attachment in the rear facing orientation, offering cover while operating the backhoe.

Made in the U.S., the Curtis Advantage Series fits square or rectangular ROPS, including compact and sub-compact tractors and zero turn motors. It is trailerable up to 35 mph and requires 10″ of flat surface on top of the ROPS, 2″ to 3″ ROPS width, and 1½” to 2¾” ROPS thickness. The canopy can be removed in seconds for easy trailering or to maneuver around low obstacles.

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Anchoring Porcelain Pavers In The Windy City

To achieve this project for a high-end apartment building in Chicago, C.R. Schmidt of Warrenville, IL needed to find an effective installation approach.

Olivia Lockett is known colloquially as “the brick chick,” but she and her company are also developing quite a reputation for installing porcelain pavers.

For the second year in a row, Warrenville, IL-based C.R. Schmidt, Inc., took home the top prize from Hardscape North America (HNA) for its installation of a commercial porcelain project. At least part of the company’s success is due to its growing expertise in installing the pavers in an environment where some hardscape companies fear to tread: high in the Windy City sky.

For its 2018 award, C.R. Schmidt was cited for its installation of 24” X 24” X ¾” pavers on four different exterior levels of Optima Chicago Center (now rebranded Optima Signature), a high-end apartment building erected by Glencoe, IL-based Optima. The job totaled approximately 22,000 square feet.

C.R. Schmidt installed porcelain pavers on four exterior levels of Optima Chicago Center (now rebranded Optima Signature), a high-end apartment building in the Windy City. (Photo: C.R. Schmidt)

Lockett, the company’s president, explains that C.R. Schmidt was referred to Optima for the job by the manufacturer of the porcelain tiles, Tile Tech Pavers® of Vernon, Calif. Lockett and Tile Tech paired up for work on another premier apartment building in downtown Chicago that won the 2017 award.

“For this job, we were at the seventh level, the eighth level, the 20th, and then the roof,” Lockett explains. “Any time we’re getting into those high deck levels — and we typically mean anything above about the third floor of a building — wind uplift becomes really important.”

The use of porcelain in these situations is a mixed blessing. Not only does it give designers a tile-like look, but the weight in considerably lighter than conventional concrete pavers. That light weight also means that without the proper installation, uplift can pick them up and fling them around like frisbees.

One solution is to create a system that when combined with the pavers allows them to be anchored. Tile Tech, which besides manufacturing the porcelain pavers and the pedestals on which to mount them, has patented its own wind uplift system, which involves fastening four pavers to a plastic-like tray that combines to give the material being installed the approximate 2” depth of a standard paver.

Securing the pavers against wind uplift involved a system fastening four pavers to a plastic-like tray. (Photo: C.R. Schmidt)

Since winning the 2017 HNA award, Lockett says C.R. Schmidt has used the system on several different projects in the Chicago area, so her crew was quite comfortable with that aspect of the Optima job.

Some other aspects of the job were standardized, while others were not. For instance, the designer used the same pavers on all four levels on which the company worked.

“The idea was consistency,” Lockett says. “They wanted the same general look on all the levels so they could design other things – such as the furniture – with the same color scheme.”

However, she says the mix of amenities on the different levels was amazing, and includes cabanas, spas, a rooftop pool, putting green, and even a dog run.

Also different from level to level was the height of the pedestals on which the pavers were installed.

“We had pedestals that ranged anywhere from 2” with very slim clearances, all the way to 2’,” she says. “All the drainage occurred under the paver surface, and a lot of the electrical was run under the pavers. We had a lot of conduit running under the pavers and then coming up through them at various points.”

Lockett adds at times that became a problem as the company worked to make sure those utilities came though in an attractive way, and that the pavers fit well with the bases of the different amenities.

“We’ve learned a lot about using this uplift system, but we really had to pay close attention to the layout of so many fixtures and site amenities,” she says. “It wasn’t anything new that we hadn’t dealt with before, but there was so much of it we had to get good at it really quickly.”

As with so many projects, speed was definitely required as Optima was anxious to get floors finished and turned over for resident move-ins. The approximately three-month project required C.R. Schmidt to beef up crews and extend work hours to meet the timeline the owner set.

Perhaps not surprisingly, Lockett says one challenge was getting materials delivered high in the air. The project relied on a mix of skip hoist, crane and freight elevator for deliveries. However, that was not the most-challenging aspect of the project.

“The most challenging part of the job was working on top of and with the other trades,” she says. “In theory, we should be the last trade out there, but a lot of the trades were still on-site, and we had to work around and with them to get it all closed up.”

Still, the issues were not enough to keep the company from completing the $650,000 tile job (C.R. Schmidt also did some work on-grade for the developer) well enough to catch the eye of the HNA judges – and Optima executives.

“We’ve been talking with them about some different developments they have across the country,” Lockett concludes. “For instance, they’re doing something similar in Arizona, so I believe we’ll be working with Optima in a similar capacity in the future.”

Schipper is a writer and editor specializing in B2B publishing. She is a partner in Word Mechanics, based in Palm Springs, CA.

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GIE+EXPO 2019 Registration Is Open

Registration is now open for GIE+EXPO 2019. The industry’s largest annual gathering is set for October 16-18 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. Early bird registration is $15 through September 5, 2019; online registration is available at www.gie-expo.com.

According to Kris Kiser, managing partner of GIE+EXPO and OPEI President, the combination of new products, demos, networking opportunities, and education make the show a must-attend event for industry members.

“GIE+EXPO is the place to be for landscape professionals and dealers who want to take their company to the next level,” Kiser said. “Plan to land in Louisville this October for the industry’s biggest show – it’s the place to be if you’re in the outdoor living and equipment business.”

David Weissenfluh, of Green with Envy, LLC has attended the show annually for nearly 20 years. “I come back every year to see what’s new and beneficial for my company,” he said. “There is nothing like talking face-to-face with the representatives in the booth. If you have never attended GIE+EXPO, it’s a must. Trends and products change all the time and all of the new innovations are debuted here.”

There are new trade show hours this year, with the show floor opening for dealers Wednesday, October 16 at 11am. Dealers, distributors, retailers, and the media are invited to this exclusive preview. All attendees are invited beginning at 3pm, which includes a welcome reception until 7pm.

Thursday hours, indoors and out, are 9am – 5pm; Friday the indoor exhibits will be open 8am – 2pm, and outdoor exhibits will be open 8am – 1pm.

And, GIE+EXPO registration includes several opportunities to win prizes. Attendees will have the chance to win both cash and product prizes valued at up to $20,000. Entries for the Fabulous Friday Giveaway and UTV Giveaway are included with show badges, and many exhibitors plan giveaways for attendees who visit their booths.

GIE+EXPO is sponsored by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, Inc. (OPEI), Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS), and National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP).

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Rain Bird ESP-ME3 Irrigation Controller

Rain Bird has updated its ESP-Me controller with a new look and improved functionality. The new irrigation controller model, the ESP-ME3, builds upon the ESP-Me’s most popular features. It also enhances its versatility in both residential and light commercial applications.

“Since 2010, the ESP-Me has been one of Rain Bird’s most popular controllers,” said James Harris, Rain Bird product manager. “In 2016, we updated the ESP-Me to make it Wi-Fi compatible. Now, in 2019, we’ve given it an even more significant upgrade to create the ESP-ME3, the one controller contractors will most want to carry and install.”

Like its predecessor, the ESP-ME3 can expand from four to 22 stations through the use of additional plug-in modules. However, unlike the ESP-ME, the ESP-ME3 comes in a single model for both indoor and outdoor use. This makes it possible for contractors to carry just one controller. The new irrigation controller is now also compatible with an optional flow sensor which alerts users to water leaks and can skip irrigation for any affected stations, thereby minimizing potential property damage and water waste.

When the ESP-ME3 is installed with Rain Bird’s optional LNK Wi-Fi module, users can manage irrigation with Rain Bird’s free mobile app. However, the ESP-ME3 offers new app features not available with any of the company’s other residential and light commercial controllers.

“The ESP-ME3 takes our existing Wi-Fi functionality to a new level,” Harris said. “With this controller, users can enjoy faster app speeds; advanced flow sensing; Cycle+Soak programming for more efficient watering on slopes and compacted soils; and improved manual watering options.”

Thanks to a new, larger, back-lit display, the ESP-ME3 is easier to read in dark or dimly lit environments. The ESP-ME3 also features a dial-based control panel that aligns with Rain Bird’s other “ESP” controllers, but with fewer dial positions for simpler, faster programming.

“When we began developing the ESP-ME3, our goal was to make it the most versatile controller in its class with features our competitors simply cannot offer,” Harris said. “When contractors, distributors, and specifiers look at the ESP-ME3, we want them to view it as a whole solution that answers the needs of more customers than any other residential or light commercial controller on the market.”

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America’s Top 25 Magnificent Historic Gardens Named

Historic Hotels of America are home to some of the nation’s most magnificent and beautiful storybook gardens. With this in mind, the organization has compiled the 2019 Historic Hotels of America Top 25 Most Magnificent Gardens.

The Inn at Montchanin Village (1799) Montchanin, DE

The Inn at Montchanin Village has a full-time horticulturist and its own off-site greenhouses, which provide exquisite colorful landscaping on the grounds. Plantings help define spaces and create private garden nooks for guests to enjoy. The restaurant at the Inn, Krazy Kat’s, offers dishes with herbs and vegetables grown in the gardens of this historic hotel. Guests can access the historic buildings via a maze of ornate gardens featuring beautiful flowers and fragrant herbs.

Antrim 1844 Taneytown, MD

Located within feet of the mansion and the glass enclosed pavilion is the formal rose garden, enhanced by matching bronze fountains with over 100 varieties of English Tea Roses. Guest can wander into the secluded secret garden that features the ancient branches of a majestic elm tree and provide an enchanted feeling for those who enjoy the beauty of nature. The original formal garden was designed and planted in 1844. Traditional plantings include Boxwood, Peonies, Holly Trees, Azalea, Silver Maple Trees, Jonquils, Tulips, and Cannas. There are more than 50 varieties of English tea roses, with many reaching a height of five feet tall. An herb garden is located beside the hotel’s original ice house, which provides the seasonings for the incredible cuisine from Antrim 1844’s Smokehouse Restaurant.

French Lick Resort (1845) French Lick, IN

French Lick Resort is comprised of two historic hotels, French Lick Springs Hotel, dating back to 1845 and West Baden Springs Hotel, dating back to 1902 and designated a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior. Between both hotels, there are over 40 different varieties of flowering perennials and 17 different varieties of summer annuals used each year. Roughly 11,000 summer annuals are planted throughout many flowerbeds, hanging baskets and planters. Trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals can be seen in bloom from April-November throughout the resort. Summer annuals are installed by mid-May. Guests can learn more during events hosted at West Baden Springs Hotel including West Baden Gardening Guidance class and Fall into Gardening class. Both are small group experiences led by Todd Schrank, Head Gardener for the resort.

Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa (1847) Point Clear, AL

The Grand at Point Clear

More than 70 massive live oak trees dripping in Spanish moss are a highlight of the resort’s lush historic landscape. Each historic oak tree is numbered and receives monthly care for future generations to enjoy. Surrounded by brilliant Southern azaleas, roses, camellias, colorful annuals and lush vegetation, the Grand Oaks are legendary. Countless brides and families have taken portraits under the Grand Oaks. From a secret garden for customized meals for couples, to the chef’s garden with more than 70 kinds of edible plants, Grand Hotel’s gardens include 550 pristine acres featuring a stunning selection of color. The expanded estate garden offers beautiful flowers and fresh ingredients for use by the Grand Hotel’s chefs. However, the Grand Oaks and fresh mint are the most beloved garden elements by guests and add to the resort’s Southern charm. Countless annual and perennial seasonal flowers are added the Grand Hotel’s gardens each year. Many of these appeal to the Monarch butterflies which stop at the Grand Hotel on their way to Mexico each fall.

Nottoway Plantation and Resort (1859) White Castle, LA

Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River is the majestic Nottoway Plantation. There are 16 live Oaks that are registered with the National Live Oak Society and remain a cherished element of this resort. Many of the trees are as old as 150 years. Events and wedding ceremonies are planned under the canopies of these majestic trees because of the natural beauty of the branches. A working vegetable garden and herb garden is in use by the hotel’s kitchen to complement dishes with fresh ingredients. Abundant varieties of roses are staples used on the grounds at Nottoway, with more than 100 of them planted throughout the grounds.

Mohonk Mountain House

Mohonk Mountain House (1869) New Paltz, NY

The formal ornamental gardens at Mohonk Mountain House, designated a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, were designed to fit into what was described as ‘the picturesque or romantic style’ of landscape gardening: irregular in form, with variety and boldness of composition, and a scenery of a more rugged nature. One of the outstanding features of the gardens is the combination of sweeping lawns and open vistas with stately trees as focal points, surrounded by spectacular rocky cliffs. Various paths invite guests to wander beyond the formal area and into the rose, herb, and cutting gardens. Cedar-made pergolas, arbors, benches, and summerhouses handcrafted by Mohonk’s rustic carpenters over the past 150 years, enhance the natural aspects of the Mohonk landscape. In honor of the 150th anniversary in 2019, 20,000 tulip bulbs were planted and will be blooming April until mid-May. In honor of the anniversary, this year’s show garden theme is “Garden Jubilation.” It will be a study of classic Victorian cake tiered bedding style with a modern twist. Larger scale plants graduate to shorter bedding flowers in various sections of the garden. Both solid bed plantings and unique combinations are used throughout. Guests can view many classic Victorian annuals as well as many modern varieties.

La Posada de Santa Fe

La Posada de Santa Fe, A Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa (1882) Santa Fe, NM

The gardens at La Posada de Santa Fe, A Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa trace their history back to one of the original owner’s, Julia Staab, and the garden she planted in the late 1800’s. There are many walkways for guests to explore a variety of fruit trees, walnut trees, hickory trees, elm trees, aspen trees, and cherry blossom trees. Some of these historical trees are over 130 years old. Guests can view the beauty of natural grasses with a variety of roses, all shades of lilacs, butterfly bushes, and daffodils. The best time to see the most vibrant blooms is from May to September.

Basin Harbor (1886) Vergennes, VT

Basin Harbor’s historic 700-acre property sits on the shores of Lake Champlain and features over 15,000 square feet of gardens on site. More than 12,000 annuals are planted each year making a lovely backdrop for weddings, family portraits or morning tea. Basin Harbor’s original gardens date back to 1911, when second generation host, Allen Penfield Beach completed his senior thesis at the University of Vermont on “How to Landscape a Resort” and took the thesis literally, laying out the blueprint for the gardens. Guests can enjoy the beautiful gardens from many cottages on property, an Adirondack chair or with 4th generation host Pennie Beach on one of her beehive tours.

Grand Hotel (1887) Mackinac Island, MI

Grand Hotel Mackinac Island

Designated a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, Grand Hotel’s grounds feature over 25 planted gardens that account for over one and a half acres of maintained garden beds. The tour of Grand Hotel’s extensive gardens should always begin with the world famous Front Porch. Measuring 660 feet in length, the hotel’s Front Porch is the world’s longest and completely lined from one end to the other with signature Americana Red Geraniums – 1,375 geraniums in 147 planting boxes and 12 yards of planting soil. Grand Hotel uses more than 2,500 geraniums in all its flower beds. Other gardens that can be seen from the front porch include the Tea Garden right below the hotel. The Tea Garden is home to the beautiful historic English stone fountain, horse and carriage topiary and a historic meandering stone wall lined with cedars and gardens. The Wedding Garden is adjacent to the Tea Garden, and the rose walk lines the west path to the pool and wooded areas. The Triangle Gardens are viewed walking up the hotel and are the most photographed of all the gardens. Guests should walk and view the East and West Garden Beds, The Labyrinth which is hidden adjacent to the pool, and the Pool Gardens. Margaret’s Garden serves as the hotel’s flower shop and provides fresh flowers throughout the hotel and for special occasions daily. The majority of the gardens and surrounding areas have matured over the 132 years Grand Hotel has been established as “America’s Summer Place.”

Jekyll Island Club Resort (1887) Jekyll Island, GA

Whether visiting in winter or spring, the Sunken Garden maintains a distinct regal presence at the resort. Crane Cottage’s Sunken Garden is one of the most notable stops at this historic hotel with its lush trellises making the garden stand out even in winter. The Sunken Garden is a favorite of both locals and visiting guests alike. This timeless garden is the location for countless wedding ceremonies and receptions each year, and even a surprise proposal or two. The Sunken Garden was a part of the original floor plan designed by David Adler and Henry Dangler. Historically, the Sunken Garden was anchored with boxed orange tree that the resort later replicated in the late 2000s. Crane Cottage was designed in 1916 and constructed in 1917. Jekyll Island is a state park of Georgia and the entire island is a certified wildlife habitat, as well as located on the Atlantic Migratory Flyway. In addition to its beautiful historic gardens, the resort is home to some of the best bird watching in the country.

Airlie (1899) Warrenton, VA

Adjacent to Airlie House, the formal gardens at this historic hotel are nearly 120 years old and have remained untouched since their initial plantings. In addition to the boxwood hedges, original fixtures include an Italian bird basin, bird house, and sundial. Located in a secluded corner of Airlie’s front lawn is the Peterson Butterfly Garden, featuring 46 varieties of butterfly-attracting plants native to the region. It also serves as base for the annual Airlie Butterfly Count, a conservation program of The Clifton Institute in association with the North American Butterfly Association. In addition to these two gardens is the organic garden which has been producing vegetables, flowers, and herbs in a four acre organic plot for 21 years. The organic garden with its rows of fragrant herbs has provided the best possible ingredients for the hotel’s kitchens long before the phrase “farm-to-table” became popular.

Castle Hill Resort & Spa (1905) Cavendish, VT

This elegant resort in Vermont is surrounded by beautiful gardens and the majestic pine forests of the Green Mountains. Upon arrival, guests are first greeted by the beautiful gardens which have been maintained, as designed, in the original landscape blueprint. The resort’s landscaping was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., son of legendary landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.

Castle Hotel & Spa (1910) Tarrytown, NY

Castle Hotel & Spa is perched majestically atop one of the highest points in the region overlooking the historic Hudson River in the lower Hudson Valley in New York. This historic castle sits on 10 tranquil wooded acres that provide a respite of refinement and luxury. The manicured grounds provide a magnificent backdrop for the numerous celebrations, events, and weddings held at this historic hotel. The garden room, available for private events or meetings offers views of the manicured gardens and Hudson River.

The Saint Paul Hotel (1910) Saint Paul, MN

The Saint Paul Hotel’s English Garden is a 25 year old sustainable oasis of year-round natural beauty. The hotel and its garden, are landmarks in downtown St. Paul’s cultural corridor. Diners in the St. Paul Grill enjoy panoramic views of the English-inspired garden, complete with vines that drape the walls of the building. The garden is sustainable thanks to the onsite restaurant composting 26 tons of kitchen waste each month. The garden is primarily split into three areas – the “Welcome” garden, a small circular garden near its valet drop-off, the “Perennial” garden and the “Grill” Garden. In addition to these, there is also a Moon Garden, Spring Garden and a Sunken Garden. More than 250 perennials and 60 shrub roses are planted annually. One of the most unique times of the year in the garden is during the holidays, with twinkling Christmas lights strung throughout the landscape. The Saint Paul Hotel offers high tea in warmer months that include a tour of the gardens.

Claremont Club & Spa (1915) Berkeley, CA

The historic Claremont Club & Spa has 22 acres of landscaped gardens. Included throughout the grounds are sumptuous rose gardens. Wild bees are welcomed at the Claremont, with a “bee hotel” on the grounds, designed in organization with “Pollinator Partnership” to encourage bees in the area and pollination in the gardens.

The American Club (1918) Kohler, WI

The Gardens of Kohler were planted in 1913 after Walter J. Kohler, Sr., traveled to Europe to study garden cities. He worked with the Olmsted Brothers, whose landscape firm had designed Central Park in New York City, to plan the green spaces that beautify the Village of Kohler and Kohler Co. campus – including a comprehensive 50-year landscape master plan. A second 50-year plan of growth, under guidelines established by The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, was completed in 1977. This plan actively called for continued community development in the Village of Kohler. In 1981, following the restoration and conversion of what was once a home for immigrant workers of Kohler into The American Club, a luxury hotel, the gardens were developed further. There are over 7,500 annuals planted on the grounds of the hotel each year. All the annuals are grown on the Kohler Campus by the gardening staff at the Kohler Landscape Greenhouses. These annual displays are changed out twice a year to offer returning guests a new seasonal explosion of color. There are a variety of gardens on site, including The Wisconsin Room Courtyard. This garden’s focal point, a grand cedar arbor, supports a variety of decorative vines and casts its majestic shadow upon the bluestone terrace and its surrounding perennials. Another notable feature of the grounds at The American Club is the Fountain Courtyard. This courtyard offers outdoor seating to guests of The Greenhouse, a charming antique solarium from Chorley, Lancashire, in the north of England. There are arbors on each side of the courtyard covered in wild grape vines.

The Broadmoor (1918) Colorado Springs, CO

The Broadmoor’s gardens cover 35 acres. The landscaping and flowering gardens encourage guests to experience several different types of landscape, and the original European theme throughout the resort. As guests drive up the entrance to the main hotel, they view a formal garden with the hedged boxwoods and junipers and a water feature with water lilies blooming on top of the water surrounding the 10 acre lake. In the spring time, over 18,000 daffodils and 25,000 pansies are planted. In the summer there are over 35,000 annual and 12,000 plants scattered in pots and hanging baskets around the resort. In addition to the flowers throughout, Broadmoor Farms grows organic vegetables, herbs, edible flowers and fruits for the award winning Penrose Restaurant and other restaurants. Honey is produced on-site by the Broadmoor bees.

OHEKA CASTLE (1919) Huntington, NY

This historic castle features French inspired formal gardens with fountains, 10 reflecting pools, classic statuary, and tree-lined paths of London Planes, designed by the world-renowned Olmsted Brothers. Original gardens back in the 1920s also included English style walking gardens designed by prominent landscape designer, Beatrix Ferrand. Hollywood has used the backdrop of OHEKA’s gardens in the classic movie, Citizen Kane, as well as being featured in a popular Taylor Swift music video and on the television series, Royal Pains.

Ojai Valley Inn (1923) Ojai, CA

Margaret Sears, celebrated landscape architect created the original gardens for Ojai Valley Inn, dating back to the 1930s. Sears also was responsible for the landscaping in the classic movie, Gone with the Wind. In 2008, Leland Walmsley, grandson of Sears followed in her footsteps and created an expansion to the Inn’s original gardens. Six gardens were added, creating a tropical oasis. Included in the expansion was an organic vegetable garden for the Chef whose restaurant overlooks the restored native creek-side habitat and two outdoor wedding sites. One of the most noted herbs at the Inn is the lavender that is found throughout the resort. Often used in wedding bouquets, lavender can be found planted in numerous places on the grounds, and perfuming the air in the award winning spa.

The Settlers Inn at Bingham Park (1927) Hawley, PA

Muriel’s Garden at Settlers Inn is 38 years old. The garden was named after one of the founders of the Inn, Grant Genzlinger’s Mother. The main structure plantings are descendant plants from Muriel’s original gardens in Philadelphia. Muriel’s Garden is an intimate cottage garden dedicated to the senses-site, sound, scent and taste. There are several tranquil spots throughout: under the background heritage shade tree in the rear of the garden, stone yoga benches by the Lackawaxen River, reflecting benches on the canal towpath trail in the woods.

Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort (1929) Tucson, AZ

Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch was first established in 1929 as a school for girls. Many of the cacti and trees in the historical photos can be seen today, taller and fuller. From the first moment guests enter the 34-acre Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort beautiful flora and fauna surrounds. The walkway up to the historic archway features stunning, desert flowers frequented by hummingbirds, butterflies and lizards. The botanical gardens feature varieties of Agave, Yucca, cactus and multitudes of annuals that bloom seasonally. The resort also features a chef’s garden and a bartender’s garden, filled with herbs, spices and citrus fruits to be used at both of award-winning restaurants on site. Because of Tucson’s mild climate and hearty desert plants, there are beautiful blooms in season year-round.

The Wigwam (1929) Litchfield Park, AZ

This luxury resort is surrounded by gardens and citrus trees, two blocks from Litchfield Park. All of the 331 guestrooms and suites feature outdoor patios, balconies or terraces with views of lushly landscaped gardens, vibrant flowers and mature shade trees. The trellis garden is a popular spot for events and weddings, in a manicured and vibrant outdoor setting.

The Hotel Hershey (1933) Hershey, PA

The Hotel Hershey opened in 1933. What is now called the Formal Gardens was originally known as Highland Park and were in put in place 18 years prior in 1915. The beds that hold the Hotel Hershey’s Formal Gardens were laid out following construction of the Highland Park Reservoirs. The grounds were extensively landscaped with flower beds and hundreds of rose buses cascading down the slopes of Highland Park. The Hershey Gardens are located across the street from the hotel in one of Milton S. Hershey’s legacy properties and overlook the town of Hershey. Hershey Gardens is a 23- acre botanical display garden that features 11 themed gardens, including a historic rose garden with 3,500 rose bushes representing 175 cultivars. In addition to the themed gardens, there is also a seasonal display garden with over 20,000 tulips in the spring, colorful annuals in mid-summer and vibrant mums in the fall.

Royal Palms Resort and Spa (1948) Phoenix, AZ

The grounds at the Royal Palms Resort feature whimsical stone walkways, manicured courtyards, hidden gardens and fountains. There are many lush gardens that can be found at this historic resort, including the Alegria Garden. This private outdoor garden is enclosed by four stone walls and surrounded by vibrant flowers and fragrant citrus trees, making it a great location for celebrating significant milestones. The Jardin D’Amore (Garden of Love) is a sumptuous garden nestled in a quiet, intimate area of the resort with gorgeous views of Camelback Mountain.

Morris Inn at Notre Dame (1952) South Bend, IN

Morris Inn is located on the campus of the University of Notre Dame where landscapers have created numerous gardens of tulips throughout campus. Just steps away from Morris Inn’s front door, over 46,000 tulips line Notre Dame Avenue, campus sidewalks and the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. More than 22 varieties of tulips add to the colorful landscape. Crabapple trees also found throughout campus. Visitors to Morris Inn can take a campus tour or self-guided walking tour to view the campus-wide garden. Many visitors enjoy the tranquility of the Grotto and St. Mary’s Lake as a place for respite and prayer. The tulips are a springtime reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds this historic hotel.

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STIHL KMA 130 R Multi-task Tool

Part of the AP Series of STIHL Battery Products, the KMA 130 R KombiMotor gives professionals the ability to trim, prune, edge, clean, cultivate, and more with 13 optional attachments—all without gas, fumes, or exhaust emissions. The versatility of this multi-task tool makes it suitable for landscapers and groundskeepers alike.

“The battery-powered STIHL KMA 130 R KombiMotor can power up to 13 existing STIHL KombiSystem attachments, the same attachments available for the gas-powered Kombi system,” said Mike Poluka, product manager at STIHL Inc. “With one powerhead, professionals can streamline their operations by saving on storage space and maintenance of multiple units.”

The external AP Series battery source delivers professional-grade power for extensive use on a wide range of applications. It shifts the battery weight to the user’s back or hips, ensuring a lightweight, comfortable, and balanced position, regardless of the attachment being used.

The KMA 130 R KombiMotor features quiet operation enabling it to be used during extended hours, such as early mornings, evenings, holidays, and weekends. Instant starts allow quick movement from one task to another, and the variable speed throttle trigger has three performance levels so the user can select the operation speed that’s best for the job at hand, conserving battery energy and providing maximum run times. Level 1 is 0 -6,300 RPM; Level 2 is 0 – 7,200 RPM; and Level 3 is 0 – 8,500 RPM. In addition, the commercial-grade, brushless electric motor offers optimal performance and durability for a virtually maintenance-free service life.

The KMA 130 R KombiMotor includes a straight, solid steel drive shaft with a lifetime limited warranty; a multi-function control handle that can be adjusted with one hand; and an ergonomic rubberized loop handle for efficiency and comfort. The unit’s toolless quick-release coupling system makes it easy to switch between Kombi attachments and allows the multi-task tool to be dismantled into two parts for easy transport and storage.

The KMA 130 R KombiMotor’s water-resistant design offers landscapers the versatility to operate in wet or rainy conditions and complete tasks with fewer weather delays (STIHL AR backpack batteries are suitable in rainy conditions when used with a rain cover). A vertical hanging slot provides convenient, easy storage.

Batteries, chargers, attachments, and accessories must be purchased separately.

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Get Ahead Of Trends With Propane Powered Equipment

From emissions regulations to high gas prices, propane powered equipment can provide a wide range of benefits.

Commercial propane mowers are no longer a niche product for environmentally-minded professionals in the turf and landscape maintenance industry, but rather a well-established alternative to gasoline and diesel. Propane now fuels more than 27,000 commercial mowers across the United States at the start of the 2019 cutting season, and a dozen mower brands produce more than 150 propane mower models in a variety of zero-turn, wide-area, and stand-on units.

Several trends in the past few years have led to this increased adoption of propane equipment in the industry, including an increasing demand for environmentally-friendly services from consumer customers and public agencies operating their own fleets or bidding out maintenance work to contractors. This is all in addition to high summer gas prices. Not only are these trends going to continue affecting landscape contractors, use of the alternative fuel will continue to provide solutions to meet a wide variety of challenges.

Propane can meet demands for reduced emissions.

Sustainable and environmentally-friendly services, treatments, and designs have been on “top trends” lists from the National Association of Landscape Professionals for several years now and aren’t likely to go away. In fact, in a 2018 survey conducted by the Propane Education & Research Council, a quarter of landscape contractors who responded believe the number of their customers requiring alternative fuels will increase in the next three years. Nearly a third of landscape contractors who responded have also considered using propane mowers.

Propane mowers aren’t just good when it comes to reducing emissions; they frequently meet or exceed current emissions standards for commercial mowers. Contractors using propane mowers reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 17%, nitrous oxide (NOx) emissions by 19%, and sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions by 16%, compared to when using gasoline mowers. These chemicals are all major contributors to ground-level ozone that can cause breathing difficulties and worsen pre-existing conditions such as asthma or chronic respiratory infections.

In communities with “ozone action days,” contractors can continue to mow with propane equipment when gasoline or diesel machines would otherwise be sidelined. In addition, the EPA recognizes propane as a non-contaminant of the air, water, and soil.

Propane mowers also have clean claims over battery-powered equipment. Considering site-to-source emissions, propane is responsible for far fewer SOx emissions than electricity with approximately 30% of the U.S. still relying on coal-fired plants, according to the Energy Information Administration. Propane cylinders can also last nearly 30 years and be recycled at the end of their lives. By comparison, batteries are considered a hazmat material and may require additional costs for disposal.

Rotolo Consultants, Inc. in Slidell, LA uses nearly 100 propane-powered mowers in its fleet. The landscape company is also transitioning close to 100 of its fleet vehicles to propane autogas. Shown here are two of Rotolo’s propane-powered mowers alongside a propane autogas truck.

 

Propane can reduce fuel costs.

Although gasoline prices at the start of 2019 were very low, shifts in the global fuel market along with U.S. demand have steadily increased the average national cost by 44 cents since January 1, 2019, according to AAA. The high gasoline prices of summer 2018 left a lasting memory with many contractors, and forecasts from GasBuddy are calling for gas prices to approach $3 per gallon at the height of the summer work season again. Fuel is often one of the largest portions of a contractor’s budget — and work can’t be done without it.

Contractors looking for long-term cost solutions will find that propane is consistently less expensive than gasoline because of several factors, even when the price of gasoline is low. For starters, the price of propane traditionally falls between the prices of natural gas and oil, which greatly limits market price fluctuations compared to the wild price swings that gasoline and diesel often have in a given season. Additionally, the majority of the propane supply used in the United States is produced in North America, providing cost stability even when global fuel markets fluctuate.

Creating a fuel contract with a propane supplier can also secure a set price for a period of time. This is a sure way to relieve the headaches associated with budgeting for fluctuating gasoline costs.

Propane can be a one-fuel solution.

It isn’t just with commercial mowers that landscape contractors can take advantage of propane’s benefits. Contractors may even be able to go from juggling multiple fuels to finding a one-fuel solution with propane.

Contractors using battery-powered equipment may observe challenges with keeping batteries charged throughout a day or needing to carry as many as five batteries. Instead, adding a small propane inverter generator to a truck or trailer can provide contractors with portable power that can take care of in-the-field charging.

Contractors can also use propane autogas vehicles to reduce emissions and fuel costs. Propane autogas vehicles produce up to 22 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than gasoline vehicles. The alternative fuel can be used in a number of light- and medium-duty trucks, vans, and chassis models thanks to the versatility of the many EPA- and CARB-certified propane autogas conversion kits.

Although it’s no secret that the green industry faces new changes and challenges, by adding propane equipment to a fleet, contractors can find themselves moving ahead of competition and costs.

Wishart is the director of off-road business development at the Propane Education & Research Council. He can be reached at jeremy.wishart@propane.com.

Contractors can register for a free webinar presented by PERC and Turf magazine — “Why the Growth of Propane Deserves Your Attention,” on Thursday, April 25, 2019. Learn more and register here.

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NDS Stormwater Drainage Tools App

NDS, Inc., a provider of drainage and stormwater management solutions, has launched a mobile app for contractors, civil engineers, landscape architects, and DIY homeowners. The “Stormwater Drainage Tools” app calculates stormwater runoff and determines requirements for implementing a variety of drainage solutions.

The Stormwater Drainage Tools app includes NDS’ complete product catalogs for drainage, stormwater management, irrigation, and flow management. It features an easy-to-use calculator that determines runoff in gallons per minute and cubic feet of water per second as well as required pipe diameter for any given drainage need. It also includes a separate calculator for determining the number of dry wells needed for detaining collected stormwater and the type and size of drainage pipe needed based on area size and surface type, the depth and thickness of gravel backfill, and the slope of drainage pipe. In addition, the Stormwater Drainage Tools app links to “Where to Buy” information for purchasing products.

“Our mobile app provides an easy and quick way for determining the amount of water draining from a property and the various ways water can be efficiently stored or managed,” said Sharon Vessels, vice president of marketing and e-commerce for NDS. “The financial cost of a drainage problem can range anywhere from several hundred to tens of thousands of dollars to fix a wet basement, a soggy back yard, a compromised house foundation, or a washed away landscape—which is why it’s important to spot drainage problems early and fix them correctly. With one click, our app connects you to information about drainage products and provides access to our bilingual Technical Services Team who can answer questions—via phone or e-mail—about diagnosis and installation. We are evolving this tool based on contractor feedback and will push an update to the market by July 2019 that will include more powerful diagnosis and installation tools.”

The human health costs of poor drainage on a property can be significant:

• Poorly drained runoff from roofs can enter basements or flow inside homes through foundational cracks or leaks where it can warp floorboards and turn finished rooms into disastrous, mildew, and moldy messes that can attract insects and rodents
• Outside, inadequate or non-existent drainage from gutter downspouts can also create standing water that can harbor breeding spots for mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus, Zika virus, and heartworms

A French drain is a trench filled with gravel, rock, or a gravel-free alternative containing a perforated pipe that directs stormwater away from a specific area, blocks the passage of excess debris, and collects water over the entire length of the drain instead of one particular spot. NDS offers two French drain products, called EZflow and EZ-Drain, that are all-in-one gravel-free alternatives to a traditional French drain. EZflow is available in 5′ lengths; EZ-Drain is available in 10′ lengths. Both products feature a slotted pipe surrounded by a polystyrene aggregate enclosed in a geotextile mesh. The aggregate increases void space for improved water flow and greater storage while offering greater structural integrity than gravel. Both products are ideal for retaining walls, foundation and footing perimeter drains, landscape drains, and sports fields.

Dry wells capture, filter, and discharge stormwater into the subsoil, reducing pollutants, helping replenish groundwater tables, and managing stormwater close to its source. Used independently or as part of a larger stormwater management system, dry well units can meet a variety of project needs and accommodate higher volumes of water. NDS offers a dry well product, called Flo-Well, that holds up to 50 gallons of stormwater per unit and is a gravel-free alternative to a traditional dry well without requiring heavy equipment for installation, saving time and labor. Flo-Well is a 2′ round barrel made of 100% recycled plastic materials that is easily assembled and placed into a hole. A lid is then placed on the Flo-Well to prevent dirt from getting inside. The side panels have knockouts that remove to allow for a wide variety of pipes to be connected.

The NDS Stormwater Drainage Tools mobile app is available for free download at Apple’s App Store and Google Play.

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A Technological Break-Through In Sustainable Lake & Pond Management

By Bo Burns

Algae: it comes in many forms and colors. It’s slimy, stinky and can ruin the beauty and function of your golf course lakes and irrigation systems. It’s also one of the oldest known organisms on this planet, which might explain its knack for survival, even under the toughest conditions. Over time, golf courses and property management companies have learned to pick sides when it comes to the safe eradication of stubborn and harmful algal blooms—some in favor of natural management techniques; others in support of applying EPA-registered algaecides to ensure the job gets done. But this year, a new game changing technology will make the management of stubborn algae blooms a no-brainer with more long-lasting results that are beneficial for the environment.

Before Nanobubble Aeration.

Nanobubble aeration is a premium innovative technology designed to exceed the capabilities of traditional lake and pond aeration systems by providing up to 79,000x more oxygen! Put simply, nanobubbles are like traditional aeration systems on steroids. Produced by compact on-shore generators, these ultra-fine bubbles are completely invisible to the eye and about 1 million times smaller than ordinary bubbles. As a result of their tiny size, nanobubbles have no natural buoyancy and do not rise to the surface of the water and burst like you might expect. Amazingly, they remain within the water column for up to 2-3 months, providing unparalleled oxygenation to struggling lakes and ponds at your property.  

After Nanobubble Aeration.

The benefits of a continuously oxygenated lake or pond are enormous. First, oxygen is a key player in the battle against undesirable nutrients by facilitating the conversion of phosphorus to forms that do not sustain algae development. Excess nutrients can easily enter golf course lakes and ponds in the form of grass clippings, lawn fertilizers, trash, and droppings from geese and other wildlife. The presence of oxygen also helps to balance pH and other related water quality parameters that encourage the growth of fish, native organisms and beneficial phytoplankton – rather than detrimental bacteria like E. Coli, and cyanobacteria species that can be toxic to humans and wildlife and are believed to contribute to degenerative diseases like ALS, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Another amazing benefit of nanobubbles? In addition to engulfing an entire aquatic ecosystem in concentrated oxygen, nanobubbles are negatively charged and, therefore, attracted to positively charged organic matter in the water column. When they connect with positively charged metals and pollutants, including dangerous cyanobacteria toxins, nanobubbles cause them to implode(!), holistically cleansing the waterbody from the inside out.

Before Nanobubble Aeration.

This innovative water quality solution did not just appear overnight. Nanobubbles have been used in the medical field, the oil and gas business, food preparation areas, and even the beauty industry for purification purposes. However, SOLitude Lake Management is the first environmental firm to advance this technology for large-scale freshwater management applications through continuous research and development with select manufacturers and regulatory agencies.

Through many promising tests and trials, we’ve learned some exciting things: Golf course superintendents and property managers who utilize nanobubbles can expect to significantly reduce and even eliminate reliance on traditional algaecides. Nanobubbles have no negative impacts on turfgrass or ornamental vegetation when monitoring and managing dissolved oxygen levels. Nanobubbles help strengthen the health and longevity of the entire food chain, providing unparalleled aesthetic and ecological balance.

After Nanobubble Aeration.

Nanobubble aeration isn’t just a quick fix or band-aid; it’s a custom, data-driven solution rooted in years of scientific study and first-hand monitoring experience. The technology doesn’t necessarily replace regular proactive management strategies, but it is truly one of the missing pieces to the puzzle of sustainable freshwater management. Used in conjunction with traditional tools like floating fountains, buffer management, mechanical hydro-raking and regular lake and pond inspections, nanobubbles can help keep your water resources healthier and prettier for much longer periods of time, while eliminating nuisance algae and dangerous cyanotoxins before they begin causing problems.

Nanobubble aeration is poised to transform the entire way we approach the management of lakes and ponds and will be an invaluable tool as urban development and undesirable nutrient loading continue to increase. We’re excited to shepherd this new technology in to the freshwater management realm and look forward to further enhancing water quality on your property   and throughout the world.

Bo Burns is a Biologist and Market Development Manager at SOLitude Lake Management, an industry-leading environmental firm. He specializes in the research and development of new technologies using more than 30 years of industry experience along with a Master of Environmental Management degree in Resource and Wetland Ecology from Duke University. This article is the first in a series featuring new break-through technologies that will revolutionize the management of lakes, stormwater ponds, wetlands and fisheries in 2019. 

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