The ABC's of golf course management

Thomas A. Nikolai, Ph.D. discovered frequent rolling on the putting surfaces decreases dollar spot and other turfgrass pests and he initiated mowing/rolling frequency research that maintains consistent green speeds, reduces turfgrass stress, and leads to economic saving. Thom also discovered mulching deciduous leaves into turfgrass canopies results in fewer broad leaf weeds and he initiated alternative spike research which paved the way for the demise of the metal spike which increased customer satisfaction and resulted in economic savings for most every golf course on the planet. He is author of the book The Superintendents Guide to Putting Green Speed and is world renowned as the Dr. of Green Speed due to the numerous studies he has performed that investigate putting green cultural and mechanical practices. In 2010, he initiated a study to investigate the social, economic, and environmental impact of turfgrass on an urban society by mowing and fertilizing around abandoned homes, lots, and parks in Flint, MI. Courses Thom has taught at MSU include Turfgrass and the Environment, Pesticide and Fertilizer Technology, World of Soils, Turfgrass Irrigation, Turfgrass Management and Turf and Landscape Analytical Practices. In 2003 and 2017, Dr. Nikolai was voted “The Outstanding Faculty Member” by his students and he has penned the column called Up to Speed for GCM Magazine and was awarded the 2019 TOCA Merit Award for "Series of Columns". Thom is also well known as being the creator and host of the GCSAA Turfgrass Talk Show. Thom has given presentations in 30 countries, 8 Canadian Provinces, and 36 States.