STMA works with the next generation of sports field managers

The Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) is working to develop interest and awareness in the next generation of sports field managers through the Future Farmers of America (FFA), a youth organization that prepares its members for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture.

FFA’s Career Development Events (CDEs) are contests that develop college and career readiness skills. The CDE includes a written test, identification of turfgrass plants, insects and diseases and practicums that involve irrigation system repair and construction, trimmer/edger field troubleshooting repair, calculating slope and reel mower height adjustment. A team event tests students on fertilizer spreader calibration.

Six states currently host a turfgrass specific CDE – New Jersey, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Minnesota, Virginia and Pennsylvania. This year will be Pennsylvania’s first hosting a turfgrass specific CDE. In preparation for the Pennsylvania state FFA activities week in June, STMA will work with teachers to create awareness and teach them about the CDE. At the Eastern Pennsylvania regional spring CDE day in April, students will be able to participate in sections of the CDE to prepare for the June contest.

STMA’s goal is to reach 15 state turfgrass CDEs, which qualifies it to hold a CDE at the National FFA Conference. If interested in getting a Turfgrass CDE started in your state, please contact Kristen Althouse at kalthouse@stma.org.