b"know which varieties might work best in their unique conditions, especially when they are preparing for something as big as the PGA Championship.One of the major concerns in preparing Quail Hollow for the championship was timing. Because the PGA Championship takes place in May, Keith needed ryegrass varieties that would still be thriving and providing optimal playability, even as temperatures began to rise. He understands that not all ryegrasses are the same, Fraser says. Some varieties mature earlier and transition out of bermu-dagrass faster. He wanted to ensure that the ryegrass would still be vibrant and ready for play during the tournament.Frasers decades of experience allowed her to provide guid-ance on which varieties would hold up under these specific conditions. We talked about the varieties and their performance underThe PGA Championship Trophy. PHOTO: QUAIL HOLLOW CLUB.different stresses, such as drought and disease resistance, she says. The key was finding varieties that wouldnt mature too early and would stay green and dense for the players throughout the championship.Frasers research isnt just about short-term performanceits also about sustainability and reducing inputs over the long term. Our ultimate goal is to develop varieties that help decrease the inputs turf managers have to usewhether it's fewer pesti-cides, reduced mowing, or less water, she explains. She says this focus on sustainability aligns with the growing demand from both golf course managers and the general public for more environmentally conscious practices.One of the key challenges that Frasers team tackles is drought tolerance, a big factor as water conservation becomes an increasingly pressing issue. At our Oregon farm, under the direction of Crystal Fricker, President of Pure-Seed Testing, we do extensive work on drought tolerance and salt tolerance, Fraser explains. With water becoming scarcer and sometimes of lower quality, weQuail Hollow Club Superintendent Keith Wood works to balance need grasses that can thrive under these conditions. Thats whyplayability and aesthetics leading up to the PGA Championship. we work on breeding varieties that can stay green longer under drought stress and recover quickly when they are watered. maintain championship-level conditions while minimizing envi-The breeding programs commitment to reducing inputs alsoronmental impact. Its always rewarding to see the work we do ties into the wider efforts of the TWCA. in breeding and research have a direct impact on a golf course, The TWCA trials are designed to identify turfgrasses that areFraser says. Especially when that course is hosting one of the proven to use less water, she explains. They use rainout shel- biggest tournaments in the world.ters to simulate drought stress, then monitor how the grasses dry down and recover. Its a rigorous process, but its essentialThe Countdown is Onfor developing varieties that will help golf courses use less waterAs the countdown to the 2025 PGA Championship continues, without sacrificing playability. Wood and his team are deep into preparation mode. He said Fraser emphasizes that the success of these programs isapproximately 100 members of the agronomy team are working evident in the field. Keith and other superintendents who areon the course leading up the event. mindful of sustainability and the environment really appreciate Its quite a production, but its also a lot of fun. Success is the importance of the research that goes into these grasses, shealways fun, Wood says.says. They understand that not all varieties are created equal,With the perfect combination of seed selection, innovative and the work we do helps them choose the best options for theirpractices and a deep passion for turf management, Quail Hollow specific conditions. is poised to deliver a world-class championship experience. And The collaboration between researchers like Fraser and super- while the players will take the spotlight, its the turf underfoot intendents like Wood is what allows courses like Quail Hollow tothat makes it all possible.SW14/ SEEDWORLD.COMOCTOBER 2024"