Thanks to the team at GCSAA.tv for coming to the property in July. This short segment is a quick glimpse on how we utilize technology in the Turf Department at Stow Acres. If I can be of any assistance to you, please contact me at @uriturf or jason@iturfapps.com. Thanks! Hope you enjoy!
-Jason VanBuskirk, Superintendent
The video posted below explains it all or at least most of it. Ted Sheeley and his son Zach own and operate a pistachio farm on thousands of acres in California. They have become early adopters on the idea, that in order to do it efficiently, they need technology. Innovations are happening so quickly in this world, and figuring out the best possible way to use them will potentially make you the most productive and even most profitable. If you love technology, you will love this video.
Watch iFarm on PBS. See more from America Revealed.
-Jason VanBuskirk, Superintendent
Last night, I had the honor of being asked to contribute to one of my favorite websites, iTurfapps.com! I just recently used Google Forms to create a form/database so my staff could log their hours on the golf course. I can also send the URL to staff members with smartphones and they can enter data from the course! This helps us keep track of where our labor goes quickly and accurately. Below, I have posted a link for the website and a PDF copy of my article. Thanks again to Bill Brown, @greensuper, who is the creator of this awesome website!
-Jason VanBuskirk, Superintendent
I was born in 1984 and it wasn’t until the late 80s early 90s that I really became interested in cartoons. Inspector Gadget was a favorite of mine and my brother. That guy really did have everything he needed at his fingertips. His life, or detective life, was made so simple because of a handful of creative gadgets. Looking back, it almost seems like the creators had a crystal ball looking into 2011. Now, it seems like everyday, engineers and creators all over the world are coming out with the next best gadget. I would like to quickly share with you three gadgets that have made my turf life much simpler.
The iPad:
This device is one of the most essential tools for the Golf Course Superintendent. I know I don’t need to elaborate on reasons for most of you, but it has helped me tremendously since I got one for my birthday back in January. The app store allows for so much to be accomplished on one little tablet. Scheduling, weather forecasting, application recording, idea collaboration, and even irrigation running and programming are all done from the iPad. The best app for me has been LogMeIn Ignition. This allows me to connect to my Rainbird Irrigation Central and run any head in the field. It also allows me to program, add stations, delete stations, change stations and run times from anywhere I have WiFi or 3G capability. It has easily increased my personal efficiency by at least 50%. Other essential apps have been Evernote, WritePad, Calendars, Intellicast HD, and Dropbox. If you are familiar with the iPad, download them and take a look. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.
ZaggMate Case/keyboard:
There is really not a whole lot that needs to be said about this awesome accessory for the iPad except, buy it! It is crafted with military grade aluminum, ensuring extra protection.
It has a hard bluetooth qwerty keyboard built-in, allowing for quick typing and comfort. Check it out here: http://www.zagg.com/accessories/logitech-ipad-2-keyboard-case?gclid=CMmGxtWRzKkCFeVx5QodCE3RPQ.
Cinemin Swivel:
Have those troubling board meetings to attend each week or month? Still unsure about how to get your points across without holding an on-course field trip with your entire membership or ownership? This little gadget is perfect. This is actually a pocket projector from Wowwee. It is the size of an iPhone and comes with a little carrying case and adapters for a PC, laptop, or iPad/iPhone. Its ideal partner is the iPad, but that’s only for extra convenience. I just got this device for Father’s day, and I haven’t had a real chance to use it to its fullest capability. I know its going to be perfect for meetings, intern education sessions, college lectures, and even movies in the shop (during snow storms of course). Check it out here: http://www.wowwee.com/en/products/tech/projection/cinemin/swivel
Thanks for checking out this post! Hopefully these gadgets will help you just as much as they have helped me. Email me at jvbturf@gmail.com with any questions.
-Jason VanBuskirk, Superintendent
Stow Acres Turf 