WEDNESDAY (19TH)

Renovating Alumni Stadium at the University of Guelph (synthetic turf) with Cam Lawrie

Will cover: 

· The aging process of synthetic turf performance surfaces

· Recognize injury risks associated with worn-down surfaces

· Learn the standards required for competitive sports

· Understanding the field decommissioning, demolition, and new installation 

Panel Discussion: Behind the Scenes Look at Holding Natural Tournaments with Joe Breedon, Trevor Warner, Casey Colthurst, and Jamie Kell

Will cover: 

· How sports field managers prepare for and recover from national tournaments

· National and professional standards

· Field’s ability to withstand intense use over a short period

· Tournament logistics

Robotic Mowers in Sports Turf Management with Terry Henderson and Rory Doucette

Will cover: 

· The growing role of robotics

· Handling routine tasks, such as mowing and painting field lines

· Savings to the municipalities

· Latest advancements in equipment

THURSDAY (20TH)

Turf Maintenance, from Recreation to Rest with Rory Doucette

Will cover: 

· Balancing aesthetics, durability, and sustainability in managing turfgrass in cemeteries

· Cemeteries unique challenges

· Effective management practices along with weed and pest control measures

Calculating Realistic User Fee Systems with Terry Piche

Will cover: 

·Balancing affordability with the need to fund maintenance and improvements in user fee systems

· Consideration of factors such as usage frequency, facility quality, and maintenance costs on fee structures

·Considering the capital costs associated with wear and tear from different types of activities

· Designing a user fee system that supports long-term recreational facility quality without overburdening users

Panel Discussion: New Trends in Recreation Grounds Operation and Management with Linda Whitehead, Frank Cain, & Terry Piche

Will cover: 

· Trends focusing on sustainability, community engagement, and multi-use designs

· Adopting eco-friendly practices, volunteer programs, and public feedback tools

· Remote monitoring systems and digital booking platforms, are enhancing operational efficiency and user experience

· Create vibrant, well-maintained spaces that meet diverse community needs while prioritizing long-term sustainability

GENERAL SESSIONS

Guelph Grass Institute Update with Dr. Sara Stricker

Advancements in Turfgrass Varieties: Reducing Inputs Without Compromising Quality with Dr. Kyley Dickson

Recent Research from the Prairie Turfgrass Research Centre with Jason Pick

Click here for OTS 2025 Booklet

Click here for OTS 2025 Program