VSGA Grant Program: 2026/27 Virginia Tech School of Turfgrass Ecology & Management
For the third straight year, the Virginia State Golf Association (VSGA), a VGCSA Supporting Partner, has partnered with the Virginia Tech Turfgrass Science Program to help VSGA member clubs grow the next generation of turfgrass professionals. The VSGA is offering grants for employees at member clubs to participate in an online turfgrass science education program, completely free of charge! This program focuses on both the fundamentals of turfgrass science and best management practices for golf courses.
If there is a member of your staff that you feel could benefit from this program, please nominate them by August 31, 2026.
The course runs from November 2026 through March 2027 and will prepare students for the Certified Turfgrass Professional (CTP) exam. As an example,
click here to view a previous year's tentative syllabus with course topics, presenters, and industry guests. The program interacts directly with the entire VT Turfgrass Team and industry guests on-line over 14 weeks, covering:
- Turfgrass identification, establishment, growth and development
- Soil science
- Irrigation and turfgrass water requirements
- Nutrient and cultural management programs
- Pest identification and management
Benefits of becoming a CTP include:
- Understanding turf = better problem solving
- Credibility recognized by industry leaders
- Professional and personal development opportunities
- Job performance reward potential
- An expanded network of colleagues
Questions? Please email Matt Smiley, VSGA Executive Director, or call VSGA at 804-378-2300.