Steven L. Rackliffe
C.G.C.S.

Extension Instructor Turfgrass Science
135 W. B. Young Bldg.
Department of Plant Science
University of Connecticut
1376 Storrs Rd., Unit 4067
Storrs, CT 06269-4067

telephone: (860) 486-1944
fax:              (860) 486-0682
email: Steven.Rackliffe@uconn.edu

Education:

M.S. 1982, The University of Massachusetts
B.S. 1979, The University of Massachusetts
A.S. 1977, Stockbridge School of Agriculture

Courses taught:

Golf Course Management
Principles of Turfgrass Irrigation and Drainage Systems
Turfgrass Pests and Their Control
Professional Development for the Turfgrass Industry

Industry Experience:

I have been involved in the golf course industry for 30 years. Previous to joining the University of Connecticut faculty, I was a golf course superintendent for nineteen years at an eighteen hole private golf course. While working in the private sector I have undertaken many projects. Including:

• involvement with the design and installation of a complete irrigation system for an 18 hole golf course.
• design and construction of golf tees and bunkers.
• complete renovation of fairways, tees, and greens
• implementation of a golf course beautification projects
• design and installation of extensive drainage systems
• design and construction of golf cart paths.
• development of equipment depreciation and replacement schedules.
• implementation of various wildlife projects throughout the golf course.
  

Professional Affiliations:

1994 - Connecticut Golf Course Superintendent of the Year Award, bestowed by the Connecticut Golf Course Superintendents Association

1996 - Connecticut Wildlife Magazine article featured successful bluebird restoration project

1994 - Golf Course, one of two in Connecticut, to receive Golf Digest Magazines highest state rankings of 3 1/2 stars.

1988 - Golf Course operation featured in the November issue of Turf Magazine

Teaching Philosophies:

The turfgrass profession is a rapidly changing industry. Today’s turfgrass managers must be aware of the following: environmental concerns, labor laws, regulations, advancement of agronomic management techniques, personnel management, budget preparation and budget management, new technologies, new products including, pesticides, fertilizers, cultivars, and grass species.

Actual field experiences coupled with information from the latest industry research will provide students with a balanced, well-rounded education needed to become successful turfgrass managers.

Students can enhance their education by working on projects through independent studies or by accepting internships. Internships offer students a valuable learning experience and provide the industry with employees who are eager to learn about their chosen professions.

Projects and Goals:

As Extension Instructor of Turfgrass Science my job entails working with the Turfgrass Industry. I hope to provide educational programs for the turfgrass industries within the state.

I have been involved with the Connecticut Grounds Keepers Association and the UConn Plant Science Department in establishing a site for the Grounds Keepers Certified Landscape Technician Testing and Training Program.

As a member of the Connecticut Institute of Water Resources Advisory Committee, I worked to help develop Best Management Practices for Golf Course Water.