CGA Welcomes Esteemed Agronomists Fred Yelverton and Bert McCarty

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Southern Pines, NC - The Carolinas Golf Association proudly announces the appointment of distinguished experts, Professors Fred Yelverton from North Carolina State University and Bert McCarty from Clemson University, as the pioneering duo set to serve as CGA's new agronomists. Together, they bring a wealth of experience totaling over 60 years in the turfgrass industry, impacting numerous students and fostering advancements in turfgrass management across the Carolinas and globally.

 

This significant appointment marks the first time CGA member clubs will benefit from the collaborative expertise of two highly acclaimed agronomists. Agronomists are trained to identify, manage, and propagate turfgrass so that it can be used on our golf courses. This requires specific knowledge about the turf species and their specific needs and requirements.

 

Dr. Bert McCarty, a renowned Professor of Plant and Environmental Sciences specializing in turfgrass science and management at Clemson University, has an illustrious career highlighted by his substantial contributions to the field. Dr. McCarty has an extensive publication record, including 15 books and over 630 scientific presentations. He has received prestigious awards, such as the Godley-Snell Award for Excellence and the Fred Grau Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to turfgrass research.

 

“It’s an honor and privilege to join the CGA as one of its Agronomist. I’ve personally known the previous individuals in this position and strive to continue the excellent services they provided,” remarked McCarty. “Dr. Fred Yelverton and I have known each other for over 40 years and have worked on numerous projects during this time and believe will bring a synergistic approach to this position. I look forward to visiting courses and interacting with the members of CGA for the betterment of the game of golf.”

 

Dr. Fred Yelverton, a faculty member at North Carolina State University for 36 years, has been a leading authority in turfgrass weed management and related fields. He was the first weed scientist to recognize and address herbicide resistance in turf. His other contributions include teaching seminars, authoring influential publications, and being the recipient of esteemed honors such as the CGCSA Distinguished Service Award. 

 

 

“In 1982 the CGA took the initiative in launching an agronomy service for its member clubs, highlighting the association's unwavering commitment to the turf industry,” commented Yelverton. “I'm privileged to collaborate with my friend Bert McCarty as CGA agronomists to further this significant and worthwhile cause."

 

The appointment of Yelverton and McCarty succeeds a line of exceptional agronomists who have served the CGA, including Carl Blake (1982-1997), Leon Lucas (1998-2014), and Bill Anderson (2015-2022).

 

Anderson, the most recent agronomist for the CGA, unfortunately passed in December of 2022 after a nearly five-decade career in the Carolinas. In 2008, he received the Distinguished Service Award, the highest honor bestowed by the Carolinas Golf Course Superintendents Association (CGCSA).

 

"We are thrilled to welcome Bert and Fred to enhance our agronomy program," said CGA President Mike Smith. "Their combined expertise and dedication will immensely benefit our member clubs and further our commitment to supporting the turfgrass industry."

 

The CGA agronomy program, initiated in 1982, aims to provide expert assistance to member clubs, their superintendents, and green committees on turfgrass-related issues. This specialized service is offered as part of CGA membership, with expenses only encompassing travel to and from the club's facility.

 

Interested CGA member clubs can contact the CGA office for more information at admin@carolinasgolf.org or 910-673-1000 ex. 10.