SFMA IN ACTION

STEP 1: TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 101 COURSE HOSTED THROUGH CANVAS https: / www. sportsfieldmanagement. org / knowledge _ center / turfgrass-science-curriculum /

Learning objectives: The course is set up to provide basic knowledge in the core areas of turfgrass science. The curriculum offers comprehensive training in 5 Units:

Unit 1 – Introduction to Turfgrass Science: Students will learn about the economic, environmental, and community benefits turfgrass surfaces provide. Students will also learn about the various careers available in the green industry.

Unit 2 – Turfgrass Growth & Development, Anatomy, and Identification: Students will learn about turfgrass germination and growth, different anatomical features and how to use those features to identify turfgrass plants. Adaptations and use of turfgrass species are also covered.

Unit 3 – Turfgrass Soils: Students will learn about the importance of soil properties in a turfgrass system. Soil texture, compaction, and drainage and how they influence turfgrass health is the focus.

Unit 4 – Turfgrass Cultural Practices: Students will learn about the cultural practices essential for maintaining healthy turfgrass. Mowing, fertility, irrigation, aeration and topdressing, and integrated pest management are discussed in detail.

Unit 5 – Turfgrass Establishment: The final unit utilizes all of the information presented in the course to give students a broader picture of the requirements to manage turfgrass from start to finish. Successful establishment cannot take place without a firm understanding of turfgrass species and adaptations, soil requirements, and essential cultural practices.

STEP 2: TURFGRASS SCIENCE CERTIFICATION— INTRODUCTION TO THE INDUSTRY ICEV COURSE https:// www. sportsfieldmanagement. org / turfgrass-sciencecertification /

This entry-level certification is designed to build a pipeline of skilled turfgrass industry professionals. The certification can be earned by learners in all stages of their education and careers, and verifies that individuals are prepared to pursue a career in the field of turfgrass science. The certification exam, tested on the iCEV platform, consists of 100 questions and assesses knowledge and skills for the following weighted industry standards: Benefits of Turfgrass: 5 % Turfgrass Anatomy, Identification and Adaptations: 20 % Turfgrass Environment: 25 % Turfgrass Cultural Practices: 30 % Playing Surface Preparation: 20 %

STEP 3: CSFM CERTIFICATION Attaining Certified Sports Field Manager( CSFM) status means you will be looked upon as a leader in the industry. It will give you a sense of pride and accomplishment, and it can even improve your current or future employment prospects. Becoming a CSFM is meant to challenge your knowledge of managing sports fields and to draw upon all aspects of your background in education and experience to prove that you are one of the best in the industry. Meeting the challenge can contribute to your professional advancement in sports field management. The CSFM Information and Application Packet includes CSFM Credentialing Information, CSFM Competency Outline and CSFM Detailed Competency List.

NEXT STEPS: ONGOING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

OFFERINGS / RESOURCES Interpersonal Skills Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Dynamic Meetings Mentorship Program Turfgrass Math Resource Center: Build confidence in one

8 SportsField Management | April 2026 sportsfieldmanagementonline. com