www.stma.org February 2017 | SportsTurf 31
As always, Cockerham is forward thinking. "Water will
be key everywhere, as it long has been in the Southwest," he
says. "During the severe drought about 15 years ago, I helped
as Vic led a group of sod producers and other sod industry
representatives to present scientifi c evidence to the governor
and legislature to counteract those bashing turfgrass. This
time, no one took a leadership role. It would be a great if TPI
would step up to leadership in water politics—local, regional,
national and international—but it must be coordinated so
the message is consistent. Whatever the association can do,
through research and/or education, to spread the positive
message must be a top priority. Manufacturers are coming
alongside that need, but they could use some help and
recognition for their contribution. Sod growers have never
been reluctant to state their thoughts. We just need to channel
our efforts in the right direction to make a difference in public
and legislative opinion and action."
Suz Trusty is co-editor of Turf News.
ABOVE: Steve Cockerham checks the field at the Los Angeles Coliseum.
AT RIGHT: Cockerham stands with pallets of sod for the home of TV's Johnny Carson.
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