A new addition to this year’s conference was the Opening Reception, held in the Events Hall. Hundreds of participants attended and celebrated key achievements in the turfgrass community. During the reception, John Fulling, CGCS, was presented with the MTF Meritorious Service Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions. Additionally, MTF honored Dr. David Gilstrap, a retiring professor, for his many years of dedicated service to both the turf industry and Michigan State University.
The conference was expertly coordinated by two past MTF presidents, Curt Boak and Dan Mausolf (LIC, CSP, ASM), with guidance from Dr. Kevin Frank for the 26 th consecutive year. The organization deeply appreciates their ongoing efforts to maintain and improve the quality of the event. Planning has already begun for next year’s conference, which will once again take place at Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort. Save the dates for January 12–14, 2027, and join us for another outstanding gathering of turfgrass professionals.