ITRI – International Turfgrass Research Initiative

The International Turfgrass Research Initiative is a legacy of the 14th International Turfgrass Research Conference (ITRC) hosted by STERF in collaboration with the International Turfgrass Society (ITS) in Copenhagen, Denmark in 2022. Development and sustainability were the themes of the conference, and STERF and ITS agreed that investing in international turfgrass research would be the most appropriate legacy from ITRC2022. Therefore, STERF, together with The R&A, and USGA have created the International Turfgrass Research Initiative to develop research projects with global significance.

Sustainable agronomy is the most prevalent area of interest. In light of increasing pesticide regulations, warmer weather patterns, and more frequent droughts and irrigation restrictions in many parts of the world, all parties agreed that integrated pest management (IPM) and water conservation are important foci of the initia­tive. Another important focus is biodiversity research in turfgrass management, which is essential to foster eco­logical balance by understanding and preserving diverse ecosystems within turfgrass and golf course landscapes. A better understanding of the carbon balance in turfgrass management globally is crucial for understanding the impact of turfgrass on greenhouse gas emissions and net carbon sequestration. The following specific topics are prioritized:

  • Integrated pest/turfgrass management
  • Water conservation
  • Biodiversity and landscape perspective
  • Climate (carbon balance)

More information can be found in the “ITRI Framework Paper” at https://greensectionresearch.smapply.org
Select the International Turfgrass Research Initiative programme at the bottom of the page.

2024 Request for proposals – Project period 2026-2028

Request for proposals (PDF)

STERF, The R&A and USGA have together reserved approximately € 250,000 per year for three years for research projects with global significance. Collaboration and joint projects between international research organizations is an important aim of the initiative and a requirement for project funding. We also recognize that industrial engagement and support is a critical component of research. Applicants are therefore encouraged to secure either additional funding and/or in-kind support for their proposed research to deliver additional impact and outreach. Instructions for those wishing to apply for funding can be found in the “”2024 Request for Proposals” at  https://greensectionresearch.smapply.org/ Select the International Turfgrass Research Initiative programme at the bottom of the page.

Deadline and Decisions

Pre proposals are due August 15, 2024. Full proposals will be invited by October 31, 2024 and Full proposals are due February 26, 2025. Final decisions will be made by June 30, 2025.

Agreements for approved projects will be written for one to three years; however, continuation of a project will be determined annually based project progress and reporting.

Proposals shall be uploaded at https://greensectionresearch.smapply.org/ The website is hosted by the USGA and an account will need to be created at the website before uploading a proposal.

If more information or clarification is required, please contact:

Maria Strandberg, STERF

E-mail: maria.strandberg@golf.se

John Kemp, The R&A

E-mail: JohnKemp@R&A.org

Cole Thompson, Ph.D., USGA

Email: cthompson@usga.org