Sports Turf

The Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation is proud to support sports turf research to improve sustainable management of turfgrass in sports field applications through proceeds from fundraising initiatives, charitable donations, and annual industry contributions.

Click below to read our sports turf research projects:

OTRF Funded Research

Evaluation of overseeding sports fields with new species and cultivars

Dr. Eric Lyons | University of Guelph

2025 Final Report

Athletic Field Usage Guide – What is the maximum number of permitted hours feasible for sports fields before reaching unacceptable playing conditions? This easy to follow 2-page fact sheet outlines the recommended number of hours of usage per year for four sports field categories for optimum performance and safety. Turf Manager Guide

Pam Charbonneau | DCS Turf Services

Contribution of field playing surface type and quality to potential acute and chronic injury rates

Dr. William Gage & Dr. Eric Lyons | York University & University of Guelph

Co-sponsored by Sports Turf Canada

Evaluation of compost topdressing and compost tea applications on sports field turfgrass swards

Katie Dodson | Olds College

Looking for Improved and Safer Sports Field Playing Conditions? Check out how on the Overseeding with New Cultivars Evaluation White Paper

Irrigation protocols & overseeding rates & methods for pesticide free soccer fields

Peter Purvis & Pam Charbonneau | University of Guelph

Perennial ryegrass overseeding in athletic fields & lawns as an alternative weed management plan

Dr. Eric Lyons | University of Guelph

Use of poa supina on pesticide free athletic fields