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Curricular information is subject to change
On completion of this module students will be able to:- Design a drainage system for different sports and landscape scenarios. Illustrate and describe how sports pitches are constructed to different specifications from basic constructions through to engineered systems.- Similarly, learn how to construct golf putting greens, golf tees, different types of golf bunkers, bowling greens and turf tennis courts.- Explain the effect and importance of sand particle size and shape on bridging, water percolation and surface drainage of golf greens and engineered football pitches and evaluate the significance of rootzone selection on drainage characteristics. Describe the impact of soil texture on natural drainage characteristics as well as on the quality of different natural turf playing conditions- Select suitable turfgrass genera and species for sport and amenity uses including shaded areas and evaluate the principles governing seed mixtures. - Evaluate the use of supplementary lighting in sportsturf and elucidate the biological effects of shade on turfgrass growth. Discuss suitable water sources for turf irrigation and its application via dedicated irrigation systems and be cognizant of irrigation distribution efficiency. Learn about key management requirements for golf greens, tees, fairways, football pitches and bowling greens. Prepare a basic year round monthly turf management protocol. Learn how to identify grasses and be mindful of protecting native biodiversity in sports turf facilities.
Indicative Module Content:Primary, secondary and tertiary drainage systems for Sportsturf including golf courses. Artificial and natural pitches for different situations; soil and USGA specification golf greens. Advanced or engineered pitch construction systems. Sands in sportsturf, including particle size and shape, bridging, percolation and perched water tables. Agrostis, Festuca, Lolium and Poa grasses used in sportsturf and their identification both as seed and grass plants. Choosing turfgrass mixtures and blends, turf establishment methods. The use and role of artificial lighting on turf growth; also the effects of shade on turfgrass growth. Modern lighting methods, systems, photoperiod and management. Irrigation water quality, sources, storage and requirements and the potential for using secondary/tertiary water. Possible problems arising during and following construction. Annual maintenance protocol for sports turf.
Student Effort Type | Hours |
---|---|
Lectures | 28 |
Specified Learning Activities | 42 |
Autonomous Student Learning | 55 |
Total | 125 |
Not applicable to this module.
Description | Timing | Component Scale | % of Final Grade | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Continuous Assessment: Continuous assessment assignments | Unspecified | n/a | Standard conversion grade scale 40% | No | 50 |
Examination: Written examination | 1 hour End of Trimester Exam | No | Standard conversion grade scale 40% | No | 50 |
Resit In | Terminal Exam |
---|---|
Summer | No |
• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
Post assessment feedback individually available directly or via email to students
Name | Role |
---|---|
Mr Conor Aherne | Lecturer / Co-Lecturer |
Dr Caroline Elliott-Kingston | Lecturer / Co-Lecturer |
Dr Noeleen Smyth | Lecturer / Co-Lecturer |
Mr Greg Whately | Lecturer / Co-Lecturer |
Dr Caroline Elliott-Kingston | Tutor |