TURF TODAY WITH ROSS NIEWOLA AND MITCH LEININGER

Turf Today returns with Ross Niewola and Mitch Leininger, two passionate agronomists for the USGA, on another episode of Rolling with the Green Section.

Ross, a lifelong golf enthusiast whose summer hobby became a full-time career, built his resume by traveling across the country, taking on various roles in the turf industry. Now with the USGA, he focuses on one-on-one consultations, educational outreach, and championship tournament support. Ross discusses tools that can reduce workload on the course while enhancing turf health. He also reflects on the need for the industry to adapt, noting that in golf, we can “hide complacency behind tradition,” stressing the importance of being ready for how the game is changing.

Mitch, born and raised in Orlando, began his career in the airline industry before transitioning to golf to pursue his love of the outdoors. He recalls reaching out to the USGA during a course renovation project and now supports golf courses with his expertise. He highlights his article on bunker maintenance to ensure playability and durability with proper raking, drainage, fertility, and much more.

The USGA Green Section has incredible, free resources for anyone in the golf industry. Be sure to subscribe to their Education and Outreach articles, and give this episode a listen!