Overview

I administer a broad-based research and education program focused on ecological aspects of turfgrass science. The goal of my research and education efforts for undergraduates, graduate students and industry professionals is to improve the environmental compatibility and economic feasibility of turfgrass management systems.

Research Focus

The goal of my research is to apply the rigorous scientific method to practical problems in turfgrass management. The specific areas of reduced fertilizer and pesticide use in single tactic as well as integrated systems-based projects have led to significant practical advancements.

Outreach and Extension Focus

I maintain a strong problem-solving focus in my extension program with particular emphasis on increased resource efficiency and improved environmental compatibility. I use a "just-in-time" delivery strategy in partnership with industry and environmental organizations to provide the latest research-based information when the practitioners need it most. One example is ShortCUTT, a weekly subscriber-only e-newsletter sent to more than 3000 turf managers. Recently I have developed the Cornell Turfgrass Science Website that includes access to program personnel and resources including a blog. Additionally we have begun publishing podcasts of our information on iTunes.

Teaching Focus

The goal of my resident teaching activities is to service the needs of plant science, landscape architecture and resort/club management students with interest in turf. I emphasize increasing awareness of resource efficient management that provides a high quality, safe surface that maximizes environmental compatibility. More recently I have assumed responsibility of the Introduction to Horticulture course that serves as a survey and "gateway" course to this vital aspect of the plant sciences. I have developed a learner-centered approach that is highly interactive using reflections, group work, creative writing assignments and multi-media.

Additional Links

• Cornell Turfgrass Program
• Cornell Turfgrass Blog
• ShortCUTT podcast on iTunes
• Home lawn care at Cornell Gardening
• Link to CALS Research and Impact
• Link to Research & Expertise Across Cornell

Awards and Honors

• Environmental Communicator of the Year (2012–2013) Turfgrass and Ornamental Communicators Association

Selected Publications

Journal Publications

• Grant, J. A., & Rossi, F. S. (2009). Long Term Evaluation of Reduced Chemical Pesticide Management of Golf Course Putting Turf. . International Turfgrass Society Research Journal. 11:77-90.
• Bertin, C., Senesac, A. F., Rossi, F. S., DiTommaso, A., & Weston, L. A. (2009). Evaluation of selected fine-leaf fescue cultivars for for their turfgrass quality and weed suppressive ability in field settings.. Horttechnology. 19:660-668.
• DeGaetano, A. T., & Rossi, F. S. (2007). Long-term trends in meteorological conditions favorable for dollar spot in eastern portions of the United States. Applied Turfgrass Science.
• Woods, M., Rossi, F. S., & Ketterings, Q. M. (2006). Potassium supply rate as measured by exchange membranes in a calcareous sand. Applied Turfgrass Science .
• Woods, M., Ketterings, Q. M., Rossi, F. S., & Petrovic, A. M. (2006). Potassium availability indices and turfgrass performance in a calcareous sand putting green. 46:381-389.
• Woods, M., Ketterings, Q. M., & Rossi, F. S. (2005). Measuring the effects of potassium application on calcium and magnesium availability in a calcareous sand. 10:1015-1020.
• Woods, M., Ketterings, Q. M., & Rossi, F. S. (2005). Effectiveness of standard soil tests for assessing potassium availability in sand rootzones. Soil Science Society of America Journal. 170:110-119.
• Grant, J. A., & Rossi, F. S. (2004). Evaluation of reduced chemical management systems for putting green turf. USGA Turfgrass and Environmental Research Online. 3:1-13.
• Haith, D. A., & Rossi, F. S. (2003). Risk assessment of pesticide runoff from turf. Journal of Environmental Quality. 32:447-455.
• Bertin, C. E., Rossi, F. S., & Weston, L. A. (2002). Evaluation of the allelopathic potential of Festuca spp. Weed Technology.

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