University of Nebraska-Lincoln professor honored for putting green construction and management contributions.
The USGA has selected Dr. Roch Gaussoin as the recipient of its 2023 Green Section Award. Artificial Putting Green Cost
Gaussoin, who is being honored for introducing new technologies and processes that advance putting green construction and management, will be honored at the USGA’s Annual Awards Dinner on Feb. 25 in Napa, California as part of the organization’s annual meeting. This marks the first time since 2020 the meeting will be conducted in person.
A professor and extension specialist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Gaussoin has dedicated nearly 20 years to researching critical aspects of putting green construction and management. Gaussoin’s collaborative approach has also contributed to the improvement of buffalograss, a native low-maintenance grass that requires little irrigation, has few serious pests and could advance the sustainability of golf in some regions. Stakeholder surveys indicate a nearly 70 percent adoption of practices published by Gaussoin that reduce fossil fuel consumption and labor requirements. Gaussoin has been recognized with numerous awards, including the GCSAA Distinguished Service Award, for providing practical and applicable research to the golf industry.
Given annually since 1961, the USGA Green Section Award honors distinguished service to golf through an individual’s work with turfgrass.
All-Time Green Section Award winners
1972 — Herb and Joe Graffis
1973 — Dr. Marvin H. Ferguson
1974 — Dr. Howard B. Sprague
1976 — Dr. James R. Watson
1980 — Dr. C. Reed Funk
1981 - Dr.Joseph W. Duich
1985 — Dr. Victor B. Youngner
1992 — Dr. C. Richard Skogley
1993 — Dr. Ralph E. Engel
1994 — Dr.Kenyon (Ken) T. Payne
1996 — Robert M. (Bob) Williams
2000 — L. Palmer Maples Jr.
2001 — Dr. Patricia A. Cobb
2003 — Dr. Houston B. Couch
2006 — Dr. Robert C. Shearman
2007 — Dr. Joe Vargas Jr.
2010 — Dr. Daniel A. Potter
Putting Green Grass 2021 — No Award Given (COVID-19 pandemic)