James B. Beard, Ph.D., dies

James B. Beard, Ph.D.

James B. Beard, Ph.D., died May 14, 2018. He was a tireless worker dedicated to the advancement of turfgrass science, whether focused on research, academics or extension.

His quest for finding the next answers resulted in meticulously researched books and publications that documented the turfgrass industry.

In the golf arena, Beard played an important role in the USGA Green Section history. In the early 1980s, he strongly advocated the critical importance of financially supporting research work through the USGA Turfgrass and Environmental Research program to the USGA executive committee. He initiated many of the turfgrass drought and physiology studies that helped make progress toward golf course water conservation. His collaborative work with the Green Section staff resulted in two editions of the Turfgrass Management for Golf Courses book.

Beard was the 1989 recipient of the USGA Green Section Award.