I was perusing the Powell's bookstore website recently and stumbled across a book for sale:
Beards Turfgrass Encyclopedia: For Golf Courses, Grounds, Lawns, Sports Fields
Described as...
Beard's Turfgrass Encyclopedia is the latest body of work from internationally renowned turfgrass agronomist James Beard. Containing the complete A-to-Z of turfgrass, this quintessential tome encompasses both cultural practice from across a broad range of uses (such as golf courses, lawns, parks, roadsides, and sports fields), as well as the scientific aspects of turfgrasses and their culture (as used by educators, researchers, and scholars). The format provides a comprehensive reference in diagnosing and solving practical problems in the "real world" The range of subjects addressed include the spectrum of grass species and cultivars, ecology, physiology, soils, microenvironments, cultural practices, entomology, pathology, pest management, and equipment. Beard's Turfgrass Encyclopedia is applicable worldwide.
They want $185 for this thing!!!
I am wondering
1. What is the story with Mr. Beard, has anyone here met him before? What is his history? Clubs he has "kept the green" for? Etc.
2. Is this a book the aspiring gca ought to procure for their library?
3. Do all existing courses out there possess a copy of this encyclopedia? How valuable is it?
Thanks!