GroundsFest Academy recently welcomed a large number of grounds professionals, students and volunteers to Loughborough Grammar School's Quorn Playing Fields for a highly successful CPD-accredited Integrated Weed Management event.
The free one-day event brought together industry experts, manufacturers and training providers to explore the latest developments in integrated weed management, focusing on best practice, funding opportunities, practical solutions and alternatives to traditional chemical control.
The day opened with an introduction to integrated weed management from Sean Faulkner of Kersten UK, before delegates heard about funding opportunities available to organisations looking to adopt more sustainable weed management practices.
Dave Moore from Block Blitz then delivered an insightful session on hard surface cleaning and protection, highlighting the important role preventative maintenance plays in reducing weed growth and improving surface longevity.
Following a networking break, attendees headed outdoors for a series of live demonstrations, where they saw the latest equipment and techniques in action. The practical sessions gave delegates the opportunity to ask questions, compare approaches and gain first-hand experience of equipment designed to support integrated weed management strategies.
The afternoon programme continued with Ed Stannard from Parks for London, who introduced delegates to the Good Parks Report and the organisation's Integrated Weed Management Guide, before Dave Sayers and Laura Evans from Lantra outlined the training opportunities available through Lantra's dedicated Integrated Weed Management course.
Delegates also enjoyed a facilities tour before the day concluded with a recap of the key learning points and the presentation of CPD certificates.
The event received excellent feedback from attendees, with many praising the balance of expert presentations, practical demonstrations and networking opportunities.
Reflecting on the day, GroundsFest Academy Director Bradley Tennant said: "Integrated weed management is evolving rapidly, and events like this give attendees the opportunity to learn from experts, see practical solutions in action and take away knowledge they can implement straight away.
“I'd like to thank all of our partners for sharing their expertise and helping to make the day such a success. I'd also like to extend our sincere thanks to Loughborough Grammar School for hosting us and providing excellent facilities for both the presentations and practical demonstrations. Their support played a key role in delivering another successful GroundsFest Academy event."
With demand continuing to grow for practical, hands-on learning opportunities, the success of the Integrated Weed Management event further demonstrates GroundsFest Academy's role in delivering education that addresses the real challenges facing today's issues.
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