The United States Golf Association has selected turfgrass scientist Dr. Wayne Hanna, of Chula, GA as the recipient of the 2012 USGA Green Section Award for his achievements in developing environmentally friendly grasses that have made a tremendous impact on golf courses around the world.
The Green Section Award recognizes individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the game through their work with turfgrass. The USGA Green Section was created in 1920 to conduct research and to collect and distribute information about the proper maintenance and upkeep of golf courses to member clubs and courses.
During his 40-year career, Hanna has produced bermudagrasses such as TifSport, TifEagle and TifGrand, all of which are hardier and less costly to maintain, while providing excellent fairway and putting surfaces for the enjoyment of millions of players, including those competing in USGA championships.
Although he retired two years ago, Hanna is still involved in the University of Georgia’s turfgrass research program and will continue to have an impact on future advancements. He built a strong team of scientists that includes protégés such as Dr. Brian Schwartz, who is developing a bermudagrass that can stay green longer without water.
“For the future, water is one of the most precious natural resources we have,” said Hanna. “Anything we can do to use less water is a big benefit.”