Advancing Turfgrass Research for a Greener Canada
The National Turfgrass Research Foundation (NTRF) supports independent, science-based turfgrass research that strengthens sustainable landscapes, resilient sports fields, and healthy greenspaces nationwide.
Turfgrass plays a vital role across Canadian communities—from parks and playgrounds to golf courses and urban spaces. NTRF exists to ensure the future of these environments is guided by credible research, innovation, and responsible environmental stewardship.
Canada’s National Turfgrass Research Foundation
The National Turfgrass Research Foundation is a national, not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing turfgrass research that benefits professionals, communities, and the environment.
We collaborate with researchers, industry partners, associations, and practitioners to identify priority research needs and translate findings into practical, evidence-based solutions that support responsible turfgrass management across Canada.
Our role is to connect research with real-world application — ensuring investments lead to meaningful outcomes for both industry and the public.
Our Mission
To invest in turfgrass research that fosters innovation, environmental stewardship, and industry excellence to support healthier landscapes, sports fields, and greenspaces across Canada.
Our Vision
A future where turfgrass management decisions across Canada are guided by trusted research, sustainability principles, and shared knowledge.
From Provincial Roots to National Leadership
NTRF is built on the strong foundation of the Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation (OTRF), which for decades supported research, education, and knowledge-sharing within the turfgrass sector. That work established a trusted model for collaboration between researchers, industry, and practitioners.
As turfgrass systems have become more complex — and their environmental, social, and economic relevance increasingly national — NTRF was established to extend that proven approach across Canada. Our evolution reflects a commitment to expanding research investment, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring knowledge is shared widely and applied responsibly.
A National Approach to Research
Canada’s diverse climates and turfgrass applications require research that reflects both local realities and national priorities.
Guided by collaboration, real-world relevance, and environmental alignment, NTRF supports regionally relevant, nationally impactful research—strengthening collaboration and maximizing the value of research investment across Canada.
Learn how NTRF-supported research is shaping turfgrass management across Canada.
Board of Directors
The National Turfgrass Research Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors representing diverse regions and sectors of Canada’s turfgrass industry. The Board provides strategic oversight, ensures responsible stewardship of funds, and helps guide research priorities aligned with industry and environmental needs.
President
Perry Brazeau
Target Specialty Products
Secretary-Treasurer
Jonathan Smith
Mississauga Golf & Country Club
Directors
Ron Craig
Alexander Dickie
Zander Sod
Corrie Almack
Almack Agronomic Services
Scott Horsburgh
Syngenta
Reg Langen
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)
Kevin Thompson
SV Law
Stu Bradshaw
Monthill Golf & Country Club
Advisory Committee
Brad Hutchinson
Warkworth Golf Club
Mike Van Beek
Turf Diploma Instructor
Get involved
Whether you’re a professional, organization, or supporter, your involvement helps shape the future of turfgrass research in Canada.