TPI is the worldwide association committed to the advancement of the turfgrass sod industry. Through the education of its members, product users and various green industry and government entities, the association serves to encourage the use of turfgrass sod worldwide. The commitment of Turfgrass Producers International (TPI) to its members, the communities they serve and the world around us is best expressed in TPI’s Mission Statement:
“To represent and advance the turfgrass sod industry worldwide through the promotion of improved practices, the professional development of members and the enhancement of the environment.”
TPI was formed in 1967, as the American Sod Producers Association (ASPA), by a group of 40 Midwest United States turfgrass sod farmers who believed their common goals and issues could be better served by combining their resources. In 1994, and in response to ASPA’s growing international membership and visibility, ASPA changed its name to Turfgrass Producers International (TPI). Today TPI is governed by an 11-person Board of Trustees and supported by a six-person staff.
TPI’s membership exceeds 1,100 and is represented by 70% U.S. and 30% international members. TPI is a unique association where members have an opportunity to interact and exchange ideas with fellow turfgrass sod producers in a non-competitive environment.
75% - turfgrass sod producers in USA (52%), Canada (6%) & international countries (17%)
11% - suppliers/manufacturers
14% - educators, students, industry associates, retired and honorary members
TPI provides its members with numerous educational opportunities, professional development, opportunities to share information, member support services related to the turfgrass sod industry and access to numerous benefits including but not limited to:
- Turf News (Award winning bi-monthly magazine)
- TPI’s Bi-monthly Business Management Newsletter
- TPI’s Monthly Email Newsletter
- Annual Membership Directory
- Summer Convention & Field Days
- Midwinter Conference
- Educational Seminars
- Various technical and sales/marketing brochures and booklets
- Public Relations to promote the benefits of turfgrass
- Insight into the latest innovations in equipment and related services
- Opportunity to network with other turfgrass sod producers
- Information and resources that can help turfgrass sod producers grow their business
- Valuable resources through the TPI website
- Unlimited access of turfgrass science information through the Turfgrass Information File (TGIF) turf database
According to the U.S Departments of Commerce and Agriculture, 2007 Census of Agriculture, the U.S. turfgrass sod industry experienced a considerable increase in both acres in turfgrass sod production and overall sales over a five year period. Turfgrass sod producers now generate sales in excess of one billion dollars annually.
The 2007 Census of Agriculture reported that there were 1,881 turfgrass sod farms in operation throughout the United States at the time of the census. This number reflects an 11.4% decrease in the number of turfgrass farms when compared to the 2,124 reported in the 2002 Census. Acres in production increased to 409,440 in 2007 as compared to the 386,504 reported in 2002. This represents nearly a 6% increase in total acres. Along with an increase in acreage, there was a considerable increase in dollar sales when compared to five years ago. Whereas 2002 sales were $1,001,250,000, 2007 reported sales were $1,353,422,529, which represents an increase in sales of 35%.
Environmental Benefits
• Cools the Air
• Produces Oxygen
• Filters Air & Reduces Pollution
• Captures & Suppresses Dust
• Recharges & Filters Groundwater Supply
• Reduces Storm Water Runoff
• Controls Soil Erosion
• Retains and Sequesters Carbon
• Assists Decomposition of Pollutants
• Restores Soil Quality
Community & Human Health Benefits
• Enhances Community Pride & Social Harmony
• Offers a Natural Playing Surface for Recreation
• Provides a Safe Surface & Reduces Injuries
• Promotes Outdoor Activity & Exercise
• Improves Physical & Mental Health
• Relieves Stress
• Lowers Allergy Related Problems
• Dissipates Heat & Cools the Environment
• Reduces Glare
• Diminishes Noise Pollution
• Minimizes Nuisance Pests
• Compliments Overall Landscaping
• Preserves Natural Wildlife Habitat
Economic Benefits
• Increases Property Values
• Reduces Home Cooling Costs
• Provides a Low-Cost Ground Cover
• Serves as a Fire Barrier
• Improves Visibility & Deters Crime
• Boosts Human Productivity
