BASF Turf & Ornamentals has increased its opportunities to speak directly to turf professionals thanks to an innovative marketing partnership with FarmLinks.

FarmLinks (www.farmlinks.org) is a one-of-a-kind research and demonstration facility, which utilizes one of the world's most unique marketing strategies for evaluating, testing and exhibiting the newest and best products and services the golf-course industry has to offer.

Founded in 1999 by the Pursell Family and located at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga, Ala., FarmLinks’ cutting-edge environment includes an 18-hole, 7,444-yard championship golf course that is open to the public, and hosts 1,200 turf professionals each year.

"Reaching turf professionals in this intimate environment, physically demonstrating best chemical practices and listening to the needs and concerns of these customers is a tremendous business and relationship opportunity," said Dr. Toni Bucci, business manager for BASF Turf & Ornamentals.

The unique, customer-focused marketing strategy at FarmLinks is branded as The Experience and includes top names and innovators in the industry such as the Toro Company, and Agrium Advanced Technologies (formerly Pursell Technologies, Inc.)

By attending FarmLinks, the turf professional is exposed to these market leading companies and is given the opportunity to discuss current challenges, while also getting a glimpse at technology, products and chemistry that may help them in the near future.

As a cornerstone partner, BASF invites 400 guests to FarmLinks annually and has a two-hour spot on the educational program during the three-day experience. BASF also uses FarmLinks to test new pesticides and conduct focus groups with turf professionals.

"In addition to showcasing BASF product innovation, we’re able to listen to feedback from participants so we can better meet their current and emerging pest issues,” said Toni.

To keep their turf healthy, weed and disease free, FarmLinks uses BASF solutions including: Curalan® EG, Emerald®, Insignia® and Trinity® fungicides, Basagran® T/O, Drive®, Pendulum® and Pendulum® AquaCap™ herbicides, and Amdro® Pro fire ant bait.

FarmLinks Superintendent Mark Langner holds up a piece of turf from one of his greens to demonstrate the heath of the root zone. BASF’s Insignia ® and Trinity® fungicides are keeping his tees and greens healthy.

To visit FarmLinks with BASF Turf & Ornamentals, contact your BASF representative by entering your zip code below.