Photo courtesy of UW-Madison CALS.
Dave Marach joined the staff of UW-Madison’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences in January 2024. He is the superintendent at the O.J. Noer Turfgrass Research and Education Facility.
In this role, Marach is responsible for planning and directing day-to-day operations according to research study objectives. He’ll also contribute to protocols for existing and future research. And, he’ll assist in training and workshops for various audiences.
Meet Marach
What is your educational/professional background, including your area(s) of specialization/focus?
I have a double major in environmental science and biology with a plant emphasis from UW–Green Bay. I was formerly the superintendent at Northbrook Golf and Grill in Luxemburg, Wisconsin for 15 years. Along with a handful of other stops during my 30 years in the turf industry.
What attracted you to this position/the college?
I was attracted to the position because I always want to learn how to manage turf with the environmental impact in mind. I felt my last few years at Northbrook gave me just a taste of what can be done when you put the environment at the top of your decision-making process and still produce quality results.
What are you most looking forward to as you start your position in CALS?
I look forward to sharing my experiences in managing turf on a golf course with the researchers and public on a different style of turf management to lessen the impact on the environment.
What is your hometown? Where did you grow up?
I grew up in the small town of Clintonville, where my dad was also a golf course superintendent for a number of years.
What are your hobbies and other interests?
I love anything outdoors and will now have time to get reacquainted with some of them: hunting, fishing, running and, yes, golf. But I am VERY rusty.
