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Alexander KowalewskiGraduate Research Assistant
162 PSSB |
Alec is currently a graduate assistant under the direction of Dr. John Rogers. His Ph.D. research has focused on improving native soil athletic fields with drain tile installation and subsequent sand topdressing applications, providing a built-up sand-capped system over time. The objective of this research is to provide municipalities with a cost effective solution to failing native soil athletic fields. Results obtained from this research have determined that a drain tile spacing of 13 feet apart, combined with a 1 inch sand topdressing layer, can substantially improve athletic field drainage and surface stability, and as much as ½ inch of topdressing sand, applied over a 5-week period, will improve turfgrass stability and wear tolerance.
Prior to this research, Alec also obtained a Masters degree from Michigan State University in 2006. During this time Kowalewski explored the effects of maple and oak leaf mulch on dandelion populations in established Kentucky bluegrass. Results from this research indicate that mulching leaves, regardless of genus (maple or oak), into established turfgrass as a leaf litter disposal method will increase turfgrass spring green-up and contribute to a reduction in common dandelion population.
Kowalewski also served as a resident consultant at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China. While in Beijing for 4 ½ months, Kowalewski's responsibles during the project included turfgrass establishment and maintenance, ensuring successful transport and installation of the modular field used in the China National Stadium “Bird’s Nest” and teaching the crew members of a local construction company how to care for the field. The final outcome of this project was a world-class modular field, which was moved into the National Stadium after the opening ceremony and used for track and field events and the football finals between Argentina and Nigeria.