Look at a great green golf course expanse in Michigan and know that the work of Dr. Paul Rieke is reflected in its beauty.
He published numerous articles, books and papers regarding soil and turfgrass management, taught more than 5,000 students including three presidents of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, and helped secure over $1.2 million in external grants and donations for MSU while greatly impacting Michigan golf for 40 years.
In 1963, he received a doctorate in soil science from Michigan State University and was appointed assistant professor in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. He became a professor in 1976 and was named Professor Emeritus in 1999.
Dr. Rieke helped develop the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center at MSU, served on the MSU Turf Team, and developed and distributed turfgrass information for Michigan golf course superintendents and others. His research included the proposal of a novel construction method for golf greens. Recognition of his work came from national and Michigan’s top golf organizations.
Internationally, Dr. Rieke was involved in the indoor turfgrass project at the Silverdome for the 1994 World Cup. He’s generally regarded throughout the nation and the world as the leading authority on turfgrass soils and nutrition.
Year inducted: 2014
| Last Name | Rieke |