Join us for the first installment of the 2026 CNAS Science Lecture Series on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at the UCR Palm Desert Center with Dr. Jim Baird for a lecture on Saving Turfgrass in California and the Southwest. For more information or to register: https://sciencelectureseries.ucr.edu/

Saving Turfgrass in California and the Southwest.
In a region with increasing population, temperature, and drought, and consequential declining water resources, turfgrass is often the primary target for removal or even prohibition from the landscape. Dr. Baird will set the record straight about the functional, aesthetic, and environmental benefits of turfgrass including providing tips for water conservation on lawns and landscapes. Most notably, he will highlight the UCR Turfgrass Breeding & Genetics program that is making significant strides towards developing turfgrasses with improved drought resistance.

About Dr. Jim Baird
Jim Baird has been the Turfgrass Specialist at UCR since 2008. His primary responsibilities include conducting research and providing outreach for the California turfgrass industry. Jim was born and raised in Pueblo, Colorado. He received a B.S. in Landscape Horticulture in 1985 from Colorado State University, a M.S. in Agronomy & Soils in 1989 and a Ph.D. in Botany in 1993, both from Auburn University. Prior to UCR, Jim was an Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Research & Teaching at Oklahoma State and Michigan State Universities, and an Agronomist in the Northeast Region for the United States Golf Association Green Section.

James H. Baird, Ph.D.
Professor and Turfgrass Specialist
Department of Botany and Plant Sciences
University of California, Riverside
Website: Turfgrass Science

Event Day and Location
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Reception: 5-6 p.m.
Lecture: 6-7 p.m.

UCR Palm Desert Center (map)
75080 Frank Sinatra Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Parking is free

Join us on March 3 to learn about innovating turfgrass for a water-smart future

• Discover the new Coachella Bermudagrass and why it matters
• Explore how turfgrass science advances water conservation
• Learn water-smart solutions for lawns and landscapes
• See how to achieve beautiful, resilient green grass with less water
• Get inside the latest innovations in turfgrass research
• Explore education and career pathways in the turfgrass industry
• Connect with researchers, industry professionals, students, homeowners, golfers, HOA leaders, and community members

Everyone is welcome to attend
Prospective high school & middle school students, community members, and industry partners, are all encouraged to attend. This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.

For more information or to register: sciencelectureseries.ucr.edu