Paint Branch Turfgrass Research Facility

Location: 395 Greenmeade Dr.

The University of Maryland Paint Branch Turfgrass Research Facility was developed through cooperation between the Maryland Agricultural Experiment Station and the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. The Facility consists of three buildings located on University property at the northeast edge of the College Park Campus, but all 35 acres of research plot land is leased through an agreement with USDA.

Construction of Paint Branch began in December, 1998 and the facility was dedicated in July, 2000. The Headquarters Building is a 4,500 sq. ft. single-story structure with a red brick façade. It includes a classroom, conference room, laboratory space, and offices for eight faculty and staff members. The Facility also includes a state-of-the-art agricultural chemical storage building and a 7,000 sq. ft. equipment maintenance building.

Although the research conducted at Paint Branch is primarily intended to assist home owners, lawn care companies, golf course superintendents, sports field managers, sod producers, schools, cemeteries, airports, highway maintenance operations, and others who manage turfgrass, the Facility also investigates the use of native grasses and wildflowers. Approximately 15 acres are currently irrigated and support nearly every aspect of turf research, including new cultivar evaluation, disease control, weed control, and fertility management. Visitors are welcome by appointment between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.