Meet the Team

Hank Kerfoot

President & Founder

Hank is the President and Founder of Modern Turf. Hank is a turf graduate of Lake City Community College and a former golf course superintendent. He officially formed Modern Turf in February of 2000, closing on the first 410 acres which is the Rembert Farm. Between 2008 and 2010, Modern Turf acquired another 690 acres in Dalzell, SC, and bought 325 more acres in Dalzell in 2016. Hank constantly looks for new grasses to better suit the many facets of the natural grass industry that we actively serve. Hank is involved in leadership roles with several industry-related organizations and enjoys giving back to the community as well. Without Hank’s leadership and dedication to its customers and employees, Modern Turf wouldn’t be the state-of-the-art turfgrass production company that it is today!

B.J. Haunert

Vice President

B.J. is Modern Turf’s Vice President. B.J. is a graduate of The Ohio State University and holds an agronomy degree he earned in 1996. During his 25 years in the turfgrass industry, B.J. has directed numerous re-grassing projects throughout the Southeast. B.J.’s first-hand knowledge of growing the most dominant warm season varieties on the market today is reflected in both the quality of turf grown on the farm and a successful end product for Modern Turf’s customers.

Chris Amerson

Logistics Coordinator

Chris is the Logistics Coordinator for Modern Turf. Chis joined the Modern Turf team in 2010 as a Sales Representative but quickly transitioned to his current position in 2011. Chris brings extensive experience in landscape installation and maintenance gained through years of hands-on work, which has equipped him with the expertise necessary to handle the complex logistics of sod delivery efficiently.

Chris Cook

Farm Manager

Chris is the dedicated Farm Manager at Modern Turf, a role he has embraced since the company’s inception in 2000. With over two decades of experience, Chris has been instrumental in the farm’s impressive growth and success. His deep understanding of agricultural best practices and keen attention to detail have helped Modern Turf become a trusted name in the industry. His meticulous planning and organizational skills guarantee that Modern Turf products meet the highest quality standards, reflecting Modern Turf’s commitment to excellence. By managing the day-to-day operations with precision, Chris ensures that every batch of sod and sprigs are prepared to meet the diverse needs of customers.

Henry Kerfoot

Director of Business Development

Henry is the Director of Business Development at Modern Turf. Henry holds a degree in Finance and a minor in Business from Wofford College. His analytical skills and strategic thinking drive growth and innovation within the company. Henry specializes in residential sales, using his financial knowledge to create customized solutions for homeowners. By analyzing market trends and customer preferences, he ensures Modern Turf remains competitive and responsive. Henry also promotes Hydrowick, a cost-effective golf course drainage solution, showcasing his ability to effectively communicate benefits drive client satisfaction, and foster sustainable growth for Modern Turf.

Tammy Cook

Office Manager

Tammy is Modern Turf’s Office Manager, and a stabilizing force behind the scenes since 2004. Tammy’s role has numerous responsibilities that span across all divisions, and she lends her expertise to billing, human resources, and accounting for the entire operation. Tammy’s dedication ensures that everything runs smoothly, making her an invaluable asset to the team. Tammy consistently demonstrates a commitment to excellence and a keen attention to detail, qualities that have made a significant impact on our Modern Turf’s success.

SCOTT REUL

General Manager

Scott is the Manager for the Sod and Landscape Supply Outlet. For all your residential and commercial Sod and Landscape Materials, Scott will work with you to identify and supply the proper amount of the best products to satisfy your needs and complete your project.

Buddy Smith, Jr.

Vice President of Sales

Buddy is the Vice President of Sales, and is a renowned figure in the turf industry. Graduating from NC State University with two degrees – a turf diploma in 1993 and an ornamental landscape diploma in 1994 – he brings 28 years of varied experience to the Modern Turf team. In his role as a sales representative, Buddy leverages his expertise to guide customers in making informed choices regarding grass planting, establishment techniques, and maintenance.

Stephen Butler

General Manager

Stephen is the General Manager at Modern Turf. He earned a degree in Golf Course Management from Horry Georgetown Technical College and has built a career centered on agronomy and turf management, combining his passion for the outdoors with a deep understanding of plant health and soil science. Rising from groundskeeper to superintendent, Stephen has managed golf courses throughout Florida and North Carolina. His diverse experience has provided him with comprehensive knowledge of turfgrass maintenance, business management, and environmental stewardship. Stephen plays a pivotal role in managing the agronomic program and the farm’s daily operations. His proficiency guarantees that the sod produced is of the utmost quality and eco-friendliness, aiding clients in cultivating attractive, robust landscapes. His professional ethos is characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a dedication to delivering sustainable solutions that cater to the dynamic requirements of his clientele.

Mark Gainger

Vice President of Modern Turf Sports

Mark is the Vice President of Modern Turf Sports, Mark Grainger has accumulated 20 years of experience in the turfgrass industry, working in both Golf and Sports turf sectors. Starting as an assistant superintendent and progressing to a superintendent in the golf industry, Mark established Modern Turf Sports in 2013. Under his leadership, the company has grown to become one of the largest sports turf companies in the Southeast.

Scott Dooley

Sales & Operations Manager at Modern Turf Sports

Scott is the Sales & Operations Manager at Modern Turf Sports and is a renowned figure in the sports Industry. He graduated from Winthrop University where he was a baseball player. With 25 years of sales experience, Scott plays a crucial role in the Modern Turf Sports assisting customers and schools in making informed decisions about their sports facilities.

Zach Cook

Construction Manager of Modern Turf Sports

Zach is the Construction Manager at Modern Turf Sports and is responsible for overseeing all daily operations. Zach has been instrumental in the company’s growth due to his unmatched expertise in construction and renovation.

David Meldrum

Residential Sales Manager

David graduated from Clemson University in 1992, earning a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture. Additionally, he holds an associate degree in Golf Course Management from Horry-Georgetown Technical College, obtained in 1990. With 30 years of experience in the golf industry, he has previously worked as a Superintendent. David specializes in residential sales at Modern Turf, concentrating on new lawn installations and the promotion of the Blended Earth brand.

Jamey Jackson

Regional Director Of Sales

Jamey supports turfgrass industry clients in Florida, Georgia, Texas, and the Gulf States. Jamey resides in LaGrange, Georgia, and is an avid golfer. He is a member of Highland Country Club, serves as the Chairman of the Marketing Committee, and was recognized as Player of the Year in 2023. A skilled golfer, he was the club champion in 2021 and frequently competes in the Georgia Open Pro-Am and Pot-O-Gold Pro-Am tournaments. He has built a career in the Talent Acquisition industry and has experience interviewing and placing Golf Course Superintendents and General Managers in employment opportunities. Jackson is married to his wife Kayla, and they have two beautiful daughters, 10-year-old Scarlett and seven-year-old Savannah.for overseeing all daily operations. Zach has been instrumental in the company’s growth due to his unmatched expertise in construction and renovation.

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