Golfer expectations

Here is an interesting article highlighting golfer expectations and how it has an impact on maintenance. I am certainly not posting this to be critical of golfer expectations. Every member has the right to expect great conditions. This just gives a little insight as to what goes on behind the scenes.


http://www.superintendentmagazine.com/article-8482.aspx

Update 8/29

Well, the year of extremes continues. Yesterday, we had over two inches of rain within three hours. The pictures posted below are one and ten fairway right after the first heavy downpour. At this point, we are way behind on overall course maintenance.

On Monday, we had a double shotgun with the first groups going off at 8 a.m. The second shotgun went off at 1 p.m. Needless to say, there wasn't much accomplished that day. As soon as we showed up yesterday, the sky's opened up. There is only so much cleaning, and organizing, around the shop for 10 crew members. Taking into consideration that the golf course was unplayable, and inaccessible, I opted to send everyone home.

So, that brings us to today. Long story short, the entire golf course needs to be mowed from tee to green. Bunkers are a mess as well. In fact, this is one of the only times that I've seen bunkers wash out here. It was a lot of water in a short amount of time. The good news is that all of the drainage work we did, in the early spring, worked out great. By late afternoon, we were able to allow cart traffic on most fairways.

Moving forward, we will be addressing many irrigation leaks and upgrades, seeding damaged areas on the outskirts of the course, finishing up aeration and seeding some more fescue areas. Overall, we came through the summer fairly unscathed. September and October should be great months to get out and play.

10 Fairway

Front of 10 Tee

First Fairway

Course Update 8/21/12

Well, it seems like if we want it to rain, schedule an aeration. Last week's fairway aeration was rained out on Tuesday and Wednesday. We intend on resuming fairway aeration, beginning on the 18th hole, and working back starting tomorrow. The front nine fairways have recovered remarkably well since aeration last Tuesday. All fairways have been fertilized in order to promote recovery.

Recently, we have fallen behind on mowing due to the rain. Fairways are growing vigorously because of the fertilizer, and it has become hard to keep up with the mowing. The good news is that all of the aeration holes will disappear quickly. As I've said before, aeration is a key component of premium turf quality. Short term sacrifice will yield long term gain.

Green speeds have taken a bit of a hit within the last week. Our greens roller is down for repair, and we expect the part to be in shortly. Rolling greens 4-5 times, weekly will add significant speed. Without rolling, speed and surface quality will surly take a hit.

We have continued our weekly topdressing program since the temperatures have cooperated. Sand topdressing is another key component of firm, smooth, fast greens. I know it contradicts what everyone does on their home lawn, but it is very beneficial to add small amounts of sand to the greens when ever possible.

Please look for another update shortly. Thank you!