10/8/2022
Bunkers
In preparation for an upcoming bunker renovation, we have begun the re construction on two test bunkers, one at 17 right greenside bunker and one at #1 greenside. We will be installing new drainage and new sand at both locations. We plan to install liner to these bunkers with the Better Billy Bunker method, this will help them drain much better as well as stop contamination of our white sand. Lastly, we will be installing irrigation on the steep banks surrounding these areas, using a variety of products from multiple manufacturers, again as a test to see which work best for our property.
We have been busy on the golf course with a few items, this includes;
- Continuing to top up bunkers with sand
- Mowing and cleaning up our fescue areas
- Topdressing all of our fine turf areas
- Continuing with underbrush at 4, 13,15,16,17
- Venting our green surfaces
- Finishing pathways at #6 and re grading this area as well as #4
- Re – grading cart path at 16 tee
- Hydro seeding the hillside at 16 with fescue
We have a few items we will be tackling in the coming weeks; this includes:
- Completing our test bunkers
- Topdressing fine turf areas
- Overseeding some areas damaged tee construction
- Addition of air relief and drain valves throughout the property
- Installing a few additional isolation valves
- Mowing and cleaning up all fescue areas
- Treating some pathways with a binding agent
- Installing stone curbing in select areas
- Removal of Cart path at 15 tee
At this point of the season, the turf will not recover from the wear it will receive, divots will not grow back (this is why its imperative to replace if possible) and ball marks that are poorly repaired or unrepaired will not recover. These voids that will inevitably be left behind gives Poa a perfect opportunity to invade, and we know that this grass is very opportunistic! We must begin thinking about 2023 and prepare now for golf course conditions next season. For all of these reasons and the fact that we must prepare our property for the onset of winter the last day of the season will be the 30
th of October.
In order to prepare the golf course for winter, we will be blowing out our irrigation system the week of October 24-28th, followed by a heavy topdressing of both our green and tee surfaces. The fine turf areas require a preventative fungicide treatment prior to snowfall. This treatment must occur when the golf course is closed for the season as well as when the plant can actively take up the product. We must time this application prior to the plant going completely dormant, to protect itself for the stressful winter season ahead.
Respectfully Submitted,
Chad Vibert
Golf Course Superintendent