GOLF MAINTENANCE AND AGRONOMY 


DECEMBER 2012 







GENERAL 

· Friday, December 21st at 6:12 am marked the start of winter with the sun at the southern most position. In the following days the sun’s path starts shifting northward. On March 20th in 89 days, the start of spring, the Vernal Equinox, where the day and night are nearly equal.

· The ideal weather, dry and warm (mid 50’s) during the first week of December allowed us to efficiently apply our finial fungicide application on greens followed by a protective lay of topdressing sand. Subsequent days marked the beginning of colder days and night with several snow events.

· Additionally, December begins the period evaluating the past seasons successes and challenges and developing strategies to improve operational effectiveness. Also, equipment maintenance in preparation of the next growing season becomes a main focus for staff.

· Performed annual review with Adam and Eric.


AGRONOMY 

· Applied second application of plant protectant on greens. A combination of traditional fungicide with Civitas a mineral oil based product. Initial observation of Civitas is an enhanced green appearance on applied turfgrass. We will continue to monitor and evaluation performance during the winter months and more importantly spring plant development regarding greenup and disease pressures.

· Sand topdressed all greens after final fungicide spray application. We used a darker colored USGA specification sand, with the darker color, looking for enhance spring green up along with crown protection of turfgrass.

· Prepared paperwork for Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program certification. Nearly complete with all phases of documentation. A few items will need to be completed this spring; bulletin board communicating our environmental programs, and outreach projects. Emailed completed Site Assessment and Environmental Plan to ACSP 12/20/12.

· Performed soil testing on selected greens, when results are returned, will evaluation and use in developing fertility program adjustment for the next season.


MAINTENANCE

· Preparing equipment of next growing season; basic service and preventive maintenance, and reel grinding and service.

· Snow removal preformed around clubhouse and parking lot on 12/27/12 with 6-8” of snow accumulation.


IRRIGATION

· No activity.


OTHER / EQUIPMENT 

· No major equipment issues. Equipment service and repair for next season.

· Preparing equipment quotes of capital request.

· Reviewing operational procedures for recycling, spill containment, and other safety and environmental considerations.

WEATHER (as recorded from Niagara Falls weather station)

· Mean Avg Temp 35 – Max Temp 63 (12/04) – Min Temp 15 (12/28).

· Precipitation measured on site 1.64” (rainfall) – 11” snowfall.

NEXT MONTH (JANUARY) 
· Continue equipment service and repair.

· Agronomic and maintenance program development continue.

· Start hiring process, evaluating candidates and setting up interviews.

· Continue with environmental initiatives; Audubon, KemperSports Green Level and IPM programs.

Equipment mechanical area and storage.  Need to install ventilation system in mechanical area to exhaust particulate matter from reel grinders and install walk-through door next to overhead door creating easier access and reducing heating costs.

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Light Snow

Rough Day In The Office

First Snow.

GOLF MAINTENANCE AND AGRONOMY

NOVEMBER 2012

GENERAL

· November commenced as the remnants of Hurricane Sandy mixed with a cold front for the northwest, setting the stage for high winds and significant precipitation. With saturated soils, leave and debris cleanup was placed on hold, waiting for firmer soil conditions. Did not need to wait long as unseasonably warm and windy condition followed creating firmer soil conditions.

· Second and third weeks of the month brought consecutive heavy morning frost with cool sunny afternoons enabling completion of many agronomic and maintenance activities. As ambient air temperatures trend lower, leave tissue growth slows, caution with respect to turfgrass wear tolerance is prudent.

· Overall month of November was very productive with consistent and predictable temperatures and minimal precipitation events. Turf conditions remain relatively consistent and healthy. Some disease pressure signs, mainly dollar spot (small tan spots) on fairways are present but represent no concern. We continue to observer significant ball mark pressure on greens from inattentive repair and unfilled divots continuing to populate fairways. The immense task of ball mark and divot repair continues to present challenges with balancing public etiquette and maintenance protocols. Will continue to address with additional programs allocating resources to improve consistent course conditions relative to expectations.

· This month concludes budgeted hourly employees. Observation, labor hour utilization may be more beneficial during late season (October and November) with minimal interaction with guest, efficiency increase. Resources used to repair greens, divots, capital projects, etc.

AGRONOMY

· Applied granular fertilizer to all roughs with anticipated benefits regarding enhanced root development and spring green up. With soil temperatures ideal for root development, supplemental nutrient applications particularly beneficial. Continuing application procedure using rotary push type spreaders, eliminating majority of the waste seen with use of larger application equipment. Additionally, preventing contamination of water features and native tall grass fields.

· Application of granular fertilizer on all tees and fairways with readily available nitrogen for enhanced root development and spring green up. Application made with large capacity rotary spreader.

· Completed fungicide application to all bentgrass areas Greens, Tees, Approaches and Fairways. Using combination of traditional fungicide with a new formulation of mineral oil product call Civitas, a non chemical fungicide that activates the plant defenses defending against fungas. As part of our IPM program, the use of Civitas has reduced our environmental impact while protecting plant health. Additional benefits including enhance visual fall turfgrass color with green pigment in spray solution, protection of wind desiccation, and improved spring green up with green pigment absorbing more light and heat. Mineral oils have been around for many years, Civitas has created a formulation that is more end user friendly.

· Greens fungicide program includes 2 applications at 14-21 day interval using same products for each application. Split application of fungicide to mitigate detrimental effects of traffic following plant protectant applications.

· Sand todressing application to all tee and approaches to increase surface firmness and protection of plant crown from wind desiccation. Continuing to address excess moisture with tees, with our activities masking the underline issues with proper subsurface drainage.

· Continued sand topdressing of cart path edges, enhancing growing conditions and promoting consistent turf and enhanced tolerance to traffic.


MAINTENANCE 

· Completed final mowing of all turfgrass areas on Sunday November 11. Final mowing performed to ensure proper plant height to minimize disease development.

· Performed second mowing of native tall grass fields creating a uniform presentation and mulching excess leaf debris.

· Devoted significant resources to leaf removal employing Buffalo blower and mechanical sweeper. Need to evaluate fall cleanup procedures, and testing leaf and debris vacuum options.

· Seed fescue on bunker slopes damaged by insects.

· Installed orange fence material along water features and greens where historically observed bird population congregating and creating unsanitary conditions. Will continue to evaluate effectiveness.

· Removed large dead tree adjacent to #5 fairway. Scheduling additional removal on #11 & 12 if time permits.

· Moved weather station equipment from #15 tee to maintenance facility. Anticipate new placement near maintenance facility office. Will need to acquire new data collection software from manufacture.


IRRIGATION 

· Repaired irrigation leak on practice facility floor and #13 fairway. Both cracked pipe at tee.

· Turned off irrigation pumpstation Thursday November 15th after completing fungicide applications. Opened system to drain remaining water prior to air compressor arrival.

· Irrigation blow-out started Tuesday November 20th with 1300 cfm air compressor rental. Completed process on Wednesday morning. Process slowed by presence of golfing guests.

· Pumpstation contractor on sight during irrigation blow-out, finalizing winterization of pumpstation equipment motors and pumps.

· Irrigation used course and maintenance facility for washing – NOV. 10,581. (OCT – 61,760).

· November water replenishment from municipal source; meter reading 12/1 – 104417 – no change.


OTHER / EQUIPMENT 

· No major equipment issues. Preparing equipment for next season.

· Observing increased maintenance and repair items on aging equipment. We will prepare detailed inventory of equipment and relationship to condition with anticipated life expectancy.

· Repaired exterior soffit above overhead door, reattaching components. Likely continue to see soffit failure resulting from missing soffit venting.

· Installed plastic curtain, separating heated mechanical area from cold equipment storage space. Anticipate reduced gas and electrical cost of the winter months.


WEATHER (as recorded from Niagara Falls weather station)

· Mean Avg Temp 38 (14’ less last month) – Max Temp 69 (11/12) – Min Temp 21 (11/8).

· Precipitation measured on site 0.55” ( 2+ separate days)

· First measurable snow accumulation 11/30 1”+.


NEXT MONTH (DECEMBER) 

· Complete second fungicide application on greens and sand topdressing.

· Continue equipment repair and maintenance in preparation for next growing season.

· Continue to evaluation and prepare agronomic and maintenance programs for next growing season. Focusing on efficiency of staff and resources.

Fall Color

Fall Color

Bird control

Irrigation Blow-out

Foggy morning

A FROSTY MORNING!!!

GOLF MAINTENANCE AND AGRONOMY 

OCTOBER 2012


GENERAL

· First half of October stayed seasonally warm and dry. As the month progressed cooler temperatures along with consistent precipitation slowed progress of agronomic and maintenance activities. The last 5 days of the month were cool and wet; with Super Storm Sandy bring nearly 4” of precipitation, but did not bring damaging winds as predicted.

· Overall, performed many activities from core aerification in high impact areas, verticutting fairways for thatch removal, and generally preparing for golf course for dormant conditions. Area of improvement looking forward; completion of activities started and addressing late season staffing needs to accomplish projects and agronomic goals.


AGRONOMY 

· Sprayed greens nitrogen @ 0.19 lbs N/M on 10/1, & 10/22 (nitrogen and fungicide application control dollar spot and cold weather fungi).

· Granular fertilizer application 25-0-5 to Green and Tee surrounds, and roughs @ 0.7 lbs. N/M 10/8. Application made using walk spreaders. Reducing waste on non target and contamination of water features.

· Verticut fairways to a depth of 1.25” removing excess thatch material, processed followed behind with sweeper unit. Completed fairways #10, 6, 7, 8, 1, 15, & 16. Ordered new set of verticut blades with carbide tips (stronger and wider) enabling removal of more thatch material without increasing depth. Continuing this process of controlling thatch level will enhance overall playability, effectiveness of irrigation, and nutrient / plant protectant applications.

· Sand topdressed Tees 10/2 and approaches 10/10. Additionally, sand topdress manually low areas around greens #2-8.

· Core aerified left side of #2 greens (20%) and hand sand topdressed. Area continued to show weakness with thin turf.

· Core aerified the second landing area on #3 fairway from 150 yard to green. Anticipate increase root development for traffic tolerance. Additionally, prepared area along cart path for sod, use sand to grade slope along cart for better drainage and increased tolerance to cart traffic.

· Performed solid tine aerification with Aerway spiker around all fairway perimeters 10/15. Utilizing this practice following precipitation event, allow deeper penetration into soil.

· Application of seed to all weak cart path edges followed behind by sand topdressing.

· Reseeded practice tee and sand topdressed surface ensuring complete coverage for divot repair.

· Core aerified using ½” tines greens surround roughs #17 – 13. Compacted areas from construction and sod, and turf weakness form traffic flow to and from green surface.

· Core Aerified with ¾” tines Tee surrounds #10-18, followed by cleanup with sweeper.


MAINTENANCE 

· Completed fescue / tall grass area mowing at 5”using owned articulator pull behind rotary mower, total time 32 hours. Worked well, but flail brush type mower would be more suited. Mowing of these areas enhance future uniformity of fescue, additionally limiting growth of woody deciduous trees. Would like to compete again this fall weather dependent.

· Selectively trimmed down brush areas (rental brush mower) adjacent to greens #11, 13, 14, 17, & #1 and tall native areas in front of #6 tees. Additional space between playing surface and tree/native area improve pace of play and maintain uniformity of plant material.

· Drainage project behind #6 green collection area. Low area holding water and slow to drain. Striped sod, removed existing soil, replaced with sand and ensured proper slope to drain basin.

· Leave and fall debris cleanup as weather allows. Devote resources to leave and debris green up on greens and tees as demand necessitates.

· Cut down and clean up dead tree #5. Remaining dead trees in turf #11, & 12.

· Detail and clean equipment on rainy days.

· Bring in patio and all course accessories except tee markers and flag sticks. Stain all wood accessories and store in maintenance facility.

· Practice Facility closed 10/31. Bring in accessories and stain.

· Mowing heights; Greens @ 0.120, Collars @ 0.350”, Fairways, Tees and Approaches @ 0.350”, Intermediate Rough @ 0.75”, Primary Rough @ 1.75”.

IRRIGATION 

· Removed sod around irrigation heads where saturated soil is in preparation of repair (likely loose swing joint).

· Irrigation around #12 green off, possible leak. Maybe contributing to bunker damage.

· Broken irrigation line practice facility. Removed soil to find pipe, cracked pvc fitting.

· Irrigation used course and maintenance facility for washing – OCT. 61,760. (SEPT – 1,047,866).

· October water replenishment from municipal source; meter reading 11/1 – 104417 – no change.


OTHER / EQUIPMENT 

· No major equipment issues. Preparing equipment for next season.

· Observing increased maintenance and repair items on aging equipment.


WEATHER (as recorded from Niagara Falls weather station)

· Mean Avg Temp. 52 (11’ less last month) – Max Temp. 78 (10/25) – Min Temp. 30 (10/12).

· Precipitation measured on site 6.61” (11 separate days)

· Complete course frost event Saturday 10/13. Play resumed after 9:30am.


NEXT MONTH (November) 

· Final mowing of all turf areas and debris cleanup.

· Application of granular fertilizer to roughs and fairways.

· Application of fungicide to all bentgrass areas, 2 split application on greens, tees and fairways.

· Finial granular fertilizer application on greens.

· Sand topdressing of Tees, Approaches and greens.

· Irrigation system air blow out November 20-21st.

Year End Report 2012 (FISCAL)

GOLF MAINTENANCE AND AGRONOMY 

2012 YEAR END 

· Golf Maintenance and Agronomy for Seneca Hickory Stick Golf for 2012 started abruptly with the golf course opening for play Saturday, March 11th with a high temperature of 55 degrees. The welcomed early start to the golf and growing season was prompted by a mild winter, near record warm temperatures and below average snow fall which contributed to the 4th warmest winter on record in the lower 48 states.

In general, the golf course appeared to overwinter well with minimal disease signs and other damage (notably bird debris apparent on #15-16, & 9/18). Good coverage and uniform turfgrass on fairways, weakness on #3 fairway near green and #17 from 150 yards toward green. Both areas have major choke points with limited alternatives for traffic control. Greens where covered with a permeable plastic cover, presumed strategy of protecting surface from wind desiccation and earlier spring green-up. Signification quantity of ball marks on greens and unfilled divots on tees and fairways associated with late season / winter golf. With high clay soils and excess thatch development, spring conditions where soft under foot with excess moisture near the surface. Additionally, high potential for soil compaction from vehicle traffic present long periods of time after precipitation.

No signification issues with soil and water tests results, slightly high soil pH, and low organic material in greens and tee root zone mix normal of USGA type. Low water clarity from soil erosion , weed development (water milfoil, duck weed and cattails) in most ponds, and algae presence in shallow water edges.

Some concerns on first observation of the course; (1) Early putting green development with green leaf tissue while temperatures remained below freezing and development of surface algae especially in low lying areas. (2) Excess thatch development in bentgrass turf throughout the course, particularly on greens #1-9/18 (Green #10-17 are newer with different characteristics and generally firmer with less excess moisture), additionally slight layering in the soil profile associated with inconsistent sand topdressing and use of granular fertilizer, most likely organic fertilizer material that take longer to break down creating a black layer near the surface and/or use of sulfur base products contributing to anaerobic soil conditions . Greens appear to have a soil amendment added to them after grow-in(from a process call “drill and fill”), a product named Profile to enhance moisture control, interpretation of its use relating to excess moisture, possibly from greens construction methods and materials and/or drainage failure. (3) Weak development of bluegrass/ryegrass/fescue roughs with contamination of bentgrass throughout. Development of rough weakest in areas of inconsistent summer moisture and weak irrigation coverage and high vehicle traffic. (4) Irrigation heads inconsistent with surrounding grades creating unreliable coverage and potential damage to and from mowing equipment. (5) Water features are a signification design element, pond banks with major soil erosion will create major structural damage to greens complexes including #3, 4, 9/18, 10, 15, & 16.

· As the golf season progressed, above average temperatures and below normal precipitation played an important role in maintenance and agronomic activities. Alternatively, irrigation usage was slightly strained beginning in May through August. Peak irrigation usage occurred in July with 13.5 million gallons use on the course.

With different water requirements for bentgrass fairways/tee versus bluegrass/ryegrass roughs, balancing between over and under watering become slightly problematic at higher temperatures. Generally error on slight overwatering practices based on soil conditions. Understanding high clay soils become impractical in the golf course setting to rehydrate after soil moisture draw down occurs with consistent warm temperatures, regular irrigation is required. Generally, the bengrass fairways performed well under this regiment, while roughs were inconsistent with irrigation limited in most areas. An additional strategy utilized this past year to reduce overwatering fairways was implementation of part circle irrigation heads that only watered roughs. Used limited in areas of weakest coverage.

Furthermore, implemented irrigation strategies for greens management and to a smaller extent the entire golf course, where deep and infrequent watering, promoting healthier turfgrass where deeper rooting occurs and consistent playing conditions are maintained longer. Furthermore, reducing traffic damage and incidents of disease pressure when limiting excess surface moisture on greens.

Started identifying and replacing full circle irrigation heads with part circle heads. Focusing on Green and Tee surrounds as part of a larger initiative to reduce managed turfgrass in out of play areas. These turf areas of reduced management identified this past spring account for 11.4 acres. When project is complete, significant saving in labor, water and electricity will be realized. While there are deduction in inputs with these reduced managed areas, additionally they frame each hole creating greater contrast and texture.


· Focused attention on immediate playability and visual presentation going into the golfing season. Implementation fundamental practices from professional presentation (straightforward mowing patterns, and consistent quality daily setup), and core cultural practices including; water management, fertility and plant protectant strategies, sand topdressing programs, and appropriate mechanical activities including rolling, verticuting and aerification.

(1) Implemented consistent daily setup; changing pin locations based on level of play, moving tee markers and filling tee divots daily, cleaning comfort stations daily and filling water coolers consistently. (2) Trained staff to mow specific mowing patterns throughout the course, using the mowing lines to accent visually while limiting the distraction. (3) Arranged practice facility organization including practice tee setup and utilization, target green and fairway establishment. Practice facility visually representing golf course with similar presentation and conditions. (4) Setup fertility program on all turfgrass areas, notably liquid spray program on all bentgrass turf areas utilizing soluble nitrogen to control consistent growth and color. Frequency with greens spray program varied from 7-10 day, while tees, approaches, and fairways frequency between 14-21 days. Furthermore, realized efficiency, and reduced environmental impact through rough fertilization by walker spreaders. Limiting waste and environmental impact with runoff to non target. (5) Introduced consistent growth regulator program on all bentgrass areas, accomplishing reliable growth and eliminating excess grass clippings. Additionally, promoted bentgrass competitive growth advantage over poa annua encroachment with growth regulator applications. (6) Accomplished consistent sand topdressing program for greens, tees and approaches with application scheduled twice monthly. (7) Trimmed bunker slopes to improve playability and visual appeal while leaving tall grass accents on high side, visually denoting were bunkers are. (8) Focused attention on Clubhouse entryway presentation, and reducing managed turf, mirroring style on course. (9) Course water feature cleanup, cutting down all cattail in sight line of hole and/or blocking view of water edge. Throughout the season utilized resources to trim down to water level, with this strategy weaken the plant to the point where it will not survive.

· Mid season and summer months continued the similar trend from earlier in the year, above normal temperatures with below seasonal normal precipitation. With site specific environmental surroundings; clay soils, bentgrass turf, tree lined areas with low air flow and high golfer demand, drier is better. When we control the moisture, we control the playing conditions generally. Natural rainfall certainly assists in providing consistent soil moisture and replenishes soil moisture reserves, but can be a destructive especially in high clay soils. In general, turf conditions were satisfactory and met universal expectations of guests. Continued to address greens conditions (ball marks / excess surface moisture) and ball roll distance both need attention as high demand and difficult summer conditions will be the norm.

Continued to train and coach staff members on best practices and procedures that match the expectation of our guests. Focused resources on daily preparation, quality versus quantity, and accomplishing objectives right the first time, continues to be a priority. Organizing key priorities for success, where major output is devoted to the morning hours prior to guest arriving and minimizing our interaction with guest throughout the day.

Considerable push back from staff, especially those entrenched in past habits, and psychologically not accustomed to high level of details, instructions, and personal accountability. Management objective in detailing instructions even on basis tasks, to prevent mistakes and communicating clearly as many tasks area perform fundamentally different from past experiences. Continuing to adjust and adapt to individual needs of staff members and continuing to promote a professional work environment balancing our high standards.

· As the summer golfing season closed it parallels the end of the growing season as well. During this transition period where guest numbers decline and agronomic activities increase, a balancing act occurs with daily setup needs versus devoting resources to cultural practices in preparation for the next golfing and growing season.

Course conditions continued to be stable with cooler temperatures and timely precipitation. Growth and development of turfgrass is near its peak in late August through September with October weather generally promoting optimal root growth. We observed minor damage from dollar spot fungus on approaches and fairways but repaired itself as cooler temperatures arrived. In general, minimal disease pressure this past season, corresponding to a drier summer.

Greens performed well most of the season, but late August symptoms associated with high traffic, excess moisture from rainfall, high humility, dew points and low air movement (greens #2, 5, 6, 11, & 13) presented in the form of thinning of turfgrass and algae development in low areas and high use pin locations. An application of fungicide, light verticut and sand topdressing relieved the sign, eliminating the algae and promoting recovery.

Additional cultural practices completed during this period include; (1) aggressive verticutting down to 3/8” on greens removing significant quantity of organic material and replacing with sand. (2) Core aerified with ½” tines #11 green and part of #13 green, these areas represented our weakest surfaces, where #11 green environment lack good airmovement requiring site specific management (less irrigation more hand watering, additional fungicide applications and possibility raised mowing heights) #13 green had thin/weak area on its swale where it first dries out creating weak turf from inconsistent moisture. (3) Core aerifing all collars and approaches using ½” tines. (4) Core aerifiing all tees with ¾” tines and vericutting down to a depth of 1” removing thatch material. As organic material is removed, firmer tee surface, more effective fungicide and nutrient utilization, and increase moisture control. (5) Core aerify weak fairway and high traffic areas, we are having difficulty with removing a core as soil conditions remain very firm. As soaking precipitation occurs we will continue to aerify.

· In conclusion, the past golfing and growing season was rewarding in many ways, from adapting and applying core fundamental practices to implementing agronomic principles to managing a diverse team and environment. We continue to strive for precision in all that we do, but temper those expectations with the understanding that golf course management and agronomy is an artfully endeavor with scientific requirements.

GOLF MAINTENANCE AND AGRONOMY 


SEPTEMBER 2012

GENERAL

· September marks the beginning of a transitional period where primary focus shift from course conditioning and playability toward preparation for next year’s primary golf season. Monday September 17th Buffalo Bill Alumni tournament represented the final large group event.

· First week of September started off wet with 3 day of precipitation totaling 3.26” with Saturday 9/8 event total of 2.3”. As the month progressed, timely precipitation fell enhancing growing conditions coupled with cool average temperatures. During the latter part of September official start of fall, autumnal equinox, occurred September 22, where equal day and night occurs.

· As growing conditions shift toward more favorable root development and top growth declines, traffic tolerance and recovery will slow. Careful management during saturated soil conditions is vital in preparation for next season, where any damage will not heal over the winter months followed by slow recuperation as soil temperatures slowly increase during the spring months.


AGRONOMY 

· Sprayed greens nitrogen @ 0.19 lbs N/M on 9/3 (additionally applied fungicide application), 9/10 (nitrogen and fungicide application),

· Spray application of nutrients and fungicide on all Tees. Noticed some disease presence where an application of fungicide would help turfgrass recover during more favorable growing conditions.

· Reseeded practice tee and sand topdressed surface ensuring complete coverage for divot repair.

· Performed aggressive greens verticutting on 9/19 removing excess organic material at ¼”-3/8” level. Following verticutting, sand topdressing was applied to fill in open space. An additional sand topdressing to followed the 7days later 9/25. Applied 20 tons of additional topdressing sand to fill verticut lines.

· Core aerified using ½” tines greens collars and approaches 9/19 and 9/25. Focusing on high traffic areas where green mowers turn and approach slopes that have difficulty with moisture retention.

· Core aerified #11 green completely and partially #13 green. #11 green over the past summer started to decline with signs of algae development in the middle half of the green. Contributing to decline was minimal morning light specifically, small size of green and minimal pin locations, and low air movement with tall stand of trees on 3 sides. Moving forward manage #11 green with increased fungicide application in summer months, possibly raise mower heights, and continue to monitor for other solutions including supplemental air movement equipment.

· Core Aerified with ¾” tines all Tees 9/19. Dragged in cores to remove mineral material (thatch measurement at 1 ½” on some tees) and sweeped up remaining organic matter.

· Started sod repair in approaches and fairways where erosion from rainfall warrants sodding versus seeding. Also, addressing high traffic areas next to bunkers where damage occurs with fairways mower cleanup pass.

· Sand Topdressed Approaches normal rates 9/3, 9/21, & 9/28.

· Granular fertilizer application Green and Tee surrounds, and roughs @ 0.5 lbs. N/M 9/5 & 9/26.

· Verticut on course tees to 1” depth removing organic material, enhancing moisture and nutrient management, and contributing to a long term optimal characteristics.

MAINTENANCE

· Used #10 tee start more frequently to alternate mowing quality and attention to detail, allow for less interaction with guest while spraying fairways and approaches, and increase efficiency with topdressing limiting travel time and guest interaction.

· Started using triplex vibratory roller as an alternative to moving and use of Speed Roller. Speed Roll is a great tool when greens are dry and have no sand on them, but with moisture from dew, irrigation, and natural precipitation, we have noticed significant damage. Damage occurs when the drive drum starts spinning while transitioning to move in the opposite direction creating wear on the edge of greens and approaches.

· Bunker washout repair 9/9. Significant washout and sediment accumulations with unlined bunkers. With continued sediment accumulation from thunder storm events, increase drainage issues will develop.

· Stained all practice facility wood accessories with Landmark provided stain and UV product.

· Continued attention to Tee, Fairway and Collection area divot repair. Also, continue to allocate time to ball mark repair on greens, filling ball marks with sand.

· Completed repaired and sodded bridge on #6, leveled sub grade with clay and capped with sand to bridge level and sodded. Stripped sod from #9 tee surrounds where irrigation head will be switched to part circle and seeded with fescue turf.

· Prepared landscape area adjacent to employee parking lot for seed, removed existing wood mulch, tilled soil and leveled prior to seeded. This area will be similar to other tall grass areas found on site.

· Starting sodding weak areas in bentgrass approaches where soil erosion and traffic wear occurred. Simple and immediate solution.

· Started trimming down tall grass accents around bunkers in preparation for next year’s growth.

· Application of sand material along cart path edges in attempt to reduce wear damage from vehicles. With the addition of sand on top of native clay soils, the sand seems to prevent movement of soil when wet, as clay sticks to tire and feet making it difficult for turfgrasses to establish.

· Continued repair of cart path edges, adding sand topdressing to low areas where water accumulates, and areas of weak turf associated with vehicle traffic wear. Continue process through fall season with addition of seed.

· Stained all wood furniture and flag sticks using Messiner’s, manufacture sponsored product. Noticable difference in color. Additional different using foam applicator brush.

· Maintained consistent ball roll distance on green within a range of 10 -11.5 as measured with a standard stimpmeter.

· Mowing heights; Greens @ 0.110 – 0.100”, Collars @ 0.325”, Fairways, Tees and Approaches @ 0.325 – 0.375”, Intermediate Rough @ 0.75”, Primary Rough @ 2 -2.5”.


IRRIGATION

· Continued to level around irrigation heads in fairways where soil has settled creating dish bowl effect, holding water around irrigation head. Additionally, observing wet areas around many irrigation heads, possibly loose swing joints or small cracks leaking.

· Irrigation loop around #12 green valved off. Possible broken pipe, as agronomic activities and golfers lessen, we will address. Maybe contributing to subsurface dunker damage.

· Possible broken irrigation line for practice facility. Valved off until appropriate time this fall.

· Repaired (5) loose and or broken o-ring on swing joints.

· Communication between #11-15 holes damaged. Contacted JD Irrigation for repair assistance.

· Irrigation water pump to course and maintenance facility for washing equipment as of September 27 – 1,042,441gallons (majority of water used during the first part of the month). August usage 6,157,265 gallons.

· September water replenishment from municipal source 0.00 gallons.


OTHER / EQUIPMENT 

· No major equipment issues. Observing increased maintenance and repair items on aging equipment.

· Missing 9 bronze logoed tee markers. Replaced with painted rocks.


WEATHER (as recorded from Niagara Falls weather station)

· Mean Avg Temperature 63 (8 degree less than last month) – Max Temperature 88 (9/3) – Min Temperature 39 (9/24).

· Precipitation measured on site 5.39”. 9/3-0.36”, 9/4-0.70”, 9/8-2.3”, 9/14-0.65”, 9/19-0.5”, 9/22-0.8” & 9/30-0.25”.


NEXT MONTH (October) 

· Continue to shift focus to agronomic activities in preparation for next season.

· Mow down all tall grass areas especially focusing on green and tee surrounds.

· Solid tine greens creating 3/8” to ½” diameter holes without removing material. Followed by sand topdressing.

· Sand topdress Tees and Approaches.

· Continue core aerifying weak areas in fairways and roughs. Example fairway cleanup areas adjacent to bunkers and on/off areas along cart paths.

· Granular fertilizer applications to all roughs temperature dependent.

· Repair #3 rough cart traffic damage. Addition of sand base and sod along cart path.

· Continue application of sand along cart paths.

· Debris cleanup of deciduous tree litter.

· Continue with irrigation head leveling, repairing settled areas.

· Bring in course supplies; ball washers, trash receptacles, and water coolers.

· Prepare irrigation system for winterization.

GOLF MAINTENANCE AND AGRONOMY

AUGUST 2012

GENERAL

· Beginning half of the month started with a mix of precipitation, and high temperatures and humidity, a relative continuation of a hot and dry growing season. Essentially, turf conditions remained consistent throughout property, tolerating summer stresses, but noticing symptoms form excessive heat and high traffic injury. These areas will be focal points for increased cultural practices including core aerification, and sand topdressing and seeding.

· Notably some weakening developed with greens cleanup and adjacent collars. A combination of high maintenance activities (mow and rolling), overlap of PGR’s weakening turf, and excess surface moisture from high humidity and rain fall. Additionally, observing some damage for greens rollers especially after application of sand to greens. Need to avoid spinning rollers and recommend testing different type of greens roller. Moreover, anticipate raising mower heights from 0.100 to 0.125” for limited time during recovery.

· Rust fungus development in bluegrass sodded areas (reddish orange spores). A common occurrence in late summer and early fall brought on by excess moisture, soil compaction and low fertility. Minimal impact on turf with action plan for normal scheduled fertilizer application in coming month.

· Some dollar spot disease development in isolated locations on fairways, tees and approaches noticed, isolated to areas with minimal air movement, no significant concern. Growth of disease associated with lower nitrogen and excess moisture (humidity, irrigation and rainfall). As environmental conditions become more favorable for cool season turfgrass, disease pressure will lessen. Largely, with minimal fungicide applications this season, turf conditions were acceptable within relative thresholds. Implement additional fungicide applications for sight specific areas where disease pressure is observed.

· By the end of the month, all of our school age team member will be returning to peruse their academic studies. We will look to fill a couple of part time positions for the remainder of 2012 golfing season.


AGRONOMY 

· Granular application 28-0-3 to intermediate rough, and green and tee surrounds.

· (2) Application of light sand topdressing on greens. (8/7) walker spread sand at 25 lbs. / M. (8/28) Dakota spreader application of sand at 300 lbs. / M.

· (2) Application of light sand on Approaches and Tees (8/6 & 8/28) at 23 cubic yards of sand per 5,000 sq. ft.

· Sprayed greens every 7-10 day (3x) (8/1, 8/14, & 8/22) with soluble nitrogen (0.19 lbs/N/M)and micronutrients along with plant growth regulator Trinexapac-ethyl.

· Applied foliar nutrients and PGR to Fairways, Tees and approaches (7/31, 8/14, 8/30), application materials consisting of soluble nitrogen at 0.24 lbs/Nitrogen/1000 sq.ft *(0.24 lbs/N/M), micronutrients and plant growth regulator Trimmit 2SC (Paclobutrazol).

· Sprayed broadleaf herbicide to all Green and Tee Surrounds 8/23 & 8/24).


MAINTENANCE

· Continued attention to Tee, Fairway and Collection area divot repair. Also, continue to allocate time to ball mark repair on greens, filling ball marks with sand.

· Used Aerway solid tine aerifier around fairways. Continue use as soil conditions warrant.

· Bunker repair #12 where clay sub grade protruding for bunker flashing. Appears moisture is pushing the face of the bunker out exposing clay.

· Significant bunker damage from overnight rainfall 8/27. Several days to push sand back up. Bunker on #17 and #18 greenside holding water. Increased sediment accumulation after precipitation.

· Moved practice hitting area back to the front position where we started during the beginning of the year. Still need to improve seed germination and divot recover.

· Repaired and sodded bridge on #6, leveled subgrade with clay and capped with sand to bridge level and sodded. Stripped sod from #9 tee surrounds where irrigation head will be switched to part circle and seeded with fescue turf. Bridge closes to green will be repaired next.

· Started repair of cart path edges, adding sand topdressing to low areas where water accumulates, and areas of weak turf associated with vehicle traffic wear. Continue process through fall season with addition of seed.

· Stained all wood furniture. Using locally available stain. Next month order stain from assessor manufacture to compare difference in appearance.

· Used remaining cold asphalt patch material to repair cart path damage. Observing continual deterioration of cart paths especially in low areas where water accumulates. Recommend removal of entire section and replace sub base material.

· Repaired and seeded chipping green damage/weak areas and #11 tee sod nursery.

· Maintained consistent ball roll distance on green within a range of 10 -11.5 as measured with a standard stimpmeter.

· Mowing heights; Greens @ 0.110 – 0.100”, Collars @ 0.325”, Fairways, Tees and Approaches @ 0.325”, Intermediate Rough @ 0.75”, Primary Rough @ 2”.

IRRIGATION 

· Continued to level around irrigation heads in fairways where soil has settled creating dish bowl effect, holding water around irrigation head.

· Replace broken 900 head #8 fairways, hit by mower.

· Repaired (1) broken pipe or fittings (T @ practice tee) in various areas.

· Repaired (7) loose and or broken o-ring on swing joints.

· Communication between #11-15 damaged. Contacted JD Irrigation for repair assistance.

· Irrigation water pump to course and maintenance facility for washing equipment August 6,157,265 gallons. (July 13,540,288).

· August water replenishment from municipal source 99,900 gallons (13,3556 cu ft) @ $0.010936 cu ft. (~$146.55)



OTHER / EQUIPMENT 

· Fire extinguisher inspection and service conducted Friday 8/31 for both Clubhouse and Maintenance Facility. Inspection and service last perform 2010. Schedule on annual basis.

· Spilled gasoline on #10 green (8/16) when gas cap on backpack blower was not properly tighten and checked prior to using. No action taken minimal disruption to surface, and no lasting effect.

· Changed staff morning starting time to 5:30 am on 8/9.

· Repaired grinder pump for sanitary waste system at Maintenance Facility, pump out wash pad and clubhouse sediment tanks. Schedule on annual basis.

· Equipment maintenance and repair managed, but continuing to observed challenges with optimal efficiency and age of equipment. Additional failure of fatigued parts and extended repair time a limiting factor.

· Many reel units (triplex, fiveplex, and greens mowers) near usable reel diameter life. Reel replacement likely be end of next season.


WEATHER (as recorded from Niagara Falls weather station)

· Mean Avg Temperature 71 (4 degree less than last month) – Max Temperature 95 (8/3) – Min Temperature 50 (8/21).

· Precipitation measured on site 4.03” 8/4, 8/5, 8/8, 8/9, 8/14, & 8/27.


NEXT MONTH 

· Aggressive greens verticut and sand topdressing Tuesday 9/18.

· Core aerify around collars and approaches after 9/18.

· Granular fertilizer application first and last week in September and anticipate two application in October weather dependent.

· Continue broadleaf herbicide applications as needed.

· Eliminate growth regulators in tank mix to encourage optimal growth and carbohydrate storage.

· Continue high quality daily setup and visual presentation.

· With seasonal temperature change toward the end of the month, shift focus on agronomic activities; Verticut and sand topdress Greens, increase sand topdressing on Tees and Approaches, core aerify high impact areas in Fairways and Roughs.

· Continue with irrigation head leveling, repairing settled areas.

Fairway Verticutting

Greens Verticutting

GOLF MAINTENANCE AND AGRONOMY

July 2012

GENERAL 

· General maintenance philosophy for the month of July centered on consistent and high quality playing surfaces. Additionally, prioritizing daily visual presentation.

· Overall month of July seasonable temperatures with below normal precipitation.

· Turf conditions continue to improve relevant to traffic and environmental conditions. With high clay soils, minimizing soil compaction during periods of high moisture is critical.

· Continuing to train staff in proper maintenance operations, and efficient use of time. Need to enhance training program for next year and set standards more clearly.



AGRONOMY 

· (2) Application of light sand topdressing on greens. July 2nd walker spread sand at 25 lbs. / M. July 16th Dakota spreader application of sand at 300 lbs. / M.

· (2) Application of light sand on Approaches and Tees at 23 cubic yards of sand per 5,000 sq. ft.

· Sprayed greens every 7-10 day (3x) with soluble nitrogen (0.19 lbs/N/M)and micronutrients along with plant growth regulator Trinexapac-ethyl. Applied monthly wetting agent on greens July 10th.

· Applied foliar nutrients and PGR to Fairways, Tees and approaches (2x), application materials consisting of soluble nitrogen at 0.24 lbs/Nitrogen/1000 sq.ft *(0.24 lbs/N/M), micronutrients and plant growth regulator Trimmit 2SC (Paclobutrazol).

· (1) Application of Heritage fungicide to Tees and Approaches July 11th.

· (1) Application of wetting agent to Fairways, Tees, and Approaches July 16th. Magna Plex Polymeric Surfactant by Precision.

· Applied remaining spray product and rinsate from fairway applications to Practice facility floor and target greens.

· Purchased barley straw from local farm, fashioned wire cages where barley straw was placed and anchored cages along pond edge #3 greenside. With the addition of barley straw to the water, as the straw decomposes releasing a naturally occurring chemical that inhibits new algae growth.

MAINTENANCE 

· Maintained consistent ball roll distance on green within a range of 9.5 -11 as measured with a standard stimpmeter.

· Continued to utilize greens surface rolling

· Continued removal of cattail along water features, leaving a population were minimal impact visually.

· Implemented a formal fairway/tee divot program and greens ball mark repair.

· Mowed Practice facility floor/fairway at 0.375” fairway height July 9th.

· Applied cold asphalt patch to damaged cart paths, where water has eroded away.


IRRIGATION

· Continued to level around irrigation heads in fairways where soil has settled creating dish bowl effect, holding water around irrigation head.

· With on-site clay soils, observing saturated areas where irrigation pipe was installed, where water is following the weakest point along the irrigation pipe and then accumulating near the irrigation head creating a water bubble.

· Continued to implement deep and infrequent (5-10 day) watering schedule on greens. Encouraging firmer surface conditions, improved rooting, and reducing sodium accumulations.

· Repaired (5) broken pipe or fittings in various areas.

· Repaired (6) loose and or broken o-ring on swing joints.

· Irrigation water used on course 13,540,288 gallons.


OTHER 

· True Service training with staff on July 13th.

· Completed Safety National score card July 16th – 22 Amateur Match Play Championship Sand Creek Station.

· Staff Level – 10 (>35 hours) and 10 (<25 hours). Approximate hours used for the pay period of July 2nd – 29th 2142 hours.

· Released employment of one staff member for substandard work and weak judgment jeopardizing overall safety.


WEATHER (as recorded from Niagara Falls weather station) 4/22 – 4/28.

· Mean Avg Temperature 75 – Max Temperature 93 – Min Temperature 77.

· Precipitation measured on site 1.12”. 7/3, 7/8, 7/25, & 7/27.


NEXT MONTH 

· Continue high quality daily setup and visual presentation.

· With seasonal temperature change toward the end of the month, shift focus on agronomic activities; Verticut and sand topdress Greens, increase sand topdressing on Tees and Approaches, core aerify high impact areas in Fairways and Roughs.

· Continue with irrigation head leveling, repairing settled areas.

Geese Round Up