Often I am asked this question. Where does the sand in the bunkers go? Bunker sand moves in a number of ways. Bunker shots that splash out sand eventually add up to alot of sand dispersion. High winds like we have been experiencing this spring will move considerable amounts of sand aswell. The biggest culprit is washouts (at least for us here at HCC) , when we recieve an inch or two of rain in a short period of time (like yesterday) the sand is washed out and contamination occurs from the surrounds and the edges. We then need to remove that contaminated sand in attempt to keep the bunkers as white as possible. This year we have fixed washouts in record numbers (for this time of year). I am very aware that our bunkers are thin on sand. On Monday of next week you will notice our crew out adding sand to the greenside bunkers first, then to the fairway bunkers. This not only improves playability, but aids in reducing the degree of washouts in the future. This process can be a lenghty one, we hope to have it completed next week. Your patience and understanding is always appreciated.
The fall is a great time to perform a number of necessary cultural practices. Our goal is to amend the upper portion of the greens surface with enough sand to help insulate the crown through the winter as well as removing and diluting organic matter. Below you will find a schedule of cultural practices that we aim to complete before the covers go on and the snow flies!!! Wednesday, Sept. 30th- Light topdressing followed by a Cocoa matt Tuesday, Wednesday October 13/14-Course Closure full core aeration with heavy topdressing. October 19th- Light topdressing followed by a Cocoa matt October 26th- Light topdressing followed by a Cocoa matt November 2nd- Light topdressing followed by a Cocoa matt November 9th- Deep Verticut, followed by a sufficient topdressing. November 16th- Post Course Closure, Heavy topdressing followed by Deep tine aeration. Of course this is all in hope that the weather cooperates...happy fall!
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