HIGHLAND CC GROUNDS

ISTRC report- In the late fall we had a core sample test done by the International Sports Turf research Center. This method of testing is new to Highland. Through this process we are able to measure the percentages of organic matter, bulk density and among other things the rate of water percolation. With this data in hand we can evaluate exactly how our current cultural practices are working. As a result of this test we have discovered that the organic matter percentages in the top three inches of our greens are  still too high.  At this point we do not suffer any direct deficiencies as a result. We do however need to address this issue proactively, before we risk the health and playability of our greens. In this state water and air are limited in their ability to reach below the three inch mark. This limits root growth as roots need both air and water to thrive. Our greens are equipped with internal drainage added by the club a number of years ago. If these percenta...

As I write this post there are light flurries in the air and the temperature is hovering around 0C. Technically spring is here, but from the conditions on the golf course you would never know it. Currently there is still some snow on the golf course and the soil temperatures are still well below the average for this time of year. Spring is always a waiting game with removing covers from our greens. The ideal weather trend for removal is daytime highs nearing 5 or 6C and nighttime lows above 0C.  This type of trend is something that we have not yet seen this spring. We will continue to monitor the forecast and day to day conditions as we plan our attack. Once the covers are removed, the greens need time to acclimate and firm up to the point that they can handle traffic from both foot (for play) and equipment (for necessary cultural practices). As the opening of the golf course is always a hot topic at this time of year, I have copied in a portion of...

It is hard to believe that one year ago we were getting ready to open the golf course by this weekend. It is amazing how different the weather can be from year to year. As the snow started to melt last week we were able to evaluate most of the turfgrass from a visual standpoint. We are happy to report that there is very little disease activity on all playable areas. The greens that we can see are looking good as well, but we are not out of the woods yet. Ideally we would like to see the snow melt slowly and the temperatures warm up slowly as well (as opposed to a warm/cold/warm/cold trend). This would allow us to remove the covers and be confident that colder temperatures are done for the spring. Below I have included my Superintendent's update from our March Green Committee meeting. Late fall and Winter Activities - Bunker work- Greenside bunkers on #5, #10 and #13 have been relined with Bentofix and re-sodded. The bunkers will remain out of play until the sod had knitt...