Range Divot Pattern

Did you know there is a preferred method for taking divots on the range?  In order to ensure that we have high quality turf to hit balls from late into the season, we need your help!!!  Below are two illustrations that effectively demonstrate how your divot pattern can effect the overall condition of the practice range.  In the first image, you see three methods of taking divots: strip, block and shotgun pattern.  The "strip" method on the left is far and away the preferred method for encouraging turf conservation and recovery.  The block image, while conserving turf, takes an enormous amount of time to recover.  The "shotgun" pattern simply disturbs too large an area at one time and chews up the practice range far too quickly.



As can be seen in the second picture below, when done correctly, the "strip" method uses far less overall turf.  These strip divots will fill quickly with lateral growth from the sides and an aggressively fertility program used specifically on the practice range to encourage rapid recovery.

PLEASE USE THE "STRIP" METHOD AND ENCOURAGE YOUR FELLOW PLAYERS TO DO THE SAME!!!

Authored by:  Bob McCurdy, Golf Course Superintendent

Proper Ball Mark Repair!

One of the most common on-going issues in golf course management is that of how to properly repair our ball marks.  There are many tools available commercially that, when used correctly, can do a fine job of repairing the scares.  It is however not the type of tool you use, but the method of operation that is critical.  Here at CCD we have chosen to distribute the GreenFix tool for use on our greens.  The GreenFix tool is classified by what is known as a "restricted" entry tool.  After watching the attached video prepared by the USGA, you will understand why that restriction is so important to proper ball mark repair.  Are you avoiding the one critical misstep when you are repairing your ball marks?????

 

http://www.usga.org/videohub.aspx#&&/wEXBAUQdGF4U3ViQ2F0ZWdvcnlJZAUCLTEFDXRheENhdGVnb3J5SWQFCzE3MTc5ODY5NDgzBQZpdGVtSWQFCzIxNDc0ODU1MzY2BQp2aWRQYWdlTnVtBQEx0dpwbMVauXudoFBMIF5pF/SeyFw=

Please remember to fix your ball marks and don't be afraid to remind others to do the same!!!


UPDATE:  If you are having trouble with the video loading, click on "Course Care" and in the bottom right corner will be the video entitled "How to Repair Ball Marks"



Authored by: Bob McCurdy, Golf Course Superintendent

NOTICE: Sprinklers Running This Afternoon!!!

If you are playing golf today, you may see a lot of sprinklers running during the afternoon.  We are currently experiencing some operational issues with our pump station and have a technician who will be on site by noon today.  We must try to simulate a night's irrigating schedule in order for him to understand what is going wrong and how to isolate the problem.

I apologize in advance for this inconvenience, but you have to grab the technician when you can get them, especially in the spring when everyone is just starting their irrigation systems for the first time and realizing, like us, they have issues that must be addressed.

We will do our best not to interfere with your round as best we can!!!

Authored By:  Bob McCurdy, Golf Course Superintendent

Rough Herbicide Applications to Begin Tomorrow

I just wanted to let everyone know that we will be spraying all of the roughs for weeds beginning tomorrow morning.  We expect this process to last for 3-4 days; however, we will not spray on Thursday due to ladies day or over the weekend.  With any luck, we can wrap up the application by next Tuesday.  The plan is to start the applications in the #9 and #10 area of the course and work our way around the property and finish up at the short course and range area as quickly as possible.

If you are a concerned dog walker, we will be spraying the field on the left side of #9 fairway tomorrow and we will leave the polo field unsprayed for your use.  On Monday of next week, we will spray the polo field area so please make alternate plans to walk the pooches if you are concerned about this application.

Thanks for your patience and understanding.


Authored by: Bob McCurdy, Golf Course Superintendent