January Green Report

 


Green Superintendent Update

 

The month of December was the time of projects. As the course is closed for the season this means go time for projects. Weather permitting, we are outside everyday. Expansive tree projects have begun. With a company undertaking a big removal around the range. As well as in house tree removal starting on course with #4 tee complex as the start. When the weather keeps us indoors we work on servicing all equipment. We also focus on refurbishing all on course accessories for the '25 season.

 

Range Project

Once we approached the end of the season I felt the range area had much more possibilities. First step of the project was removal of the artificial range tee. My team and I will be moving it back to gain more grass teeing area. Once all site work is done we will consider where the new mat will be placed. All tree removal took into the consideration of abutting houses. While removing as many trees to increase air flow and sunlight to that entire area. Not only will this benefit the range area, but also help #9 green. By removing this tree grove we have allowed free air movement from #1 all the way down to 9 fairway. This air movement is crucial to turf health and the success of plant growth. By creating new sun channels also this will help grass continue to grow throughout the season.

#4 Tree project

While the oaks surrounding the #4 tee are beautiful, unfortunately, they need to be removed. Root systems typically spread out horizontally 2-3 times the width of the tree's canopy.In dry conditions, roots can extend significantly further to seek out water. The tee box does not stand a chance with the oaks directly next to the tee surface. We will also remove some on the grove to the left to allow air movement and the creation of a sun channel. While some of these trees may appear healthy on the surface we have run into a severe carpenter ant infestation. If trees are left unattended with carpenter ant damage they are a potential problem during storms and high mileage wind days. We like to address these unhealthy trees before they are a potential risk and problem. This project will continue into January as we will be renting a chipper to speed up the process.

Course Accessories/ equipment services

            When mother nature confines us to our shop walls we have plenty to address. It's hard during the season to refurbish and maintain our accessories and equipment. During these times we service every piece of equipment down to the last weed whacker. All fluids are drained, and all filters replaced. We make sure all necessary maintenance is done to each piece of our fleet. We can not afford a slow down in production when spring arrives. We take this time to make sure everything looks and performs as it should.

Dormant feed

 

All fine turf surfaces have received a dormant feed. Nutrients applied during dormancy become available as the soil thaws in spring. This provides an early boost to the grass, leading to quicker green-up and a head start on the growing season.

 

Golf Course Superintendent,

Cogan Register









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