Winter 2010

Here are some pics from late December after our 8" of rain. The fairways got some color back and the rough looks healthy.

GOLF IS FUN !!!

As 2010 draws to a close it is good to reflect on why we love golf. Its challenge both physically and mentally. The beauty and infinite variability, in strategy, design and landscaping of the playing field. The opportunity to be outside, breathing fairy good air. The enjoyment we get from spending time with family and friends and the nuturing of those friendships. The opportunity to cross age, race and gender to really connect with people on a personal level. Oh yeah and it is fun too!! Even a bad ball striking day on the course is still way better than spending our week trying to find a source of potable drinking water. Or enough food to feed our families. Or dodging bullets, landmines, human explosives and all other manner of human (or inhuman ) crazyness that much of the world finds itself in.

For me, I have the added bonus of the golf course being my office. Each day has its own challenges as no two days are alike. Sure we can go a period of time of relative consistency but all the variables; the weather, equipment, labor, water, financials, they can all change in an instant. It's what keeps it interesting. As I enter my 21st year in turf management, I still love what I do day in  and day out (sure, some days more than others !) and there is always something to learn, something to do better. Thanks for your support this year and I am confident that 2011 will be even better.
There is however, one thing that I know I will never be able to do- dance like Fred Astaire. Check out this golfing video from the dance master.

Frost- what's the delay?

It's that time of year again when we have to consider frost delays. Generally there are "hard Frosts" and "light frosts". The hard frost is when the entire leaf and crown of the plant are frozen solid. This is characterized by the white sheen over the entire surface and the crunching sound the turf makes when pressed. This type of frost is also characterized by the fact that the turf does not spring back when you run your hand through it. This is the most devestating frost as the crown, the brain of the plant, is frozen and when crushed, it will absolutely lead to plant death. Any traffic across this will leave damage. A substantial delay should be expected. This frost usually occurs when temperatures are very low and/or a rain event has occured during the evening.
The second type is a lighter frost. This is characterized by powderey ice crystals that flake off when brushed. The turf does spring back. The delay for this type are generally shorter.Please remember that the temperatures often drop just before sunrise and that certain areas of the course simply take longer to thaw out. Holes 2,4,5 are consistently the last to thaw. When we do have a delay, we ask that you follow the proshop directions. We will usually have the PG's closed and we will institute cart restrictions in an effort to begin play as soon as possible. We appreciate your cooperation as we work to preserve our conditions at WR.
The following video highlights the condition of the ice formation during frost. It follows the really bad acting, so hang in there.