Snow Removal Update

As promised in my last blog I have a short update now that all the greens are clear. All except #6 that is. More on that later. When you look at the 2 pictures below you are basically getting a snapshot of all the greens and tees. Speaking in general terms they have wintered well. Even the Poa annua has come through in good condition. Some of it may go backwards slightly but I don't envision any major issues.  

What we do have to deal with is some minor scraping caused by the snow blower work both from this spring and last November. Overall though, the repairs are to be expected and will quickly heal as the temperatures climb and growth begins. It is no easy task to clear that much snow on such delicate surfaces when the operator has limited references to determine contour and shape. A good job by the crew. 

As mentioned in previous blogs the amount of snow mold on any untreated turf is incredible. I can't remember the last time I have seen it to this extent. The fungicide product we used on greens and tees worked incredibly well. We used a different combination of fungicides on the fairways that has worked very well over the previous 2 winters. However with 6+ months of continuous snow cover the effectiveness may be reduced this time around. We'll know more early next week.

We have learned a few important lessons about the new fungicides at educational seminars this past winter that will change the application timing at our course. I'll explain more next fall but I plan on treating secondary turf areas first and then the primary areas afterwards because we don't have to wait until "the last moment" anymore.

Now for #6 green. That's the green that is vented, bubble wrapped and covered with an ice shield. We  removed the snow cover today and will blow some fresh air underneath on Thursday. The plan is to leave the cover on until Monday as it is forecasted to be cool this weekend. Stay tuned.

#8 Green

#1 Green

Clearing snow off #6. Notice the white ice shield Eric is standing on.

Things are beginning to happen now. Have patience.

Regards,

Wade