We have now been through our third consecutive thunderstorm since the lashing we took late Monday afternoon. The constant pumping of water, bunker adjustment, etc. is starting to take a toll on the staff as well as the course itself. Our mowing schedules for the fairways and rough have been ripped up for now. We need to reduce the impact that heavier equipment has on saturated turf. Its easier to cut long grass and deal with the clippings over repairing damage caused by the temptation to run a mower through low, wet areas.
As expected power carts will not be permitted on the course for the enitre day. I know many of you would be careful but it is difficult to avoid so many areas that are saturated but not as obvious as standing water would be.
In addition to more rain last night and this morning we also had a pretty good hail storm too. The hail was about half the size of a golf ball and caused some damage to the greens. Not severe but enough that putting would be affected. If they weren't softened up by all the rain I think they would've been okay. We made the decision early this morning to lightly topdress, vent (small solid tine aerate), brush, roll and then a very short irrigation to wash down the sand. The same procedure we carry out with our monthly venbing program. They may be cut today but that will be decided upon later. Hence the course closure until 10. That gives us enough time to finsh the procedure ahead of daily play, assuming we have no equipment issues.
My apologies for the inconvenience but nature has forced our hand as it so often does.
Regards,
Wade
No comments:
Post a Comment