Grounds
A drastic change in weather in November limited the days that were conducive for enjoyable golfing.
Most of the month was well below normal temperatures, giving us an early taste of winter. During this time, turf growth stopped and dropping of leaves began. We have managed to keep the golf course cleaned up the majority of the time. Putting greens are rolling well and bunkers have been groomed on a weekly basis. Greens will slow down over the winter to overcome the elements. Bunkers will be raked less frequently during freeze and thaw cycles. The sand tends to take longer to thaw out from a freeze since they are in low lying areas with shade cast over them from the surround.
Last month we planted the new landscape behind #8 green to start the process of screening the background. Nineteen trees were planted and we are still planning to plant a few more. The spacing of the trees are based on a 5-10 year screening plan. While it will still take some time for the screening to fully block out the infamous “Jack n the box” and Zumbehl road, we are excited to have a starting point. The surrounding area will be seeded or sodded in the spring. Winterizing of landscape beds and cutting down of ornamental grass plants has begun and will continue through the month. A handful of weakening trees were taken down and stumps will be ground during the winter.
Chad Fetter
Head Greens Superintendent