14th fairway progress
At last summer temperatures are here. This has boosted grass growth especially at this part of the fairway (14a) on plan. In conjunction with hollowcoring and reseeding work, applications of granular calcium/lime have proved to be beneficial and successful as we now can see encouraging signs of improvement in grass coverage, especially to the poorest areas. This work will continue throughout the summer and into early autumn to ensure we have as much grass coverage as possible going into the winter period.
Next months application of calcium/lime will take it into the 1 ton of product applied since April this year. Soil samples will be taken this week and sent for analysis so that we can monitor how effective these applications have been in adjusting the soil PH. Incorrect soil PH is one of the contributing factors of poor plant health and thatch accumulation.
At this point i would like to remind you all that contractors (Souters sports turf) are arriving on Monday 1/7/13 to begin installing drainage to the 14th, 15th, and 16th fairways. Their work will consist of installing approx no 1100m of drainage running diagonally across the 14th fairway and around the green and 15th tee area (14th B & C on drainage plan ) .
On completion of the 14th drainage work contractors will start on the 16th fairway installing approx 150mm twin wall pipe replacing the exciting outdated pipe, with a further 500m lateral drainage concentrating on the l/h/s of the fairway and rough. This will link up to the work that our green staff carried out during the winter period.
In order that the contractors can carry out their work safely and effectively from Monday to Friday a shorter hole will be in operation this means that a temporary green will be installed approx 230 yards from the main tee. Contractors Are instructed not to work at the weekends so that sat/sun competitions can be played. Playing surfaces will be affected during this period of work therefor can I ask for your patients and cooperation during and after their work is complete . Hopefully the good weather will continue so that contractors can produce work to their high standard that they/we expect, again your patients and understanding are essential.
Timescale for completion of drainage works is difficult to predict due to the weather and the quantity of rock removal that is required, never the less we are hoping contractors will be off site in approx 2 to 3 weeks if all goes well.
On completion of all drainage works and as part of our thatch removal plan we have instructed the contractors to return at a later date to hollowcore and top dress the 14th and 16th fairways. This will reduce some of the compaction created by their drainage equipment and also remove a percentage of the thatch which is contributing to surface flooding that we currently see on these fairways, i will post regular updates on Souters progress via this blog.
Thankyou
Douglas
Monday, 1 July 2013
Monday, 27 May 2013
Course Information Blog W/C 27/05/2013
14th Fairway Progress
This part of the fairway(14(a) on plan) is now showing encouraging signs of improvement as far as surface water removal is concerned. A few weeks passed contractors installed sand band slits approx 7 inch deep across the fairway linking up with lateral drainage installed over the winter period by our greens staff. This has proved to be a good investment as last weekend saw approx 3/4" (19mm) of rainfall over approx 24hrs, the following morning the fairway was inspected and we were pleasantly surprised how well the fairway drained compared to similar areas throughout the course.
To date we have made two applications of granular lime/calcium to adjust the soil ph with additional monthly application there after until the correct ph level is achieved. Root zone mixed with seed and pre seeding fertiliser has been applied to the drain lines, however fluctuating temperatures recently is hampering seed germination in addition hollow coring and top dressing have also been carried out to the rest of the fairway, hopefully as temperatures increase we will see an improvement in grass coverage.
As i have mentioned in recent blogs contractors (Souters) are scheduled to arrive on 1/7/13 to begin installing approx 800m of lateral drains and sand banding to the worst part of this fairway (14b and c) on the drainage plan. The 16th fairway will also be included in this work schedule.
Hopefully the weather will be extremely kind to us during this period so that the work can be carried out to a high standard that we all expect. As we try to keep inconvenience to a minimum, can i ask for your patience and co operation during this time.
6th Medal Tee
Due to pest infestation and deterioration in the turf in the winter period it was necessary to returf the surface of the tee. Approx 70% of the tee has been completed using a new grass species specifically grown for shaded areas. The new turf is rooting well due to the warmer temperatures lately and we should have it back in play in approx a few weeks time. The remainder of the tee will be returfed once play resumes from the new turfed area.
Renovation to Aprons, Fringes and Walk Offs
Last years appalling weather caused a gradual deterioration to certain areas of aprons, fringes and walk ways. High rainfall has contributed to the lower areas holding water for longer periods than usual causing the turf to deteriorate and die. Throughout the next few months, weather permitting (stay dry) it is our intention to renovate these areas by hollow coring, top dressing and re seeding all bear areas. Ropes and polls with be installed ti divert traffic away from these areas so that full recovery can be achieved.
Our Work Schedule For This Week
Out with normal maintenance
This part of the fairway(14(a) on plan) is now showing encouraging signs of improvement as far as surface water removal is concerned. A few weeks passed contractors installed sand band slits approx 7 inch deep across the fairway linking up with lateral drainage installed over the winter period by our greens staff. This has proved to be a good investment as last weekend saw approx 3/4" (19mm) of rainfall over approx 24hrs, the following morning the fairway was inspected and we were pleasantly surprised how well the fairway drained compared to similar areas throughout the course.
To date we have made two applications of granular lime/calcium to adjust the soil ph with additional monthly application there after until the correct ph level is achieved. Root zone mixed with seed and pre seeding fertiliser has been applied to the drain lines, however fluctuating temperatures recently is hampering seed germination in addition hollow coring and top dressing have also been carried out to the rest of the fairway, hopefully as temperatures increase we will see an improvement in grass coverage.
As i have mentioned in recent blogs contractors (Souters) are scheduled to arrive on 1/7/13 to begin installing approx 800m of lateral drains and sand banding to the worst part of this fairway (14b and c) on the drainage plan. The 16th fairway will also be included in this work schedule.
Hopefully the weather will be extremely kind to us during this period so that the work can be carried out to a high standard that we all expect. As we try to keep inconvenience to a minimum, can i ask for your patience and co operation during this time.
6th Medal Tee
Due to pest infestation and deterioration in the turf in the winter period it was necessary to returf the surface of the tee. Approx 70% of the tee has been completed using a new grass species specifically grown for shaded areas. The new turf is rooting well due to the warmer temperatures lately and we should have it back in play in approx a few weeks time. The remainder of the tee will be returfed once play resumes from the new turfed area.
Renovation to Aprons, Fringes and Walk Offs
Last years appalling weather caused a gradual deterioration to certain areas of aprons, fringes and walk ways. High rainfall has contributed to the lower areas holding water for longer periods than usual causing the turf to deteriorate and die. Throughout the next few months, weather permitting (stay dry) it is our intention to renovate these areas by hollow coring, top dressing and re seeding all bear areas. Ropes and polls with be installed ti divert traffic away from these areas so that full recovery can be achieved.
Our Work Schedule For This Week
Out with normal maintenance
- Hollow coring, top dressing and re seeding various aprons, walkways and winter tees.
- Apply root zone and seed to new drainage lines at the 7th/13th, 16th and 6th fairways.
Thank you for your attention,
Douglas McIntosh
Wednesday, 24 April 2013
Course Information Blog W/C 22.04.2013
Course Information Blog W/C 22.04.2013
14th Fairway Progress
According to MET Office information this has been the coldest spring in approx 60 years, no wonder soil temperatures have plummeted to approx 0°C to 1°C. This has delayed my applications of soil/ph conditioners and fertiliser's as we need to be around 5°C+ for these products to work, however this week temperatures are now on the increase, thankfully, and as you read we are currently applying these products. Since October of last year we decided to remove play from all areas of this fairway in order that the renovation and drainage work that was carried out over autumn/winter period has the best chance of recovery. This has been extremely beneficial as we have seen an improvement in turf health and surface drainage especially to the beginning of the fairway which has been recently drained, however additional work is required in the way of hollow tining, top dressing and over seeding to various parts of the fairway which have not yet fully recovered due to the cold temperatures of late. It is my intention, weather permitting, to begin this work in conjunction with Souter Sports Turf Ltd who will be starting sand banding and drainage work shortly. This type of work is essential to continue to improve this fairway, therefore, every attempt will be made not to interfere with play, however your co-operation is required if interference occurs.
We have instructed Souter Sports Turf Ltd to arrive on the 29/04/2013 to begin installing 120mx150mm twin wall piped drainage starting from the wooden sleeper ditch and working back towards the 6th medal tee, a distance of 120m on the l/h/s of the rough, 10m out from the tree line.
Due to the extremely busy competition schedule for May and June it has been decided that we install this main drain just now with limited interference to members. Contractors will leave the site once the main drain has been completed, approx 1 week (weather permitting) and will return on 01/07/2013 to carry out the remainder of the proposed drainage work to the 14th and 16th fairways. Once this is completed sand banding at 250mm centres approx 7 inches deep will be carried out. This will link up the 5m area in between each lateral. Following on from this a long term thatch removal plan which includes hollow coring, scarifying, verti draining and sand top dressing will be required to ensure drainage works to its full capacity.
Drainage Lines
Over the last few weeks our staff have concentrated on turfing drainage lines that are in play i.e landing areas. Turfing compared to seeding will return these areas for play far quicker and with the colder temperatures recently seeding was not an option. Drainage lines out with landing areas will be soil and seeded now that temperatures have increased.
8th Drain
As you may be aware a small area in front of the tee has been showing signs of flooding and turf deterioration recently. Further investigations have revealed old clay tile drainage as ineffective also we identified a large rubble spring adjacent to the clay tile of which is constantly flowing therefore causing moisture to come to the surface. Staff have addressed all areas of flooding with new piped drainage and aggregate. This area has been intentionally left open so that we can monitor how effective our repair has been. Once satisfied, root zone and turf will be installed.
Fairway Protection - Blue Posts
We are now fast approaching the month of May although recent temperatures you would imagine we were still in February/ March. Little signs of growth are now appearing therefore, fairway protection will now stop as of 26/04/2013 and blue posts will be removed, however preferred lies will still operate until further notice. Please look for an update on preferred lies and any other course information on the new signage located at the gents first tee.
For Information Only
Throughout April, using a digital thermometer i have recorded soil temperatures in our greens. Soil temperatures of 5°C+ are required to stimulate plant growth and begin the process of fertiliser uptake into the plant. Knowing accurate soil temperatures allows us to apply the right products at the right time ensuring the maximum benefit of the product is being utilised therefore saving time and money.
Greens temperatures as follows;
Date Coldest Green Warmest Green
03/04/13 8th - 0°C 9th - 0.6°C
09/04/13 5th - 1.1°C 12th - 1.9°C
15/04/13 10th - 7.1°C 14th - 8.1°C
23/04/13 2nd - 6.2°C 13th - 6.9°C
Thank you for your attention,
Douglas
14th Fairway Progress
According to MET Office information this has been the coldest spring in approx 60 years, no wonder soil temperatures have plummeted to approx 0°C to 1°C. This has delayed my applications of soil/ph conditioners and fertiliser's as we need to be around 5°C+ for these products to work, however this week temperatures are now on the increase, thankfully, and as you read we are currently applying these products. Since October of last year we decided to remove play from all areas of this fairway in order that the renovation and drainage work that was carried out over autumn/winter period has the best chance of recovery. This has been extremely beneficial as we have seen an improvement in turf health and surface drainage especially to the beginning of the fairway which has been recently drained, however additional work is required in the way of hollow tining, top dressing and over seeding to various parts of the fairway which have not yet fully recovered due to the cold temperatures of late. It is my intention, weather permitting, to begin this work in conjunction with Souter Sports Turf Ltd who will be starting sand banding and drainage work shortly. This type of work is essential to continue to improve this fairway, therefore, every attempt will be made not to interfere with play, however your co-operation is required if interference occurs.
We have instructed Souter Sports Turf Ltd to arrive on the 29/04/2013 to begin installing 120mx150mm twin wall piped drainage starting from the wooden sleeper ditch and working back towards the 6th medal tee, a distance of 120m on the l/h/s of the rough, 10m out from the tree line.
Due to the extremely busy competition schedule for May and June it has been decided that we install this main drain just now with limited interference to members. Contractors will leave the site once the main drain has been completed, approx 1 week (weather permitting) and will return on 01/07/2013 to carry out the remainder of the proposed drainage work to the 14th and 16th fairways. Once this is completed sand banding at 250mm centres approx 7 inches deep will be carried out. This will link up the 5m area in between each lateral. Following on from this a long term thatch removal plan which includes hollow coring, scarifying, verti draining and sand top dressing will be required to ensure drainage works to its full capacity.
Drainage Lines
Over the last few weeks our staff have concentrated on turfing drainage lines that are in play i.e landing areas. Turfing compared to seeding will return these areas for play far quicker and with the colder temperatures recently seeding was not an option. Drainage lines out with landing areas will be soil and seeded now that temperatures have increased.
8th Drain
As you may be aware a small area in front of the tee has been showing signs of flooding and turf deterioration recently. Further investigations have revealed old clay tile drainage as ineffective also we identified a large rubble spring adjacent to the clay tile of which is constantly flowing therefore causing moisture to come to the surface. Staff have addressed all areas of flooding with new piped drainage and aggregate. This area has been intentionally left open so that we can monitor how effective our repair has been. Once satisfied, root zone and turf will be installed.
Fairway Protection - Blue Posts
We are now fast approaching the month of May although recent temperatures you would imagine we were still in February/ March. Little signs of growth are now appearing therefore, fairway protection will now stop as of 26/04/2013 and blue posts will be removed, however preferred lies will still operate until further notice. Please look for an update on preferred lies and any other course information on the new signage located at the gents first tee.
For Information Only
Throughout April, using a digital thermometer i have recorded soil temperatures in our greens. Soil temperatures of 5°C+ are required to stimulate plant growth and begin the process of fertiliser uptake into the plant. Knowing accurate soil temperatures allows us to apply the right products at the right time ensuring the maximum benefit of the product is being utilised therefore saving time and money.
Greens temperatures as follows;
Date Coldest Green Warmest Green
03/04/13 8th - 0°C 9th - 0.6°C
09/04/13 5th - 1.1°C 12th - 1.9°C
15/04/13 10th - 7.1°C 14th - 8.1°C
23/04/13 2nd - 6.2°C 13th - 6.9°C
Thank you for your attention,
Douglas
Saturday, 23 March 2013
Course Information Blog W/C 18/03/2013
Course Information Blog W/C 18/03/2013
Winter Programme Update
14th Fairway
The fairway has been processing well recently due to the drier and milder spring like weather we experienced a few weeks ago, however all change again with the return of the dreaded white stuff and plummeting temperatures as winter returns.
To date we have installed approx 550m of pipe drainage to section 14'a' (first 50 yds of the fairway) of which is showing encouraging signs of improvement, by the way of surface water removal.
Contractors have indicated they will be on site to begin sand-banding this part of the fairway on W/C 25/03/13 weather permitting, now that we have completed the main and lateral drainage. Following sand-banding we will begin hollowcoring and topdressing around mid April as part of the thatch control process.
Recent soil sample testing have identified nutrition and biological deficiencies within the soil profile. Application of P.H. adjusting and soil improvement products will be applied throughout the growing season as and when soil temperatures increase to approx 7-8°C. Mechanical methods of thatch control will also be carried out such as hollowcoring, scarifing and vertidraining early in the morning to minimise disruption to members.
Drainage tenders have now been submitted and reviewed recently by committee with contractor 'Souters Sports Turff Ltd' being the preferred contractor to carry out phase 1 of a possible 3 long term drainage plan.
The first part of phase 1 will be to install 120m of main drain pipe to the left hand side of the 14th, (14'b' on plan) commencing on the 29/04/13 weather permitting for approx 1 week. Contractors will then return on 01/07/13 to continue part 2 of phase 1 (14'b' on plan) to install 800m of lateral drainage which will connect to the main drain already installed earlier in April. In addition 14'c' and the 16th fairways will be included in this phase. Our competition schedule has dictated the break in the contractors schedule to minimise the inconvenience to members as the months of May and June are extremely hectic with competitions. Hopefully the weather will be extremely kind to us during drainage work to allow the contractors to be off site as soon as possible. During installation your co-operation is vital and appreciated in maximising contractor productivity and safety.
Boundary/Perimeter Ditch at 3rd, 4th, 7th Holes
Recent negotiations with our neighbouring farmer (Willie Lawson) has kindly offered and has now cleaned out the boundary ditch which flows from the r/h/s of the 7th down towards the rear of the 3rd green. This is one of seven outlets throughout the course which we rely on to remove surface water from the course. I recently obtained a quotation from a local contractor for this work which totalled £3500 plus vat. This has now been saved and put towards our forthcoming drainage projects, thanks goes to Willie Lawson for his assistance and generosity.
Fairway Vertidraining
W/C 04/03/13 saw contractor 'Souters Sports Turff' returning to begin deep vertidraining of all the fairways and additional wetter areas throughout the course. Normally this is carried out on a yearly basis due to financial restrictions, however, i felt it necessary to repeat this type of aereation work in anticipation that we experience a similar 'summer' as in 2012.
10th Drainage R/H/S of Medal Tee
Ground conditions in front of medal tee have deteriorated gradually over the past year. After discussions again with Willie Lawson (farmer) he kindly gave his permission to gain access into his field to allow our machinery in to install a 50m drain adjacent to our boundary fence within his field to hopefully stop the flow of water entering in and around the front of the tee. This has now been installed and early signs of improvement are beginning to show, however, if the problem continues then additional trench drainage will be required.
6th Medal Tee
Unfortunately due to pest infestation and limited sunlight the surface of this tee has deteriorated dramatically throughout the winter period. As we are fast approaching the 2013 competition season it was decided to re-turf 50% of the infected tee allowing the front half playable until the new turf has established. Once established the remaining front half will also be re-turfed using a new shade tolerant cultivar turf which was brought to my attention when attending the B.T.M.E show in Harrogate earlier this year.
125th Anniversary Flags
Our past captain society have kindly donated our new flags for the 2013 season in honour of the clubs 125th anniversary. These will be installed on the first official club medal competition on the 06/04/2013. A sample of the flag has been installed in the trophy cabinet for your viewing.
Our Work Schedule for W/C 25/03/2013
Winter Programme Update
14th Fairway
The fairway has been processing well recently due to the drier and milder spring like weather we experienced a few weeks ago, however all change again with the return of the dreaded white stuff and plummeting temperatures as winter returns.
To date we have installed approx 550m of pipe drainage to section 14'a' (first 50 yds of the fairway) of which is showing encouraging signs of improvement, by the way of surface water removal.
Contractors have indicated they will be on site to begin sand-banding this part of the fairway on W/C 25/03/13 weather permitting, now that we have completed the main and lateral drainage. Following sand-banding we will begin hollowcoring and topdressing around mid April as part of the thatch control process.
Recent soil sample testing have identified nutrition and biological deficiencies within the soil profile. Application of P.H. adjusting and soil improvement products will be applied throughout the growing season as and when soil temperatures increase to approx 7-8°C. Mechanical methods of thatch control will also be carried out such as hollowcoring, scarifing and vertidraining early in the morning to minimise disruption to members.
Drainage tenders have now been submitted and reviewed recently by committee with contractor 'Souters Sports Turff Ltd' being the preferred contractor to carry out phase 1 of a possible 3 long term drainage plan.
The first part of phase 1 will be to install 120m of main drain pipe to the left hand side of the 14th, (14'b' on plan) commencing on the 29/04/13 weather permitting for approx 1 week. Contractors will then return on 01/07/13 to continue part 2 of phase 1 (14'b' on plan) to install 800m of lateral drainage which will connect to the main drain already installed earlier in April. In addition 14'c' and the 16th fairways will be included in this phase. Our competition schedule has dictated the break in the contractors schedule to minimise the inconvenience to members as the months of May and June are extremely hectic with competitions. Hopefully the weather will be extremely kind to us during drainage work to allow the contractors to be off site as soon as possible. During installation your co-operation is vital and appreciated in maximising contractor productivity and safety.
Boundary/Perimeter Ditch at 3rd, 4th, 7th Holes
Recent negotiations with our neighbouring farmer (Willie Lawson) has kindly offered and has now cleaned out the boundary ditch which flows from the r/h/s of the 7th down towards the rear of the 3rd green. This is one of seven outlets throughout the course which we rely on to remove surface water from the course. I recently obtained a quotation from a local contractor for this work which totalled £3500 plus vat. This has now been saved and put towards our forthcoming drainage projects, thanks goes to Willie Lawson for his assistance and generosity.
Fairway Vertidraining
W/C 04/03/13 saw contractor 'Souters Sports Turff' returning to begin deep vertidraining of all the fairways and additional wetter areas throughout the course. Normally this is carried out on a yearly basis due to financial restrictions, however, i felt it necessary to repeat this type of aereation work in anticipation that we experience a similar 'summer' as in 2012.
10th Drainage R/H/S of Medal Tee
Ground conditions in front of medal tee have deteriorated gradually over the past year. After discussions again with Willie Lawson (farmer) he kindly gave his permission to gain access into his field to allow our machinery in to install a 50m drain adjacent to our boundary fence within his field to hopefully stop the flow of water entering in and around the front of the tee. This has now been installed and early signs of improvement are beginning to show, however, if the problem continues then additional trench drainage will be required.
6th Medal Tee
Unfortunately due to pest infestation and limited sunlight the surface of this tee has deteriorated dramatically throughout the winter period. As we are fast approaching the 2013 competition season it was decided to re-turf 50% of the infected tee allowing the front half playable until the new turf has established. Once established the remaining front half will also be re-turfed using a new shade tolerant cultivar turf which was brought to my attention when attending the B.T.M.E show in Harrogate earlier this year.
125th Anniversary Flags
Our past captain society have kindly donated our new flags for the 2013 season in honour of the clubs 125th anniversary. These will be installed on the first official club medal competition on the 06/04/2013. A sample of the flag has been installed in the trophy cabinet for your viewing.
Our Work Schedule for W/C 25/03/2013
- To re-turf drainage lines at landing areas only. Outwith landing areas will be re-seeded.
- Re-turf 6th medal tee.
- Excavate, route zone and re-turf water damaged areas on selected fairways - 3, 17, 18.
Some stats for your information
Quantity of drainage installed by our greens staff;
Hole 1 - 121m
Hole 7/13 - 365m
Hole 12 - 90m
Hole 14'a' - 550m
Hole 16 - 213m
Hole 17 - 50m
Total - 1389m of which approx 280m was rock removal.
Quantity of Material Use to Date
- 6mm washed grit - 106 ton
- 20mm washed gravel - 185 ton
- Medium/Coarse route zone - 167 ton
Thank you for your attention,
Douglas McIntosh.
Additional Blog Information by Gordan Sangster
New for 2013 Season!
Forget sat nav's, g.p.s, skycaddy's and laser's we now have new improved distance post markers handcrafted by my very own hands. These are as follows;
100 yds - Red
150 yds - Yellow
All yardage measured to the centre of the green.
They have all been installed at the edge of the trees and gorse bushes. This isn't giving you the green light to hit your ball into the trees or the gorse bushes, nor is it to get up close to our new distance markers so that relief can be obtained to get you out of a tricky situation. Hopefully these will be of assistance in reducing your handicap.
Thank you,
Gordon.
Sunday, 10 February 2013
Course Information Blog for W/C 04.02.2013
Course Information Blog for W/C 04.02.2013
BTME Conference
Myself and David Moir have returned safe and well from our visit to our annual machinery, golf course equipment and educational conference in Harrogate on 22-24.01.13.
Considering this part of the country had already experienced heavy snow and forecasters were predicting further snow fall, it was encouraging to see this years show particularly well represented from not only the UK but Europe and USA too.
Throughout the visit David and I viewed the latest in cutting and thatch removal machinery and especially drainage equipment of which was certainly in plenty. However, David raised a snigger or two as i suggested to him my extensive machinery wish list for 2013 during our walk about.
It was also extremely noticeable as we chatted to various contractors, club managers and my colleagues that 2011/12 seasons has put clubs under severe pressure to produce courses to the high standard of which members now expect, in addition, it has highlighted various issues golf clubs face whether it be drainage, membership and more importantly finance(in some cases all three), never the less we should remain positive and hope/pray for a 'normal' summer this year to lift morale/spirits in aid of golf in general.
David has kindly put together some details of his experience at BTME;
14th Drainage
To date, our staff have now installed approx 250m of piped drainage(5x50m laterals) of which 2x50m are remaining.
Heavy rain, snow and the usual rock removal has hampered progress, never the less our target is the end of next week 16.02.13 for completion.
Current excavating has revealed the occasional clay tile drains to this part of the fairway, with rainfall on the increase this existing type and amount of drainage is now insufficient in removing large quantities of water we are now experiencing, hence the increase in thatch levels.
On completion of laterals we require contractors to begin sand banding at 250mm centres, approx seven inches deep at right angles to the laterals, unfortunately contractors are committed to back dated work at present therefore, I will regularly notify you as and when they will begin, in the meantime our staff will begin upgrading existing drainage to the area in front of the 16th gents/medal tee.
The greens committee and myself are currently reviewing the STRI report, of which can now be viewed on the website. In conjunction with the STRI report we are preparing aerial plans and details of the proposed drainage installation to be phased over a three year period with first phase beginning this spring, naturally concentrating on priority areas first, such as 1st, 14th and 16th fairways. I will report regularly on start dates and approx timescales. Tenders are now being circulated to various drainage contractors and we await there response.
Our Work Schedule for W/C 11.02.13
BTME Conference
Myself and David Moir have returned safe and well from our visit to our annual machinery, golf course equipment and educational conference in Harrogate on 22-24.01.13.
Considering this part of the country had already experienced heavy snow and forecasters were predicting further snow fall, it was encouraging to see this years show particularly well represented from not only the UK but Europe and USA too.
Throughout the visit David and I viewed the latest in cutting and thatch removal machinery and especially drainage equipment of which was certainly in plenty. However, David raised a snigger or two as i suggested to him my extensive machinery wish list for 2013 during our walk about.
It was also extremely noticeable as we chatted to various contractors, club managers and my colleagues that 2011/12 seasons has put clubs under severe pressure to produce courses to the high standard of which members now expect, in addition, it has highlighted various issues golf clubs face whether it be drainage, membership and more importantly finance(in some cases all three), never the less we should remain positive and hope/pray for a 'normal' summer this year to lift morale/spirits in aid of golf in general.
David has kindly put together some details of his experience at BTME;
BLOG
I attended
the BIGGA Conference in Harrowgate with Douglas
for a couple of days last week. Apart
from the latest equipment on show that the exhibitors are trying to entice
Clubs to purchase (and there are many such items from utility vehicles to aeration
equipment to sportsturf and landscaping machines), I see one of the main
benefits is in the presentations and education seminars run by BIGGA. They often have Course Managers presenting
topics e.g. Robin Hood Golf Club (a parkland course) which had the horrendous
task of replacing all greens - they had
completely lost them over a number of years of wet weather and overfeeding with
fertilizers – the before and after pictures were fascinating but also the
“politics” of the decision making process to get the Members to agree to invest
the money ( they were fortunate to have sold land at the turn of the century
for £1.4m but had spent a considerable part of these funds on the Clubhouse).
However after a 2 year project they are getting back to the standards that are
expected of a Harry Colt designed facility.
We
spent hours discussing products such as turf with exhibitors (e.g. you can now
get turf that grows in the shade!!) and the hot topic was of course drainage –
I met many greenkeepers and apart from the links courses (and even some of them
have drainage issues despite being built on sand) it is the hot topic amongst
the attendees – and a problem shared is a problem halfed. There is no doubt
that last years record rainfall is badly affecting members’ enjoyment of this
great sport and Clubs will need ongoing plans to tackle the “puddles” over the
next few years.
Contractors
tackling drainage issues are also finding it difficult – members and
greenkeepers are complaining about the mess they make when installing pipes etc
but even with boards down, the soft ground is not the best conditions to do any
such work without damage to surrounding areas. They are having to pull out of
jobs halfway through the process because of rain and trying to reschedule to finish
jobs is eroding their profit margins and they are postponing new jobs until
they get half completed ones finished.
However
I am confident that our Committee will have a plan in place soon for how we are
going to tackle our drainage issues over the next few years. The STRI report on the Course was completed
in mid January and the Greens Committee are at this moment deciding on the
priority areas to tackle this year.
David
Moir
Secretary
25/01/2013
14th Drainage
To date, our staff have now installed approx 250m of piped drainage(5x50m laterals) of which 2x50m are remaining.
Heavy rain, snow and the usual rock removal has hampered progress, never the less our target is the end of next week 16.02.13 for completion.
Current excavating has revealed the occasional clay tile drains to this part of the fairway, with rainfall on the increase this existing type and amount of drainage is now insufficient in removing large quantities of water we are now experiencing, hence the increase in thatch levels.
On completion of laterals we require contractors to begin sand banding at 250mm centres, approx seven inches deep at right angles to the laterals, unfortunately contractors are committed to back dated work at present therefore, I will regularly notify you as and when they will begin, in the meantime our staff will begin upgrading existing drainage to the area in front of the 16th gents/medal tee.
The greens committee and myself are currently reviewing the STRI report, of which can now be viewed on the website. In conjunction with the STRI report we are preparing aerial plans and details of the proposed drainage installation to be phased over a three year period with first phase beginning this spring, naturally concentrating on priority areas first, such as 1st, 14th and 16th fairways. I will report regularly on start dates and approx timescales. Tenders are now being circulated to various drainage contractors and we await there response.
Our Work Schedule for W/C 11.02.13
- Continue 14th drainage.
- Begin returfing new drainage at 7th + 12th holes.
For future blogs I will be encouraging our green staff to participate in writing a few articles throughout each month. This I hope will encourage our staff further in the daily maintenance of our golf course. I do hope you will also encourage this and your patience will be appreciated.
Thank you,
Douglas.
Monday, 21 January 2013
Course Information Blog for W/C 21/01/2013
Course Information Blog for W/C 21/01/2013
As I write, winter is hitting hard now, windchill factor of -3°C , ground conditions are extremely hard followed up with driving snow into the bargain but that's January at Cathkin Braes! Never the less we must take advantage of hard ground conditions to continue drainage work on the 14th fairway.
This week for three days i will be attending our Industries Annual Machinery, Golf Course Equipment and Education Conference in Harrogate, Yorkshire (BTME). There I will be viewing the latest machinery technology and attending education seminars, keeping up to date with legislation, improvements in new products and techniques, not forgetting a blether or two with colleagues, no doubt the 2012 season being main topic of conversation!
You can view details of this show by visiting www.btme.org.uk.
In my absence our staff will continue installing further drainage to the beginning of the 14th fairway. To date, we have installed approx 160m of piped drainage and up to now no existing drainage pipe has been found, mainly rock! Therefore relying on natural drainage is not an option if our unpredictable climate continues.
Wheel Marks on Greens
I have been asked on several occasions recently why we have Tyre Marks on our greens considering we have introduced some course protection measures for this winter period, understandably!
There are only a few occasions throughout the winter period that our vehicles are on the main greens. Firstly, if ground conditions allow essential aeration work to be carried out and secondly if we require to 'blanket' spray all our greens with a fungicide or fertiliser.
As you know our winter period offers a limited amount of acceptable spraying days, dry/calm required! Therefore it is essential that we take full advantage of this by spraying all of the greens in one day. This is carried out by using our smallest and lightest available tractor and sprayer to minimise tread depth and compaction pressure. You can be assured that it is our policy as always to minimise the unnecessary use of vehicles on our main greens as much as possible, especially throughout the winter period.
Work Schedule for This Week
As I write, winter is hitting hard now, windchill factor of -3°C , ground conditions are extremely hard followed up with driving snow into the bargain but that's January at Cathkin Braes! Never the less we must take advantage of hard ground conditions to continue drainage work on the 14th fairway.
This week for three days i will be attending our Industries Annual Machinery, Golf Course Equipment and Education Conference in Harrogate, Yorkshire (BTME). There I will be viewing the latest machinery technology and attending education seminars, keeping up to date with legislation, improvements in new products and techniques, not forgetting a blether or two with colleagues, no doubt the 2012 season being main topic of conversation!
You can view details of this show by visiting www.btme.org.uk.
In my absence our staff will continue installing further drainage to the beginning of the 14th fairway. To date, we have installed approx 160m of piped drainage and up to now no existing drainage pipe has been found, mainly rock! Therefore relying on natural drainage is not an option if our unpredictable climate continues.
Wheel Marks on Greens
I have been asked on several occasions recently why we have Tyre Marks on our greens considering we have introduced some course protection measures for this winter period, understandably!
There are only a few occasions throughout the winter period that our vehicles are on the main greens. Firstly, if ground conditions allow essential aeration work to be carried out and secondly if we require to 'blanket' spray all our greens with a fungicide or fertiliser.
As you know our winter period offers a limited amount of acceptable spraying days, dry/calm required! Therefore it is essential that we take full advantage of this by spraying all of the greens in one day. This is carried out by using our smallest and lightest available tractor and sprayer to minimise tread depth and compaction pressure. You can be assured that it is our policy as always to minimise the unnecessary use of vehicles on our main greens as much as possible, especially throughout the winter period.
Work Schedule for This Week
- Continue installing piped drainage to the 14th fairway.
- Pitch mark repair forks have now arrived and will be available shortly at the first tee and the pro shop.
Until next week,
Regards
Douglas
Tuesday, 15 January 2013
Course Information Blog for W/C 07.01.2013
Course Information Blog for W/C 07/01/13
Welcome to the first blog of 2013 and on behalf of myself and all of the green staff may we wish you all a good new year and hope and pray this year will be an enjoyable playing season in more ways than just the weather.
This week and throughout the festive period our staff have been concentrating on installing the final phase of drainage to the rear and L/H/S of the 7th green.
Again rock has been a severe handicap for the staff and our work schedule of which has delayed us on installing new lateral drainage to the beginning of the 14th fairway. We hope to begin this week weather permitting, installing approx six lateral drains linking up to the recently installed main drain that runs adjacent to the course road, again weather permitting we hope to have this completed by end of this month.
On completion contractors will follow this with sand banding at 0.5m centres, right angles to the lateral drainage, this will assist surface water removal between the laterals.
This is the beginning of an extensive drainage installation plan proposed for this and additional fairways throughout the course in conjunction with our drainage consultants advice report. His report is now with us and is currently being discussed by our Greens Committee and the C.O.M. A report and plan will be available to view shortly once we have thoroughly investigated all options and advice available to us.
2. Pitch marks
Unfortunately this has been brought to my attention again that Pitch marks are still not being repaired properly on our greens despite my recent blog article and video illustration on how to repair them correctly.
It has been suggested that if we do not see an improvement to pitch marks then we will have no option but to remove these damaged greens from play. As I have mentioned in recent blogs that it is in our own interest to care for our greens especially throughout the winter period in order to allow us to produce reasonable putting surfaces come the start of the 2013 playing season.
I will be purchasing pitch mark fork tools from our professional; Steven Bree shortly and will have them located next to the ladies and gents markers at the first tee, so there is no excuse now!!
Please don't have me resorting to temporary greens as your club and our staff have invested a lot of money, time and effort insuring main greens are in play as much as possible throughout the year. Therefore, it would be annoying for everyone if main greens were off due to the damage caused by unrepaired pitch marks.
3. 5th Pond
As you are aware over the past few weeks we have saw a sharp rise in the water level of the pond and in addition flooding to the surrounding fairways.
Recent investigations revealed a blockage in the main pipe existing sluice gate located at the bottom end of the pond. We have been unsuccessful in locating this pipe due to its depth, however we have located existing clay tile drainage near the sluice gate, to which we have excavated a small ditch from the pond to the clay tile drains.
The level of the pond is now receding and should return to its original level within a few days, until then we will monitor it closely. As soon as the level has receded enough to allow our staff to repair the blockage, I will be looking at upgrading the current sluice gate and its workings to insure no further flooding occurs.
My work schedule for w/c/ 14/01/13
- Installation of lateral drainage to the first 50 yds of the 14th fairway.
- Completion of the final phase of drainage to L/H/S of the 7th green.
May I wish you "Awe the best" in the 2013 golfing season.
Douglas
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