Putting The Course To Bed For Winter

The forecast for the next week or so looks as though there will be snow and some extremely cold days, with that being said, winter is here and our season and year are about over.

We have taken care of the last remaining out side tasks on the golf course to help insure proper care for our greens, and the other remaining turfgrass areas and all related course amenities. The dedication and care that goes into the end of the year work makes way for a good start to next season.

Heavy sand top-dressing in progress

All playing surfaces have been preventativelly treated for "Snow Mold" disease. During winter the snow cover can have the ability to act as an incubator. Trapping moisture and humidity that can cause for disease concerns either during winter or first thing in the spring when the snow melts. After a difficult 2016 its important that our grass is protected during the winter and we have no set backs in the spring.

Close up of sand on a green

As winter approached we heavily sand top-dressed all of our greens and approaches/aprons. This heavy layer of sand protects the grass from the harsh winter weather. Having heavy snow cover for most of the winter is typically a good thing helping shield the grass from cold dry winds, but as we've seen in the past we can't always count on the snow being here. Covering the greens/approaches with sand makes sure that the grass plants are insulated before it snows and protects against dehydration and winter desiccation.

Sand top-dressing of approaches

In the spring the grass will grow through this sand, and there will be little to no disruption to spring rounds of golf.

Close up of sand on an approach

All of the course accessories have been brought in doors and will be gone over thoroughly during the winter months. We will access any damage, make necessary repairs and attend to any detail work such as painting or staining.

 

We'd like to thank everyone for their continued support, we know full well that this golf season came with its share of challenges. The affects that it has on your game of golf are undoubtedly frustrating. We are confident that we have all the pieces in place to continue to improve playing conditions and course amenities for the future.  

We hope that you check back with our blog as we will continue to post pictures of ongoing work and give you updates as we get closer to spring. Please check back for updates on the Fairway Re-grassing, Nursery Green Construction, Ski Trails, and much more. 

Thank you, 

Golf Course Superintendent 

Nick Marfise