This year we have some high expectations.
Not only are we trying to keep the turf at a high quality level but also making sure that the littlest of items are not overlooked.
We have noticed that the cups are not always in the best locations. I specifically mean the cups might be on an angle or near a plug. We generally cut cups before sunrise everyday before play begins. Even with the best lights, our efforts are not always fruitful. This year we are going to attempt to cut the cups in the twilight part of the morning. If this does not seem to work out, we will have to find other means of cutting them i.e. more lights to mount on the equipment.
After inspection of the greens, there does not seem to be any winter kill. The definite answer will be when the greens come out of dormancy and start growing. When a layer of ice sits on top of the greens, they can become anoxic, which means lack of oxygen. The greens can subsequently have winter kill. Snow sitting on top of greens does not produce the same kind of damage unless they are covered for a long period of time. As a matter of fact, snow insulates the greens from the bitter cold and in the long run can help get them through the types of winters like this one.
On another note, we received a new piece of equipment this year. It is a John Deere 7500 Fairway mower. Our oldest fairway mower in the fleet was 15 years old and worn out.
Again we are looking forward to a great season and we encourage you to hit them long and straight!
