Saturday, December 12, 2009

Friday, December 11, 2009

The solution to pollution...

... is dilution. This phrase was first said when some Californians in the 60's found that the solution to ridding pollution was in the Pacific because it was so big! Recently this phase was used by Dr. Roch Gaussoin from the University of Nebraska, at the Rocky Mountain Regional Turfgrass Conference in Denver. In this case, He was referring to reducing organic matter build up in the root zone for putting greens. If you have been paying attention to this blog you know my passion for managing thatch and organic matter in putting surfaces.
Dr. Gaussoin's latest research is not earth-shattering but it is a simple reminder that sand topdressing greens consistently is the single most important practice that can be done to keep the best greens possible.
From May to October we apply light applications of sand to the putting greens every two weeks. We also core aerifiy at least twice a year to remove build up of organic matter and continue to dilute by filling the holes with sand.

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Welcome Kora!

Kora is our newest edition to the golf course maintenance staff. Assistant Superintendent Justin Gompf recently became the proud owner of the newest "goose chaser" at Vail Golf Club. She is an Australian Shepherd and so far is excited about the snow. We look forward to her growing and learning about golf and nordic maintenance.
Over the last few seasons we have noticed a slight increase in the amount of Canada Geese that make Vail Golf Club a summer home. I don't need to explain what a nuisance these creatures cause through the summer months.
Our main goal with the geese is to deter them from playable areas on the golf course. We embrace all kinds of wildlife on the golf course that enhance its environment. The most proven way to maintain geese on golf courses are with trained herding dogs. Kora will be a welcomed addition to the golf course.

Needing snow

This seems to be the trend over the last 3 years, where the snow slowly comes to Vail. This year has been no different. More snow fell in Edwards last night than Vail, which makes us scratch our heads. As for recreation, 4 or less inches of snow on the ground, won't slow down anyone. There is still plenty to do other than golf. The other day I noticed a large football game going on at the athletic field along the 6th hole.
There is limited Nordic available on the golf course and most of the bike path to the East Vail. The trails have been marked and it helps when people follow directions and stay on the designated trails. There are many Nordic athletes preparing for the up-coming season and others who are looking to shake the cob-webs like those getting up on the hill for an hour or so these days.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

USGA: Rules and Decisions

USGA: Rules and Decisions: "Consideration for Other Players


No Disturbance or Distraction
Players should always show consideration for other players on the course and should not disturb their play by moving, talking or making unnecessary noise.
Players should ensure that any electronic device taken onto the course does not distract other players.
On the teeing ground, a player should not tee his ball until it is his turn to play.
Players should not stand close to or directly behind the ball, or directly behind the hole, when a player is about to play.

On the Putting Green
On the putting green, players should not stand on another player's line of putt or, when he is making a stroke, cast a shadow over his line of putt.
Players should remain on or close to the putting green until all other players in the group have holed out.

Scoring
In stroke play, a player who is acting as a marker should, if necessary, on the way to the next tee, check the score with the player concerned and record it."

Tomorrow's topic is Pace of Play!

Monday, November 23, 2009

Safety

Safety is a form of golf etiquette and should not be taken lightly. With most golf courses; homes, vehicles and pedestrians or bikers should always be cared for properly. Remember the golfer is responsible for their shots and damage that may incur.

USGA: Rules and Decisions: "Safety

Players should ensure that no one is standing close by or in a position to be hit by the club, the ball or any stones, pebbles, twigs or the like when they make a stroke or practice swing.
Players should not play until the players in front are out of range.
Players should always alert green staff nearby or ahead when they are about to make a stroke that might endanger them.
If a player plays a ball in a direction where there is a danger of hitting someone, he should immediately shout a warning. The traditional word of warning in such situations is 'fore.'"

Friday, November 20, 2009

Fins Up!

So Vail Mountain is now open, there is just enough snow on the ground to get some Nordic skiing done on the golf course. I guess space is limited on the hill as well. The extended forecast is saying no snowfall of importance until December 1st.
Makes me wish the golf course was melted off enough to open again!
Oh well, our head pro Jeanne has the right idea as she heads to Mohegan Sun tomorrow in CT to watch the real "greatest experience on earth" Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band. As a Parrothead myself, of course I am jealous, but I'll be listening to the show. Enjoy it Jeanne and watch out for those land sharks! I want evidence for the blog!