Now I lay me down to sleep.......

With normal winter weather finally coming, it is time to put the greens to bed for the season.  In my eight years here, this is the longest golf season we have ever had.  Fully open and operational in mid March and closing on December 10 is unprecedented.  Having spoken with several members over the past few weeks, even the "die-hards" seem ready to mothball the sticks for a few months or head south for fairer weather.

There are several things we have done this season to help the greens fare well through the winter as well as hopefully come roaring up in the spring.  We started a week or so ago by applying our winter pesticides for control of snow mold followed by a "dormant feed" of simple fertilizer.  The chemicals will hopefully control any snow mold fungi present, but just in case we missed a spot, the fertilizer will make sure that the greens and tees will wake up quite quickly in the spring to "grow out" of any damage.

Finally, after the last few hardy golfers leave the grounds, we apply a moderate topdressing of sand.  The sand will act to protect the crown of the plant from any damage through the winter as well as provide a nice layer to smooth out any surface inconsistencies in the spring.

Don't tell anyone, but topdressing is also effective at keeping the winter golfers from putting on the greens in the offseason.

  Also, the temporary pins have been set in the fairways and approaches for winter play.  If the temperature and mood suit you this winter, feel free to walk the course and hit a few balls to our temporary pins.

As we do every year, winter preventative maintenance has already begun.  Golf carts and utility vehicles are being serviced as we speak, and an entire fleet of equipment awaits a tear-down and re-build.  This work is important to our smooth operation during the golf season and a welcome chance for the staff to get away from the normal grind of daily golf operations.  We use the winter wisely as a time to recharge our batteries for the upcoming busy season and most will use their time off during the Holidays to make up for lost time with family.

As the holidays approach and we move into the new year, occasionally check the grounds department blog.  As interesting things happen I will be sure to post them.  I spend a great deal of time in continuing education and industry related activities (and goose-chasing) during the off-season and always learn a few things worth repeating.  Also keep an eye peeled for staff profiles over the winter.  It will be a great chance to learn more about the employees that have served you for many years.

Thanks for another great season.  Good luck with the Christmas shopping, and we will see you around the club!