More on frost

We had our first frost last week, but it was light enough to not cause much of an inconvenience. Coming up this week it looks like at least two days with temperatures cold enough to warrant a delay.

Frost has been discussed on the blog many times before. For some more background information, we direct you to those past posts: here and here. But for some quick topics that come up repeatedly, here are a few reminders for the frost season:

There will be more than one occasion where golfers may leave their house and have no frost, but we can easily have frost here at the course. Our temperatures can get colder than in town.

During the delay, all areas of the course are closed. While frost can form in some areas but not others, trying to direct people frost/no frost areas would be too difficult. A frost delay equals a full closure. This means no mingling in the grass around the putting green or first tee.

Walking on frost can cause damage or death to the plant, but carts are especially destructive because they are heavier. We must consider the cart traffic that will occur on the course when managing a delay.

Lastly, after most frost delays, some form of course preparation must take place. Anything from a full setup to a minimum of changing cups and blowing leaves, takes time. Here is the tricky part: we can’t go do that setup until after the frost- the Grounds staff is delayed too. So, we must balance allowing the golfers out onto the course as soon as possible, while also leaving time for some work. Frost may be clear near the clubhouse as golfers wait, wondering why they aren’t allowed out yet, but it may be because we are getting our work done.

Without a doubt, the Grounds staff dislike a frost delay more than golfers. Nevertheless, at this time of year we all have no choice but to manage our way through the cold mornings.

 

Starting in November, and continuing through February, we will shift to 1 post per month. Thank you.

 

Etiquette Reminder of the Month

Please don’t stand in one place for an extended period of time to practice putting. Your footprints can be worn into the green.

Also, as part of a Golf Committee initiative to improve course etiquette, we have included links to videos teaching proper on course etiquette. Please take a moment to watch:

Ball Marks - How to properly repair

Golf Cart tips

 

See you on the course!

Joe

jvillegas@bwrc.org