Regrading 9 approach drain

Removing water from the surface of a golf course is one of the keys to healthy turfgrass. Without proper drainage, even the healthiest turf will not survive. Last week, we graded the surface around the drain in #9 approach to help water escape easier.

Removing the sod first

The approach area of #9 is relatively flat. There is an existing drain in the left center of the approach, but after a few recent heavy rains, we noticed that water was not flowing to it like we would like. After a more thorough inspection of the surface topography, it was clear that although the drain was low enough for water to flow to it, there were some significant high spots blocking access. This resulted in some puddles very near the drain, that were unable to get off the surface. Luckily this was occurring in the Bermuda grass, which is much more tolerant of excess water in the summer months. But the Bermuda is not tolerant of water in the winter, so correcting this issue would benefit playability in the summer, and turf health in the winter.

After the soil had been graded
to the new slope

Since the drain was already in place, and functioning properly, we only needed to regrade the slopes surrounding the inlet. First, we started by removing all the grass in the entire area and setting it aside in the order it was removed. Fortunately, there was not a lot of soil to remove to correct the grade. The work was easily done by hand. We also knew that we were not changing the height of the drain, so everything needed to feed down to that and make sure that it stayed at the lowest point. Starting from the edges, we gradually removed more soil as we worked in to the drain. Once the soil base was correct, we replaced the sod. Regardless of how carefully you manage the sod and put it back exactly in order, the surface will still be imperfect. To correct this, we also spread sand across all the replaced turf and used the sand to level out any imperfections.

Once the sod was replaced, we leveled
with new sand

Although the drain in #9 approach affects a very small area, and even fewer golfers, it still was a place for improvement. By simply regrading the subsoil we were able to help water off the surface and into the existing drain.

Etiquette Reminder of the Month

Please be conscious not to scuff your feet or drag your putter along the surface of the putting green. This can adversely affect other people’s putts and can damage the turf grass.

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