Miscellaneous winterization

Winter seems to be just around the corner now. Temperatures are staying low and overnights are getting cold. As the cold weather flexes its muscle, we do a few things to protect some on-course items from freezing. The biggest step we take is to blow out the irrigation system which will be discussed in greater detail next week.

A few other winterizing tasks are performed in addition to the irrigation system being drained. The water in the ball washers is drained and the ball washer is brought in to the maintenance facility for yearly maintenance and touch-up painting. During the summer, through normal wear, the inner workings of the ball washers can be broken or the paint scratched and chipped. By bringing the ball washer to the shop and repairing the broken pieces, it saves us from having to buy an entire new ball washer. Similarly, by repainting the ball washer, we can extend its life and keep it looking sharp. When we are finished, the ball washer will look and perform like new for the next season.

We also bring in the water coolers that are on the course. Some minor maintenance will be performed, and the jugs will be cleaned and stored. Also, any water cooler that cannot be repaired or is too old will be replaced for the next year.

We also have a device in the pond between #1 and #10 greens, called Sonic Solutions, which uses ultrasonic waves to keeps algae from growing in the water during the summer. You may have noticed the solar panel and equipment near the bank. Algae growth is slowed in the winter months and we do not want any damage to occur to the device from freezing and thawing. So this device is unplugged from the solar adapter and stored in the maintenance shop for the winter.

The fountain in the pond on #9 is an integral part of the golf course at Bretton Woods, and it is also an important aspect to the atmosphere of the clubhouse patio and lawns. In order to protect the fountain through the winter we will also bring it to the maintenance shop where it can be safely stored. The fountain will be cleaned and inspected to be sure no maintenance is needed.

Similarly, there is a pump in the stream at the miniature golf course. That device will also be pulled from the pond brought to the shop; it will be inspected and cleaned, and then stored for the winter.

Finally, we will prepare a propane heater to be placed in the bathroom near #14 tee. While the bathroom is solar powered and heated, when the temperatures drop very low, an additional heater is needed to protect the pipes from freezing.

These are all minor, yet essential tasks. Taking the time to protect these items from the cold saves time and money in the spring.

See you on the course!

Joe

jvillegas@bwrc.org