As we integrate the new elements of the golf course
construction into our everyday maintenance, sometimes we have to make adjustments.
Last week we made an adjustment to a small section of our irrigation system
near the first fairway bunker on #3.
There is a large silver maple tree just to the right of the
first fairway bunker on #3, right along the cart path. This tree has been out-competing
the turf around it for nutrients, light, and especially water. When this area
of #3 was rebuilt in the summer of 2014, the problem was not obvious. 2015 was
a marginally cooler and wetter year than normal so the issue was manageable.
Then, in 2016 and this past year, we struggled to keep the area in shape. Since
this is a common area for tee shots to end up, we decided to add a new
sprinkler to help solve the problem.
We had been managing the problem by running sprinklers that
were nearby, but it was inefficient. The sprinklers that we were using were too
far away to adequately water the area in need, so we had to run them more
frequently and for more time than we would have liked. This led to a slight
increase in water use as well as water in areas that did not need it. After
this season, we felt that by adding an additional sprinkler closer to the tree,
we could reduce the run time of two other sprinklers by 75%.
First, we determined the exact spacing we needed for the new
sprinkler. Then we removed the sod and dug a trench for the new pipe. Next, we
installed new pipe and wires in the trench and placed the new sprinkler at its
location. Back-filling, tamping, and the replacing of the sod were the last
steps.
We have to wait until next year to see the full potential of
the new sprinkler. However, by not having to use the ill-suited sprinklers that
didn’t cover the area well, we already know we will be more accurately and
efficiently applying water to this zone.
Also, here is a link to a post regarding the poor areas in
the rough around the greens: http://teeoffwithjoe.blogspot.com/2017/09/update-on-green-surround-rough.html.
We are fully aware of the problem and have devoted much time and resources to
solving the issue. We have not corrected the problem and have not given up. Thank
you.
Lastly, please note we have switched to once per month posts
for November and running through February. Thank you.
Etiquette Reminder of the Month
Please do not use your putter to scrape leaves or other debris off the greens.
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:
See you on the course!
Joe
jvillegas@bwrc.org
