Tree update

An up close picture of an oak leaf infected
with Bacterial leaf scorch

As everyone returns to the course from an extended absence, many will notice some changes to the tree population. We have continued the yearly process of removing dead and damaged trees, as well as pruning others around the entire property. Maintaining a healthy tree stand on a golf course requires removal and pruning of old trees, in addition to the planting of new ones.

Trees die and are damaged on a regular basis. Dead trees are unsightly, dangerous, and costly. We spend many hours cleaning up branches that fall out of dead trees and the occasional dead tree that falls adds many times that in labor. Trees can die of natural causes or be infected by a disease or insect. We also have some damaged trees remaining from the Derecho that swept through the property several years ago. While these trees were not toppled by the storm, they were left severely damaged and stunted.

An example of a tree thinned by Bacterial leaf scorch

2 more examples of Oak trees with Bacterial leaf scorch

We also have tree health to contend with on trees that are not already dead or damaged. Many of our oak trees have been infected with Bacterial leaf scorch. This is an incurable disease that requires yearly maintenance to every infected tree. We also have many maple trees that have insect populations within their bark. The insects are weakening the tree as well as becoming food for woodpeckers. Some of the maples also have possible soil issues as well, as identified by an arborist, that would require testing to diagnose, and soil chemical applications to mitigate. Finally, most of our Crabapple tree population are dead or declining rapidly. The treatment regimen that each tree would require would become very costly when extrapolated over each infected tree on the property, with no guarantee of success.

These trees that are afflicted by diseases or insects can be treated. However, it is a more viable option for Bretton Woods to remove and replace these trees with stronger species or variety, than to try and treat every sick tree. New trees can be chosen to withstand these problems and many more planted for the same cost of saving a few. So, although initially the shock of several stumps may be surprising, later this spring there will be about 20 new trees in the same vicinity on the course. Keep an eye out for small flags indicating these new locations.

Click on this picture to see examples of Bacterial leaf scorch on trees removed between 3 and 15 fairways
as well as the damage present on maple tree to the left of 3 fairway

Click on this picture and focus on the maple tree with many damaged branches

As part of our tree plan, devised with the help of the Golf Committee and outside experts, we are not just removing trees, but we are addressing the most pressing areas for replanting as well. So, next time you are out and see the stumps of old trees, remember that the decision to remove trees was made as part of our tree plan, which includes adding new trees.

We are aerating greens this week. 9 holes will be open each day. Please obey course signs. Thank you.

As a reminder, we will be switching back to weekly posts starting in March. Thank you.

Etiquette Reminder of the Month

Please be extra conscious of locating and properly repairing ball marks when the greens are very wet.

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

Bunker etiquette

See you on the course!

Joe

jvillegas@bwrc.org