Tree removals for Bermuda grass health

We are in the planning phase of tree work to alleviate shade stress on some areas of Bermuda grass. In accordance with the Bretton Woods Tree and Turf Management Policy (shown in full at the end of post, along with a Bermuda grass health-specific addendum) we have selected 19 trees across the golf course that restrict the growth potential of the Bermuda grass and therefore impact turf health.

We have examined each of these areas and the relationship between the tree(s) and the turf in each location. These trees are not integral to the shape of the hole or to the way it was designed to be played. Similarly, none of these scenarios lends itself to replacing the turf species underneath the tree in order for the tree to remain. So, because the goal is to have the best combination of turf and trees at Bretton Woods, in these instances, the trees must be removed to promote healthy turf grass.

We plan on starting this work in the late fall and winter of 2021 into 2022. The various trees slated for removal are spread across the property, with no more than 3 trees being removed from any one hole, and several holes with no work being performed.  It may not be possible to remove all these trees in one season, depending on weather and time. However, establishing this plan gives us the framework to complete this turf health initiative at different times without losing sight of the goal- improved turf health and course playability.

Though 19 less trees may seem dramatic, it is important to remember that since 2014 we have planted over 200 trees on the Bretton Woods property, with another 14 scheduled to be planted this spring alone, nearly covering the entire loss of the removal project being discussed. And, while following our aforementioned tree policy, we have improved the maintenance of our existing tree population by selecting improved species for planting and removing dead or diseased trees as needed.

We have not rushed into the decision to remove these trees. It is in the best interest of the health and playability of the golf course for the selected trees to be removed. By sticking to our tree policy, we will continue to make these informed decisions to improve the property.

 

 

 

Bretton Woods Tree and Turf Management

 

 

Background:

Bretton Woods Recreation Center is a valuable resource providing its members access to a natural

setting for the enjoyment of organized sports activities and other outdoor areas for less formal

recreation, such as picnics and camps. The natural setting located not far from a major urban area makes

it especially rare in these times of densely developed land, typical of metropolitan areas. With the

intention of continuing the tradition of giving members a respite from the hectic urban life in a cared for

but natural setting, members of the Golf Committee, the Grounds Superintendents and management

have formulated a tree and turf management policy as the foundation of a plan to ensure that natural setting through the ongoing care and cultivation of trees.

Objectives:

1.       Continue the Bretton Woods “low input” IPM approach through judicious planting and species selection.

2.       Promote safe recreation through diligent care and removal of hazardous branches and trees.

3.       Ensure a balance between trees and turf health.

Tree and Turf Care:

• Routine inspection of trees will be performed by the Grounds Staff
• Upon discovery of declining or stressed trees, the Golf Course Superintendent (GCS) will determine and

prioritize the need for Certified Arborist inspection and evaluate the need for care. Factors of safety, cost

and importance shall guide the evaluation, in this order.

• Particular attention shall be given to girdling roots and properly cut to relieve pressure when discovered.
• New tree planting locations will be carefully selected in order not to unnecessarily compete with turf health. Mulch around trees will help improve the tree health; careful placement of trees will help reduce negative impacts to turf.
• Assessments of existing trees and their impact to turf health and course conditions; pruning, removal of tree, or adjustment of turf are steps that may be taken on an ongoing basis.
• Dense, thick foliage can make trees susceptible to wind damage. Pruning will be used to improve their life

expectancy and reduce risk.

• Pruning and removing limbs on low branching species will benefit trees and turf.
• Tree management best practices indicate that trees that have been damaged more than 1/3 should be priorities for consideration of removal because they pose safety hazards.
• Limbs or trees posing a safety risk will be immediately remedied through pruning, removal, or bracing.

Planting:

• The need for planting, species selection and location will be determined by the Green Committee, General

Manager and GCS.

• Diversity is a goal of any planting plan at BWRC, however species appearing on the Maryland Department

of the Environment Noxious Weed List will not be planted on BWRC property.

• Planting stock will be of 4” caliper or equivalent whenever possible, with exceptions made on an as

needed basis.

 

 

 

 

Bretton Woods Tree and Turf Management

 

 

Overall, golf is to be played on the best turfgrass possible. Where trees conflict with that approach, we determine the best management strategy. Sometimes, creating more space between the tree and the grass, by adding more rough, which handles shade stress better, is the best approach. Other times, removing the tree is the best way to enhance the turf quality.

Based on our Tree policy, there is a need for some trees to be removed to promote the best growing conditions possible for the Bermuda grass. Trees have been selected for removal due to their proximity to the turf at tees and around fairways. The shade and competition from tree roots negatively impact the health of the Bermuda grass. In these locations, it is neither possible to adjust the line of the fairway or tee to accommodate the tree, as we have done in other locations, nor are these trees critical to the shape of the hole, as are some other trees we have salvaged.

We have identified 19 trees spread across the golf course in need of removal. These trees:

1.      Are not integral to shaping of the hole

2.      Cannot easily have the turf species changed around them to instead leave the tree in place

 

In some instances, replacement trees may be planted in similar locations to those removed. If so, the new tree will be placed in a position to not interfere with the health of the Bermuda grass. It may also be the case that a location for a replacement tree cannot be found at the site of the removal. However, we continue to add additional trees throughout the property to make up for trees lost.

 

We will be resuming weekly posts starting in March. Thank you

 

Etiquette Reminder of the Month

Please avoid walking through overly saturated or puddled areas on greens if possible.

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