Upper soccer field closure

This past week we had extra work to complete on the soccer field. Unfortunately, some of the work that we did earlier in the spring did not last. It was unplanned work but necessary, nonetheless.

In March we do renovation work on the upper soccer field. We lay new sod, aerate, seed, and fertilize. March is a good time to lay new cool-season sod because there is generally plenty of rain and cool temperatures. Both conditions were present this spring and the sod we put down started off strong, as did the entire field, all the way through April, and into May.

However, as we progressed through May, more rain continued to fall, and the field could not dry out. Cloudy, damp weather would not allow any moisture to evaporate, and the upper field also drains very poorly naturally. This led to water sitting in low areas far too long. Even when we were able to open the field, the wet conditions persisted. The sod from March could not handle the water, the traffic from soccer players, or being mowed regularly. The sod that started strong, quickly deteriorated and the condition of the field worsened.

Unfortunately, we made the decision to close the field and repair the bad areas. Luckily, we have two soccer fields, so all use could be shifted to the lower field. In addition, the soccer fields are not the busiest area of our facility, so dropping to one field for a few weeks was not impossible.

Having to unexpectedly close any turf area that we manage because it is performing poorly is a difficult decision to make, but having the best conditions possible is the goal. Whether it is the golf course or in this case, the soccer field, sometimes the turf can suffer, and we must make the choices that can most quickly get the surface back to where everyone would like it to be.

 

 

Etiquette Reminder of the Month

Please remember to remove any bunker sand that may be stuck to your spikes before walking on 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:

Ball Marks - How to properly repair

Golf Cart tips

 

 

See you on the course!

Joe

jvillegas@bwrc.org