Improving the stone on the course

Taking care of the turf and grounds on the property takes up nearly all our time and focus. But we realize that there is more to the experience of being at Bretton Woods than just the grass. Especially on the course, we try to make the entirety of the round enjoyable, from the turf to the landscapes and hardscapes. We have started the process of updating the stone around benches and water coolers to enhance the visual appeal.

Many years ago, loose gravel was placed around most of the benches and water cooler stations. Stone or gravel of any type does serve a very important purpose in these locations. These are areas that we don’t want grass- or any weed for that matter- and the stone keeps plants at bay. It also allows to easily spray herbicides to kill any weeds that do break through without damaging any other turf. Stone can also provide a nice visual contrast from the surrounding grass.

However, the stone that was in place has outlived its welcome. In fact, it likely needed to be changed long before this but now is when it has made it to the top of the project list. Over the next several weeks, we will be out updating the stone around the course. We started last week and will be working on this project at any available time throughout the season.

We have chosen a larger size stone this time. It is a nicer looking rock, rather than gravel, and it is sturdier also. The larger size will help it withstand being moved from water and from our debris blowers. Staying in place better will help it last longer and look cleaner more consistently. We still have the benefit of weed suppression and herbicide tolerance from the previous gravel, but with a new, updated appearance.

Not all the stone on the course is gravel though. More recently, though still many years back now, we placed nice stone under a few trash cans and mulch washout areas. Because it has been so long, some of these areas need refreshing. Over time, some of the stones have sunk into the soil or been buried by debris washed over the top. So, as part of the hardscape enhancement, any previously placed stone will be lifted, cleaned, and reset for a renewed appearance also. In some instances, some fresh stones may also be added to fill in any gaps.

This will likely be a “summer long” process exchanging stone on the course. But the improvements will be noticeable and worth the wait.

 

 

Etiquette Reminder of the Month

Please enter and exit all bunkers on the low side. While this may result in slightly more distance to rake, it will keep the sod on the face of the bunker from tearing. It is also much safer! Thank you.

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