Last week marked the first really warm stretch of weather of the spring. Between the rising temperatures and the rain, much of the snow that blanketed the course is finally melting away! That's the good news. The bad news is the rapid melt is more than regular runoff drainage can handle. In short, our cups (and just about everything else) runneth over. Water water was everywhere. Little water hazards became lakes, streams rivers, and low spots ditches, as the runoff moved through the course. You name the hole - a river was likely running through it!
Water is a funny thing. Too little and plants become dormant, dry out and die. Too much in the wrong places and the grass drowns or rots, or the soil gets washed away. Greens and fairways that are lush and properly irrigated hold well and support good play. Too much moisture maintenance equipment sinks into the turf causing damage or sits idle while grass grows beyond optimal heights. If play is allowed, excess moisture inhibits roll and forces use of so called "winter rules" such as lift, clean and place. Explosion shots should be reserved for sand traps and hip waders should not be required footwear for spring play.
On a more positive note, as the white and brown stuff recedes it is being replaced by new growth green. As the blankets and covers come off around the course it is encouraging to see the extent to which new growth is taking hold! So far the greens do not seem to be too badly impacted by the excess moisture and fairways are remarkably resilient. As hard as its been to wait, Spring appears to have finally sprung. Once moisture levels and maintenance practices return to proper levels, play will begin! The initial Men's Commercial League schedule had play commencing this Thursday, May 5th! Weather and course conditions have made a week later a more realistic date. Certainly now that May is here, Opening Day is sure to follow! UPDATE: General Opening Day is now set for Saturday, MAY 7th May 6th the course will be open for members only. Please confirm tee times by checking with the inside folks at the proshop!
No comments:
Post a Comment