The Frustration of Frost

Its 6:30 on a sunny Saturday morning and instead of 'making the cut' I'm writing a blog. Its not because I'm neglecting my duties. I've already been to the course and been greeted by frosty fields of white grass. May long weekend and we've already had 4 cm of snow, (thankfully departed) followed up by sub zero temperatures and a hard frost worthy of any fall. Its enough to frustrate anyone.

The problem with frost is that it effectively closes the operating window in which course maintenance can be done. Nothing can be taken out on the course until the frost melts and the whole point of early morning maintenance is get it done before the golfers arrive in force - usually just after 8 am. By the time the frost has gone, the golfers will arrive and maintenance operations will be "in the way" delaying play and annoying golfers through much of the morning. The alternative is to let the cutting slide for a day and run the risk of golfers having a less than optimal experience.

Fortunately its still early in the season. The cold weather will have worked against there having been much growth and golfers in the north have learned to be patient with both the course and its employees. The good news the snow and frost will bring some much needed moisture to the parched areas of the course.  I don't get to sleep in, but at least I get some nice quiet time to write this week's blog!

Out on the course the washroom on number 5 is again open as the water has been turned on around the course. The restoration of water means sprinklers will again be operating at night and into the early morning. The rip rapping on the left side of number 9 has left a strip of rocky GUR between the fence and the lathe markers. Golfers who find themselves in there should take relief to avoid hitting the many loose rocks that have been left behind.  Russ is making good progress on the garden box in front of number 5 green. Dave's mower has had its reels sent out for sharpening and Doug is raring to start work on this year's rough mowing. The nets are back in place on number one. All we need now is a little sun and warmth! The spring season is up and running. Hope to to see you swinging by as we make the cut for another year!