First Turf Bulletin of the Season ~ Spring Protocol ~ April 7th 2017

BGCC Turf Bulletin
Opening the Golf Course and our Spring Protocol

April 7^th, 2017

We would like to welcome back all the members to the 2017 season. The course came through another winter in good shape, this winter being particularly mild. As we prepare for spring's arrival & opening the golf course, we follow a strict protocol as in years past. This protocol ensures to the membership that the golf course will open in fine playing condition and be prepared for the busy season ahead.

Opening Protocol: It all depends on the weather!

• Once the snow is gone, frost is out, and the ground is dry and firm, we will start the course cleanup.
• Blowing, raking and picking up winter debris takes approx. 1 week.
• Winter tree work and fall construction projects are also cleaned up at this time.
• Aerating of greens, tees and fairways is completed before we open. These procedures take approx. 1 week. This spring aeration, before opening, is an important cultural practice to prepare the turf for a busy summer of golf. This timing also minimizes disruption to members during the peak golfing season.
• Our bunkers will be repaired, cleaned of debris, probed for sand depth and shaped
• Most importantly... 12 ºC to 15 ºC soil temperatures are required for active turf growth to start.
  • This is especially important on our new bentgrass putting greens.

• Our opening date is dependent on all of these items being completed and usually takes 2-3 weeks to complete dependent on weather.

April 2017 update:

• Our first week of April has been somewhat unproductive with heavy rains & more in the forecast.
• Next week (10-14) looking better, will help dry the course and get us moving on clean-up, with aerating starting late in the week.
• For opening, we look to the week 17-21

As most members are eager to get out and play, the turf department is eager to make sure the course is ready & set for play.

“Like any good dinner party, the dinner table must be set, before the guests arrive.”

We are all looking forward to another great season!

Bookmark and Follow Dean's Blog ~ Dean on the Green ~ for updates throughout the season.
http://burlingtongolfclub.uberflip.com/h/c/67020-dean-on-the-green

Questions or Concerns? Do not hesitate to contact Dean or Jeff

dean@burlingtongolfclub.com or JLockhart@burlingtongolfclub.com

About the Author

Dean Baker, Certified Golf Course Superintendent (27 years). He joined Burlington Golf & Country Club in 2012, where he has enjoyed the remodelling and renovation of this historic 1922 Stanley Thompson design. Dean is a graduate of the University of Guelph where he remains involved with the program he graduated from, Associate Diploma in Turf Management. There he lends his expertise as an instructor to upcoming turf managers, by instructing the Human Resources for Turf Managers Course.

Follow on Twitter More Content by Dean Baker